Mr Eckersley and the team of about 18 firefighters are set to make the move over to a brand new, state-of-the-art Fire and Rescue NSW station on the Ringers Road on Thursday.

The last 'drill' and roll call on Monday night was a bittersweet moment for the veteran Tamworth firie. After more than 47 years wearing the helmet, he's the longest serving member of the West Tamworth station.

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"I was a bit emotional, it was a bit of a sad time, but one door shuts and another opens," he told the Leader.

"I've spent a lot of time at that station over the years, you just never know when you're getting a call."

But, Mr Eckersley said he is excited to move over to the brand new complex, which has only just been finished.

"The newness of it, it's kind of like we were working out of a shoebox and now we're moving into a castle, that's what it looks like, it's a state-of-the-art station," he said.

On Monday night, the team gathered at the Kent Street site with Superintendent Tom Cooper and Inspector Peter Nugent to farewell the digs that firies have called home for 51 years.

Mr Eckersley said the group 'cheers-ed' all the firefighters, and shared memories from their biggest jobs and most memorable moments.

Mr Eckersley had plenty to reflect on, as he was just 18 years old when he first joined the station.

The West Tamworth 508 number has now been retired, and the brigade will be known as the 448.

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