Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades in the South West have welcomed four new Ultra-Light tankers to their fleets earlier this month, as part of upgrades from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services.
Complete with features from all-terrain capabilities to cup holders, the new tankers also include a partial deluge system for brigade crews.
Department of Fire and Emergency Services representative Ryan Bulluss was at the handover, and demonstrated the new features of the tankers to fire control officers and captains from the Gelorup, Uduc and Murray brigades.
"The new appliances have been redeveloped from the ground-up with emphasis on crew safety, ergonomics and capability to provide the best value in this class," Mr Bulluss said.
"End users were critical to the development of these appliances to ensure the final product was fit-for-purpose and user-friendly."
According to Shire of Murray president David Bolt, the new tanker is a welcomed replacement for a West Murray Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade unit, which has been operational for more than 15 years.
"With improved safety features and a more ergonomic layout for crew it will provide increased safety for our selfless volunteers who consistently step up to defend our district, and its modern electronics will enhance Murray's firefighting capabilities," Cr Bolt said.
"In the event of a fire however, well prepared properties stand a greater chance of enduring the fire and so I remind residents and property owners about the looming 30 November fire prevention work deadline."
The two new tankers to the Uduc Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade will replace the existing tankers that are currently 14 years old.
Uduc Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade captain Gerry Morgan said the Brigade was very happy to receive the new light tankers.
"The new light tankers have more storage space, they are better designed ergonomically within the cabs and now include an external water deluge system as an added safety feature to protect our volunteers," Mr Morgan said.
Community members are reminded to get your bushfire plan in place for the upcoming season.
Visit mybushfireplan.wa.gov.au for more information.
Pip Waller
After working in film and television production in Perth, I returned to my hometown of Bunbury to further my skill set as a journalist. I am passionate about the empowerment of women and giving a voice to the unheard members of our community. You can contact me at pip.waller@austcommunitymedia.com.au
After working in film and television production in Perth, I returned to my hometown of Bunbury to further my skill set as a journalist. I am passionate about the empowerment of women and giving a voice to the unheard members of our community. You can contact me at pip.waller@austcommunitymedia.com.au
