New Rural Bushfire Service

Following the bushfires that destroyed the town of Yarloop in January, the State Government has established a Rural Fire Service.

Premier Colin Barnett has said that the new service will take some time to implement. The decision whether the Government will be a standalone department or sit within DFES is likely to be made before the March election although it may take longer. It will not be in place by the coming summer. 

The Rural Bushfire Servie will be incorporating volunteer fire brigades, who have practical experience and local knowledge. The President of the Association of Volunteer Bushfire Brigades, Dave Gossage, supports the service and wants the Government to ensure it is fully independent.  Liberal MP, Murray Cowper, whose electorate includes Yarloop, Harvey and Waroona, also encourages an independent department, to be based in Pinjarra.