Supporting those who protect the Adelaide Hills region
Photo credit: Bob Whitbread - Adelaide Emergency Media
A sod-turning ceremony on 18 September 2026 marked the project's first major milestone for the new Lenswood / Forest Range CFS station, with construction of the new facility now underway.
Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon. Rhiannon Pearce MP, joined CFS members, representatives from across the emergency services sector and local community leaders to mark the occasion.
Photo credit: Braeden Gatt
CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin AFSM said the new station represented an important investment in the brigade and the community it serves.
“This is the start of a project that will be a source of pride for the Lenswood / Forest Range CFS Brigade, and which reflects an ongoing investment in infrastructure for our volunteers and their communities,” Brett said.
“The Lenswood / Forest Range Brigade is an integral part of our Adelaide Hills community, and this project will significantly improve safety, capability and working conditions for our exceptional volunteers.”
Photo credit: Braeden Gatt
Regional Commander Michael Borhnsen said the project presents an exciting opportunity for both the brigade and the wider region.
He said that the station's strategic location will strengthen operational coverage, while its design allows for future growth and evolving service needs.
The new facility will be a valuable asset for the broader Adelaide Hills community for years to come.
Lenswood / Forest Range Captain David Kumnick said the brigade has outgrown its existing facility and the new station will provide the capacity needed to support future growth.
With space to house a wider range of equipment, the brigade will be better equipped to respond with the right tools for each emergency.
The upgraded facility will enhance community safety while also helping attract and retain volunteers.
The ceremony was also attended by representatives from South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS), South Australian Fire and Emergency Services Commission (SAFECOM), SA State Emergency Service (SES) and SA Ambulance Service (SAAS), along with representatives from Onkaparinga CFS Group and the Lenswood / Forest Range Brigade. Local volunteers, staff, community representatives also attended to mark the milestone.