Macksville builds its firefighting resources
Published: 18th November 2011
Fire and emergency protection in the Nambucca Valley area has been boosted with the delivery of an additional $400,000 fire engine to Macksville Fire Station.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Commissioner Greg Mullins said FRNSW continues to provide its firefighters with modern and safe vehicles for their vital work protecting local communities.
“This specialist vehicle had been designed and built for responding to a range of emergencies in urban and rural settings, including building, bush and grass fires, road accidents and chemical spills,” Commissioner Mullins said.
“It has four-wheel drive, allowing access to fires in difficult terrain. It also provides a reliable water supply to crews responding to fires or other emergencies in areas where water access may be restricted.
“It features a water protection system which is operated from the cabin to help ensure the safety of the crew.”
The late-model tanker can pump 1900 litres of water a minute from its tank, which carries up to 2200 litres of water and can also operate from hydrants. It is also equipped with special firefighting foam, and its engines meet emissions standards.
Inspector Tony Lenthall, FRNSW Acting Zone Commander, said the late-model tanker would be used in addition to the fire engine already based at Macksville.
“This second firefighting truck will also be used in taskforce operations, so Macksville’s retained or ‘on-call’ Fire and Rescue officers will receive additional training and qualifications that will build their skills,” Superintendent Gray said.
Firefighters at Macksville respond to incidents across the Nambucca Shire and regularly support surround shires when required, including assisting Rural Fire Service and SES crews.
The 15 firefighters stationed at Macksville responded to 125 fire and emergency calls and carried out more than 47 community fire safety education activities in 2010/11.