New trucks and training for local RFS

Mid Murray RFS and Deniliquin’s RFS brigade combined for the basic firefighting skills evening, held at Memorial Park Wednesday last week.

Mid Murray district coordinator Inspector Doug Adamson said as well as making sure firefighting skills were up to scratch, it allowed members to familiarise themselves with some new equipment.

“Part of the training included becoming familiar with two new trucks that recently became part of their local arsenal,” he said.

“The two new tankers were supplied to the Deniliquin brigade just before Christmas 2022, as part of the Mid Murray Zone tanker replacement program.

“The tankers that were replaced have been sent out to rural brigades that had older tankers that needed replacing.

“We presently have six older tankers in our yard awaiting disposal by auction.”

New members of the support brigade were mentored to learn a few basic firefighter skills.

Members of both brigades trained with hoses and pumps, with drills including refilling the tanks on the trucks.

“Training also included an overrun walk-through, which is a annual requirement, but hopefully never needed - just like knowing CPR really,” Insp Adamson said.

“While support brigade members work mostly behind the scenes during an incident, the safety of all RFS members is paramount.

“Having a basic understanding of the fire ground is useful if they need to deliver logistics such as meals, or bulk water.”

All training is provided free by the Rural Fire Service.

If you are interesting in becoming a firefighters, or a member of the support brigade, contact the Mid Murray Zone office on 5898 4100.