The Beaufort community is receiving a boost to its fire services with construction of a brand-new fire station underway.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett joined volunteers and representatives from the Country Fire Authority at the site, located at 2-6 Racecourse Rd, Beaufort, today to turn the first sod and mark the beginning of construction.

Ballarat-based contractor H.Troon has been appointed to build the station, which is due to be finished in early 2025.

The new station features a motor room with three drive-through bays, offices, a workshop, operational areas and meeting facilities, and separate turn-out spaces for men and women volunteers.

The station has been designed with sustainability in mind, and includes a solar panel system, locally produced steel, rainwater recycling, water-sensitive urban designs in landscaping, as well as the ability to install an electric vehicle charging station in the future.

Outside, a new volunteer car park and a six-bay storage shed will help support the brigade to continue to deliver a high-quality emergency response to the local community.

Beaufort Fire Brigade has served the community for 150 years. Volunteers respond to more than 100 call outs every year, attending bushfires, structural fires, motor vehicle accidents and heavy vehicle incidents, as well as supporting emergency response efforts of surrounding brigades.

Quotes attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

"The brand-new station will be a game changer for Beaufort's dedicated firefighters, who will soon have the modern, fit-for-purpose facilities they deserve."

"Our volunteer firefighters go above and beyond to protect our community and the State Labor Government’s investment will make sure our local volunteers can continue their crucial role for years to come."