$16.1 Million Rural Fire Service Facility Enhances Emergency Response in the Snowy Monaro
Communities across the Snowy Monaro will be better protected during bush fires and other emergencies, with the opening of a new $16 million emergency hub.
The state-of-the-art facility at Polo Flat delivers an expanded operational space, improved coordination capability and enhanced training and logistics areas for emergency services ahead of the next bush fire season.
It includes a modern Fire Control Centre, dedicated Emergency Operations Centre capability and a purpose-built aviation hangar to support air operations across the region.
The new centre replaces an outdated facility and includes modern incident management and training rooms, logistics and equipment storage, offices, a base for bush fire mitigation crews as well as a helipad and aircraft hangar.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib was joined by Member for Monaro Steve Whan, NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Trent Curtin, local leaders and emergency service personnel to unveil the development today.
The project represents a $16.1 million investment in community safety by the Minns Labor Government along with local partners, including Snowy Hydro and council.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said: “Behind every emergency response are volunteers and emergency workers giving everything they’ve got. We want to make sure they have the facilities and equipment to do their job safely and effectively.
“This new Fire Control Centre, Emergency Operations Centre and aviation facility will strengthen coordination and better support the incredible volunteers who serve the Snowy Monaro region.
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in modern, fit‑for‑purpose emergency services facilities right across the state to ensure communities are prepared for future challenges.”
Member for Monaro, Steve Whan said “The safety of our community and the dedicated volunteers and emergency services personnel who protect it is paramount. This is a major investment in ensuring they have the facilities and support they need.
“The Snowy Monaro region faces some of the most diverse emergency conditions in NSW, so I’m proud the Minns Labor Government is investing in the resources needed for fast and effective emergency response.”
RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin said:
“This is a significant step forward in capability for the Snowy Monaro District and the broader region.”
“The new centre gives our teams the space, technology and coordination capability needed to manage complex incidents in a challenging landscape.”
“Importantly, it also provides our volunteers with a modern base for training, planning and working together with partner agencies.”
Snowy Hydro Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Scott MacKillop said:
“We’ve been a proud member of the Snowy Monaro community for 75 years and this new emergency hub is a vital investment in our shared future.”
“Through the provision of land for this site, we’re helping to empower the dedicated RFS volunteers with the modern facility they need to keep residents, critical infrastructure and our stunning alpine environment safe.”
The Snowy Monaro district spans more than 15,000 square kilometres and is home to over 2,100 RFS volunteers across 34 brigades, who play a critical role in protecting their communities from fire and other emergencies.
The new facility will also support multiagency coordination, including collaboration with the Local Emergency Operations Controller and partner fire agencies such as Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and Forestry NSW.
“We value the strong partnership we have with the NSW Government, the Rural Fire Service and our local council that has helped make this a reality and look forward to our ongoing collaboration.