Training is underway at the SES in how to use the newly supplied floodboat.
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Equipped to carry four people, and with an outboard motor, the boat can be used for vital rescue operations in flood conditions.
The 3.85m ‘Jabiru Pro’ floodboat has been relocated from the Bungendore SES Unit to provide increased capability for flood rescue in the Braidwood area. Powered by a 25p 4 stroke motor, the boat will allow the Braidwood unit to better access areas which can become isolated after heavy rainfall.
The boat is a welcome relief for the organisation, after years lobbying for one says, SES Unit Controller Harry Cassilles. Now, instead of relying on borrowed boats or helicopter assistance the unit will be able to work in flooded conditions.
“I’ve been in the SES 23 years, and we’ve been trying to get a flood boat ever since I joined up,” Mr Cassilles said. “We’ve had a number of incidents when we’ve had to get a floodboat come from somewhere else, because we haven’t had our own.”
The boat has been supplied by the state government. Crews are extensively trained in boat operation to ensure their safety.
- For more information, visit ses.nsw.gov.au/get-involved, for emergency help in flood, storm or tsunami call 132 500.
I’ve been in the SES 23 years, and we’ve been trying to get a flood boat ever since I joined up
- Harry Cassilles