City moves to allay brigade fears

Bunbury Volunteer Bushfire Brigade is a step closer to keeping its purpose-fit firefighting vehicle after fears it was going to be taken away.

The brigade had been told it had until the end of last month to hand back the 1993 Nissan Patrol to Bunbury City Council.

The request had brigade captain Terri Kowal in “shock” telling the South Western Times the request did not make sense.

City of Bunbury chief executive officer Mal Osborne met with the brigade last night in a bid to reach an agreement.

Mr Osborne acknowledged the brigade wanted to keep the vehicle, agreeing the group could do so after an independent inspection “to ensure the volunteers have a vehicle which is roadworthy and suitable for use”.

The council has been working closely with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services on the acquisition of a brand new purpose-built vehicle for the brigade and potentially a new purpose-built fire station, according to Mr Osborne.

“Bunbury is indebted to the important work carried out by the Bunbury Volunteer Bushfire Brigade, especially for all their efforts in protecting lives and property during the recent Picton fires,” Mr Osborne said.

“Our aim is to ensure the brigade has the latest and greatest and most importantly, correct equipment to suit their requirements.

“We will continue to work with the brigade to ascertain what the most appropriate vehicle will be and in the interim the Nissan – subject to inspection – will remain in their care.”