Firefighters in the state's south west received a boost to their firefighting capability with a new Urban Water Tanker officially handed over today by Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan.
Minister Ryan said the tanker was part of Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Fleet Replacement program.
"The new 9000 litre UTank, valued at more than $689,000, ensures our firefighters in South Western Region can continue their lifesaving work," Mr Ryan said.
"This whole-of-region resource will assist Fire and Rescue Service and Rural Fire Service appliances when combating large fires.
"The appliance will be housed at the Warwick Fire and Rescue Station, as previous wildfire events have highlighted that the Warwick and Stanthorpe areas have a higher potential for severe fire weather.
"The onboard Compressed Air Foam System will provide more efficient and effective use of water, which is particularly important in regional areas where water can be difficult to source.
"Safety features include a cabin halo system, which sprays water around the fire truck, protecting firefighters if threatened by truck burn over.
"These are just some of the impressive features as we continue to place firefighter's safety as the highest priority."
The event also incorporated a medal ceremony, celebrating those in South Western Region who have gone above and beyond in their duties.
QFES Commissioner Greg Leach said the award recipients have countless years of experience and have made Queensland a safer, more resilient place to live.
"I am always proud to see the lengths and efforts to which QFES members will go to uphold our values of respect, integrity, courage, loyalty and trust."
Officers awarded were:
