Several CFA brigades across the South East are set to receive world-class heavy tankers, giving them greater protection in their life-saving work to keep communities safe.
Tooradin, Narre Warren North and Gembrook CFAs are among the 28 brigades across the state to share in the $22.73 million investment to produce 48 heavy tankers and two light tankers as part of the State Government’s $126 million CFA Capability Funding package.
The locally-made tankers will replace existing CFA single-cab tankers, with the first 20 dual cab heavy tankers currently being delivered to brigades and the full fleet expected to be rolled out by November 2023.
The new heavy tankers feature a multilayered crew protection system, ensuring the vehicle can withstand fire temperatures of more than 600 degrees Celsius.
Other features of the heavy tankers include electronic monitors, electric rewind hose reels, modern cab chassis enhancements and higher levels of emissions controls.
“Victoria is one of the most fire prone areas in the world and these replacement tankers will provide better safety outcomes for both communities and firefighters,” acting emergency services minister Anthony Carbines said.
“These heavy tankers aren’t just a valuable addition to volunteer fleets – they’re made right here in Victoria, supporting local manufacturing and jobs.”
Sunshine North manufacturer R.A Bell & Co (Bell Fire and Rescue) is producing 48 of these vital heavy tankers for CFA brigades, with the contract securing around 20 local jobs dedicated to their construction.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said tankers were a vital part of CFA’s fleet, with more than 1900 across the state.
“These new tankers are state-of-the-art firefighting vehicles,” Mr Heffernan said.
“The heavy tankers feature a 15-tonne crew-cab chassis with a 4000-litre water tank, while their 4×4 capability and automatic transmission will help crews access fires in difficult terrain.”
The $126 million investment over five years for the CFA willsee new training opportunities, facilities and appliances being rolled out across the state, as well as initiatives to support retention and recruitment of members.
Other brigades set to benefit from the tankers include Heywood, Dimboola, Tatura, Werribee, Ellerslie, Avoca, Shepparton, Point Cook, Morwell, Connewarre, Halls Gap, The Basin, Eaglehawk, Cobden, South Warrandyte, Golden Square, Rosedale, Rokewood, Seville, Mildura, Maffra, Winchelsea, Olinda, South Morang and Sunbury.
