The NSW Government is investing $25.5 million to develop three new co-located Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) and Fire Control Centres (FCCs) in Grafton, Narrabri and Cooma.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional New South Wales Paul Toole made the announcement in Cooma today, where the new facility is set to boost the capability of the Rural Fire Service (RFS) and other emergency services across the region.
“The fires that tore through the Snowy Monaro during the summer of 2019/20 were destructive and devastating. It’s vital to have purpose-designed and built facilities in place to respond to future emergencies,” Mr Toole said.
“Having a state-of-the-art facility will support large-scale operations that bring together a range of emergency management agencies in one location to better serve and protect the community.”
Local MLC Bronnie Taylor said the new facility would ensure the Snowy Monaro is better prepared for future disasters.
“The RFS did an incredible job during the devastating Black Summer bushfires, and if it was not for their hand work and dedication the toll would’ve been much greater,” Mrs Taylor said.
“I know I speak on behalf of both the RFS and the community in saying that this new Emergency Operations Centre is very welcome. This will be a game changer for our Snowy Monaro community.”
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke said the investment would address a recommendation of the NSW Bushfire Inquiry to upgrade and co-locate EOCs and FCCs.
“The NSW Government is committed to ensuring our emergency services have the facilities, equipment and resources they need for their vital work to assist and protect our community during emergencies and natural disasters,” Ms Cooke said.
“Once completed, these new facilities will be used to oversee the response to a range of natural disasters and emergencies, including fires, floods and severe storms.”
The announcement follows a $31 million investment from the NSW Government for new centres for Moruya, Tumut and Hawkesbury. Construction has also already begun on facilities in Mudgee and Armidale.
RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers said the investment was a boost to the State’s firefighting capabilities, enabling more effective management of resources during major emergencies.
“It’s fantastic that our dedicated members will have a purpose-built facility to work closely with our emergency services partners to better protect the people of the Snowy Monaro region,” Commissioner Rogers said.
“The site will also increase the capability and resilience of the local communities to respond to the natural hazards they face across this diverse bushland and alpine environment.”
The co-located EOC and FCC at Cooma will be the primary operations centre in the area, supported by existing facilities in Bombala and Berridale.
The NSW Government and RFS are working with Snowy Monaro Regional Council and Snowy Hydro to identify a suitable location in Cooma for the new facility, and will update the community shortly.
