Sunshine Coast firefighting services have welcomed the addition of two vehicles to enhance their emergency response capabilities.
The Maleny Fire and Rescue Station has received a new type two urban pumper tanker valued at $875,000 while the Maleny and District Rural Fire Brigade has received a $340,000 Medium Attack vehicle.
Both vehicles are equipped with advanced firefighting technology and safety features to support the crews in responding to a wide range of incidents.
The vehicles will be housed at the Queensland Fire Department’s joint Queensland Fire and Rescue and Rural Fire Service Queensland facility at Maleny.
The station services an area stretching from Maleny north to Conondale and provides coverage to Kenilworth, Landsborough and Montville when required.
Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy said the investment reflected the state government’s commitment to ensuring firefighters have the tools they need to protect their communities.
“Whether it’s road crash rescues, structure fires, complex industrial incidents, swiftwater rescues, hazard reduction burns, or landscape fires, these new state-of the-art appliances will keep Maleny equipped to serve their community,” she said.
Member for Glass House Andrew Powell said the state government was ensuring the community had necessary equipment.
“These new appliances put stronger protection directly into the hands of the hardworking people who keep our community safe,” he said.
“It’s a win for our local fire crews and a win for the hinterland.
“This investment demonstrates the Crisafulli Government’s dedication to ensuring the safety of Queenslanders and supporting the vital work of our firefighting staff and volunteers.”
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QFR Greater Brisbane Region assistant commissioner Kevin Reading highlighted the importance of the new vehicles in supporting the region’s firefighting capacity.
“QFR has 11 Auxiliary Fire and Rescue staff who respond from this station and play a critical role in protecting their community,” he said.
“So far this financial year, they have responded to more than 80 incidents and this investment ensures they are well-equipped to continue delivering exceptional service.”
RFSQ South Eastern Region deputy chief officer John Welke said volunteers would benefit from their new vehicle.
“The Maleny and District Rural Fire Brigade has 43 members who do an extraordinary job in their community,” he said.
“These volunteers will be focused on bushfire mitigation and response over the coming months, and their new vehicle will no doubt assist them in their efforts.”
