Anewly refurbished fire truck – fitted with modern and state-of-the-art equipment – has arrived at Mount Gambier MFS station, replacing a more than decade-old appliance to improve community safety.
In an additional boost, the region’s dedicated Combination Aerial Pumping Appliance (CAPA) has returned after undergoing a mid-life refurbishment – ensuring the specialised asset can continue to provide appropriate emergency response.
Minister for Emergency Services Emily Bourke said the upgraded appliances will further support Mount Gambier’s 24/7 coverage across the area, increasing MFS’ ability to respond to a wide range of emergencies.
“Mount Gambier Station has the second-quickest response times in regional South Australia, exceeding the 14-minute benchmark,” she said.
Minister Burke said the new addition – a Heavy Urban Pump (HUP) appliance – is equipped with burn over protection for crew safety in wildfires in urban areas, as well as dedicated internal storage of PPE like helmets.
Other features include a 2500L water tank capacity, 150L foam tank capacity, 4300L/min main pump, 290L/min high pressure pump, telescope remote-control monitor 5000L/min and in-built personnel decontamination/hygiene station.
“Heavy rescue equipment for road crashes, extrications and rope line rescue operations is also on board the HUP, ensuring local firefighters have access to the latest tools and technology in a safer and more capable vehicle,” Minister Burke said.
“This regional appliance is the same design of the current appliances used in the metropolitan area, with any early issues identified and resolved to ensure Mount Gambier’s replacement truck is received at optimal performance from day one.
“The second appliance, a fully upgraded CAPA, is ready to respond to varying incidents, including medium-rise residential, industrial and commercial structure fires. It combines aerial firefighting and rescue capabilities through a 20m ladder with working platform, 2000L water supply on board and a high-pressure pump.
“The appliance has undergone works as part of its 10-year refurbishment program, which is standard for this type of appliance and allows the MFS to restore and upgrade the CAPA’s capability to protect the Mount Gambier community.”
Minister Burke said Heavy Urban Pump appliances in Mount Gambier, Port Pirie, Port Lincoln, Victor Harbor, Berri and Port Augusta will be replaced by the end of July, as part of a $1.25m government investment to support regional areas.
Minister for Emergency Services Emily Bourke
“This upgraded fleet will support regional firefighting operations and help keep the Mount Gambier community safe,” she said.
“Old equipment has been replaced with modern technology to ensure crews on board have access to the latest tools available.
“Highly skilled MFS staff are on call 24 hours, seven days a week and we are providing fit- for-purpose appliances to meet the region’s emergency response needs.”
MFS Chief Officer Jeff Swann said the two additional fire appliances, equipped with the latest technology and modern firefighting equipment, will play a crucial role in supporting our crews and enhancing our ability to protect the Mount Gambier community.
“Many MFS appliances, like the CAPA, receive a mid-life refurbishment extending their operational life significantly, which is another way the MFS brings value to the community,” he said.
“These upgraded appliances will align with the evolving demands of emergency response and operational efficiency.”
