NEW $13 MILLION EMERGENCY OPERATIONS FACILITY A MAJOR ASSET FOR THE CLARENCE VALLEY

The Clarence Valley’s emergency services have a modern, purpose-built facility to help protect local communities from bushfires, floods, storms and other emergencies, with the official opening of the new $13 million Clarence Valley Fire Control Centre and Emergency Operations Centre at Glenugie.

State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson was delighted to attend the opening alongside NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib and RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin, marking an important milestone for emergency preparedness across the region.

Located beside Clarence Valley Regional Airport, the new facility will provide a vital base for coordinating emergency responses and supporting the Clarence Valley’s 38 Rural Fire Service brigades and more than 1,000 volunteers.

Mr Williamson said it was fantastic to see the project come to fruition, following the original announcement by the former NSW Liberal and Nationals Government in January 2023, when the site was unveiled for the new emergency services hub.

“Back in January 2023, the former NSW Nationals in Government recognised the importance of investing in modern emergency services infrastructure for the Clarence Valley, and I’m delighted to see that commitment become a reality,” Mr Williamson said.

“This $13 million facility will be a tremendous asset for our region, providing our emergency services personnel with the facilities, technology and resources they need to coordinate responses when our communities need them most.

“I also want to acknowledge Clarence Valley Council for providing the land for this important facility and working with the RFS to help make it happen.”

The co-located Emergency Operations Centre will enable agencies including the RFS, NSW State Emergency Service, Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Police to work together from one location during major incidents. Its proximity to the airport also complements the specialist Clarence Valley Aviation Brigade, which provides on-ground support for firefighting aircraft operating in the region.

Mr Williamson said the Clarence Valley knew all too well the devastating impacts of natural disasters, including the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires and major flooding.

“Our emergency services volunteers and staff do an extraordinary job protecting our families, homes, businesses and environment, often in incredibly challenging circumstances.

“They deserve the best possible facilities to support their work, and I thank every RFS volunteer, along with all our emergency services personnel, for their ongoing dedication to keeping the Clarence Valley safe.

“This new facility will strengthen our region’s ability to prepare for, respond to and manage emergencies, and that is something our whole community can be proud of.”