Inland Rail shines light for South Wangaratta Brigade
CFA’s South Wangaratta Brigade can tread more safely in unpredictable fire ground conditions with vital new equipment, thanks to the Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations Program.
February 1, 2021
The brigade is using its grant funding to purchase five new helmet torches and four ultra-high frequency radios, replacing equipment more than 10 years old.
South Wangaratta Brigade Equipment Officer/Firefighter Brendon French said his members are looking forward to testing their new gear at regular training sessions now COVID-19 restrictions have eased.
“This new equipment will be a great help for us, particularly when responding to structure fires and bush fires,” Brendon said.
“Most of our funding comes from community donations and grants like Inland Rail’s, so we rely heavily on them to keep the brigade viable.”
Brendon said the brigade was pleased to be back training together since the New Year.
“The restrictions meant we’d have to always wear masks, sanitise hands, temperature check, wearing nitrile gloves and not more than four on truck, before turning out to an incident,” Brendon said.
“It’s also taken extra time to completely clean the trucks and equipment once returning from a job, so it’s all been a bit more challenging and time-consuming for members during the most stringent of restrictions last year.
“The new equipment is a nice addition for the Brigade to start off 2021, which will hopefully be easier for everyone.”
The next round of sponsorships is open to applications from 1 February 2021. Visit our website, to apply or find out more about Inland Rail’s Community Sponsorships and Donations program.
