Metcalfe Fire Brigade members joined together with CFA dignitaries, local MPs and the local community to officially open the doors to their new fire station last Sunday May 17.
Around 100 people gathered to celebrate the milestone which allowed the brigade to show everyone their new state-of-the-art facility.
The new station includes two motor bays, operational support areas, car parking and separate turnout areas with private change facilities to support gender diversity and accessibility.
Metcalfe Fire Brigade Captain Len Girvan said the new station was welcomed not just by the brigade but by the wider community.
“It has been a huge team effort, with a lot of different people putting in lots of work to make it happen,” Len said.
“It has turned into a really great space, with so much more room allowing us to grow as a brigade.
“The opening day was a great opportunity to celebrate with the community who are all so happy to see us in our new home.”
Metcalfe Brigade was established as the Metcalfe Bushfire Brigade. The brigade was presented with a certificate for 125 years service on the day.
Lots has changed in the area in that time and Len said he is sure it will continue to change into the future.
Metcalfe is also close to Ravenswood where one of the major bushfires burned in the 2025/26 fire season.
“Our brigade was heavily involved in this fire season,” Len said.
“This is opening is a celebration for the whole area.”
Black Saturday also had a profound impact on the town of Metcalfe.
The brigade also supported the response to the 2022 floods in Echuca, the 2019/20 fires, and many other major incidents throughout the years.
The brigade has 26 operational members, with another 32 filling non-operational roles.
Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer for District 02, Archie Conroy, said it was great to see the brigade move into a new space.
“It will allow the brigade to continue to grow and support their community,” Archie said.
Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas said the Metcalfe brigade has always been there for our community when they have needed
them most.
“We’re proud to deliver a brand-new station to make sure our dedicated volunteers can keep doing their incredible work,” Ms Thomas said.
Minister for Emergency Services, Vicki Ward said this new station is a long-term investment by the state government in CFA volunteers
– the backbone of our regional communities.