Plans for a new Rural Fire Station in Bundeena were unveiled at a sod turning ceremony held onsite on Thursday 17 June 2010.
The plans were announced by Minister Steve Whan Minister for Emergency Services and local member Paul McLeay Minister for Ports and Waterways and for the Illawarra . Also present were Rural Fire Service Commisioner Shane Fitzimmons, Sutherland Rural Fire District Manager Andrew Pinfold and Bundeena brigade members.
The new station will be built on the current site and will involve knock down and removal of the present building and the construction of a two level structure. The brigade has been in the present building for 40 years but changes in brigade structure and appliances have seen it become unsuitable for todays requirements. During construction the brigade will be located on temporary premises within the township and its firefighting capabilities will not be compromised.
The building will house separate truck bays, change rooms / showers, modern food preparation area with separate meeting and eating areas. Costs are in excess of $1million dollars with funding shared between NSW Government and Sutherland Council.
With construction hopefully starting this year the brigade has undertaken fundraising to cover the costs of interior fit out of those items not covered in the supply of the building such as fridges, stoves and IT equipment.
The brigade acknowledges the vigorous support given to this and other projects from our local member Mr Paul McLeay who has worked tirelessly to ensure that this building will be the best available and will be able to serve the brigade and the community for many years to come.
The brigade further acknowledges the ongoing support of Sutherland Shire Council not only to this brigade and our current project but the ongoing commitment to the Rural Fire Service in the Sutherland Shire.
Ian Nightingale
Captain Bundeena RFS