The $350,000 upgrade included the construction of a free-standing extension at the rear of the station, which provides space for a new training area, as well as a fitness room, shower and kitchen amenities. Touring the new-look station in Farquhar Street, Mr Grant said the renovations represented an investment in community safety in Wingham.

“The NSW government provided funding for this upgrade to ensure Wingham Fire Station is better equipped to meet operational needs into the future,” Mr Grant said.

“The renovations have been designed to ensure local firefighters are trained, fit and rested so they can do their job effectively.

“Improved response times, combined with crews that are better conditioned and better rested, can mean the difference between life and death, or saving and losing a building,” Mr Grant said.

The renovations also included modifications to the existing station building to provide shower and bathroom amenities for female firefighters and improved storage capacity for protective and firefighting equipment.

Member for Myall Lakes Mr Bromhead said that the greater Wingham community would be reassured to know that the government had been improving regional firefighting facilities.

“Our firefighters put themselves on the line every time they head out to a fire. It’s great that this government continues to invest in firefighters so they have the best facilities possible,” Mr Bromhead said.

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Zone Commander Stephen Hirst said the upgraded station is delivering real benefits to the people of Wingham and surrounds.

“The improved facilities provide a bigger and better base for the firefighters who protect Wingham and surrounding communities from fires, accidents, chemical spills and other emergencies,” he said.