BATHURST now has around the clock fire protection.
Bathurst fire station went 24/7 at 8am yesterday, bringing the city in line with other regional centres including Orange and Dubbo.

At yesterday’s launch, Member for Bathurst Paul Toole, who was instrumental in getting the service extended, said it was a “fantastic day” for the city.

“We’ve lobbied for a significant period of time [to get 24-hour fire protection] and it’s great to see,” he said.

He said to receive funding for the station within the first six months of the new government was a great honour, given the State Government’s tight budget.

Launching Bathurst fire station as a 24/7 operation, Emergency Services Minister Michael Gallacher said the NSW Government had delivered on its election commitment to provide an additional 10 firefighters for Bathurst.

“The additional 10 full-time firefighters will allow Bathurst fire station to be staffed around-the-clock, offering additional protection to residents and businesses in the Western region,” he said.

He described the move to make Bathurst 24/7 as a “big win for the community”.

While in Bathurst, Mr Gallacher also announced the delivery of an additional fire truck which has a foam system to fight chemical and petrol fires.

“The government is also pleased to announce today a $15,000 grant to enhance facilities for Bogee [Capertee] Rural Fire Service,” he said.

“These are desperately needed funds for local resources with the onset of the summer fire season.”

Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Greg Mullins said that last financial year Bathurst fire station responded to 690 emergencies and conducted 460 community safety activities.

“The additional resources at the Bathurst fire station, including the new fire engine, are a great addition to the resource capabilities of Fire and Rescue NSW,” Commissioner Mullins said.

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PS, thankyou to all the firefighters and the firefighters union (FBEU) for working so hard to get this station enhanced for the last 10 years