Councillor John Tramby submitted the recommendation as he thought the location was safer, more approachable for new volunteers and a larger area for the service to utalise.

The council-owned land still occupies equipment for the BOM but no longer houses staff locally, thus making the building and land available for specific services.

“Due to poor planning of the Gateway Project, SES have been split into two locations for three years, which is three years too long,” Cr Tramby said.

SES member Jo Williams said the training site was located at the airport and the service’s equipment and vehicles were located at Tycannah Street.

“If we experienced a flood tomorrow like the one in 2012 we would simply not be able to provide adequate service to the community.

“Our volunteers have started to get disgruntled as they want to see a cohesive unit.”

She said Tycannah Street was an adequate location, particularly being co-occupied by Rural Fire Service (RFS), but showed interest in viewing the BOM site.

“Initially we were promised 12-18 months and it’s been three years,” Ms Williams said.

A sunset committee was established with Cr Tramby, Cr Kerry Cassells, Cr Jim Crawford and two SES members to report back to council within the 30-day time frame.

If the committee decide the location is not acceptable, arrangements will be made to move the SES to Tycannah Street.

“My heart supports the SES, the volunteers provide a brilliant service and we cannot put a price on a good SES unit,” Cr Tramby said.