Ballina’s SES volunteers have swapped an outdated base for a $6.3 million headquarters, after about 1,140 call-outs in just three years.
The new purpose-built NSW State Emergency Service (SES) facility has opened on Hogan Road. It includes an Emergency Operations Centre to improve coordination between emergency services during major incidents, improved training spaces, expanded vehicle bays, state-of-the-art operational rooms, and modern amenities.
The NSW Government invested $2.1 million in the new Ballina SES Headquarters. Ballina Shire Council contributed $4.2 million.
It replaces an old building that was no longer fit for purpose, and it will support volunteers as flood, storm, rescue, and emergency incidents increase.
Over the past three years, the Ballina SES Unit has responded to about 1,140 jobs, mostly for storms and floods. That includes 725 storm incidents, 352 flood incidents, and 130 general land rescue incidents.
“Our volunteers are the backbone of emergency response across the Northern Rivers, and they deserve fit-for-purpose facilities to carry out their lifesaving work,” said Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib.
“I know how tough recent years have been for this community with recurring storms and floods, and this investment ensures our Ballina volunteers are equipped and ready to respond to whatever comes next.”
“The Northern Rivers is a resilient community, but our local volunteers need the right facilities to match their dedication,” said Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin.
“Behind every emergency response are volunteers giving up their time to keep their neighbours safe, and I know this modern facility will give them the space and resources they need for years to come.”
“This modern, purpose-built facility meets the scale and complexity of incidents our Ballina Unit volunteers face,” said Acting NSW SES Commissioner Daniel Austin.
“The NSW SES is very proud of this new facility which will significantly enhance our operational readiness and interagency coordination locally.”
“Our SES volunteers deserve a facility that reflects the value of the work they do, and I couldn’t be prouder to see this facility open its doors here in Ballina,” said Ballina Shire Council Mayor Sharon Cadwallader.
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