Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes has confirmed that no funding has been allocated for the replacement of fire stations in Mirboo North or Foster.
The Minister was speaking in response to questions raised in Parliament by The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien.
“I have been working with these communities for years to try and secure the funding needed to get these projects underway, so it is extremely disappointing to hear that the funding is still not there,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Both towns are in desperate need of replacement fire stations with the current ones completely outdated and no longer fit-for-purpose.
“A lease arrangement has finally been signed off on for Foster CFA to build on a new site but without the necessary funding the project will now sit at a standstill.”
Alarmingly, Mirboo North CFA was told it would be receiving capital funding from the CFA in 2022 only to have those funds later withdrawn.
“I celebrated with the team at Mirboo North CFA when the news came down that it was finally receiving the much-needed funds to get the replacement station built, only to see that promise dry up.
“We have been told that the land purchased for the replacement fire station at Mirboo North is no longer suitable to community needs and that the CFA is searching for a more suitable location.
Mr O’Brien said it is becoming a worrying trend that our local CFAs are being fed empty promises and lip-service by the Allan Labor Government.
“We also have our local Winnindoo CFA that has been waiting over 5 years for works to begin on its promised new station – only to be told it will be at least another 12 months!
“The Allan Labor Government can’t manage infrastructure projects or funding, and our local CFA volunteers are paying the price.”