Coongulla CFA celebrated two great achievements on Saturday – 40 years of providing emergency services to the community and the arrival of a new ultra-light tanker to support fire-fighting operations in the region.

Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said the new $142,000 four-wheel tanker would be a welcome addition to the local brigade.

“The Coongulla Brigade was the first brigade in the state to receive this ultra-light tanker model, which features a crew protection spray system, air conditioning, fog lights, LED hazard lights, bull bar,”

“It is great to be able to celebrate today’s milestone with a new replacement tanker that will help the Coongulla CFA respond to emergencies more efficiently and effectively,” Mr Bull said.

“This brand new 1000-litre truck will be particularly useful in allowing the brigade members to more easily access difficult terrain, especially in places that are not accessible to the 3000 litre Hino.”

Mr Bull said the tanker was funded in partnership between the Victorian Coalition Government, the CFA and the Coongulla community.

“Coongulla CFA and its members have served the community well for many years,” Mr Bull said.

“This new addition is a good example of the government and community working together and will further enhance the efficiency of the brigade within its boundary area, while also being a huge asset to its neighbouring brigades.”

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Peter Ryan, said volunteer fire-fighters gave their all to serve the community and deserved to have the best equipment available.

“Local volunteer agencies such as Coongulla CFA are the backbone of Victoria’s emergency service response and the Coalition Government is committed to providing improved resources and support for CFA members across Victoria,” Mr Ryan said.

“The 2012-13 Budget included $57 million to boost the state’s emergency services infrastructure, including more than $22 million to build or upgrade rural fire stations, which is part of the Coalition’s commitment to build or upgrade 250 CFA stations during its first term of government.”