The campaign to upgrade Werris Creek and Manilla fire stations has kicked off with Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson taking Minister for Emergency Services Steph Cooke to the stations to highlight the issues the crews are facing.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said it was important to support firefighters in our smaller communities because they are critical to protecting our communities in emergencies.

“Firefighters at Station 496 in Werris Creek and Station 375 in Manilla do so much more than respond to fire incidents,” Mr Anderson said.

“They’re a full-on community support unit, responding to a range of emergency events, educating the community on important fire safety messages, and providing support for community events.

“That’s why I’m keen to see them supported in every way possible, and in Manilla and Werris Creek, that means station upgrades.

“Both the Manilla and Werris Creek stations have served their communities well over generations, but they need to be upgraded to meet a modern-day workforce.

“The current stations do not have separate changerooms and bathrooms for male and female firefighters. They’re also cramped with the modern tankers only just squeezing through the front door.

“It’s time for an upgrade and that’s why I asked the Minister to come to our area to inspect both stations and meet firefighters. It’s critical that we provide the very best facilities and support our front-line workers,” concluded Mr Anderson.