ARFFS Fire Station West
The Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Services (ARFFS) Station West was designed to support Brisbane Airport’s new parallel runway (NPR), ensuring rapid emergency response and compliance with CASA regulations.
Client: Airservices Australia
Location: Brisbane Airport, QLD
MODE Expertise: Architecture, Interior Design
Project Partners: MODE, Jacobs, ADCO Constructions
Completed: 2020
ARFF Station West – Brisbane Airport
Overview
The Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Services (ARFFS) Station West was designed to support Brisbane Airport’s new parallel runway (NPR), ensuring rapid emergency response and compliance with CASA regulations. The new station replaces the Satellite Station and enhances fire safety infrastructure to meet growing operational demands.
Design & Construction
Situated on a greenfield site, the station’s design prioritised response efficiency, work health and safety (WHS), and operational clarity. The facility includes:
Structural Composition: A durable structural steel and blockwork frame, clad with profiled metal sheeting, architectural blockwork, and perforated aluminium screening.
Functional Spaces: Fully equipped with resting quarters, a gym, kitchen, locker rooms, office spaces, and training areas, designed for optimal firefighter readiness.
Elevated Foundation: Constructed on a sand foundation, elevated for flood resilience and designed to meet Department of Transport & Main Roads specifications.
Sustainability Features: Designed to utilise natural resources, including water collection and energy-efficient systems to support long-term operational sustainability.
Innovative Delivery
The project was delivered nearly two months ahead of schedule, thanks to innovative construction techniques and alternative conforming materials with shorter lead times. ADCO closely managed the construction process, ensuring minimal disruption to airport operations while maintaining budget constraints
Strategic Planning & Future Proofing
MODE and Jacobs played a key role in designing a facility that enhances ARFF operations by:
Improving response times to both the tender bay and runway.
Addressing WHS concerns by optimising site layout and movement pathways.
Ensuring operational clarity through a well-structured planning approach that enhances firefighter readiness
Outcome
ARFF Station West stands as a critical asset within Brisbane Airport’s emergency response network, ensuring fast and efficient firefighting capabilities. Its strategic location, advanced facilities, and robust construction future-proof Airservices Australia’s ability to manage airport fire safety in line with evolving aviation demands.