Yenda Fire Station renovations opened
Published: 16th November 2012
Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Acting Commissioner Jim Smith today officially opened a $160,000 refurbishment of Yenda Fire Station.
“FRNSW is committed to providing our firefighters with the equipment and amenities they need for their vital work in protecting local residents, businesses and industry during fires and other emergencies,” Acting Commissioner Smith said.
The works included the provision of new combined training and mess room, uniform storage and bathroom facilities at the side of the building and a refurbishment of the main station area, including a dedicated female shower and changeroom.
“This $160,000 investment in Yenda Fire Station provides a bigger and better base for the 10 retained, or on-call, firefighters who protect Yenda and the surrounding communities,” Acting Commissioner Smith said.
“Yenda firefighters have a long history of proudly serving their community during times of adversity. We saw that spirit again earlier this year when Yenda and Griffith experienced a 1-in-160-year flood.
“Yenda’s firefighters worked tirelessly assisting the SES with evacuations and the clean-up operation – even as floodwaters inundated their own homes and breached their fire station.”
An Honour Board, donated by Casella Wines and featuring the names of the 52 firefighters who have served the community since the station was opened, was also unveiled at today’s official renovation opening.
Acting Commissioner Smith also presented Retained Firefighters Jeremy Cass and John Millis with Long Service and Good Conduct Medals and former Retained Firefighter Trevor Smith with a Certificate of Service.
FRNSW Long Service and Good Conduct Medals are presented to firefighters, support staff and Community Fire Unit members who have served at least 10 years with the organisation.
Yenda firefighters responded to 43 fire and emergency incidents and undertook 16 community engagement activities last financial year.
The station renovation opening comes on the eve of a two-day FRNSW station commanders’ conference in Griffith. About 18 Station Officers, Captains and Deputy Captains from 15 stations throughout the Riverina and Far West NSW will attend the conference which will look at a wide range of issues, including recruitment, health and safety and bushland urban interface management.