Purnim Fire Brigade thanked its local community for helping raise funds to purchase a light tanker last Sunday.
As part of an official event, Mr Richard Bourke, Acting Operations Manager of CFA District 5, presented the keys of Purnim’s new ISUZU 1.2.4D four wheel drive light tanker.
CFA Operations Officer Henry Barton said the new truck was funded through a Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) contribution of $153,000, whilst the brigade contributed a further $25,000 raised through donations and fundraising activities.
“The VESEP is an ongoing program funded by the Victorian Government, which provides local emergency services volunteer groups access to grants for operational equipment, vehicles, trucks, tankers, watercraft, trailers and minor facility improvements.”
“Whilst the VESEP covered a large proportion of the costs, Purnim brigade worked hard to raise the additional money through fundraising efforts and the collection of donations from the local community, businesses and charity foundations,” said Mr Barton.
Members of the Purnim Brigade have already undertaken training to ensure they are familiar with the truck’s operation, thereby increasing the brigade’s ability to respond.
“Although this was the official handover, the brigade has had this appliance since the end of last year, and it was well used during the fire season, including a strike team deployment to the Grampians in February,” said Mr Barton.
Truck safety features include a spray deluge system and drop down fire protection curtains in the cabin and a no spin differential fitted to rear axle, and has seating for 3 in the cabin.
Author: Melissa Mueglitz