Three new tankers boost South East region

Maffra and Rosedale fire brigades officially received their new heavy tankers at an event on Saturday 24 May, while Perry Bridge Brigade received an ultra-heavy tanker.  

The heavy tanker features capacity 4,000 litres of water, automatic transmission, four-wheel drive and crew cab to provide firefighters with greater on and off-road capability, safety and comfort.  

The heavy tanker also features improved firefighter operator interface and features to reduce fatigue and improve safety and ergonomics, including crew protection systems, electronic monitors, and electric rewind hose reels.  

The ultra-heavy tanker is a new type of vehicle and arrived at CFA in July 2024, it is an important addition especially to regional locations with lots of open grassland.    

The ultra heavy tankers have the capacity to carry 10,000 litres of water. The tankers have seating for three crew and include a bulbar-mounted remote-control monitor which can be operated from inside the cabin to distribute up to 450 litres of water per minute. 

District 10 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Kade Dowie said all three trucks will be well utilised in their new homes.  

"Each brigade and their communities will benefit greatly from this upgrade in their trucks," he said.  

"The ultra heavy tankers can be used in an urban environment, but they are primarily designed for use in grass and general firefighting where there is limited access to reticulated water or large open water supplies."  

"The heavy tankers are also a vital part of CFA’s fleet, with more than 1900 across the state. 

Captain of Maffra Brigade Brendan King said the new heavy tanker would have a huge positive impact on their response capability.  

“It gives us better pumping, more water, all in the luxury of the most up to date vehicle,” Brendan said.  

“It is fantastic to have the investment into new trucks that really allows the community to benefit.”