Manly Fire Station: $2.9 million makeover for station in its 100th year

The Fire and Rescue NSW station on Sydney Road at Fairlight has been home to the Manly brigade for the past 100 years.

The $2.9 million upgrade was unveiled by FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter, and crews were welcomed back in after spending the last 11 months being stationed in a factory in Brookvale while works were completed.

READ ALSO: Freshwater class ferry to go back to work amid plagued Emerald rollout

Manly brigade's station received extensive heritage and facility upgrades, and incorporates improved training facilities to meet the needs of a modern fire service.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said the station's 100-year celebration represented an important milestone for the community, with the upgrades serving as a fitting birthday present.

"For the past 100 years, firefighters have responded from their Manly Fire Station to major incidents ranging from industrial and residential fires to floods, storms and serious road accidents," he said.

"This $2.9 million investment from NSW Government into the station upgrade will provide better emergency response coverage for Manly and surrounding communities now and into the future."

Manly MP James Griffin said the facelift would enhance the ability of firefighters to respond to fires and other emergencies.

READ ALSO: Get breaking news from the northern beaches as it happens

"Our firefighters need to be well-resourced and equipped to protect the community from bush fires, motor vehicle crashes, structure fires and other emergencies," he said.

Commissioner Baxter said the much-needed upgrades will boost firefighters' ability to continue to protect the local community.

"This milestone is an opportunity to thank all of the firefighters, past and present, who have served the Manly community over the years," he said.

"The new design features designated work and living areas, a new training room, separate male and female amenities, improved recreation spaces and heritage works to restore this historically significant asset for both FRNSW and the community."

READ ALSO: Northern beaches COVID clinic to close down amid rise in virus cases

At the centenary celebrations, Commissioner Baxter also presented Station Officer, David Ford, with the second clasp to his National Medal, acknowledging his 35 years of service to the community.

Manly firefighters received nearly 1400 requests to assist the community and performed over 900 community safety activities during the 2020/21 financial year.

Have something to say? Send a letter to the editor at: editor@northernbeachesreview.com.au

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: