CFA members have gathered with dignitaries and community members to officially open the Wendouree Satellite Station and celebrate the new next generation pumper.
The Wendouree Satellite Station at 51 Selkirk Drive will further support CFA's response across Wendouree, Ballarat, Invermay, Miners Rest and surrounding areas.
The centrally located site will have a multi‑brigade response model for members who live or work in the area, benefiting volunteers and the local community.
Wendouree Fire Brigade Captain, Rob Hurley, said the benefits of having the satellite station will be seen in the community.
"The opening of this station will allow for more efficient responses," he said.
"It is a good example of problem solving at CFA and I know the members who turn out from here will welcome the opportunity."
On Saturday a new Next Generation Pumper was also handed over to the Wendouree Fire Brigade.
The pumper is the first off the production line of the 28 Next Generation Pumpers being built with a local manufacturer.
The new pumpers will be capable of delivering 4,000 litres of water per minute compared to 3,000 litres in older models.
Built on a Scania cab-chassis platform, each vehicle is configured to carry a crew of five firefighters, the ability to integrate breathing apparatus sets in the rear seats, and all the necessary equipment and tools to operate on a fireground.
Rob Hurley said the new pumper would be a huge asset for the brigade.
"We are all very excited to welcome it into our ranks," Rob said.
"It's got a lot of new equipment on board and having the breathing apparatus equipment in the back will definitely speed things up at an incident."
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan AFSM attended the opening and said he was excited to see the satellite station project come to fruition, along with a new truck.
"The additional station will improve service delivery in this area and will allow the brigade to continue doing what they do best; protecting lives and property," Jason said.
"The brigade is also the first to receive the new next generation pumper which will be an incredible asset for many years to come."
