Leslie Williams, Member for Port Macquarie, joined Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Commissioner Paul Baxter to handover the keys to a $470,000 Compressed Air Foam System (CAFs) Class 2 Pumper truck.
“This new water-saving fire truck will enhance the emergency operations of FRNSW right across Port Macquarie,” Mrs Williams said.
“The CAFs Class 2 Pumper gives our fantastic firefighters the ability to tackle structural, chemical, petrol and grass fires using up to five times less water.
“State-of-the art equipment like this will make sure our firefighters can keep our communities safe from all types of fire emergencies now and into the future.”
Commissioner Baxter said the highly efficient foam system gives crews superior firefighting capabilities while also reducing smoke.
“This new truck will improve emergency response for the local community and provide even greater protection for residents,” Commissioner Baxter said.
“It is part of a large roll out of new response vehicles across NSW that will give our firefighters the edge when responding to emergencies.”
Ms Williams and Commissioner Baxter were also on-hand for a special ceremony to pay tribute with Flood Awards to those who displayed remarkable courage during the severe weather event.
“The common thread amongst all firefighters being recognised is their selflessness and community-mindedness, and on behalf of the impacted Mid North Coast communities, I say thank you,” Mrs Williams said.
Commissioner Baxter praised all the recipients who had gone above and beyond to protect the irreplaceable.