VOLUNTEERS for the State Emergency Services can rest easier with a new $179,000 purpose-built rescue vehicle.
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The new truck comes after a fleet funding bungle earlier this year concerned emergency responders.
Armidale SES local controller Josh Osborne said the light response vehicle is a powerful tool for combating emergencies across the region.
“The Mercedes Sprinter AWD Crew Cab Chassis truck has many state of the art features including roller shutters, a purpose built chainsaw maintenance drawer, internal LED lighting and a custom made protection bar fitted with a winch and driving lights,” Mr Osborne said.
Handing over the keys on Friday were NSW Emergency Services Minister Troy Grant and Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall.
“This custom vehicle will allow our 50 local volunteers to respond to the devastation caused by storms, floods, hail and wind more effectively and safer than before,” Mr Marshall said.
“This modern and sleek emergency response truck is a major change of tack from older vehicles supplied by councils and demonstrates that the NSW Government is committed to providing our SES volunteers with state-of-the-art equipment.”
The new vehicle includes a sliding ladder system, purpose-built trays and a powerful floodlight system.
The local unit has already attended dozens of of calls after a substantial hail storm earlier this week.