Ellerston volunteers to unveil new light rescue vehicle

Member for Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen, representing the Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott, and NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons AFSM will officially hand the vehicle over to brigade members at a ceremony to be held at Ellerston Club.

Mr Johnsen said that the new vehicle is worth more than $120,000 and would provide members with greater ability when responding to serious car accidents in the area.

“This investment in the Ellerston community ensures volunteers have the necessary equipment to help save lives.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said that this is the first light rescue vehicle in the NSW RFS fleet to specifically deliver road crash rescue services.

“The NSW RFS continues to enhance its capability in providing general land and road crash rescue services to isolated communities across NSW,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“This purpose-built vehicle features off-road capability with heavy duty hydraulic cutting equipment to perform rescue operations.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said that the introduction of ‘road crash rescue’ in this area ensures that a greater level of service can be provided to residents and visitors to the area.

“Previously, those who had a serious car accident in the area would have to wait more than an hour for the closest rescue vehicle to arrive. This time will be dramatically reduced with the introduction of this new vehicle and accreditation of the Ellerston Brigade.

“The community should take comfort in the fact that our highly skilled volunteers can now provide an even greater level of protection and service to them.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said the NSW RFS, working cooperatively with state and local governments, is committed to providing volunteer firefighters with the vehicles and equipment they need to carry out their roles safely and effectively.

“These men and women remain on-hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week and we should be extremely proud and grateful for their contribution,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“I would like to thank members of the Ellerston Brigade for their continued commitment to protecting their community, and importantly, their family, friends and colleagues who allow them to do what they do.”