KALANGADOO’S ageing Country Fire Service (CFS) shed has been earmarked for upgrades by the State Government in the upcoming budget, barring “unavoidable issues arising elsewhere”.
Emergency Services Minister Corey Wingard has confirmed the station is one of three within Region 5 – along with Monbulla and Bool Lagoon – on the government’s priority list for the next financial year.
Wattle Range CFS group officer Fred Stent welcomed the potential station upgrades, saying Kalangadoo’s station was “past its use by date”.
While acknowledging Kalangadoo as a priority, Mr Stent said there were a number of stations throughout the South East in worse condition.
Mr Stent said the condition of many of the stations meant they were unable to receive updated equipment, notably new firefighting trucks.
The Kalangadoo brigade currently operates with a single-cab “34” which delivered to the station 13 years ago.
“As far as Kalangadoo is concerned, it needs to be upgraded to a dual cab,” Mr Stent said.
“Kalangadoo is a very active brigade and they often give us full crews.
“There are some brigades that cannot come up with an instant crew, so we rely on them.”
Member for MacKillop Nick McBride said he was pleased Kalangadoo was prioritised by the State Government for upgrades.
“I have advocated for this shed to be released after inspecting the site and seeing first hand the poor condition that our CFS volunteers are working in,” he said.
“This shed has little room for the truck, while there is only one toilet and no shower.
“I understand there are a number of other stations in my electorate that are flagged for replacement which shows the State Government … is committed to delivering for the regions”.
