Branxton is now the proud owner of a new $470,000 firefighting truck, enhancing its emergency response and rescue capabilities in the community.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) recently installed the state-of-the-art vehicle, a Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS) Class 2 Pumper, at the Hunter Valley base.
It will enable crews to tackle structural, chemical, petrol and grass fires using up to five times less water than normal.
The highly-efficient system combines foam concentrate with compressed air to supply fire hoses with superior “knock down” capability while reducing smoke.
It also carries additional technical rescue equipment, including hydraulic tools, which can be used to free people from the wreckage of motor vehicles involved in crashes.
Cessnock MP Clayton Barr welcomed the addition to the Branxton Fire Station.
“It will definitely help local firefighters to better serve Branxton, Greta, Huntlee and surrounding communities,” he said.
Duty MLC for the Upper Hunter Emily Suvaal agreed.
“With the fire season ahead of us, the extra enhancements this truck provides are vital,” she said.
“We know how important our essential workers, like firefighters, are in the Upper Hunter.
“So, the Minns government is committed to ensuring our first responders are equipped and supported to protect our communities.”
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the NSW Government was unwavering in its support of firefighters as they worked to protect life and property.
“This appliance is part of a rollout of new response vehicles across the state,” he explained.
“It ensures firefighters have the best resources available to manage all types of fires and other emergency incidents.”
FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said the truck would improve emergency response for the local community and provide greater protection for residents.
“It’s been strategically positioned at Branxton, which increasingly responds to land-based rescues, in addition to structural fires and other incidents,” he stated.
For more community stories:
- Hunter-based McGrath Breast Care Nurse tickled pink by support
- Group pushes ahead with plans to establish information centre at Tomaree
- Friday Chill returns to Newcastle in 2024
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
