New disaster capability for the Mid North Coast

DISASTER response and recovery operations across NSW are being bolstered as the State Emergency Service (SES) delivers 11 new specialised High Clearance Vehicles (HCV), a combined investment of more than $11 million.

“This investment brings our total number of High Clearance Vehicles to 20 and represents a significant step forward in our flood and disaster response capability,” said NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing AFSM.

“We’ve worked closely with our volunteers and technical experts to ensure these designs meet the realities of field operations and the unique challenges we face here in NSW.

“Whether it’s wading through more than a metre of floodwater, navigating fire trails, or delivering supplies to residents cut off by floodwaters, this new fleet means that help will arrive faster when communities need it most.”

The new vehicles are being delivered to multiple flood and storm hotspots across the state including Broken Hill, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Forbes, Goulburn, Ku-ring-gai, Mid North Coast, Moruya, Murwillumbah, Tamworth and Wagga Wagga, and can be deployed out of area during severe weather events.

HCVs are designed to operate in extreme off-road conditions and through floodwaters up to 1.2 metres deep, enabling SES crews to complete rescues, deliver essential supplies and support other emergency services in remote and hard-to-reach locations.

The new vehicles enhance crew protection and safety for rescued persons with a fitted canopy and side seating, while protecting equipment in harsh environments with sealed and pressurised underbody storage.

They also increase operational safety and visibility with a significantly upgraded scene lighting package.

Some of the new vehicles also have the capability to carry and load heavy supplies or equipment using an integrated crane, which will strengthen resupply and recovery missions.

This storm season, NSW SES responded to more than 1,500 flood-related incidents, with many requiring vehicles that can get through deep water and reach people in remote or cut-off areas.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, “I would like to thank our NSW SES volunteers for their dedicated efforts this storm season, and the community for heeding the advice of emergency services.

“The work doesn’t end here for the SES and this multimillion-dollar investment by the Government ensures volunteers are equipped with purpose-built fleet to keep communities safe all year round.”