Vision Alert - Crew gives a big ‘thumbs up’ to refurbished Coledale Fire Station - Coledale

Published: 27 Jun 2024 05:01pm

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) today has unveiled its new-look, refurbished fire station at Coledale, in the state’s Illawarra, earning the resounding support of its local firefighters.

After a $1.65m facelift, the station now has modern bathroom amenities, separate ‘clean’ and ‘dirty’ zones, and extra ventilation in the engine bay.

Other improvements include:

New roof for entire station
Extension of existing engine bay to provide additional clearance
Construction of an internal Breathing Apparatus area and PPC room
Provision of 18 new lockers
New kitchen and minor modifications to Mess/Training room and Watch room
New storeroom and extra space for laundry pickup and drop-off

Fourteen firefighters are based at the station, including three female first responders.

FRNSW Zone Commander, Peter Church, said the original station was in need of an overhaul.

“I’ve caught up with the crew and it’s extremely happy with the outcome,” Superintendent Church said.

“Now the firefighters have got dedicated changerooms and amenities for both males and females, it really does meet the standards of FRNSW moving forward,” he added.

“I don’t think they imagined how good the refurbishment was going to be after putting up with the old station for so long, but now it’s outstanding and they’re all very happy with the result.”

FRNSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell, is also happy with the makeover.

“The old Coledale station had passed its use by date and we quickly prioritised its refurbishment, Commissioner Fewtrell said.

“Now, it’s been upgraded, it meets its purpose as a modernised and safer working environment for the men and women who serve here.”

Emergency Services Minister, Jihad Dib, said the station is one of many either under renovation or earmarked for improvements.

“Stations like Coledale have been identified for upgrades under FRNSW’s ‘Fit for Purpose’ program, which aims to modernise stations and bring them more in line with the needs of a changing firefighting workforce,” Minister Dib said.

Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart thanked local firefighters for their tireless efforts in keeping the community safe.

“The modernisation of the Coledale Fire Station means it’s now not just a new workplace for the 14 firefighters based here, but it’s set for the future as more women prepare to join Fire and Rescue NSW.”

Media note: FRNSW video of the refurbished station can be obtained here: https://vimeo.com/953410066/f92779a063?share=copy [external link]