From L-R: Pakenham volunteer Jack McCartney, 1st Lt Adrian Bailey
Pakenham Fire Brigade has officially taken delivery of its new Breathing Apparatus (BA) Support vehicle.
Dignitaries joined Pakenham volunteers at the handover event, showing their support and expressing gratitude for the brigade's dedication.
Pakenham's BA Support vehicle was jointly funded through a successful grant from the Victorian Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) and contributions from the Brigade.
Pakenham Captain Chris Fry, a CFA volunteer for 26 years, emphasised the vehicle's impact on future capability.
"Receiving this vehicle is a significant step in increasing our operational capacity. It gives our volunteers the chance to do more, learn more and take on greater responsibility in BA training and operations," Chris said.
"Having additional BA cylinders and equipment where needed, keeps us supplied with air during prolonged or high-risk operations. This gives us the flexibility to respond to a wider range of emergencies, from large structural fires to complex hazmat situations.
"Not only does it enhance on-scene efficiency and safety, it also strengthens our ability to support surrounding brigades when BA resources are needed."
Pakenham Fire Brigade have relied on neighbouring brigades for this support and feel grateful to have the ability to now support other brigades in the area.
Deputy Chief Officer South East Region Trevor Owen, who was at the event today, said BA Support vehicles are used to assist firefighters at incidents where breathing apparatus is needed such as hazmat incidents and major structure fires.
"These vehicles will also provide future benefits as we move to a more contemporary cylinder management arrangement where brigades will be able to exchange an empty cylinder for a full one on the spot without the need for double handling," Trevor said.
"This is a great asset for the brigade and the broader area for many years to come. I'd like to thank everyone involved in making this happen, particularly Pakenham brigade and the community for their generous donations."
This new addition marks a major step forward in enhancing firefighting capabilities and ensuring the safety of both responders and community in the Pakenham area.
