SA’s CFS is completing a generational upgrade of its fire tankers fleet. Photo: QFES
Ten new 4WD fire tanker trucks are rolling out to South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) brigades as part of a generational upgrade of its vehicles.
Each new 24P tanker truck, at $520,000 a vehicle, can carry up to 2000 litres of water and dedicated rescue equipment as part of a $5.2m upgrade of the CFS firetanker fleet. The service’s single-cab Hino trucks are up to 30 years old and have been retired; the last of the older single-cab trucks to be replaced will be at Mount Damper CFS, in the Eyre Peninsula.
The rollout follows more than 12 new 34P trucks delivered to 13 CFS brigades earlier this year.
The new trucks feature modern safety systems, such as radiant heat shields, cabin deluge systems, multiple airbags, in-cab pump controls and in-cab breathing.
The first new 24P truck was delivered to Mannum last week; other brigades to each receive a new truck at Parndana, Eudunda, Cummins, Meadows, Williamstown, Orroroo, Cowell and Hamley Bridge by the end of March 2025.
The CFS’ State Training Centre, in Brukunga, has also received a new truck.
CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin described the new trucks as a “game-changer” for their volunteers.
The new trucks provide our volunteers enhanced tools and equipment needed to perform life-saving interventions quickly and safely,” he says.
CFS Williamstown Brigade Captain Steve Elliott says their response capabilities have been vastly improved.
CFS Manager Urban and Technical Operations, Commander Tim McNeilly said the 24P truck’s enhanced urban firefighting and rescue stowage is designed to ensure easier access to critical equipment during emergencies.
“The CFS is the largest provider of road crash rescue services in SA, annually attending more than 2000 incidents, and these new trucks are a testament to the service’s ongoing commitment to innovation and safety,” Commander McNeilly said.
“The new 24P trucks come alongside other investments in equipment for volunteers, including the recent delivery of 34P urban firefighting trucks and heavy rescue appliances.”
The CFS has over 800 firefighting trucks available this fire season, including the new additions, as well as other tankers, Quick Response Vehicles, Urban Pumpers and Bulk Water Carriers.
More than 30 firefighting aircraft are in place as well as the Alert SA app expanding to a multi-hazard platform.
