Mundijong Volunteer Fire Brigade better prepared for bush fire season 5 November 2019

The Mundijong Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade are better equipped to manage the upcoming bushfire season after taking ownership of a new bulk water carrier last month.

The 12.2 water carrier can hold 12,000 litres of water, far greater than the older tanker it is replacing, and is a great step forward in improving bulk water tanker operability during an emergency.

This vehicle, funded by the Emergency Services Levy and the first of its kind produced by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ Operational Fleet Project, has been well received by the volunteers including current Captain, Jason White and is ready for service during the upcoming bushfire season.

The Mundijong Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade has been serving the community since 1981 and has a current membership of 66 members.

Shire President, Cr Michelle Rich said the new 12.2 water carrier would provide a boost for local volunteer firefighters ahead of the upcoming bushfire season.

“The Shire has well trained and very capable Volunteer Fire Brigades, but we need to ensure that their job is kept as easy as possible in the event of an emergency," Cr Rich said.

“Volunteers give up a lot of their time to support and protect the community and we aim to provide them with the best possible equipment to do that.

“The 12.2, the first of its kind produced by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ Operational Fleet Project, is a vast improvement on the older model and ensures our firefighters are best equipped in the case of an emergency.

“The Mundijong Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade and the Shire helped to refine the design of the water carrier in partnership with DFES.

“The Shire and the Mundijong Volunteer Fire Brigade is extremely grateful for the new tanker funded by the Emergency Services Levy .

Ahead of bushfire season, residents who live in, or near the bush, are reminded to prepare their property and have a Bushfire Plan.

Visit www.firechat.wa.gov.au for more information on preparing a Bushfire Plan and how to keep your family safe this summer.

The Shire’s Firebreak and Fuel Hazard Reduction Notice 2019/20 is also available here.

Photo caption: Honourable Matt Swinbourn MLC, Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale President Michelle Rich, Mundijong Volunteer Bushfire Brigade captain Jason White, Department of Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm and the Honourable Francis Logan MLA — Emergency Services Minister with the new 12.2 bulk water carrier on Tuesday, 5 November.