The Clarence Valley is better equipped to respond to bushfires, floods, storms and other emergencies following the official opening of a new $13 million emergency services facility at Glenugie.
The Clarence Valley Fire Control Centre and Emergency Operations Centre, located beside Clarence Valley Regional Airport, will serve as a central hub for emergency coordination and support the region’s 38 Rural Fire Service (RFS) brigades and more than 1,000 volunteers.
Clarence MP Richie Williamson joined NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib and RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin for the official opening, marking a significant investment in the region’s disaster preparedness.
The purpose-built facility will allow emergency services agencies, including the RFS, NSW State Emergency Service, Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Police, to coordinate their responses from a single location during major incidents.
Its location beside the airport will also support the Clarence Valley Aviation Brigade, which provides ground assistance to firefighting aircraft operating across the region.
Williamson welcomed the completion of the project, which was first announced by the former NSW Liberal and Nationals Government in January 2023.
“Back in January 2023, the former NSW Nationals in Government recognised the importance of investing in modern emergency services infrastructure for the Clarence Valley, and I’m delighted to see that commitment become a reality,” Williamson said.
“This $13 million facility will be a tremendous asset for our region, providing our emergency services personnel with the facilities, technology and resources they need to coordinate responses when our communities need them most.
“I also want to acknowledge Clarence Valley Council for providing the land for this important facility and working with the RFS to help make it happen.”
The new centre is expected to strengthen emergency response capabilities in a region that has experienced significant natural disasters, including the devastating 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires and major flooding.
Williamson said the facility would provide much-needed support for emergency services personnel and volunteers who regularly respond to challenging conditions.
“Our emergency services volunteers and staff do an extraordinary job protecting our families, homes, businesses and environment, often in incredibly challenging circumstances.
“They deserve the best possible facilities to support their work, and I thank every RFS volunteer, along with all our emergency services personnel, for their ongoing dedication to keeping the Clarence Valley safe.
“This new facility will strengthen our region’s ability to prepare for, respond to and manage emergencies, and that is something our whole community can be proud of.”
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