The operational capability of the Bemm River Fire Brigade has received a significant boost following the arrival of a new, state-of-the-art $375,000 medium tanker, designed to strengthen local emergency response and volunteer safety.
The arrival of the vehicle, which replaces an ageing unit in the local fleet, was recently announced by Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh.
The delivery is part of the Labor Government’s $40 million CFA rolling fleet replacement program, launched in December 2024 to modernise frontline equipment across Victoria.
Bemm River 1st Lieutenant Dale Hodges, who has been involved with the brigade for 35 years, said the new tanker is a significant upgrade and a valuable asset to the brigade’s fleet.
“The brigade is very proud to have the new truck, and Bemm River and surrounding communities will reap the benefits long into the future,” Dale said.
“Our old tanker served us well, but this new and modern vehicle is a game changer for us. It is more comfortable and can seat up to five of our members to travel safely together to incidents.”
The medium tanker is designed to handle the diverse challenges of the East Gippsland landscape, operating effectively across rugged rural terrain, bushland, and urban environments.
Key features include a 2500-litre water capacity and a front-mounted monitor to allow for rapid, precise fire suppression directly from
the vehicle.
Safety is a primary focus of the new design, which includes an advanced crew protection system featuring radiant heat protective curtains, water-spraying systems, and heat shielding panels to safeguard firefighters during high-risk “burn over” events.
“This new tanker gives Bemm River volunteers a modern and safer vehicle to protect their community and respond when it matters most,” Mr McIntosh said.
“We’re backing CFA volunteers with modern equipment so they can act quickly, work safely and protect Victorians in tough conditions.”
The Bemm River Fire Brigade responds to several significant incidents annually, both locally and in surrounding areas.
“Road accidents make up majority of our call outs and we regularly support neighbouring brigades,” Dale said.
He also acknowledged the work of local District Maintenance Officers in keeping the fleet operational.
“They do a great job of keeping us out on the road so we can safely protect the community. Their behind the scenes work ensure our vehicles are safe, ready and available whenever we’re needed.”
CFA Assistant Chief Fire Officer District 11 Aaron Worcester welcomed the addition to the engine bay, noting, “The new truck will allow Bemm River to continue protecting lives and property for many years to come.”
The announcement of the new tanker coincides with the opening of the latest round of the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).
This year’s round is the largest in the program’s history, with more than $31 million available for volunteer brigades and rescue organisations to upgrade vehicles, equipment, and facilities.
Applications for the 2026–27 VESEP round opened on
Thursday, April 16, 2026, and will remain open until Thursday, June 11, 2026.
With the new tanker now in the shed and ready for deployment, Mr McIntosh said the investment ensures volunteers have the best tools for the job.
“Through our rolling fleet replacement program, we’re delivering the right equipment to brigades across Victoria to meet today’s fire risks,” he said.
