THE new Namoi Gwydir Fire Control Centre in Narrabri is nearing completion, marking a major step forward in strengthening emergency response capability in the state’s north-west.

The $13.1 million facility will provide the Rural Fire Service with a modern, purpose-built base to support operations into the future.

The project delivers on recommendations from the 2019-2020 bushfire Inquiry, replacing the existing facility which is unable to support a contemporary Emergency Operations Centre.

The development includes a co-located, multi-agency Emergency Operations Centre, improving coordination between emergency services during major incidents. It will also house a new station for the Narrabri Headquarters Brigade and dedicated mitigation crew facilities.

Once complete, the FCC will feature modern operational workspaces, training rooms, specialised support infrastructure, a helipad and training area.

The new Narrabri Headquarters Brigade station will include three truck bays, a multifunction training and meeting space, kitchen, storage areas, and full Male and Female amenities including locker rooms and showers.

Relocating the facility to a new site across the road from the existing control centre allows both the RFS and Narrabri Shire Council to better utilise space. Once complete, the existing facility will be handed back to Council.

Construction began in early 2025 and is on track for completion by mid-2026.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib was in Narrabri this week to inspect the project.

“This is a significant investment in community safety, ensuring our emergency services are equipped to respond to increasingly complex incidents,” Mr Dib said.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib was in Narrabri this week to meet with Chief Superintendent Paul Metcalfe and local staff at the new Fire Control Centre (Image Supplied).

“This facility reflects lessons learned from the 2019-2020 bushfires and strengthens our preparedness for future emergencies.

“It has been a busy summer for firefighters and our continued focus on the state’s firefighting capability reflects our deep respect for the volunteers who step up when it matters most.

“These centres strengthen our ability to respond to emergencies across the region, ensuring communities have the resources and coordinated support they need to face future challenges.”

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said regional communities deserve the strongest, most comprehensive possible protection, and this investment in Barwon delivers the best protection to the community.

“These new RFS facilities will ensure our volunteers have all of the modern resources they need to keep people safe during bush fires,” he said.

NSW RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin said the new facility will significantly enhance operational capability and co-ordination during major incidents.

“Co-locating a multi-agency Emergency Operations Centre ensures we can work seamlessly with partner agencies when it matters most,” he said.

“It will provide our members with state-of-the-art facilities to support their critical work protecting communities.”