New $364,000 fire engine for Abermain Fire Station
Published: 17th September 2010
Local Member for Cessnock, Kerry Hickey, today announced the delivery of a new $364,000 fire engine to fire fighters at Abermain Fire Station to enhance the local community’s fire and emergency protection."The State Government is continuing to provide our fire fighters with modern and safe vehicles for their vital work protecting NSW families," Mr Hickey said.
"This vehicle is part of the largest roll-out of new and upgraded fire engines in the Fire Brigades' history.
"The Government’s record $972 million 2010/11 emergency services budget included $637 million for the NSW Fire Brigade (NSWFB), providing $18 million to continue updating its fleet with more than 35 new fire engines and specialised vehicles."
Mr Hickey welcomed the delivery of the new engine as an important investment in Abermain's fire fighting capabilities.
"Abermain is lucky to have a dedicated team of fire fighters protecting lives, property and the local environment and this new engine will help them do this important job," he said.
"The 9 fire fighters stationed at Abermain have always been very important to the local community.
"They responded to 96 fire and emergency calls in 2008/09.
"They have also been actively involved in educating people about fire safety, and carried out over 24 community safety activities in that year."
The fire engine features a high pressure pump capable of delivering 3,000 litres of water a minute for fire fighting and incorporates a foam system for fighting chemical, petrol and bush fires and reducing water use.
The new vehicle has a larger cabin to make it more comfortable for fire fighters, an automated manual transmission, and reversing camera for increased safety. The new fire engine meets all the latest emissions standards.
NSWFB Commissioner Greg Mullins said the new fire engine would further enhance Abermain Fire Station’s response capability to fires and other emergencies across the district.
"Fleet upgrades such as this ensure that our fire fighters have the best equipment and the latest technology to ensure the safety and protection of local communities."