THE Gresford Rural Fire Service Brigade has received a new firefighting vehicle as part of a $4.1 million fleet rollout across the Lower Hunter, providing local volunteers with upgraded equipment ahead of the bushfire season.
The brigade was one of ten across the Lower Hunter to officially receive a new vehicle during a handover ceremony at the Lower Hunter Fire Control Centre in East Maitland on Monday.
The new fleet includes bulk water tankers capable of carrying up to 11,000 litres of water, frontline bushfire tankers, smaller vehicles designed to access difficult terrain and specialist firefighting trucks for structure fires and other emergencies.
For volunteers in the Gresford district, the upgraded vehicle will support responses to bush and grass fires, storms, motor vehicle accidents and other incidents across the local area.
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the investment recognised the work of volunteer firefighters.
“The Rural Fire Service does extraordinary work and these vehicles will ensure they have modern and fit-for-purpose equipment to protect our community when we need it most.
“Our volunteers put service above self, giving their time, skills and sacrificing their own personal safety to protect others. They ask for little in return and this investment is about giving them the support and equipment to continue this important work.”
RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin said the new vehicle would help volunteers continue serving their communities safely.
“Our volunteers give their time, skills and experience to support their communities, and it’s important they have the resources they need to carry out that work safely and effectively.
“It is a good reminder of the importance of the community to also get ready for the bush fire season, by preparing their homes and discussing their bush fire survival plan.”
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the new fleet would strengthen emergency response across the region.
“Every new vehicle delivered to a brigade is an investment in the safety and resilience of local communities and recognises the incredible contribution our volunteers make every day.
“These ten new firefighting vehicles will strengthen emergency response across the Lower Hunter and help ensure local brigades are well equipped for the summer.”
The investment forms part of the NSW Government’s $470 million, ten-year program to modernise the Rural Fire Service fleet, ensuring brigades across regional NSW are equipped to meet future emergency challenges.
By Jacie WHITFIELD
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