The former Eltham Fire Station will re-open, thanks to a $500,000 facility upgrade.
Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino and Member for Eltham Vicki Ward visited the site in Main Road today, to announce the station will be restored to operational capability for volunteers.
Today’s announcement means the Eltham community will be protected by two fire stations. The existing station on Brougham St will become a career station, while the re-opened Main Road station will be for volunteers, with the two stations working together to service the local community.
The new station will become a hub for other local organisations who will also be able to use the facility
The Main Road station was opened in 1966, but was closed in 2014 when firefighters moved to the larger Brougham Street site.
Recent discussions with local brigade members have highlighted the need for two stations to operate concurrently, prompting the Labor Government to work with the CFA to secure the $500,000 upgrade.
Mr Merlino said today’s announcement represented a terrific outcome for the Eltham community, as career and volunteer firefighters will continue to work side-by-side to respond to emergencies and keep people safe.
Eltham Fire Brigade currently boasts 21 career firefighters and 35 volunteers, and operates four modern firefighting vehicles.
The brigade was formed in 1926, with career staff supporting volunteers since 1984.
The station is expected to be operational by the end of 2018.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino
“We have listened to what Eltham firefighters want, which is why we’re working alongside the CFA to re-open the former station on Main Road.”
“This is another example of the government providing our volunteer and career firefighters with the facilities and equipment they need to protect properties and save lives.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eltham Vicki Ward
“The Eltham Fire Brigade does a wonderful job keeping people safe, and this announcement gives our firefighters the facilities they need to continue this great work.”
“The station on Main Road served our community for the best part of 50 years before it was closed, so I’m delighted volunteers will return to the site and start an exciting new chapter in the station’s history.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020