Joint effort to help build new SES centres in the region

A STATE funding boost worth more than $6.5 million will be invested in new SES buildings at Ballina and Murwillumbah to assist in rescues and response efforts across the region.

SES members were joined by NSW Emergency Services minister Jihad Dib and local officials this week for the first sod turning at the new centre to be built at Ballina.

Ballina Shire mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the council contributed the lion’s share of the funding with $4.2 million supported by the State Government’s $2 million investment.

“We’re proud to support this investment in our community’s safety and future ensuring Ballina Shire is better equipped to face the increasing threat of floods, storms and other extreme weather events,” Cadwallader said.

“This project will help build a more resilient Ballina Shire community. The devastating impact of the 2022 floods and the threat posed by Cyclone Alfred have shown just how important it is to be prepared.

“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 units will almost double in size and will be equipped with improved training spaces, expanded vehicle bays, state-of-the-art operational rooms, and modern amenities.

Two new vehicles are part of a multi-million-dollar investment by the Minns Labor Government. Photo: MITCHELL CRAIG

Construction will begin in the months ahead, with both projects to be completed by late 2026.

As well as the upgraded units, Ballina and Murwillumbah will receive new vehicles as part of a multimillion-dollar investment by the Government.

Ballina will receive a flood rescue vehicle worth $270,000 and a high clearance vehicle valued at $800,000 will be stationed at Murwillumbah, for use across the region.

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

High clearance vehicles can be used for a range of tasks during floods, including resupply and search and rescue missions.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the SES volunteers for the work they do during natural disasters but also the support they show to the community at all other times,” Tweed mayor Chris Cherry said.

“I’m really pleased we’ve been able to come together to ensure the SES have the equipment they need, and facilities to provide the community with excellent service.”