The community of Wedderburn will be better protected during an emergency with the local VICSES unit set to receive a new heavy rescue truck thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
The NextGen Heavy Rescue Truck is worth $405,000 and will feature better ergonomics, LED and cabin door lighting and wind speed detection capability.
It will also feature dedicated storage for food and hydration for extended operations, a chainsaw work bench, and improved locker stowage for easy access to equipment.
A VICSES fleet working group designed the truck to make sure it’s custom built to serve the local volunteers’ needs.
This investment is timely after Wedderburn residents experienced heavy rainfall over the Christmas and New Year period last year which led to trees down, blocked roads and a serious incident in the Nardoo Creek behind the unit.
The reinvigorated VICSES Wedderburn Unit is currently home to 14 volunteers and received 98 requests for assistance last financial year.
Production of the new truck for Wedderburn will begin next year. Since 2022, the Labor Government has provided $23.9 million for 57 new heavy rescue trucks and seven medium rescue trucks.
As stated by Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes
“VICSES volunteers go above and beyond to protect the community during an emergency, and it’s crucial they have vehicles that help them carry out their work.”
As stated by Member for Ripon Martha Haylett
“This addition to the VICSES Wedderburn Unit will significantly boost their operations in the community and in surrounding towns.”
