Keeping a fire truck well maintained during extreme and challenging conditions on the fireground is just one of many CFA successes behind the scenes, thanks to hard-working mechanics.
CFA has 13 mechanical workshops across the state, with District Mechanical Officers (DMOs) undertaking work all year round to ensure all operational vehicles are roadworthy and fire ready.
Officer in Charge of the Bairnsdale workshop Steve O'Shea said the DMOs are looking after more than 2,300 operational vehicles across Victoria – one of the largest emergency service fleets in the country.
"Each vehicle has its own maintenance plan with annual service inspections, but we're also doing more than a regular service," Steve said.
"We're ensuring the trucks are fire safe, including checking the plumbing, intercoms and fire protections systems before they head into difficult terrain.
"Everything we do is to ensure the safety of our firefighters in the field."
When a bushfire occurs, depending on the size, location, time of day, duration of the incident and amount of trucks sent, the DMOs will be deployed to the fireground to fix any issues and for general maintenance to keep the trucks in their best working order.
During this season's Fire Danger Period, DMOs have contributed more than 1,000 hours to major incidents across the state.
Steve, who is also a long-serving CFA volunteer with Stratford Fire Brigade, has been deployed to many fires over the years but was mostly utilised as a DMO at the Dargo fire this year.
"We're often based at the staging area which is usually a large oval or recreation reserve. The most common types of things we need to fix is the clutch, tyres, radiators, lights and general stubble build up under the truck," Steve said.
"Our technicians are very skilled at what they do, they're not just diesel mechanics, they're electricians, plumbers, fitters and welders.
"Depending on the topography, each area has its niche set of issues so it's good to have that broad understanding of what's required for the area you're being sent to."
CFA Head of Fleet and Protective Equipment Dan Jones said deploying DMOs to support incidents is critical to maintaining operational capability and safety.
"DMOs provide on-scene technical expertise to quickly diagnose and rectify mechanical faults ensuring vehicles remain available," Dan said.
"Their experience and depth of skills enable them to improvise practical solutions in challenging field conditions to keep vehicles operational until permanent repairs can be undertaken.
"Their presence also supports crews by assessing vehicle damage and performing basic vehicle checks during breaks and crew changeover periods."
