Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson has continued his campaign to have the Werris Creek and Manilla Fire and Rescue Stations upgraded following his meeting with Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib and Fire and Rescue NSW.

Mr Anderson said the Manilla and Werris Creek Stations desperately require an upgrade to accommodate the larger fire trucks as well as modern specialist equipment including separate changerooms to attract and retain more firefighters.

“Both Manilla and Werris Creek Stations are an important part of our communities and it’s to bring them up to modern standards to ensure our firefighters are best resourced to serve the community,” Mr Anderson said.

“These stations were built decades ago, and they need to be upgraded to meet modern workforce needs and standards.

“This includes ensuring the stations are fit out with the very best in modern equipment, including appropriate decontamination facilities, PPE storage spaces, appliance bays, engine bays, and changerooms and bathrooms.

“This will ensure the growing cohort of female firefighters have their own facilities and amenities to ensure they feel safe and comfortable in the workplace.

“Fire trucks are a lot bigger than they were 90 years ago, and the very best in modern tankers only just squeeze through the door, barely leaving enough room for additional equipment.

“It’s time for an upgrade and I’m demanding that the government tap into the $50 million Fire and Rescue NSW Female Firefighter Facility Upgrades program to upgrade our stations.”