The Narre Warren CFA branch will be one of the first ten brigades to receive some of the new 25 pumpers being added to the CFA’s fleet.
These new pumpers will be capable of delivering 4000 litres of water per minute, and once operational will replace pumpers that are older than 20 years of age.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said that the new pumpers are a welcome addition to the fleet and will result in a significant uplift in capability across the state.
“With the latest technology Scania Cab Chassis and the ability to integrate breathing apparatus sets in the rear seats, the pumpers will carry all the necessary equipment and tools to operate on a fireground,” Mr Heffernan said.
Alongside Narre Warren, Wendouree, Kangaroo Flat, Sebastopol, Eaglehawk, Rochester, Emerald, Benalla, Bairnsdale and Lorne will be among the others set to receive the new pumpers.
According to Mr Heffernan, these pumpers can “continuously pump thousands of litres of water at high pressure from a static supply such as a street main, lake or reservoir”.
In addition, they also have the ability to produce compressed air foam through an onboard compressor for enhanced asset protection.
“These new pumpers will ensure our volunteers continue to be well-equipped to protect their communities during an emergency.
“The pumpers were designed by our volunteers to include gender specific requirements to support women within CFA and to help encourage women to join in the future,” Mr Heffernan said.
Manufacturing for the new pumpers began late last year at SEM Fire and Rescue in Wendouree, with the first 25 of the 25 pumpers due for completion in mid-2025.
The Victorian Government announced additional funding of $18.6 million for 15 new pumpers last month on top of the $9.9 million for 10 pumpers announced last year.
