Brigade receives new tanker after theft and fire
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Traralgon South Fire Brigade officially received a brand-new ultralight tanker on Saturday after their slip-on vehicle was stolen and destroyed by fire last year.
On July 31 July 2024, CFA was called to a car fire in Traralgon South. When firefighters arrived at their station, they discovered the station had been broken into and the brigade's slip-on vehicle was missing.
The brigade alongside Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to the incident and found the burnt vehicle was the missing CFA vehicle.
Traralgon South Captain Pieter van der Leest said he would like to thank everyone who worked hard to get the brigade the replacement vehicle.
“We were pretty shocked and devastated that someone would break into the station and do that to a community asset,” he said.
"The replacement vehicle is a welcome addition to our brigade.
“We live in a very hilly area, and it is great for that sort of terrain. It is a great asset not just for the district but for the state as a whole as it is also able to go on strike teams.”
With improved lighting and stowage, the new ultralight comes with a 500 litres per minute diesel powered pump, a 550-litre water tank, a class A foam system, a permanently connected suction hose, and a live hose reel fitted with 30 meters of lightweight 19mm hose.
The lockers now have hinge-up doors for improved access and have been redesigned to give more room for personal gear as well as helmets.
Deputy Chief Officer for the south east region, Trevor Owen, said this ultralight would improve brigade capability and offer better outcomes for the community.
"The theft of the brigade’s slip-on was a low act, so it was extremely rewarding to help hand over this brand-new vehicle to the brigade," he said.
"The new Ultralight really prioritises crew safety and comfort allowing them to focus on giving their best every time they are responding to an incident.
"It is now built on the new ANCAP five-rated, four-wheel drive next generation Ford Ranger with all the modern driver enhancements and safety features you would expect in a new vehicle.
"It has a 10-speed automatic transmission, and has an electric rewind for the live reel, making it easier to restow thereby reducing fatigue.
“I have no doubt this replacement vehicle will the see brigade well into the future.”