Plans progress for Elliott Heads fire brigade

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts today said the new auxiliary fire service for Elliott Heads, near Bundaberg, is on-track to commence operation by mid-next year.

Mr Roberts said the current Elliott Heads rural fire station is being converted into a joint rural/auxiliary station, boosting services in the growing Wide Bay/Burnett region.

In Gayndah as part of the Ministerial Regional Community Forum, Mr Roberts said the Bligh Government was committed to improving services in regional Queensland.

“The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service is continuously reviewing the needs of the local community,” Mr Roberts said.

“Increased growth in the region means the State Government has invested in this new auxiliary service to cater for projected demand increases.

“A new facility is expected to be fitted out within the next two to three months.

“Volunteer fire fighters have also begun their training to become fully-fledged auxiliary officers with QFRS.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate these hard-working volunteers on commencing their training to become auxiliary fire fighters which is testament to their skills and dedication.

“I’m happy to report that the new service is expected to be up and running mid-next year.

“The Bligh Government is committed to providing first-class emergency services to all Queenslanders.

“In 2008-09, QFRS will have a record operating budget of $397.9 million, representing a $37.7 million increase over last year’s budget.”

Media Contact: Brendan Connell 3247 8194