A new state-of-the-art emergency response vehicle which aims to enhance community safety and support personnel on the ground during natural disasters and emergencies has been delivered to emergency services in Townsville.
With a cost of $1.1 million, the investment is part of the QLD government’s $43 million commitment to Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES)’ Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) and Rural Fire Service fleet programs.
While stationed in Townsville, the truck will have the ability to deploy where needed for a wide range of incidents.
Fitted with advanced equipment, the specialised vehicle is purpose built to respond to large road crashes, vertical rescues and urban search and rescue, but will also boost capabilities in hazardous materials response and chemical detection.
Firefighters in Townsville have completed advanced training in heavy vehicle rescue in preparation for the new appliance to begin responding to incidents across the region by April. Crews will complete further training in vehicle operation and rescue equipment over the coming weeks.
Fire and disaster recovery minister Nikki Boyd says this new vehicle is a much needed addition.
“This new capability is going to make a big difference to emergency response efforts in north Queensland, assisting our crews on the ground greatly,” Boyd says.
“It will be especially useful during natural disaster situations with its swift water rescue capabilities and for any large road crash rescues that occur throughout the region.
“Northern Queensland has experienced its fair share of natural disasters, the most recent being Tropical Cyclone Kirrily where our swift water rescue firefighters were out in force.
“It’s great to know our personnel will have this additional support next time a major disaster hits the region and it’s also great to know it can be used for a whole suite of capabilities including vertical rescue and urban search and rescue.”
QFES acting commissioner Steve Smith says their Fire and Rescue team are attending numerous calls that require specialised training equipment and they were in need of assistance.
“A range of dedicated rescue appliances have been specifically designed to meet these needs, and we’re proud to see these assets now strategically placed across the state to boost our heavy rescue and swift water rescue capabilities,” Smith says.