New Heavy Tanker boost for Avoca
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Avoca Fire Brigade has received a new heavy tanker as part of a state-wide rollout designed to enhance CFA’s firefighting capability.
The keys were officially handed over at a ceremony outside the Avoca Fire Station on Sunday (18 May).
The new heavy tanker carries 4,000 litres of water and includes enhanced crew protection features, improvements to reduce operator fatigue and electric rewind hose reels.
Captain of Avoca Fire Brigade Aaron McHoul said the upgraded tanker was a welcome addition to the brigade's fleet.
“We’ve only had it for a short while and it’s making things much safer for our firefighters,” Aaron said.
“The extra water capacity and the additional equipment it can carry, like breathing apparatus, means we’re better equipped for a range of incidents.”
Aaron said the new addition would also boost the brigade’s ability to support neighbouring areas.
“Many of the places we attend don’t have reticulated water, so having that capacity allows us to make an initial attack on a structure, grass or bushfire and hopefully knock it down quickly,” Aaron said.
The tanker has also been designed with a focus on sustainability, incorporating a higher percentage of recyclable materials and reducing reliance on fibreglass.
CFA West Region Acting Deputy Chief Officer Graeme Armstrong said the new tanker has improved accessibility for brigade members.
“Being automatic makes it a lot easier to drive, which helps more members get behind the wheel,” Graeme said.
“You can control the speed a lot more easily when crews are blacking out, especially when walking alongside the truck.”
Established in 1885, Avoca Fire Brigade has a proud history of service, having evolved from two separate urban and rural brigades before merging in 2011.
The brigade now has 53 members, including 29 operational firefighters and a strong auxiliary group that provides critical support during both incidents and community events.
“We’re an urban-rural brigade, so this appliance makes a big difference across both types of firefighting,” Aaron said.
“We’re proud to continue serving the Avoca community and beyond with the best equipment possible.”
The new heavy tanker is one of 48 being delivered to CFA brigades across Victoria, funded through a $22.7 million CFA Capability Funding package, which was announced in June 2020 as part of the State Government’s Fire Services Reform.