Fire and Rescue Umina Beach has a new firefighting tanker, set to boost its protection capabilities.
Valued at $450,000, the Isuzu Category One tanker is the latest of 34 new tankers funded by the NSW Government after the devastating 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires.
The Isuzu is a multi-purpose, off-road-capable tanker that can carry more water than typical urban fire engines.
The four-wheel drive also incorporates a new Halo cabin protection spray system to protect its crew in flash-over situations.
“Our Umina crew has been eagerly awaiting the arrival of this state-of-the-art tanker,” Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Zone Commander Matt Waldon said.
“It’s a tough vehicle which is equally at home responding to an emergency on a Central Coast beach as in negotiating rugged terrain further inland.
“The arrival of this tanker comes hot on the heels of the new Aerial Platform at Bateau Bay, ensuring the people of the Central Coast remain protected from fire.”
Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said the Government is investing in new and upgraded firefighting equipment, technology and trucks across NSW to help build bushfire response.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said firefighters perform important tasks in our community, helping to protect people, places and natural and built assets.
“This investment in a state-of-the-art firefighting tanker will not only boost firefighting capability in our community but also ensure our firefighters have the best possible equipment and technology to help protect lives and properties,” she said.
“Having the most up to date equipment can make a world of difference for our firefighters when situations go from bad to worse, whether that’s in our suburban streets, in rugged bushland or by our beaches.
“The right tools for the job can assist with achieving better outcomes for our firefighters and our community.”