Dear Editor,
When the Shepparton Fire Station was informed that they would be receiving a new pumper platform fire truck, and that it would be arriving within weeks, firefighters at the station undertook the required specialised training in anticipation of the arrival of the new truck.
However, it was a shock then for our firefighters to be told that Fire Rescue Victoria had reallocated the specialised fire truck to Sunshine.
The risk assessment conducted identified Shepparton as one of two of the highest risk areas most in need of the specialised pumper platform truck and I urged the Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes to ensure that this truck be delivered to Shepparton.
The Victorian Branch Secretary from the United Fire Firefighters Union, Peter Marshall has not approved the transfer and insists that the truck be deployed back to Shepparton where it was promised.
It is critical that we have the resources that our region and firefighters need, and FRV must now confirm when the pumper platform truck be delivered to Shepparton as first promised.