The Entrance MP, David Mehan, is working towards having another High Clearance Vehicle on the Central Coast to help the State Emergency Service in times of flood.
He has written to the Federal Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, and NSW Minister for Emergency Services, Steph Cooke, requesting the extra High Clearance Vehicle (HCV).
The NSW Government has obtained six Unimog HCVs for its state fleet, with only one currently located on the Central Coast.
The Unimog has a wading depth of 1.2m which enables SES personnel to reach people whose homes are under water.
Mehan’s request is as a result of the recent flooding events, which highlighted the need for more equipment, particularly HCVs, on the Central Coast.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is currently disposing its Unimog fleet by public auction and Mehan suggested that some of those vehicles be supplied instead to SES.
“Federal Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy,h as responded positively and sought a response from the NSW Government by September 30 as to its desired quantities, which the Army is supportive of in a Government-to-Government transfer,” Mehan said.
“My electorate has experienced four significant flooding events over the past three years.
“These vehicles are already fitted for deep wading and have been well maintained by the ADF.
“A further vehicle would serve its purpose well here on the Central Coast.
“Our local SES does very important work and equipment of this calibre is imperative to continue this work.
“I look forward to the NSW Government’s positive response to the Federal Government on this request,” Mehan said.
Source:
Media release, Sept 26
The Entrance MP, David Mehan