Extra Firefighters for Geraldton

12/5/00
EXTRA FIREFIGHTERS FOR GERALDTON
Geraldton is to have four extra firefighters to ensure the Fire and Rescue Service continues to meet the needs of the local community.
Emergency Services Minister Kevin Prince said today that Geraldton was one of three regional centres that would have increased staffing. Albany and Bunbury will also benefit.
The Government's share of the cost was announced in the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) budget for 2000-2001, part of the State budget.
The Minister said the Geraldton Fire and Rescue Service fire station would have an extra firefighter on duty with each of four shifts that maintain a 24-hour service, 365 days a year. The total firefighter complement would increase to 20.
"It is a priority of FESA to increase services in line with community requirements and population trends, and in keeping with national standards," Mr Prince said.
"The new staffing level will provide higher levels of safety at major fire and hazardous materials incidents, by ensuring that there will always be a back-up team of two firefighters available to assist the crew which is first at the scene. This is particularly appropriate when breathing apparatus is in use.
"This 'two in - two out' system is now considered Australian standard practice,"
Mr Prince said.
"It is vital that we continue to provide the best possible level of service in a busy centre like Geraldton."
Geraldton Fire and Rescue Service will also receive a new portable pumper worth $20,000 as an addition to its firefighting equipment.
The Mt Magnet Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service is to be provided with a replacement light tanker firefighting appliance at a cost of $75,000.
The Minister said the firefighting vehicle renewal and replacement program was part of a $15 million commitment by the Coalition Government over four years to ensure FESA continued to maintain firefighting services at a high level of preparedness for response to the needs of the community.
He also announced that tenders were due to be called early in the next financial year for the new Morawa fire station.
The new facilities would be completed next year.
The State Government was contributing $100,000 towards the project and the Morawa Shire would also contribute.
The new building would house collocated amenities for both the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and the Morawa Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade.
Plans were almost completed and were due to go the shire for approval this month.
The total cost of the project would not be known until after the tendering process was completed.
Media contact: Chris Morris 9220 5000