New boats to boost volunteer response to fires and floods

Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the purpose-built vessels will be based at the Menindee and Tilpa Brigades to help crews reach remote communities across the far west.

“Each of these new boats will be a valuable resource to support RFS volunteers when responding to fires in areas that are waterbound, particularly around the Menindee Lakes and to reach the Tilpa airstrip when the Murray River is flooded,” Ms Cooke said.

“I’ve witnessed how our RFS Brigades in the State’s far west are just like big families and I’m proud of this $190,000 investment in resources which support them in their life-saving work.”

Each Brigade will receive an aluminium boat, inflatable boat, trailer and safety equipment. The boats are currently under construction and will be delivered in the coming months. Brigade members will also receive the necessary training.

RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers said the investment would enhance the Brigades’ operational capabilities, enabling them to provide many forms of emergency assistance.

“The support our Brigades have provided to the NSW State Emergency Service over recent years has been outstanding and we want to ensure they have the appropriate equipment to continue this work,” Commissioner Rogers said.

“With a fleet of fire boats already in operation across the State, this is an important investment in providing the latest and safest equipment to our Brigades so they can best serve their communities.”