But Fire Rescue Victoria poured cold water on initial excitement surrounding the union’s position on the matter.
FRV had intended to reallocate the appliance, which is needed in the Goulburn Valley to fight fires and perform rescues at large heights, to the outer suburbs of Melbourne, specifically Sunshine.
FRV representatives visited Shepparton in early September to advise local crews of this decision, pending the endorsement of the United Firefighters’ Union.
But a letter signed by UFU Victorian Branch Secretary Peter Marshall, addressed to FRV and dated October 29, 2024, confirmed the union’s decision that the original risk assessment which led to the allocation of the appliance to Shepparton in the first place must stand.
“This is correspondence to confirm that the UFU agrees that the pumper platform (PP) that was designated for FS 75 Shepparton and the risk assessment surrounding such decision should stand,” the letter said.
“In this context the UFU agrees that the PP can be deployed to Shepparton.
“To avoid any confusion, the UFU’s agreement relates to the deployment of the PP to Shepparton only.”
The position of the union has been welcomed in the region, especially by State Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell, who has been a strong advocate for the pumper platform’s delivery to Shepparton.
“FRV must confirm exactly when the pumper platform will be delivered to Fire Station 75 and go into operation, and it must arrive as soon as possible,” she said.
“This new pumper platform is vitally important for future fire safety and rescue in Shepparton and throughout the north-east.”
But FRV is not yet ready to make a final call.
The News contacted FRV for comment on Friday and the organisation provided the following comment later that night.
“Shepparton and its surrounding communities are well protected by both Fire Rescue Victoria and CFA crews,” an FRV spokesperson said.
“FRV is committed to supplying the most appropriate appliances to meet the risks in the region.
“While we acknowledge the position of our various stakeholders, including the United Firefighters Union, we are yet to finalise our decision on the deployment of the new Pumper Platform.
“Shepparton’s Fire Station has recently been upgraded, and has a primary pumper appliance, an aerial appliance and a hazmat vehicle stationed there. The aerial pumper provides elevated firefighting capability.
“FRV's deployment plan assesses the risk and operational capacity across the entire state and is not limited to the allocation of a singular appliance.
“FRV consistently reviews the allocation of resources and equipment to ensure we maintain capability and improve service delivery to Victorians.“
