Bland Temora Zone volunteers celebrate new tanker and station

NSW RFS Deputy Commissioner Bruce McDonald AFSM visited Morangarell Rural Fire Brigade Station to officially hand over the keys of the brigade’s new tanker.

Deputy Commissioner McDonald said the new tanker, worth more than $333,000, would enable Morangarell Brigade to strengthen its firefighting efforts across its community.

“While the previous tanker has served these firefighters very well, I am confident this new state-of-the-art vehicle will prove itself to be an invaluable asset to this proud brigade,” Deputy Commissioner McDonald said.

While there, he also presented long service medals to 16 members of the brigade who had together amassed 770 years of service to the NSW RFS ranging from 41 to 57 years of service.

Later in the day, Deputy Commissioner McDonald visited Blank Creek to officially open its new station.

“This excellent new station built at a cost of almost $192,000 is a modern, standalone, fit for purpose building that is greatly welcomed by the volunteers and the communities they serve,” Deputy Commissioner McDonald said.

“The new station has space for two tankers, as well as a kitchenette, storeroom, toilet and a 50,000 L water tank.

“Before this station was built, the brigade’s tankers were stored at a neighbouring properties so I am certain this new building is greatly welcomed by all and will assist with vehicle housing, training and the fighting of fires locally.”

The event also provided an opportunity to present three long service medals to members with a combined total of 95 years’ service.

“I would like to take this time to praise all our volunteers for their ongoing efforts each and every day, particularly when dealing with emergencies here in the Temora Bland Zone,” Deputy Commissioner McDonald said.