Construction underway as SES unit prepares for new control centre

CONSTRUCTION has started on a $6.3 million SES unit and Emergency Operations Centre in Ballina, designed to improve the region’s flood and disaster response.

The new facility will include a six-bay vehicle shed, incident control area and training rooms.

Ballina Shire Council has contributed $4.2 million to the project, with additional funding from the state government.

Ballina mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the project was a direct response to the community’s experience in recent years.

“THE devastating impact of the 2022 floods and the threat posed by Cyclone Alfred have shown just how important it is to be prepared,” she said.

“In partnership with the NSW SES, we’re delivering infrastructure our local volunteers need to respond faster, coordinate better, and protect lives and properties when disaster strikes.”

The project will also provide new car parking and lighting, as well as connecting footpaths and stormwater infrastructure.

To allow for construction, 40 trees were removed from the site.

In their place, 80 new trees, 150 shrubs and 350 ground covers will be planted, using species

that support the local coastal swamp forest.

Ballina will also receive a $270,000 flood rescue vehicle.

The vehicles can carry a small rescue boat and crew and are designed for use in remote and rugged areas.

The current SES headquarters will remain operational during construction.

Work on the new facilities is expected to finish late next year.