New fire engine for Leura Fire Station
27th August 2009Ministerial media release
Fire and emergency protection for residents and businesses in the Blue Mountains has been boosted today with the handover of a new engine to the NSW Fire Brigades' Leura Fire Station.
NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services and Member for the Blue Mountains, Phil Koperberg, today officially handed over the new $350,000, Class 2 Pumper at a special ceremony at the Leura Station.
"This new pumper carries the latest equipment and technology, and will increase our firefighter's capacity to deal with fires, accidents, chemical spills and other emergencies," Mr Koperberg said.
"The new engine features a high pressure pump capable of delivering 3,000 litres of water per minute for fighting fires, and incorporates a foam system for fighting chemical, petrol and bush fires and reducing water usage."
"The cabin of the vehicle has been increased in size to make it more comfortable for firefighters, and it is fitted with a reversing camera to improve safety."
Minister for Emergency Services Steve Whan said firefighters from the Leura Fire Station had responded to 350 emergency calls in 2008/09.
"The Leura Brigade does an extraordinary job in protecting their community, and this new pumper will help them do their work even more effectively," Mr Whan said.
"The State Government's record $903 million 2009/10 emergency services budget included $589 million for the NSW Fire Brigades, providing $18 million to continue updating its fleet with more than 20 new fire engines and specialised vehicles.
"This is the largest roll out of new and upgraded fire engines in NSWFB history.
"This means that since 1995, the Government will have allocated more than $243 million to provide almost 550 new and refurbished fire engines for communities around the State," Mr Whan said.
NSWFB Commissioner Greg Mullins said the new truck would help firefighters better protect the Blue Mountains' growing population, complementing resources at fire stations across the district.
"Firefighters are now better equipped to protect their community and residents and businesses can feel more confident they are in safe hands."
New fire engine for Leura Fire Station (PDF 26KB)