BMFB members with MP Michaela Settle
Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade has officially been handed the keys to a new Breathing Apparatus (BA) Support vehicle.
The vehicle was jointly funded through a successful grant from the Victorian Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP), the Bendigo Bacchus Marsh Community Bank and Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade
Captain Ryan O’Shannessy said the brigade has traditionally relied on other BA Support brigades as far away as Eltham or Ballarat to replenish its used air cylinders.
“We were grateful to have other brigades help us with our BA requirements but we were also conscious that it would take them valuable time to go back and forth,” said Ryan.
“Having our own vehicle not only makes things easier for our brigade but it also helps ease the demand within our patch.
“Another benefit is that the future growth of the brigade is secured because as key operational members decide to scale back they can still have a meaningful place within CFA performing some of these support functions.
“It’s not just about getting out to a fire, it’s also the team behind the scenes that help reinstate getting back to normal.”
Local MP Michaela Settle visited Bacchus Marsh station on Monday night for the official handover.
“Despite being a bit chilly in the engine bay, everyone was in good spirits,” said Ryan.
“Michaela is a previous CFA volunteer and was acutely aware of the extra capabilities the BA Support vehicle provides.
“Now it’s our time to pay back the generosity by providing the support when called.”
CFA Head of Fleet & Protective Equipment Danny Jones said BA Support vehicles are used to assist firefighters at incidents where breathing apparatus is needed such as hazmat incidents and major structure fires.
“These vehicles will also provide future benefits as we move to a more contemporary cylinder management arrangement where brigades will be able to exchange an empty cylinder for a full one on the spot without the need for double handling,” said Danny.
