General News
28 May, 2025
Avoca truck handover and presentations
CFA Region 16 had a busy day last Sunday, starting the day in Raglan then heading across to Avoca to hand over the keys to the new Heavy Tanker to Avoca Fire Brigade.
It was also an occasion to recognize key volunteers at the Avoca brigade with multiple presentations to members.
The Avoca Brigade received one of 48 heavy tankers with capabilities of 4000 litres of water, automatic transmission, 4WD, and crew cab to provide firefighters with greater on and off-road capabilities.
The new truck also features improved firefighter operator interface and features to reduce fatigue and improve safety and ergonomics, including crew protection systems, electronic monitors and electric rewind hose reels.
The Avoca Fire Brigade was formed in 1885; it was later known as the Avoca Urban Fire Brigade.
The Avoca Bush Fire Brigade was formed in 1923, so Avoca had two brigades until 2011 when the two merged to once again become the Avoca Fire Brigade.
The brigade started with a horse drawn Shand and Mason 6-inch hand operated pump which was replaced in 1930 by a 1925 Dodge motorised pumper, next was an Austin with a front mounted pump and seating for firefighters, followed by a Toyota Dyna Pumper, Mazda Type 3 Pumper and now in service today a Hino Light Pumper.
The new heavy tanker at a cost of $430,000 was funded through the CFA Capability Funding package.
The Avoca Fire Brigade has 53 members with 29 of them operational (36 males and 17 females).
The brigade has a strong auxiliary, only one of a few still operating, who support the brigade and district with catering.
The Avoca Fire Brigade attends approximately 50 calls per year, also assisting neighbouring areas.
They supported the 2019 Lexton fire, Pomonal fire in 2024, Bayideen/Raglan fire in 2024 and Grampians fires in 2024 – 2025.
After a luncheon provided by the Avoca Fire Brigade Auxiliary presentations were made to members.