For years the Dubbo Rescue Squad and Dubbo branch of the NSW State Emergency Service have had to put up with aging facilities and a lack of space but that will change after $2.3 million in funding.
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Dubbo MP Troy Grant announced the SES would receive $1.5 million for a new facility and the Rescue Squad would get $750,000 but the two invaluable services may pool their money.
A preliminary investigation is being conducted into whether or not the two outfits could cohabit and both have indicated they would be open to the suggestion.
NSW SES region controller David Monk said a new facility would be a welcome boost and would assist in recruiting new volunteers.
He also said sharing a facility could be a viable option.
“It does make sense. There is cost savings for the government which will enhance the capability of both agencies. They work in different spheres but at the end of the day they are all volunteers providing emergency services to the community,” he said.
NSW VRA commissioner Mark Gibson was equally excited.
“It’s been a long time coming but the result was well worth it. the merger is on the agenda. We need to discuss it. Overall it’s magnificent for the Dubbo VRA to get a new facility, whether it’s cohabiting or individual,” he said.
Mr Grant said both the SES and the VRA provided life-saving services to the community and deserved facilities to
“We have had outstanding service from our volunteer organisations for decades and wonderful partnerships between the emergency services and government,” he said.
“Our SES and rescue squad are housed within government properties. They are starting to get worse for wear and they’re not up to the standards they need to be so our emergency responders can store their equipment and deploy as quickly as possible to save lives.”
Dubbo Regional Council administrator Michael Kneipp said it was outstanding to see the funding.
“Today’s announcement is particularly exciting for the emergency services people in town. Not only will it give them state of the art premises but it encourages other people to join,” he said.
They do such an incredible job. On a nice day like today you don’t think about it but when you’ve got fires or floods or accidents, you need them to be at their best.
