There was cause for celebration at a special ceremony to mark Blayney Fire Brigade’s centenary on Saturday.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole unveiled a specially made plaque to mark the occasion, but he also announced a surprise “birthday present” that brought loud applause from those who had gathered for the event.
Mr Toole said the Blayney community are set to benefit from improved fire services for two local projects thanks to more than one million dollars in funding from the NSW Government.
“It’s fitting this investment by the NSW Government is able to be announced at Blayney Fire Brigade’s centenary celebrations,” he said.
“Over the past 100 years, Blayney firefighters have served the community well. Their presence has given local people comfort in the knowledge that they have always been well protected.
“The NSW Government’s investment will provide firefighters with the best possible amenities and equipment so they can get on with the job they do best - saving lives and property.”
With the acquisition of the adjacent NSW RFS building, Blayney Fire Station can now be expanded and upgraded to include showers that will reduce firefighters exposure to carcinogens, a training room and improved operational communication facilities.
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) facility at the rear of Blayney Fire Station will be relocated to a new, greenfield site. The existing building will be renovated to provide for modern facilities for Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters.
FRNSW Assistant Commissioner Rob McNeil praised firefighters for their ongoing commitment to keeping the local community safe.
“The upgraded facilities will boost emergency services delivery in Blayney, and enable firefighters to continue helping anyone, anywhere, anytime,” he said.
NSW RFS Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie said the NSW RFS, working cooperatively with the state and local governments, is committed to providing volunteer firefighters with the equipment they need to carry out the important work of protecting their local communities from fire and a diverse array of incidents.
“These men and women remain on-hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we should be extremely proud and grateful for their contribution.”
