The South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) has announced the rollout of ten new 4WD fire tanker trucks, marking the beginning of a generational upgrade to their firefighting capabilities. This significant investment, valued at $5.2 million, aims to revolutionize the CFS's response to emergencies, ensuring both firefighters' safety and communities' protection.
Each new tanker is part of the 24P multi-purpose dual-cab urban fire and rescue trucks, capable of carrying up to 2,000 liters of water and utilizing high-performance pumps delivering water at 2,000 liters per minute. The deployment of these advanced vehicles reflects the CFS's commitment to ensuring the safety of its volunteers, who are often exposed to hazardous environments during bushfire seasons.
These new trucks come equipped with state-of-the-art safety features, including radiant heat shields, cabin deluge systems, multiple airbags, and in-cab breathing apparatuses. CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin praised the innovative design of the vehicles, stating, “These vehicles have been crafted with input from our dedicated firefighters, ensuring they meet the rigorous demands of modern emergency response.” The first of the new trucks was delivered to the Mannum brigade last week, with additional trucks slated to arrive at corresponding brigades, including those at Williamstown, Meadows, Parndana, and Cummins, by the end of March 2025.
The need for this upgrade has become increasingly apparent amid rising temperatures and heightened fire risks across South Australia. Emergency Services Minister Dan Cregan emphasized the urgency, noting, “This generational upgrade not only replaces outdated equipment but also equips our volunteers with state-of-the-art tools to protect South Australians during emergencies.”
Historically, much of the CFS's equipment was outdated, with several trucks remaining from the post-Ash Wednesday fires over thirty years ago. Captain Steve Elliott from the CFS Williamstown Brigade remarked on the improvements these new vehicles bring, stating, “Our response capabilities have been vastly improved.”
Commander Tim McNeilly, the CFS Manager of Urban and Technical Operations, remarked on the 24P truck’s design, noting enhanced urban firefighting and rescue stowage, allowing for easier access to tools and equipment when time is of the essence during emergencies. “The CFS is the largest provider of road crash rescue services in SA, annually attending more than 2000 incidents, and these new trucks are a testimony to the service’s innovative approach and commitment to safety,” McNeilly added.
This fleet enhancement is particularly timely as the region is bracing for impending heatwaves which raise concerns of intensified fire risks. The CFS maintains over 800 firefighting trucks for this fire season, including new additions and Quick Response Vehicles, Urban Pumpers, and Bulk Water Carriers. CFS also utilizes aerial support, with over 30 firefighting aircraft prepared for deployment. The recent upgrades reflect not just technological advancements but signify a dedication to protecting lives, properties, and the environment amid growing concerns around climate change.
With increasing fire seasons becoming more severe due to the climate crisis, the introduction of these enhanced 4WD fire tankers points to the necessity of investing significantly in advanced firefighting equipment. The trucks symbolize the CFS's commitment to safeguarding communities through innovation and preparedness for natural disasters, assuring South Australians of efficient and effective responses to emergency situations.
The rollout of the new trucks is expected to bolster community resilience against calamities. Each vehicle serves not only as a piece of firefighting asset but also as a beacon of hope for safety and security across South Australia. With advances like these, the CFS is poised to tackle the challenges of potential natural disasters head-on, ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of the firefighting and rescue service.
