New boats and vehicles for the Wide Bay and Sunshine Coast

Two new flood boats, three new ambulance vehicles and a new fire truck have been delivered to stations and SES Units across the Wide Bay and Sunshine Coast.

Police and Community Safety Minister Jack Dempsey said the new appliances were worth more than $1.3 million in total and would be of great support to the entire region.

“These boats and vehicles are fitted with the latest safety and technological equipment and will allow our SES volunteers, paramedics and firefighters to more effectively meet the demands of their communities,” Mr Dempsey said.

“We are committed to providing frontline staff and volunteers with the best possible resources and I have no doubt these new vehicles and boats will be a welcome addition to the region’s fleet.”

Assistant Minister for Emergency Volunteers Ted Malone visited stations across the Wide Bay and Sunshine Coast today to officially hand over the new equipment.

“The boats are part of the Queensland Flood Commission of Inquiry funded program which will deliver a total of 56 flood boats across the state,” Mr Malone said.

“Each of the ambulance vehicles is equipped with stretchers and stair chairs capable of supporting patients up to 228kg, which is going to make transport safer and more comfortable for both paramedics and patients.

“The new fire truck will better meet the needs of our firefighters who respond to a range of emergencies from extinguishing fires to swift water rescue, hazardous chemical clean-up and road side accidents.”

The following stations and SES Units have received new vehicles:

Caboolture Fire Station: Medium Rescue Vehicle
Caloundra Ambulance Station: Mercedes Sprinter LWB
Cooroy SES Unit: Gemini 505 Rigid Hull Foam Collar vessel
Kawana Ambulance Station: Mercedes Sprinter 319
Nambour Ambulance Station: Mercedes Sprinter 319
Pomona SES Unit: Gemini 420 Rigid Hull Foam Collar vessel

[ENDS] 30 July 2013

Media Contact: Alexandra Foley 0418 256 910