A NEW HOME: St Leonards-Indented Head Fire Brigade open new station

THE St Leonards-Indented Head Fire Brigade’s new $3.18 million facility is now in operation after being officially opened by government figures, brigade members, and representatives from the CFA.

The new station, located in Murradoc Road, has three engine bays, a kitchen area adjoining a large multi-purpose room, a gender-neutral turnout room containing separate change cubicles, as well as toilet and shower facilities.

St Leonards-Indented Head captain Niki Habibis said the new Murradoc Road site, which replaced the previous 40-year-old station on Dudley Parade, has come a long way from the “kit” shed the brigade first operated from in the 1960s.

“The kit shed was built by brigade members around 1964 which is where they were housed for 20 years,” she said.

“In 1983, a two-bay station with a meeting room was built, which is where the brigade operated from until it was replaced with the current facility.

“Our 21 members are thoroughly enjoying operating from the new station and it will be a great asset for future growth of the brigade membership.

“The increased engine bay space allows us to comfortably fit our firefighting vehicles and any new modern vehicles in the future.

“It’s also valuable to see improved features as part of the design such as better equipment storage, a hose tower, a workshop, and large training pad.

“In addition, we have more modern and energy-efficient operations including a comprehensive solar panelling system with some environmental sustainability features and rainwater harvesting via multiple tanks and on-site wastewater treatment systems.

“I’m proud of the new station we now operate from and the brigade for their hard work in raising $17,830 to contribute towards construction costs for an outdoor recreation area and security system.”

The St Leonards-Indented Head Fire Brigade was established in 1963 and presently has 20 volunteer members.

The brigade turns out to an average of 45 call outs per year, handling incidents ranging across structure fires, motor vehicle accidents, and grass and scrub fires.

The state government also invested $3 million to replace the existing station.

“The St Leonards-Indented Head CFA has tirelessly served this community for more than 60 years. This impressive new station will allow the brigade to continue protecting the community now and for many more years to come,” Bellarine MP Alison Marchant said.

“Being a volunteer CFA firefighter is incredibly rewarding and we encourage anyone who is interested to contact their local brigade today.”

Acting deputy chief officer Adrian Gutsche was also present to mark the official opening of its new station.

“This new station is an impressive facility which will further empower our volunteers to continue carrying out their important role in protecting lives and property now and well into the future,” Mr Gutsche said.

“I thank the St Leonard-Indented Head volunteers for their ongoing, invaluable service to their community and I look forward to seeing the brigade grow.”