New CFA, SES stations for Rochester

DAMAGED by last month’s floods, the Rochester CFA and SES stations will be rebuilt by the State.

Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes announced $8 million for the works last week, visiting the CFA site.

The new buildings are expected to be larger to encourage and accommodate volunteer growth into the future, with plenty of room for vehicles and equipment, training, social and office spaces, female-friendly change rooms and showers.

Mr Andrews said the State is aiming to stand alongside communities affected by the floods, “every step of the way.”

“These unit rebuilds are one part of that journey,” he said.

“Rochester’s volunteers are the lifeblood of the community, they deserve to have new facilities that help them continue their incredible work and attract more people to a rewarding experience as a volunteer.”

In defending homes throughout their community, Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes said Rochester’s VICSES and CFA volunteers have “put everything on the line.”

“[This is] at the expense of their own home base,” she said.

“We’re helping them build back better, and have facilities that reflect the amazing work volunteers have done to respond to this emergency and keep Rochester safe.”

Building designs will be created in partnership between the SES unit, the fire brigade and community members, and construction works are expected to begin soon.