Oakford volunteer firefighters and Emergency Support Brigade are finally set to be receiving a new home after the building contract was announced as signed this week for the well overdue purpose-built station.
More than a decade ago in March 2015, the private land which the original Oakford Fire Station was situated on was sold, which left the looming possibility the volunteers would be evicted.
This posed a risk to the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale community members, with them potentially being left high and dry during bushfire season until a new home base was built for the volunteers.
However, after being awarded the contract in December 2024, Cloudbreak WA have now signed the contract to begin construction on the new Oakford volunteer fire station in what is expected to be an 18-month long design and build process.
Serpentine Jarrahdale Shire President Rob Coales said the new Oakford station is an important aspect of the community to thank volunteers and enhance community safety.
“The signing of this contract for the design and construction of a new Volunteer Bushfire Brigade Station marks a proud and significant moment for the SJ community,” he said.
“This is more than a building, it’s a new home and an investment in the extraordinary dedication of our valued local vollies. It’s also a significant move to secure the safety of our rapidly growing community.
“We are proud to be delivering a new a facility that exceeds expectations and supports the Brigade’s vital work now and into the future.”
SJ was recently named the fastest growing local government in WA, and the construction of the new Oakford fire station will ensure existing and future demand is met.
Oakford Volunteer Bushfire Brigade captain Rhett Hislop said he was excited to finally have a “purpose-built” station.
“We extend our gratitude to the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale and the Department of Fire and Emergency Services for their investment in this essential community asset,” he said.
“The Oakford Bush Fire Brigade continues to be one of the busiest volunteer brigades in the metropolitan area, and we are thrilled to welcome the announcement of a purpose-built facility.
“This modern infrastructure will ensure the brigade can continue to protect the community for decades to come.”
The new station will open with four multiple vehicle bays, an equipment storage area, training and meeting rooms, upgraded facilities for volunteer operations and wellbeing, formal car park spaces, and a designated training area.
More than 70 brigade members would be accommodated in the new station, with approximately 150 callouts being responded to each bushfire season.
Member for Oakford Yaz Mubarakai said the signing of the contract was a significant moment for the Oakford community and the wider Serpentine Jarrahdale community.
“This is a proud day for the Oakford electorate and a testament to the strength and spirit of our local volunteer firefighters,” he said.
“The new station will provide a modern, purpose-built home for our hardworking Bush Fire Brigade and Emergency Support Brigade and reflects our government’s commitment to those who protect our communities.
“I’m proud to have committed $45,000 towards a new 4WD Emergency Appliance vehicle to further support their vital work. It ensures our volunteers have the resources they need to keep our growing community safe for years to come.”
Construction on the new Oakford Bushfire Brigade was meant to begin in 2024 after the Development Application (DA) for the Pony Place site was approved in March 2023.
However, delays in the progress were caused in April last year when shire staff uncovered a significant discrepancy between the council-approved DA and the concept plan.
The new station is expected to be operational from December 2026.
