New $310,000 fire engine for NSW North-West
Published: 14th July 2006
Minister for Emergency Services Tony Kelly today said rural communities in the state’s north-west would benefit greatly from a new $310,000 fire engine at the NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) Barraba fire station.
Mr Kelly said the new fire engine would respond to emergencies in the region midway between Armidale and Narrabri.
"The new fire engine is a major investment in the Barraba community and will enhance the speed and effectiveness of NSWFB fire crews’ responses to emergencies," Mr Kelly said.
"Barraba Fire Station responds to a wide range of emergencies including building, grass and bush fires, motor vehicle accidents and spills of hazardous materials," he said.
"The new engine will be used by local firefighters to protect the residential population, local businesses, schools, churches and highways.
Mr Kelly said the new fire engine is part of the largest roll out of new and upgraded fire engines in NSWFB history.
Funding for 238 fire engines across the State was allocated between 1999 and 2003, including 168 for fire stations in rural and regional NSW. A further 145 engines are being progressively funded between 2003 and 2007.
"The total value of the fleet upgrade over this eight-year period is more than $144 million," he said.
The custom-made fire engine incorporates the latest in firefighting equipment and technology, including a high-pressure pump that supplies up to 3,000 litres of water per minute, and a foam system to assist in extinguishing flammable liquid and bush fires.
Commissioner Greg Mullins of the NSWFB welcomed the new fire engine to the NSWFB fleet.
"This new vehicle is in addition to the recently installed Intermediate Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) van at Narrabri Fire Station," Commissioner Mullins said.
"These upgrades ensure firefighters in the New England and North-West have the best available equipment to respond to emergencies quickly so they can minimise the impact on residents, businesses and the community," he said.