Murwillumbah will be receiving a new specialised High Clearance Vehicles (HCV), says the NSW Labor government, as ‘Preparations are already underway for future severe weather events’.
The HCV is one of 11 to be delivered across the state, they say, which is ‘a combined investment of more than $11 million’.
‘The addition of these new HCV brings the total number in the NSW SES to 20, more than doubling the fleet of vehicles available to help volunteers access isolated communities and perform critical rescues during flooding’.
The announcement comes as ‘a busy storm season comes to an end, with State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers responding to more than 23,000 calls and 1,500 flood related incidents’.
‘With the weather outlook predicted to be relatively stable for the coming months, including below average rainfall forecast for May, preparations continue to ensure NSW remains ready for storms and rainy weather.
‘Storm seasons traditionally extend between September to April when the frequency of severe thunderstorms, strong winds and heavy rainfall increases.
‘As weather seasons become less predictable, the Minns Labor Government has urged communities to always be prepared for unsettled weather’.
Extreme off-road vehicles
‘HCV are designed to operate in extreme off-road conditions and through floodwaters up to 1.2 metres deep, enabling SES crews to complete rescues, deliver essential supplies and support other emergency services in remote and hard-to-reach locations’.
‘As one of the most advanced flood operations vehicles in Australia, the new vehicles enhance crew protection and safety for rescued persons with a fitted canopy and side seating, while protecting equipment in harsh environments with sealed and pressurised underbody storage. They also increase operational safety and visibility with a significantly upgraded scene lighting package.
‘Some of the new vehicles also have the capability to carry and load heavy supplies or equipment using an integrated crane, which will strengthen resupply and recovery missions.
Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, ‘This is a major win for Murwillumbah. Having this specialised vehicle based here ensures our local SES volunteers have the life-saving equipment they need to respond in a crisis’.
‘We already have one of these vehicles in Lismore, and adding this unit to Murwillumbah gives us essential coverage across the electorate. These trucks are designed for the toughest of conditions and can wade through 1.2 metres of water to perform rescues and deliver supplies to residents who are cut off.
‘This is a clear example of the government acting on the lessons of the 2022 floods. By putting these resources on the ground now, we are ensuring Murwillumbah is better equipped and more resilient for the next major weather event.’
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