New shed build under way for Tunney Fire Brigade after years of planning

The Tunney Fire Brigade will soon have a new home with the construction of the first Tunney Fire Shed finally under way. The plans have been in the works since 2017 and until now, the brigade’s fire truck has been stored in a private shed on a local farming property. The Shire of Cranbrook council discussed issues with a shortfall in the budget for construction at the May 20 council meeting, requiring an allowance for a spending increase. Councillors voted that Shire chief executive Peter Northover write to Western Power to request a reconsideration of the quote for main power connection and possible discount. A letter was sent to the Western Power chief executive on May 21, but no reply had been received as of this week. Mr Northover said the quote from Western Power was more than $63,000, which was double initial estimates. “An initial estimate based on load requirements and site access indicated that the cost would be about $25,0000-$30,000,” he said. An application was made to Western Power in January, with a $3000 application fee paid in March. The council originally allocated $30,000 for the connection.