The NSW Government is finalising site designs for the proposed new Hawkesbury Fire Control Centre, in partnership with Hawkesbury City Council.
Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib and Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, visited the site of the new facility, to be built at the corner of Kurmond and McKinnons Roads in Wilberforce.
“This new Fire Control Centre will provide the tools, infrastructure, and technology needed to coordinate emergency operations and protect lives and property in a region hit by a number of natural disasters in recent years,” said Mr Dib.
“Most importantly, it reflects our government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the volunteers and professionals who work around the clock to keep our communities safe.”
The new NSW Rural Fire Service Fire Control Centre will also include a co-located Emergency Operations Centre and NSW State Emergency Service unit base, forming the broader Hawkesbury Emergency Services Precinct.
“This project represents a critical investment in the region’s emergency response capabilities, and a strong show of support for the dedicated volunteers and emergency service personnel who protect the community,” said NSW Rural Fire Service Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie.
“Our members give their all to serve the community, and this facility will ensure they have the best possible environment to do so.”
The $16.5 million project is part of the NSW Government’s ongoing investment in critical infrastructure for regional and outer-metropolitan communities. The purpose-built centre will bring together emergency management experts, enable faster coordination, and enhance frontline capabilities in the region.
Hawkesbury Deputy Mayor Sarah McMahon said the delivery of the new centre, especially in the aftermath of the 2019/2020 bushfires is “absolutely vital for our community”.
“We want to thank the RFS, the State Government and our Council staff for their due diligence in ensuring this land is secured, and this crucial project to keep our community safe will be delivered,” she said.
RFS District Manager for the Hawkesbury, Superintendent Jonathon Hill, welcomed the progress on the new fire control centre.
“With the land at McKinnons Road secured, a commitment to the funding and designs well underway, all of the Hawkesbury can be confident that a new fire control centre will be built very soon,” Supt Hill said.
“The new centre will significantly boost bushfire response, coordination and resilience in the Hawkesbury and I know all our RFS members and volunteers are eagerly anticipating its construction.”
Construction of the new Fire Control Centre will begin after the completion of the approvals and tender process.
