Editor’s Note: vision and images available here: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/J7jY0ztXZa
Flood and storm response capabilities in the state’s Riverina and Central West regions are levelling up with the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Southern Zone headquarters in Wagga Wagga adding its second storey yesterday.
The new addition was constructed offsite utilising modern modular construction methods, and in a major step forward for the project, a crane was used to install the new building components.
Fit out and further work on the new $5 million facility will continue for a few more months. Once completed, the facility will house an expanded Incident Control Centre, and a full refurbishment of the current ground floor area, creating a fit-for-purpose building with improved functionality and enhanced capabilities.
It will have training, planning and parent rooms, as well as space for volunteer training, community engagement, media briefings and flood rescue coordination.
The new facility also includes a purpose-built incident operations room for more than 50 personnel, equipped with the latest technology to access emergency operation systems more seamlessly during major incidents such as large floods and storms.
The state-of-the-art zone headquarters will be the home of the NSW SES in Southern NSW. Construction on the new facility is expected to be completed mid-2026.
Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib said:
“I am really excited the NSW Government has been able to support the dedicated NSW SES volunteers and communities of Southern NSW with the facilities they need to manage emergencies into the future.”
“Southern Zone SES volunteers continue to go above and beyond for their communities, and we want to ensure they have a base with the tools and equipment they need to grow, plan and train for the next disaster so they can continue providing the highest level of service.”
NSW SES Commissioner, Mike Wassing AFSM said:
“This project will transform the building, providing a more welcoming and professional space to elevate the experience of our incredible SES members.”
“The new facility will help our teams reach new heights and face the challenges of the future, with a fresh look, improved capabilities and the same unwavering dedication to the safety of the community.”
“I am confident that these upgrades will continue to support the Southern Zone in our operational readiness and community engagement efforts for years to come.”
NSW SES Southern Zone Commander, Chief Superintendent Ben Pickup said:
“With the increasing demand for SES assistance during emergencies, this new facility will ensure our communities are supported in their greatest times of need.”
“The NSW SES Southern Zone covers 27 local government areas and has 43 Units across 8 Clusters. This includes major river systems like the Lachlan, Murrumbidgee, Upper Murray and Central Murray River catchments.”
“Investment in facilities like this isn’t only an investment in the SES, but also an investment in the communities of Southern NSW.”
Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr. Joe McGirr said:
“Locals across the Riverina and Central West rely on SES volunteers to be there when it matters most.
“This multi-million-dollar commitment will boost the NSW SES Southern Zone’s capabilities in responding to future severe weather events.”
Media enquiries: NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234