A RECENT inspection of the Rosewood Auxiliary Fire and Rescue Service Station has resulted in the announcement that construction works are almost complete and the doors are ready to be opened before the end of this year.

Member for Ipswich West Jim Madden visited the site again last week.

He said he was excited about the project in terms of what it represented now and into the future.

“We are going to see a significant growth in the population over the coming years, so we need to build facilities in advance to cater for this,” he said.

“Ipswich is expected to grow from a population of 230,000 to 460,000 maybe even to half a million, that is more than double and this new station is really needed.”

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Inspector Craig Lashman said the new building would offer Auxiliary fire crew with new training areas, a kitchenette, showers, dining areas, change rooms, lockers, advanced technology and it would be air-conditioned throughout.”

“There are 14 members that make up this local crew and the Rosewood station does have a good response with all crew working and living locally, so they can respond quickly.

“The station is segregated into special areas that are closed off and secure to stop any contamination like gases or diesels from the two trucks that will be used at the station.

“Every room is classed as a clean room and all equipment is bagged and cleaned appropriately to ensure there is absolutely no cross contamination.”

A multipurpose storage area and a locker room will be housed on the upper level of the two-storey station.

“It is important to look after our crew as they are dedicated volunteers who provide a vital service to the community,” Mr Lashman said.

“This facility is impressive and will feature everything needed to ensure the crew is being well looked after and we look forward to opening it to the public very soon.”