A new $593,000 fire engine has arrived at Fire and Rescue NSW’s Wingham station, bringing improved firefighting capability, lower emissions and the latest vehicle safety technology to the Mid-North Coast.
The new Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS) Class 2 Pumper is the latest appliance to roll off the FRNSW production line and is designed to respond to a broad range of emergencies across both urban and regional environments.
Its CAFS technology allows crews to tackle structural, chemical, petrol and grass fires while using up to five times less water than conventional firefighting methods.
The system combines compressed air with water and foam concentrate to improve the effectiveness of fire suppression, providing stronger knock-down capability while also helping reduce smoke.
The new appliance is built on a Euro 6 cab chassis, giving FRNSW lower vehicle emissions compared with earlier-generation trucks as well as access to modern crash avoidance and driver safety technologies.
Beyond firefighting, the versatile Class 2 Pumper can be deployed to road crashes, flood incidents and other emergency situations, giving the Wingham crew a multi-purpose appliance suited to the demands of regional operations.
Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said the investment was part of the NSW Government’s commitment to improving emergency response capability in regional communities.
“The Minns Labor Government continues to invest in our emergency services to deliver the equipment and infrastructure needed to support our firefighters and protect lives, property, and communities in the regions,” Dib said.
“This is not just a new fire truck – it’s better protection for both firefighters and the communities they serve.”
FRNSW Assistant Commissioner – Regional Operations Steven Hayes said local firefighters had been looking forward to receiving the new appliance.
“I know the local fire crew has been very keen to get its hands on this new pumper and put it through its paces,” Hayes said.
“The firefighters will spend the next few weeks familiarising itself with the truck and testing its capabilities.”
The arrival of the new pumper continues the progressive renewal of the FRNSW heavy vehicle fleet, with newer appliances incorporating advances in firefighting systems, emissions performance and active vehicle safety technology.
