Armidale's SES unit has received a huge boost with the presentation of a brand new flood rescue boat.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Namoi SES Region Controller Andrew Galvin handed over the$26,900 4.75-metre Jabiru 385 boat to Armidale SES members during a short ceremony

Mr Marshall said the boat would give a considerable lift to the emergency capabilities of the members of the Armidale unit, who number 43 active volunteers.

He said the members devoted considerable time to preparation and training to ensure their skills and equipment were constantly able to meet the variety of situations they respond to – and the boat would add to their safety and skilled response capability for others in emergency situations.

“The NSW Government is pleased to be able to present this brand new flood rescue boat to the Armidale SES Unit,” Mr Marshall said.

“This new lifesaving equipment means the SES will be able to respond even more efficiently and safely to requests for help from the community during floods and storms.

“For the local unit to assist the community in a timely and professional manner, it is important that as well as quality training and facilities, its members have safe and reliable resources such as this new flood rescue boat.”

Mr Marshall acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the Armidale SES Unit volunteer members.

“The Armidale SES Unit is the primary general land and vertical rescue unit and the largest unit in the NSW SES Namoi Region,” Mr Marshall said.

“The new flood rescue boat will strengthen their capacity to assist the Armidale community in times of flood, storms and to provide support to other agencies during land search and rescue operations.” 

During the last 12 months, the members of the unit responded to over 160 jobs for storm, flood and rescues.  They have contributed over 9,000 volunteer hours of service between responding to operational tasks, training and community events.