- New Light Tanker and rescue vehicle handed over ahead of bushfire season
- Marine Rescue Bunbury to receive new vessel and infrastructure upgrades
- Cook Government supporting community safety across the South West
The Cook Government is boosting Bunbury's frontline with $1.1 million in funding for vital emergency services appliances and infrastructure upgrades as first responders prepare for a busy summer.
Bunbury Volunteer Bushfire Brigade has received a new $320,000 Light Tanker which will improve its response capability for firefighting and rescue operations. Designed with the input of volunteers, the appliance features the latest equipment to enhance crew safety.
A new $150,000 general rescue utility was handed over to Bunbury's State Emergency Service (SES), with another on its way. The versatile four-wheel drive is specially designed to meet the modern needs of SES units and is fit for purpose for local terrain.
$503,260 is also being provided for a next-generation vessel that is equipped with state-of-the-art electronics and search and rescue equipment and infrastructure upgrades including a new boat lift system at Bunbury Marine Rescue.
Emergencies can strike at any time and cutting-edge appliances are key to keeping the community safe. The Cook Government's announcement comes just months after the first anniversary of the tornado that tore through Bunbury in 2024 damaging more than 200 homes, with emergency services at the forefront of the response.
As stated by Premier Roger Cook:
"Supporting and equipping our hardworking volunteers with the resources to respond to emergency incidents such as last year's tornado makes a significant difference in recovery and rescue efforts.
"My government is determined to bolster emergency services capability and infrastructure in regional communities to keep Western Australians safe.
"Ensuring Bunbury firefighters can reach bushfires quickly means they have a chance of stopping emergencies before they threaten homes and lives."
As stated by Acting Emergency Services Minister Reece Whitby:
"When it comes to responding to emergencies and tackling bushfires, every second counts.
"That's why the State Government is committed to equipping WA's firefighters with the best tools and technology available. WA is a third of the continent and covering our vast State requires top-tier resources to keep communities safe."
As stated by South West Minister and Bunbury MLA Don Punch:
"All Western Australians can take pride in their emergency services. When the tornado struck last year, the SES responded without hesitation.
"New equipment will further strengthen their ability to respond here in Bunbury."
