Iona Rural Fire Brigade reveals new base through SunWater support

The new base of operations has better equipped the Central Highlands crew to respond to local emergencies thanks to the support of local businesses.

The Iona Rural Fire Brigade will be better prepared to provide local emergency responses thanks to a land grant from Sunwater, as well as $200,000 to develop facilities and infrastructure at the site.

The Iona Rural Fire Brigade are better prepared to respond to emergencies in the area with the erection of its first formal base.

SunWater has donated a parcel of land at Fairbairn Dam, as well as a further $200,000 to develop facilities and infrastructure at the site, located at Selma Road, Emerald.

Rural Fire Brigade Area Director Mark Somers said the one-acre parcel of land would serve as the Iona brigade’s first formal facility.

“Having this site available as we head into another summer season will make a real difference to all of our volunteer efforts,” he said.

“It will allow us to store equipment, hold meetings and conduct training.”

Water Minister Glenn Butcher, who visited the site on August 25, said it was vital the rural fire brigade had access to the best facilities possible to support surrounding communities.

While visiting Emerald on August 25, Minister Water Glenn Butcher visited the site.

“The weather events experienced across the country last summer highlight the importance of emergency services volunteers to their local communities and the need for them to have access to the best possible facilities to do their jobs,” he said.

“Residents who live near Fairbairn Dam rely on the Iona brigade to respond quickly to fires, accidents and searches.

“This donation from SunWater will support the Iona Rural Fire Brigade to provide even greater support to their local community.”

The construction of the base was co-ordinated by Sunwater’s Major Projects group, which undertook the Fairbairn Dam Improvement Project that was completed in October 2020.

Central Queensland vendors McCosker Contracting, Simon Contractors, Concrete Pumping Queensland, Form Direct, Hanson, Emerald Sheds and CCMT donated time, materials and services.

The upgrade involved clearing and surveying, underground services, construction of a driveway, concrete hardstand and erection of a new shed.

Central Highlands Regional Council Mayor Kerry Hayes said it was great to see community groups and businesses supporting each other for the betterment of the region.

“The creation of the base for the Iona Brigade was a great demonstration of community awareness by SunWater and contractors during this major dam upgrade,” he said.

“These are the win-win outcomes when consultation with the region is done will.

“Iona Brigade covers a significant area to Fairbairn Dam and along the environs along the river downstream of the spillway and this facility will give them great operational capacity to respond to emergencies.”

The site and facilities are ready for use by the brigade.