Local firefighters take learning off-road

Four local firefighters undertook additional training in off-road tanker operation this week.

A Tamworth-based NSW Fire and Rescue instructor travelled to the area to train the Narrabri team members.

With their new qualifications, the four men can drive and operate heavier firefighting tanker trucks.

This gives the local brigades a greater selection of team members that are trained in the specific 4WD vehicle.

NSW Fire and Rescue Station Commander, Shane Bradford, said training like this is crucial for local representatives, especially given the size of the Narrabri command unit.

“With four vehicles and over 20 team members, we have quite a large station – we’re almost the size of the Tamworth base.

“It’s important we keep on top of training opportunities like this, so that our sizeable team is ready when disaster strikes,” he said.

Mr Bradford explained that every NSW Fire and Rescue vehicle features different specialised technology and pumping equipment, so continuous learning helps create a well-rounded team with numerous skills.

While the primary response vehicles are designed to drive on sealed roads, the heavier tankers have more extensive off-road capabilities.

“Before undertaking the theory and practical components of this qualification, these four firefighters were only able to operate the standard vehicles, not our heavier tankers,” he said.

“Our crew don’t start off learning to drive tankers but, by working their way up the ranks and expanding upon their skillsets, these four are now able to help out in a variety of new ways including off-road driving which is often needed for grass fires.”

Mr Bradford said this means a greater cohort of experienced firefighters will be available both locally and more broadly.

“They can now be called into strike force missions state-wide, where heavier tanker vehicles are being used,” he explained.

Not only will this mean more hands on deck, but will help mitigate risk within the teams.

“Sometimes our team are on 10 or 14-hour shifts, so having multiple qualified operators means we can ensure they are rotating and sharing the driving – which just keeps everyone fresh and safe on the road and out in the field,” Mr Bradford said.

With this week’s full-day training sessions, about 95 per cent of the local team are now qualified to operate the NSW Fire and Rescue tanker vehicles.