$180,000 new tanker for Maimuru brigade
Published Date: 17 May 2013
Summary
The Young Witness
The keys to a new fire tanker have been handed over to the Maimuru fire brigade thanks to the efforts of Young Shire Council and the Rural Fire Service.
The 2013 model – called a Category 7 tanker and worth $180,000 – is equipped with more water capacity, speed and safety features including cabin sprinklers and fire curtains.
It's all part of a replacement schedule of tankers in the Young Shire that is being undertaken by council and RFS South West Slopes Zone.
Mayor Stuart Freudenstein, Maimuru captain Frank Byrnes, South West Slopes Zone district manager Andrew Dillon, Maimuru brigade secretary Tracey Dawson, group captain Rick Price and RFS regional manager Paul Smith.
Mayor Stuart Freudenstein handed the keys to Maimuru captain Frank Byrnes, saying keeping fire brigades equipped with the latest trucks is extremely important.
"As each brigade gets a new truck it gives the community a bit of security," he said.
RFS regional manager Paul Smith added that the last 10 years working with the government has been fantastic and they look forward to working with council in the future in getting more equipment.
"I was fortunate to meet the RFS commissioner and he said that an investment by council and the brigade, is an investment well worth it," Mr Smith said.
"It's justice for the volunteers for all they do – it's a small token how we can do that," he said.
RFS district manager, Andrew Dillon, also took the opportunity to praise and thank the Maimuru brigade's efforts during one of their busiest fire seasons.
"There was a significant contribution by the Maimuru brigade who attended all major fires as well as 35 other small fires [this fire season]," Mr Dillon said.
"I think you were in the truck nearly every second day – the fires were so close to home," he said.
