Tunney Fire Brigade opens its first fire shed as acknowledgement for the sacrifices made by brigade volunteers

The Tunney Fire Brigade finally has a place it can call home. After decades of operating through private properties, the brigade opened its first fire station on Friday. “Going from a privately owned shed to this facility, I mean, what a jump,” Department of Fire and Emergency Services Superintendent Wayne Green said. The $970,000 station was launched in front of a packed crowd, many of whom were past or present volunteer members of the service, including five former captains of the brigade. The event also recognised 30 veteran members of the brigade with long-service medals, including a badge marking 55 years of service for veteran brigade member Bill Aldrin. Supt Green praised the volunteers for their committent to fighting fires throughout the Great Southern. “Each year you guys stand up and help out,” he said. He said the near-$1 million project was more than worth it. “It might seem like an excessive amount of money, but it’s going to stand here for 40-50 years,” he said. “Should you grow and acquire more volunteers, this will cater for it.” Shire of Cranbrook president Philip Horrocks thanked local farmer David Adams for gifting the land to the shire and brigade.