Firefighters at CFA brigades around the state will have new heavy tankers and trucks to better protect Victorians in the coming fire season, thanks to a $33.5 million investment by the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino today visited Sunshine North manufacturer, Bell Environmental, to hand over the keys to four heavy tankers to CFA Specialist Response Officer Craig Brownlie.
A total of 70 new firefighting vehicles have now been delivered to the CFA to replace its ageing feet under the Fire Appliance Fleet Replacement Program, including 40 heavy tankers.
The delivery of the four heavy tankers today completes the program, with all 40 of the tankers manufactured locally at Bell Environmental to support jobs and industry in Melbourne’s west.
The company employs 110 people and also manufactures vehicles for the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, Victorian State Emergency Service and Ambulance Victoria.
The Labor Government is supporting our firefighters with the equipment and facilities they need to keep communities safe.
The delivery of the new tankers follows the announcement of a new volunteer grants program last month, which includes $20 million to provide a further 28 firefighting trucks, work wear and protective clothing for thousands of volunteer firefighters.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino
“Our firefighters put their lives on the line to protect the community and they deserve modern equipment so they can do their jobs safely and efficiently.”
“While the previous Liberal Government slashed $66 million from the CFA budget, we are investing in our fire services to make sure fire fighters have the equipment they need to keep the community safe.”
Quotes attributable to Member for St Albans Natalie Suleyman
“Bell Environmental is a vital part of the local economy; it is a third generation family business that now employs over 110 people.”
“It has manufactured all 40 of the heavy tankers that will be in action come fire season protecting communities across Victoria.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020