The Allan Labor Government is ensuring that emergency services have the equipment they need to keep Victorians safe with the delivery of new heavy tankers for four Country Fire Authority (CFA) brigades in the North East.
Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes joined CFA volunteers and officials at Euroa Fire Station to handover their new tanker. Three other tankers for Shepparton, Nathalia and Numurkah brigades have also been delivered.
The new tankers will provide a valuable boost to the capability of the brigades ahead of the upcoming fire season.
These vehicles are part of a broader $22.7 million rollout of 48 heavy tankers and two light tankers, funded through the Labor Government's $126 million CFA Capability Funding Package. This year's Victorian Budget also provided more than $18 million to replace 15 CFA pumpers.
Valued at $460,000 each, the heavy tankers feature improved technology and better ergonomics to help reduce firefighter fatigue. This includes electronic monitors and electric rewind hose reels to make the tankers easier to operate.
The tankers also have a higher percentage of recyclable materials, a 4000-litre water tank, and improved crew and vehicle roll over and burn-over protection to keep firefighters safe in extreme heat.
The new tankers replace the single cab tankers - improving crew safety and comfort, boosting firefighting capabilities and reducing environmental impacts.
Euroa, Shepparton, Numurkah and Nathalia fire brigades form part of CFA's District 22 which services Victoria's North-Eastern region.
The Euroa Fire Brigade has a total of 83 members who attend over 90 callouts per year assisting with bushfires, house fires and motor vehicle accidents.
As stated by Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes
"We are ensuring our volunteer firefighters receive the resources they need to carry out their vital role safely and efficiently. I look forward to seeing the benefits these tankers will bring to our North East brigades."
"With the potential risk of an early fire season, Victorians are urged to have their fire plan ready and prepare for the risks of grass and bushfires."
