11/5/05
Communities in the Duncraig region are set to benefit from a new $1.34million state-of-the-art fire station which has been built with funding from the new Emergency Services Levy (ESL).
The new Duncraig station, which replaces the old Balcatta Fire Station, is one of the busiest Fire and Rescue Services in the State - attending 517 fires last year.
Opening the new facility today, Emergency Services Minister Michelle Roberts said the northern corridor was one of the fastest growing regions in the metropolitan area and the location of new Duncraig Fire Station was strategically important for firefighters to respond more efficiently to the needs of the area.
"The City of Joondalup's growing population is now reaching nearly 160,000 and the area not only covers residential estates, but also light industrial zones, parks and bushland and recreational facilities," Mrs Roberts said.
"Duncraig firefighters attend a wide range of emergency incidents in the area and also assist nearby fire stations when required.
"During the last couple of years, firefighters have attended major incidents including a number of fatal car crashes, a double fatality in a house fire, an urban bushland wildfire in Trigg and two large structure fires at Balga and Warwick High Schools."
Mrs Roberts said the Gallop Government was committed to protecting Western Australia's unique lifestyle and making communities safe and secure with the development of modern firefighting facilities and equipment.
"The Hepburn Avenue fire station will be crewed by four shifts, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with one station officer and three firefighters per shift," she said.
"The station boasts dormitories with en-suite facilities, a training room, a fully equipped gymnasium, kitchen/dining area, study, watch area and office.
"The local community can feel very proud that their contribution to the emergency services levy has assisted in providing improved fire services for their area."
The Minister praised the efforts of firefighters who worked in collaboration with architects Sandover and Pinder, as well as Property Services' staff from the Fire and Emergency Services Authority, to design the new station.
Minister's Office - 9213 6600
