Fire Rescue Victoria 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 decision 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.”
The News has contacted FRV for comment and will publish its response in full when it is provided.
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