New rescue boat and light tanker strengthens East Kimberley’s emergency response
The East Kimberley has a new 11-metre rescue boat to take on the treacherous seas off the State’s north coast and a light tanker for Kununurra firefighters managing increasingly unpredictable bushfire seasons.
Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson visited the East Kimberley on Wednesday to inspect the $1.4 million fleet upgrades for Wyndham’s Marine Rescue East Kimberley and Crossing Falls Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade.
The 11-metre rigid hull boat was officially handed over to Marine Rescue East Kimberley. Named King George, after the magnificent falls on the north coast, the vessel will help marine rescue volunteers navigate some of the most challenging open waters in Australia.
The volunteer group will also get a $110,000 Dodge RAM four-wheel-drive to help tow their secondary rescue boat.
Meanwhile, Crossing Falls Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade received a $250,000 Light Tanker which provides greater protection for firefighters battling unpredictable blazes.
Camera IconVolunteer firefighter Charlie Buckley, SWEK vice president Tony Chafer, Captain Crossing Falls Brigade Darren Tomkins, Minister Stephen Dawson, DFES Kimberley Region Supt Leon Gardiner Credit: supplied
The vehicle’s safety features include automated vehicle location and radiant heat shields which will protect firefighters inside the truck during a burnover event. The vehicle also has in-cab air units which will allow firefighters to refill their oxygen tanks at the scene.
Mr Dawson said the Cook Government wanted to provide Crossing Falls Brigade with the best equipment to fight the changing nature of bushfires.
“With fire seasons becoming longer and more unpredictable, the Cook Government continues to build and enhance preparations by providing brigades, like Crossing Falls Brigade, with the latest firefighting vehicles and equipment,” he said.
“For our marine rescue volunteers in the East Kimberley, who deal with some of the most challenging open waters in Australia, we are committed to providing them with modern resources to keep our communities safe at sea.
“Our amazing volunteers are the lifeblood of WA’s emergency services, especially in regional and remote areas.”’
Camera IconWyndham’s Marine Rescue East Kimberley’s new vessel Credit: supplied
Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm said the light tanker was suitable for the East Kimberley terrain.
“The light tanker will be a valued addition to the Crossing Falls Brigade which has to negotiate the rugged Kimberley terrain to provide emergency responses.
“I am confident this appliance will boost the volunteers’ firefighting capabilities and help keep the community safe for many years to come.
“The region is fortunate to have the skilled Marine Rescue East Kimberley crews ready to respond considering big tides, volatile storms and wildlife make that part of our coast a dangerous place to run into trouble.
“The King George will quickly become an asset for the group’s volunteers as they navigate those waters to protect water users.”
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