Nick McGowan MP visits Fire Station No. 2 in West Melbourne. One appliance on the floor today and already their fourth call this shift — a clear reminder of just how hard crews are working.
This is an older station and, like many across the state, it comes with real operational challenges. Access is tight, with appliances unable to enter from the rear of the forecourt, slowing movement and adding pressure when every second counts.
That’s why visiting as many stations as possible matters. Seeing conditions firsthand — the dorm accommodation, the age of appliances, and the practical limitations crews deal with daily — tells the real story better than any report ever could.
Right now, around 65% of the entire fleet of fire trucks is beyond its service life. That’s not just a number — it means breakdowns, delays, and uncertainty when firefighters should have complete confidence their truck will get them there safely. Reliable appliances and proper fleet management aren’t luxuries; they’re essential for firefighter safety. This is their workplace, and they deserve safe facilities and dependable equipment.
Keeping the fleet modern and stations fit for purpose must be a priority.
Listen to Nick McGowan MP’s report in the video below to hear directly what crews are facing on the ground.