The New South Wales Government is investing $8.5 million into a Fire Control and Emergency Operations Centre in Cooma – located in the Snowy Monaro Regional Council area – to improve the region’s ability to respond to bushfires.
New South Wales Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience, Steph Cooke, said, “We know from the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires we need to enhance our frontline capability, which includes having major emergency management hubs in key locations like Cooma.
“This Fire Control and Emergency Operations Centre will bring all our emergency services organisations under one roof, with the best technology and resources, to keep our communities safer and stronger from whatever hazards emerge.”
New South Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner, Rob Rogers, said the RFS is committed to providing volunteer firefighters with the facilities and equipment they need.
“I thank both Snowy Monaro Regional Council and Snow Hydro Limited which have been pivotal in securing the location for this new facility.
“This facility will ensure members of the 33 Brigades in this region have access to the latest technology and resources to respond to emergencies,” Mr Rogers said.
New South Wales Member for Monaro, Nichole Overall, said the impact of the 2019-20 Black Summer bush fires is still fresh in the minds of many, with more than 230,000ha burnt in the Snowy Monaro area.
“Our region endured some of the most devastating impacts of Black Summer and the New South Wales Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to making sure our communities are better prepared and better protected for future severe fire seasons,” Mrs Overall said.
Once completed, the Fire Control and Emergency Operations Centre will consist of:
- An operations and logistics centre
- Two helipads
- Vehicle bays and storage
- Training rooms
- Administration offices
