QFES’ Maleny Fire Station raised their doors on Saturday May 7, welcoming members of the public to see the multi-million dollar facility in all its glory.
The new $3.9 million facility was officially opened in December 2021, although COVID-19 had put a halt to the public opening until now.
The complex house three QFES services: Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) auxiliary firefighters, State Emergency Service (SES) and Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers.
Senior Firefighter and Secretary of the Executive Committee Sven Felius, from Maleny and District RFS, said they were pleased to finally be able to open up the incredible facility to the whole community.
“It really is an amazing complex and we couldn’t be more proud it,” said Sven.
“It’s definitely a step up from our previous premises and to have the combination for RFS, FRS and SES in one location is fantastic.
“The purpose built training rooms, and dedicated outdoor training space has been incredibly beneficial for us, particularly as recent wet weather has meant hazard reduction burns have been delayed until finer weather.”
Sven went on to explain that although the last few months have been quite wet, locals can’t afford to be complacent when it comes to getting ready for a potentially damaging bushfire season.
“We encourage residents and land owners to complete their bush fire plan, and maintain their properties by keeping gutters clean, removing overhanging branches and overgrown vegetation around property structures, removing unnecessary debris and ensuring driveways are kept clear for access,” said Sven.
“Understanding bushfire risk management is every land owners’ responsibility, but we are always here to help.”
More information on bushfire safety can be found at www.qfes.qld.gov.au including how to create your own bushfire survival plan.
