Cessnock’s New $7 Million Fire Station Boosts Emergency Response Across Hunter Valley

newy.com.au – A new $7 million fire station has officially opened in Cessnock, delivering a major boost to fire and emergency services across the Hunter Valley. The facility, funded by the NSW Government, replaces the previous station and is now four times larger, accommodating two fire trucks and up to 27 staff.

Located centrally, the station enhances emergency response capabilities for more than 50,000 residents and supports a network of neighbouring communities including Aberdare, Bellbird, Kitchener, Neath and Pokolbin. Firefighters from Cessnock also assist crews in Abermain, Bankston, Kersley, Kurri Kurri and Singleton, responding to approximately 600 incidents annually.

The upgraded facility includes four engine bays, expanded training and living spaces, modern amenities and dedicated clean zones aimed at reducing contamination risks. The building also features improved energy efficiency and environmentally sustainable design.

“This improved and modern facility provides a practical hub for our firefighters to keep the local community safe,” said Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib. “We’re not just replacing an ageing station, we’re future-proofing firefighting in the region.”

Member for Cessnock Clayton Barr welcomed the investment, saying, “This new station will provide firefighters with a safe, sustainable, and purpose-built facility, which can better serve the people of Cessnock and surrounding areas.”

Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell noted the station was designed with direct input from firefighters. “We asked firefighters what would make their working conditions better and we took that advice on board as we finalised the design,” he said.

The project is part of a broader $98.7 million capital works program under the 2025–26 NSW Budget to upgrade and rebuild fire stations across the state.