New digs for Junortoun fireies

JUNORTOUN firefighters finally have a larger and modern base after their new station was unveiled last week.

The building, located across the road from the former station at 25 Popes Road, cost $2.5 million and was designed to allow for extra storage and more volunteers.

“Not only will this new station meet the needs of our current members, we expect it will also meet the future needs of the brigade and community,” Junortoun CFA Captain Heath Martin said.

“We have seen considerable residential growth in our response area, which in turn has seen the requirements of the brigade change significantly.

“In 2010, the brigade responded to 12 grass and scrub fires, compared to the current average of 55 incidents per year, including road accidents and structure fires.”

Captain Martin said an increase in structural fires in Junortoun means a larger focus has been put on the brigade’s breathing apparatuses.

“That’s one of the great benefits of this new facility, that we now have a dedicated breathing apparatus cleaning area,” he said.

“This is a welcome change from the old station, where we had to wash our BA in the sink.”

As well as more storage, the new station has a three-bay drive through motor room, dedicated male and female changing rooms, modern amenities, and meeting rooms.

The brigade was formed in 1943 and has operated out of the former building for more than 30 years. There are currently 46 members including 34 operational firefighters.

Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan congratulated the brigade on their new facility.

“The Junortoun Fire Brigade plays a crucial role in keeping the local community safe, responding to dozens of emergencies each year, including fires and road crashes,” she said.

“I’m proud to deliver this new station which will vastly improve the ability of the Junortoun Fire Brigade to serve the community, and provides better amenities to the brigade to help attract more volunteers.”