With changes to the way the Country Fire Authority (CFA) operates in Shepparton, transitioning from a largely volunteer organisation to one that currently has ten full-time members. It is expected in time, to grow to 14 full time members and with over 30 volunteers, the brigade has outgrown their existing station in Maude Street.
The site of the new station will be in Archer Street behind Shepparton Shopping Plaza complex where access of fire vehicles will pose less of a safety risk to pedestrian traffic walking past, it offers a lot more space to accommodate a larger team of permanent firefighters as well as providing facilities that adequately serve the needs of a modern fire brigade including bigger training facilities.
The recent bushfires brings home the important job the CFA does in the community and Shepparton with a rising population has a greater need for essential services to be expanded and improved upon.
Despite calls for the CFA to be fully funded by the State Government, the new station still has a demand for volunteers to help raise money for additional equipment. To date they have contributed some $85,000 towards the improved facilities of the new station.
The building works are being done by Shepparton project managing firm, Crow Constructions. Crow Construction has a long time reputation for relying upon local subcontractors and suppliers which augurs well for the Shepparton economy with a $12M estimate for the construction.
