They include 40 inflatable rescue vessels, 50 ark angel inflatable rescue rafts, 10 high clearance trucks that can drive through floodwaters, eight light flood rescue vehicles, 30 command vehicles, two heavy rescue vehicles and two car trailers.
NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York APM said the new fleet would “ensure we can provide swift and effective assistance to those who need it most during times of crisis”.
The investment comes following record flooding last year, which impacted several communities across the State and resulted in more than 80,000 calls for help to the NSW SES.
More than $14.7 million will go towards 142 additional boats, rafts, trucks, cars, trailers in response to recommendations from the independent flood inquiry.
Findings from the inquiry highlighted the need for SES volunteers to have upgraded equipment and resources to meet the growing challenges posed by extreme weather events.
Premier Chris Minns said the new boats and vehicles would help save lives and minimise the impact of disasters on communities.
State MP for East Hills, Kylie Wilkinson, welcomed the announcement, saying “the SES does such a great job in the community”.
“We often experience flooding on the Georges River and rely heavily on the SES and the volunteers to clean up after severe storms and floods,” she said.
“I’m proud to be part of a government that is investing in the SES and the invaluable service it provides to the community in their time of need.”
Nearly 3,000 volunteers joined over the past year and the SES is encouraging more people to join their local unit to further strengthen the State’s defences against severe storms and floods.
New $25m fleet for SES gets run
SOME of the NSW State Emergency Service’s (SES) new $25 million fleet were put to the test on the Georges River at Picnic Point after the Premier announced almost 200 new vehicles and vessels were on the way.
