By Rowan Forster
Nar Nar Goon’s firefighters would be treated to a brand new, state of the art headquarters under a $3 million cash splash by an elected Guy Government.
The dilapidated Carney Street Country Fire Authority (CFA) station would be completely scrapped, with a new facility developed closer to the Princes Freeway.
Shadow Emergency Services Minister Brad Battin said the relocation of the station was vital; given volunteers predominantly respond to serious and time-sensitive crashes.
“The location of their current brigade is not suitable for road rescues and it pushes out their response times,” he said.
“There’s some land closer to the highway which we’re looking to acquire.
“It’ll save time and potentially lives.”
The Gembrook MP said the new facility would cater for the rapidly growing population in Pakenham.
“Especially with the development in Pakenham East – it’s really important we make sure response times are efficient and we have the resources to save lives,” Mr Battin added.
The new facility would also include more space for volunteers to undertake critical training and improved amenities.
Despite being opened in 1945, the station has seen little refurbishments or upgrades.
“The need for a new station is certainty warranted,” a CFA volunteer said.
“We don’t have enough room in the current facility and we’re the 15th busiest volunteer brigade in the state – so we need more to work with.
“Now, we just have to wait and see what happens in November.”
Narracan MP Gary Blackwood announced the pledge during the Nar Nar Goon CFA’s annual dinner gala on Saturday night.
Mr Blackwood had campaigned for the new station for years prior.
“It is vital that the Nar Nar Goon community has the resources it needs to fight fires and protect the communities when we need help the most and this new facility will provide that,” he said.
“These new facilities will improve the health, safety and responsiveness for all volunteers so they can continue to keep the Nar Nar Goon community safe.”
The brigade receives approximately 330 callouts per year.
Of those, about 100 are in relation to road trap rescues.
Community members have welcomed the announcement, pleading with the State Government to match the commitment.
“The station is certainly well overdue for a new building,” Mitch Foley said.
“Melbourne is basically expanding out to Nar Nar Goon, so they’re going to have their hands full moving forward.”
