The Modewarre Country Fire Authority (CFA) brigade is looking forward to a new, purpose-built fire station thanks to a more than $2 million contribution from the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman joined Modewarre Fire Brigade Captain Michael Meesen and other CFA dignitaries at the site of the new station today to mark the beginning of construction.

The new station will be well-equipped for the future, providing plenty of space for modern appliances, with three large engine bays with drive through access, a multi-purpose room for training and meetings, an updated kitchen, laundry and office space.

The new building will also provide better safety features such as breathing apparatus cleaning facilities and equipment storage.

With 41 volunteer members including 28 operational firefighters and three junior members, the current station—which was built in the 1980s—no longer meets the needs of the busy brigade. The new station will help attract even more members into the future.

Located close to the Princes Highway and Cape Otway Road, Modewarre responds to grass and scrub fires, structural fires and motor vehicle accidents. The brigade responds to an average of 43 callouts annually, 17 of which were located within its primary response area in the past 12 months.

Modewarre also provides vital support to neighbouring response areas and acts as an important last line of defence for the Surf Coast Shire in preventing grassfire from moving south into the Otway National Park.

The Andrews Labor Government has provided an investment of $2.055 million towards the new station, including $1.89 million as part of the government’s $126 million capability funding for the CFA, which is providing 16 new CFA stations across Victoria.

Additional funding of $52,500 for the project was provided through the Victorian Government’s 2019 and 2020 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program, with an additional $105,000 provided through the 2020 Emergency Services Refurbishment Fund.

“I’m delighted to mark the beginning of construction here in Modewarre. I hope the new station will encourage more people to join the brigade and contribute to this important service to our community.”

“With the changing climate and more people moving to the regions, the way we respond to
emergencies is changing too. It has never been more important to make sure Victoria’s
emergency services are equipped to do their work safely and efficiently.”

“The firefighters and brigade members at Modewarre do an outstanding job protecting their
community. A safe, modern building is essential to continue to protect the people of the Surf
Coast Shire now and into the future.”