After being used by Victoria Police during border closures four months ago, the former fire station in the centre of Wodonga is being utilised for CFA operations again.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The fire station on the corner of Smythe and Stanley streets was discontinued for use as the new Wodonga Fire Station on Thomas Mitchell Drive became operational on January 22, 2019.
It had sat dormant since then, until Victoria Police utilised the site as part of its border closure operations throughout December and January.
A CFA spokesman confirmed members were now using the station temporarily, with trucks and other CFA equipment appearing on site in recent weeks.
"The former Wodonga Fire Station located on Smythe Street is owned by CFA," he said.
"CFA continues to manage the site and utilise it for adhoc and temporary purposes for itself and other emergency services as required."
The agency confirmed in January, 2020 that a rezoning process would take place but did not confirm if the CFA would seek to rezone it for residential use.
However, the CFA has confirmed it does not intend to retain ownership.
"The re-zoning process of the Smythe Street property is progressing," a spokesman said.
"Once this process has been finalised, CFA does not intend to retain the property long-term.
IN OTHER NEWS:
"CFA is undertaking assessments and engaging with local council to inform the most appropriate zoning for the site, however the application has not yet been submitted.
"It is expected the re-zoning application will be submitted later this year, subject to the completion of required reports and assessments."
The new $7.8 million fire station built by Southern Cross Developers on Thomas Mitchell Drive can house 50 firefighters across five shifts, and was built to account for the growth of Wodonga.
