A light tanker for the Strathfieldsaye Fire Brigade is helping keep the local community safe, thanks to funding from the Andrews Labor Government.
The new 1700-litre tanker was funded through the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program, which provides funding for emergency service agencies across the state. The Andrews Labor Government provided $180,000 for the new tanker, with the brigade contributing $34,000.
The 4-wheel drive off-road vehicle has been a welcome boost to the brigade’s firefighting capacity, both locally and as part of strike teams deployed across the state.
It replaced the previous slip-on unit, and has a greater crew and water capacity, better stowaway and a modern water delivery system, whilst still retaining the ability to access local bush areas.
The Strathfieldsaye Fire Brigade has been serving the local community for more than 20 years and played an active role in the devastating 2019/20 fires, with members deployed to Mallacoota and areas of NSW.
The tankers are designed to be highly manoeuvrable to help respond rapidly to grass and scrub fires, to navigate difficult areas to access and have an independent pump to help fight fires and draw water quickly and safely.
VESEP grants support Victoria’s volunteer emergency services to purchase operational equipment, vehicles and appliances and minor facility improvements they need.
Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“This Labor Government is committed to giving our volunteer firefighters the best possible tools and equipment they need to continue protecting their community.”
“I’d like to thank the Strathfieldsaye Fire Brigade for its dedicated service to the local community, and for their readiness to help out across the state in times of need.”