The New South Wales Government is investing in new hazardous materials (HAZMAT) vessels to help limit oil, diesel and other pollutant spills in the state’s waterways. 19 new vessels are being rolled out to Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) units across the state.
The new locally made vessels replace a 15-year-old fleet and offer larger and more stable platforms for crews to operate from.
The $1.58 million fleet is part of the New South Wales Government’s $18.6 million investment in FRNSW’s Fleet Replacement Program 2024-25.
New South Wales Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, said, “The upgraded vessels reinforce our commitment to protecting communities, and these new and improved vessels are not only safer for crew members but are also fitted out with advanced emissions control technologies to help reduce environmental impacts.
“Over coming months, these vessels will be positioned across the state in locations that enable rapid deployment, helping protect our waterways from hazardous materials and pollutants.”
Each vessel can tow and deploy absorbent and containment booms to limit hazardous spills. They also carry specialised equipment designed to contain and recover contaminants, reducing environmental harm during an incident.
Commissioner of Fire and Rescue NSW, Jeremy Fewtrell, said, “These upgrades will help strengthen FRNSW’s response as the combat agency for HAZMAT.
“HAZMAT operators undergo rigorous training to meet the Australian Maritime Safety Authority standards, ensuring our crews are equipped with the best practices and tools to tackle complex maritime incidents.”
Three vessels have been delivered to Bathurst, Newcastle and Shellharbour and, over the coming months, additional units will be delivered to Batemans Bay, Berkeley Vale, Broken Hill, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Eden, Goonellabah, Leeton, Lithgow, Port Macquarie, Tamworth, Tweed Heads and Wagga Wagga.
The new vessels are strategically located and can be deployed at any time, with response times of under two hours. They are also fitted with advanced emissions technology using the most efficient controls to help limit their environmental impact.
Operators of the HAZMAT vessels undergo rigorous training, ensuring crews are prepared for complex incidents. Training is planned for teams in Berkeley Vale by the end of the year, and the remaining boats will be rolled out by June 2025.
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