Emergency services in the South West have been bolstered by the arrival of 11-new- operational vehicles, and a state-of-the-art flood-rescue boat, valued at total of nearly $3 million.
The new fleet will strengthen the region’s frontline response ahead of this year’s bushfire season, which is tipped to arrive early in southern parts of Western Australia.
The upgraded fleet feature enhanced designs and safety measures, which were able to be implemented under the State Government’s $140 million investment, to deliver the next generation of emergency services vehicles and vessels.
Member for Warren Blackwood Jane Kelsbie MLA, was in Nannup today to formally hand over the appliances to 11 South West brigades and units on behalf of Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson.
Eight Light-Tankers, valued at approximately $240,000 each, were presented to volunteer firefighters from Dunsborough, Northcliffe, Cundinup, Nannup, Augusta, Walpole, and Pemberton.
The vehicles have all-terrain capabilities, and enhanced safety features including a partial deluge system, automated vehicle location, and in-cab breathable air units.
Witchcliffe volunteer bush fire brigade welcomed a new 3.4 Urban Tanker, with a value of about $565,000, to its fleet. The tanker has a water capacity of 3600-litres and is critical to the brigade’s life-saving efforts in the community.
State Emergency Service units from Nannup and Walpole have each received a General Rescue Utility to support their response to storm and flood incidents. The utility, worth approximately $155,000, is a recent addition to WA’s emergency services fleet and can be driven on a standard vehicle licence, making it accessible to more volunteers.
The Walpole unit is also now equipped with a state-of-the-art rescue boat, valued at roughly $160,000, to help save people stranded in floodwaters. The vessel has the latest navigation and communications technology, and improved floatation and durability thanks to a polymer hull.
“The Cook Government is committed to providing our emergency services volunteers with the best equipment possible.
“This investment of nearly $3 million will strengthen our response during the upcoming bushfire season, which is forecast to start early in southern parts of Western Australia.
“I am so grateful for our emergency services volunteers, who’ve had extensive input into the design of the state-of-the art vehicles and flood rescue vessel that were officially handed over today.
“They are purpose-built to suit the needs of local teams, empowering our incredible volunteers in the South West to do what they do best – protect the community.” Said Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson
“I’ve been told we’re facing a tough start to this year’s bushfire season.
“Warm and dry conditions are forecast for late spring, which means bushfires that start in November could escalate quickly.
“The vehicles and vessel handed over today will help local brigades and units enter the high-threat period with renewed confidence.
“But it’s not just firefighters who need to be ready – I encourage everyone in the area to update their bushfire plans, be prepared and stay safe this bushfire season.” Said Warren Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie
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