New tanker for Gracetown fire brigade

The Gracetown Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade (VBFB) has received a new vehicle which will help to protect the local area in the face of bushfires.

Delivered on Friday August 9, the brand-new 3.4 Urban Tanker is valued at $585,000.

It holds 3,000 litres of water and 60 litres of firefighting foam, and it can accommodate a crew of up to six members.

The tanker is also equipped with advanced crew protection technology, including a water deluge system, radiant heat shields, burnover blankets, and in-cab air units.

On hand to pass over the keys, Member for Warren Blackwood Jane Kelsbie said the Gracetown VBFB has been a vital force in protecting the community since its establishment in the early 1980s.

“It is an honour to support the Gracetown VBFB by officially handing over this state-of-the-art firefighting appliance,” she said.

“With the experience and dedication of the Gracetown VBFB, I am confident that this new tanker will be instrumental in tackling the challenges of the upcoming bushfire season and in your efforts to continue to protect the community.”

The brigade has been involved in numerous critical incidents in the region, including the 2011 Prevelly fires, the 2018 West Bay Creek fire, the 2021 Boranup fire, and the 2022 Canebrake fire.

In the past two years alone, the Gracetown VBFB has responded to seven local incidents and has been deployed to assist in Bridgetown, Donnybrook, Wooroloo, and Albany.

At the handover ceremony, Ms Kelsbie highlighted the need to provide volunteer firefighters with top-of-the-line equipment.

“Our Government is committed to ensuring our frontline emergency services are equipped with the latest appliances and facilities,” she said.

“I would like to thank you for your service and dedication to protecting your local community. Your ongoing support is invaluable in assisting the people of Gracetown and the surrounding areas.”