Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan MP and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Greg Leach officially opened the new $4.43 million Longreach Fire and Rescue Station today.
Minister Ryan said the new station was an important emergency response upgrade for the region and would house 21 auxiliary firefighters and their three urban pumpers and one heavy rescue appliance.
"The Longreach Fire and Rescue Station has been part of the tight-knit community for 67 years and will continue its proud tradition of supporting and protecting the local community," he said.
"However, as the environment and emergency response changes, so too must our facilities.
"That's why we invested $4.43 million into replacing the original station with a modern spacious facility.
"This state-of-the-art facility includes four appliance bays, equipment and breathing apparatus rooms, a multi-purpose training room, kitchen and practical training area.
"Longreach firefighters respond to a range of incidents, and this new base will provide a boost for frontline firefighting in the area.
"It will ensure emergency response capability matches the current and future demand of the communities frontline officers serve every day.
"This build project also boosted the local community with 15 jobs created and local contractors engaged for the construction."
The station services an area north to Muttaburra, reaching to Winton in the north west, east to Barcaldine and south west to Jundah.
Awards to recognise bravery, sacrifice and hard work were also presented on the day.
Mr Leach said three QFES members were presented with National Emergency Medals for their service during Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017 and the North Queensland Floods in 2019.
"These medals recognise the commitment of staff who dedicate their lives to serve and protect Queensland in times of need," Mr Leach said.
Each of our medal recipients today has given extraordinary service that exceeds the already high standards we expect of our staff and volunteers.
"Auxiliary firefighters sacrifice their personal and professional lives to respond to emergencies and build resilience in their communities. We're thankful for them and the work they do.
"I am always proud to see the lengths and efforts to which QFES members will go to serve their community."
