Synlait helps fire brigade

The vehicle was handed over to the brigade by Synlait Milk managing director John Penno who said Synlait was happy to respond to a call for help.

"Being able to give something back to our local community, which we are committed to, means a lot to us. We saw this as a great initiative that we couldn't help but get behind. We have a great relationship with the brigade which we look forward to continuing as we grow and develop the site here in Dunsandel," Penno says.

Chief fire officer Ian Chatterton says being able to provide additional support to the existing fire appliance and water tanker when responding to local emergencies is a great boost.

"The support Synlait Milk has given to our local brigade has been fantastic. The vehicle will be used to respond to emergencies in all weather conditions and allow us to access remote areas, secure the scene of motor vehicle accidents faster, and respond to priority one medical emergencies in support of ambulance services.

"We will also use the vehicle for non-emergency events within the local community like fire safety promotions and the fire wise programme at schools," says Chatterton.

The brigade would also like to acknowledge the contributions from the broader Dunsandel community with $15,000 having been raised to date.

Chatterton says the brigade is close to reaching its targeted funding and hopefully, with on-going discussions with a number of local businesses and organisations, a fully equipped vehicle and secure parking facilities will be in place soon.

"With the funds raised the brigade is looking to procure essentials including medical equipment, road safety equipment, chainsaws, hand tools and personnel protection equipment. As for the parking facility plans are being put in place to construct a garage next to the existing fire station," says Chatterton.

Synlait Milk is also the principle naming rights sponsor of the local Dunsandel Irwell Rugby Football Club.