Four new state-of-the-art emergency response trucks will soon be deployed to metropolitan and regional centres, including Port Elliot.

With a total value of $1 million dollars, fully kitted out the new vehicles will be enhanced with the latest emergency response tools and technology including battery operated cutters and spreaders, power tools, high output lights, communications equipment and multipurpose ladders.

Two specialist road crash rescue vehicles will be deployed to South Coast Service Unit in Port Elliot, and to Barmera in the Riverland while two general purpose rescue vehicles will be stationed at Prospect and Sturt in the metropolitan area. 

The rollout will replace existing and ageing infrastructure to ensure communities across the state continue to be supported by their local SES volunteers.

The vehicles are purchased as a cab chassis from Adelaide-based supplier North East Isuzu before being sent to local South Australian fabrication business Agribits, for body builds and fit-out to SASES specifications.

Joe Szakacs MP, Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services, launched the new trucks on Thursday 29 February.

“It’s important we continue to provide our SES volunteers with state-of-the-art trucks to help them deliver the best service to their local community.

“These four new trucks have been strategically deployed to both metropolitan and regional stations to ensure we look after all parts of our state.

“This is a $1 million investment from the Government to help our valued volunteers and I want to thank them for the incredible service they provide to their communities.”

Chris Beattie, Chief Officer of the SA SES, says the trucks will arrive at their SES units in the coming days.

“This investment helps to ensure the SES maintains a modern, up to date fleet and state-wide response capability.

“When finished and kitted out, each truck represents around a $250,000 investment in supporting communities in times of need.”

He says the two Road Crash Rescue vehicles were sourced and fabricated in South Australia and will include the latest technological advances in rescue equipment such as battery-operated cutters and spreaders.