Member for Burdekin Dale Last is calling on residents to make their voices heard as community outrage grows over revelations local firefighters are battling exposure to toxic chemical compounds at the current facility.

Mr Last said any hope that Labor was going to fund a new fire station for Ayr firefighters after it was found the site was contaminated with PFAS, had been hosed down in the 2024/2025 State Budget and instead replaced with another study.

“Our firefighters are there for their community during what is often, its greatest time of need, now this community is standing up to support our firefighters while Labor is willing to turn a blind eye,” Mr Last said.

“We have seen this community make their voices heard when it comes to upgrading health services and advocating for improved infrastructure in our region. Our frontline services are part of the heart and soul of our community and the thought that they are left to put up with a substandard station has left a sour taste with residents.”

“It’s an absolute disgrace that not only have our firefighters been unable to undertake training operations at their current station for years but have also been forced to work amongst an excavation site while this Labor government conducts a $4 million digging mission in the name of another study.”

Mr Last said having spoken to a number of community members about the need for a new home for Ayr’s firefighters, it is clear the Burdekin community is not going to stand by while frontline services were left unable to train or operate to full capacity at their current fire station.

“It’s becoming clearer to this community as this mess unfolds that Labor is not only willing to sweep this contamination debacle under the carpet, they’re also willing to leave front line services in a 65-year-old firestation that is no longer fit for purpose and has become an environmental risk to the wider community,” Mr Last said.

“Anyone wanting to sign the petition and support our local firefighters can visit the following link https://tinyl.io/BJ07 or visit my office at Shop E – 54-60 Queen Street, Ayr to sign a physical copy.”