CONSTRUCTION of Australia’s first co-located fire station and community refuge is under way in Blackwood.
Demolition of the old CFA building begins this week, with the new station expected to open by Christmas.
Bushfire Response Minister Kim Wells, who last week announced $1.5 million for the upgrade project, said Blackwood was a high-risk town in a fire-prone area.
The station site was selected for a refuge because no suitable ‘‘neighbourhood safer place’’ could be found. There is just one road in and out of Blackwood.
Mr Wells said the new station and refuge would boost survival options in an emergency situation.
“The upgrade aims to not only provide last-resort protection but improve the operational capability of the Blackwood Fire Brigade to respond to and manage major fire and other emergencies,” Mr Wells said.
CFA community safety manager Michael Boatman said leaving early was still the safest option in a bushfire.
“We’d encourage people as part of their fire plan not to remain in the area, to evacuate when need be, but we know this doesn’t always happen so we need to have measures in place.”
John Rayner, of Blackwood’s St Malachy’s church, said the new station and refuge would be a worthwhile addition to the fire-prone community.
