Rural
18 August, 2026
MP wants action on new RFS shed at Avoca
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman has described a new Rural Fire Service (RFS) shed planned for Avoca as “strategically important infrastructure” and wants to see work started as soon as possible.
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman has described a new Rural Fire Service (RFS) shed planned for Avoca as “strategically important infrastructure” and wants to see work started as soon as possible.
The new Avoca shed was one of 18 announced by the NSW Government in February this year as part of a $34.5 million commitment to progress work on RFS facilities.
A NSW Government spokesperson said at the time that the investment would “give members the modern facilities they need for essential roles”.
However, nothing has happened at Avoca since the announcement.
Mrs Tuckerman and Shadow Minister for Emergency Services and Disaster Recovery, Tanya Thompson, met with Avoca RFS brigade captain Greg Hickling last week.
The Member for Goulburn said February’s announcement had been welcome “but continued delays are frustrating and its time for the Minister to give some clear timelines on when this job will be done”.
She said the existing shed at Avoca was no longer considered fit-for-use “and we’re encouraging the Minister (for Emergency Services Jihad Dib) to make an announcement and get a shovel in the ground”.
February’s announcement didn’t come with any timeframes around project delivery.
A spokesperson simply said the new sheds would be “progressively delivered over coming years as planning approval, tenders and building works are finalised”.
Shadow Minister Tanya Thompson said the Avoca brigade boasted a “robust membership” and deserved to be looked after.
“These volunteers look after people at their most vulnerable time,” the Shadow Minister said.
“Let’s get a shovel on the ground. Let’s get on with it.”
She also asked that something be done so that existing restrictions on the brigade’s Category 9 vehicle can be lifted.
“Let’s get these vehicles back on the road at full capacity and support those people who support our communities the most,” she said.
Restrictions are in place on Category 9 light tankers across the state due to Gross Vehicle Mass and weight compliance concerns when they are fully loaded.
Mrs Tuckerman thanked Mr Hickling and members of the Avoca brigade for their on-going efforts.
“You deserve facilities that are workable and you can work out of,” she told Mr Hickling last week.
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