Two new Heavy Rescue Vehicles worth almost $1 million each have rolled off the production line and into operations, in a major capability boost for firefighters across Western Sydney.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke said the trucks and highly-trained crew will be based at Hurstville and Regentville Fire Stations.
"These Heavy Rescue Vehicles are the most advanced type of rescue truck used by firefighting agencies anywhere in the world and are fitted out with large hydraulic tools, specialised air trolley and rope rescue equipment, a vehicle-mounted winch, inflatable flood rescue boats and search cameras," Ms Cooke said.
"These state-of-the-art trucks and crew will be regularly called to some of the most high-pressure and dangerous rescue operations firefighters ever face, including building collapses, heavy vehicle crashes and large animal rescues.
"These trucks are unlike any others in the Fire and Rescue NSW fleet and add a unique level of capability for our first responders."
Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Paul Baxter said the role of a modern firefighter is no longer just about fighting fires.
"Firefighters are trained, prepared and equipped to respond to all types of rescue incidents," Commissioner Baxter said.
"These trucks will provide firefighters with the best possible resources to continue to assist the community."
The $905,000 trucks have been stationed at Hurstville and Regentville to complement existing resources across Sydney and enhance emergency service responses to major rescue incidents, fires and other emergencies.
The Heavy Rescue Vehicles have been delivered as part of a $17 million NSW Liberal National Government investment in upgrading the Fire and Rescue NSW fleet.
