Refurbished St Francis Bay Fire Station officially unveiled
St Francis Bay – The St Francis Bay Fire Station has undergone a major refurbishment, made possible through the strong partnership between the Rotary Club of St Francis and Billy’s Beach.
The project honours the legacy of the late Tom Roux, a dedicated Rotarian remembered for his unwavering commitment to community service.
The upgraded station was officially celebrated with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque in Roux’s honour and the installation of new station signage – symbols of a project that has transformed the working and living conditions of local firefighters.
Rotary President
Rotary President Rotarian Lesley de Jager said the project was a true community effort.
“Over the last two years and now the last six weeks, many hands and hearts have worked together to make this transformation possible. Today we stand in front of the fire station that is not only functional, but a proud symbol of what we can achieve when Rotary, local government, businesses, and the community come together.”
De Jager made special mention of everyone who generously donated money, time, and effort to make the project a reality.
“Your commitment to supporting community initiatives like this is deeply appreciated. I would also like to recognise the Rotarians who led and managed the project. We also extend heartfelt gratitude to all the contractors who played such an important role in this renovation. Not only did they deliver work of the highest standard, but they also came on board with generosity of spirit, offering us their services with community-friendly rates.”
She added that the vision for the project originally came from fellow Rotarian Tom Roux.
Tom Roux
“Tom’s determination laid the foundation for upgrading this fire station. Sadly, he passed away before seeing his dream fulfilled.”
Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, praised the initiative as an outstanding example of partnership.
“We do not take lightly what you did. We value it tremendously. Partnerships like this make Kouga a special place, and they can serve as a model of what a flourishing South Africa should look like.”
Municipal Manager, Charl du Plessis, echoed this appreciation, adding his thanks to those who made the refurbishment possible.
The upgrades included a new roof, a revamped kitchen, a recreational room, separate sleeping areas for men and women, upgraded bathrooms, and even a gym space for firefighters.
Mayor Bornman
Mayor Bornman noted that the improvements go far beyond bricks and mortar.
“Our firefighters are the backbone of emergency response in this region. Providing them with proper facilities is not just a necessity—it’s a responsibility we all share. We commend Rotary and Billy’s Beach for their commitment, and we look forward to the positive impact this station will have on both first responders and the wider community.”
The plaque unveiling carried special significance, fulfilling a promise made shortly before Roux’s passing. In his last days, he told fellow Rotarian Jef Forrer: “If anything happens to me, please make sure the Fire Station work continues.”
For the firefighters, the refurbished station is more than just an improved workplace.
Firefighter Alistair Brown, who has served at the St Francis Bay Fire Station since 2010, said: “The most important thing a parent can teach their child is to be thankful. On behalf of the firefighters, I thank everyone who made this project possible. This is our home away from home. For some, it may have been just another project, but for us it carries deep meaning because of Mr. Tom Roux’s special bond with this station. We will continue to serve with pride and dignity.”
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