Media Release: NSW SES UNIT HEADQUARTERS BOLSTERS RESPONSE CAPABILITIES IN BALLINA AND SURROUNDS

• The new $6.3 million purpose-built NSW SES facility opened in Ballina on Hogan Road.

• The upgraded facility includes an Emergency Operations Centre, improved training spaces and modern amenties.

• Over the past three years the Ballina SES Unit has responded to approximately 1,140 jobs, including 725 storm, 352 flood, and 130 general land rescue incidents.

Editor’s Note: Vision and photos from the official opening are available via hightail https://spaces.hightail.com/space/PnJGHq1oEc/files 

Emergency response capabilities across the Northern Rivers have received a major boost with the opening of a new $6.3 million purpose-built NSW State Emergency Service (SES) facility in Ballina. 

The upgraded facility on Hogan Road includes an Emergency Operations Centre to improve coordination between emergency services during major incidents, improved training spaces, expanded vehicle bays, state-of-the-art operational rooms and modern amenities. 

The NSW Government invested $2.1 million towards the new Ballina SES Headquarters, alongside a $4.2 million contribution from the Ballina Shire Council. 

The project replaces an outdated facility that was no longer fit for purpose, with the new modern facility supporting SES volunteers with the increasing number of flood, storm, rescue and emergency incidents. 

 In the past three years, the Ballina SES Unit has responded to about 1,140 jobs, predominantly for storm and flood-related incidents. Over the past three years alone, they have responded to 725 storm, 352 flood, and 130 general land rescue incidents. 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib: 

"Our volunteers are the backbone of emergency response across the Northern Rivers, and they deserve fit-for-purpose facilities to carry out their lifesaving work.  

 “I know how tough recent years have been for this community with recurring storms and floods, and this investment ensures our Ballina volunteers are equipped and ready to respond to whatever comes next.” 

Quotes attributable to Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin: 

“The Northern Rivers is a resilient community, but our local volunteers need the right facilities to match their dedication. 

“Behind every emergency response are volunteers giving up their time to keep their neighbours safe, and I know this modern facility will give them the space and resources they need for years to come." 

Quotes attributable to Acting NSW SES Commissioner, Daniel Austin: 

 “This modern, purpose-built facility meets the scale and complexity of incidents our Ballina Unit volunteers face.  

"The NSW SES is very proud of this new facility which will significantly enhance our operational readiness and interagency coordination locally. With expanded vehicle bays and state-of-the-art operation rooms, our members now have a modern hub designed to support rapid response during major regional emergencies.” 

Quotes attributable to Ballina Shire Council Mayor, Sharon Cadwallader: 

“Our SES volunteers give their time and skills to help people through some of their hardest moments. This new headquarters gives them a purpose-built home to train, prepare and do what they do best – support our community when it needs them most. 

“Our SES volunteers deserve a facility that reflects the value of the work they do, and I couldn’t be prouder to see this facility open its doors here in Ballina.” 

Images

Ballina Unit Opening Aerial.jpg

The $6.3 million NSW SES Ballina Unit has officially opened.

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