Keeping fire trucks operational during extreme conditions is just as crucial as the work on the front line, and CFA mechanics across Victoria play a vital role in ensuring firefighters can do their jobs safely.
With 13 mechanical workshops statewide, District Mechanical Officers (DMOs) maintain and service more than 2300 operational vehicles – one of the largest emergency service fleets in the country.
The Bairnsdale workshop, led by Officer in Charge Steve O’Shea, oversees regular maintenance plans for each vehicle, as well as fire-specific inspections to ensure trucks are roadworthy and equipped for challenging terrain.
“Each vehicle has its own maintenance plan with annual service inspections, but we’re also doing more than a regular service,” Steve said. “We’re checking plumbing, intercoms, and fire protection systems before trucks head into difficult terrain. Everything we do is to ensure the safety of our firefighters in the field.”
During bushfire incidents, DMOs are deployed to firegrounds to carry out repairs and maintenance as required. This fire season alone, they have contributed more than 1,000 hours supporting major incidents across the state. At the recent Dargo fire, Steve – a long-serving volunteer with Stratford Fire Brigade – was primarily deployed as a DMO, operating from staging areas such as local ovals and recreation reserves.
“The most common issues we fix are clutches, tyres, radiators, lights, and stubble build-up under the trucks,” Steve said.
“Our technicians aren’t just diesel mechanics – they’re electricians, plumbers, fitters, and welders. Each region presents unique challenges, so having a broad understanding of different terrains is essential.”
Dan Jones, CFA Head of Fleet and Protective Equipment, said DMOs are critical to keeping vehicles operational and crews safe.
“DMOs provide on-scene technical expertise to quickly diagnose and fix mechanical faults, ensuring vehicles remain available,” he said.
“Their skills allow them to improvise practical solutions in challenging conditions, and they support crews by assessing vehicle damage and performing checks during breaks and crew changes.”
From servicing trucks in workshops to tackling mechanical issues on the fireground, CFA DMOs work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the state’s firefighters have the equipment they need when it matters most.
