New vehicles boost for SES

A new $550,000 fleet of vehicles and equipment have been presented to Moreton Bay SES, doubling the capability of SES crews.

Seven specialised Ford Ranger General Response vehicles and three General Storm Response trailers were formally handed over at Moreton Bay SES Unit Headquarters on Saturday.

“These vehicles and trailers are essential for our SES to assist Moreton Bay residents in their darkest hour,” Mayor Peter Flannery said.

The new vehicles have improved suspension and lift for better ground clearance and performance in poor conditions.

Purpose-built ladder racks and 360-degree high intensity lights are also key features as well as a 3500kg towing capacity for rescue equipment like ATVs and flood boats.

The Storm Response trailers are able to carry operations equipment and supplies, such as chainsaws, power tools, hand tools, tarps, sandbags and rope.

“These are the best available resources money can buy to help our community when they need it the most,” the mayor said.

“SES groups who have received a storm trailer will now each have two at their disposal meaning two teams working in different locations can be equipped and supplied at the same time.

“This is critical in emergency scenarios where every second counts.”

Local Disaster Management Group Chair and Cr Matthew Constance (Div 10) said the new vehicles were a quantum leap forward, with the previous fleet averaging 150,000kms on the clock.

“These new vehicles are a real step up. They can go from helping clean up after a storm, to launching a flood boat for rescues, to heading off-road to search for someone missing in the bush,” he said.

“That kind of flexibility is exactly what we need in a disaster response.”

The vehicles and trailers were funded through $200,000 from Council and $350,000 from the State Government, an SES Support Grant and the Community Gambling Benefit Fund.

The donation follows delivery of a new people mover to Deception Bay SES group and 4x4 dual cab general response vehicle to Woodford SES group in June.

Council will also fund an additional dual cab 4x4 ute to act as an SES command vehicle.