QUEENSLAND’S Rural Fire Service (RFS) will be further strengthened thanks to a new innovation fund that will help develop new ways of delivering firefighting services to communities.
This is in addition to funds allocated to increase staffing for the RFS, with 114 approved additional positions allocated by the State Government.
The $1 million Rural Fire Service (RFS) Innovation Fund will support future operations.
Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan said ensuring Rural Fire Brigades have access to the best equipment available is a priority.
“This innovation fund will enable new solutions and technologies to be tested for operational effectiveness, in consultation with volunteers on the front line,” he said.
“In addition, the increase in staffing will improve service training delivery across multiple areas.”
QFES Commissioner Greg Leach said the work rural fire brigades do is often much more than people realise.
“They are on the ground with their communities, providing vital education and support for people to be prepared for bushfire season,” he said.
“Our RFS volunteers provide protection for 93 per cent of the state’s land area.
“We are anticipating increased fire activity this bushfire season and once again our dedicated RFS volunteers will be called upon to protect lives and property when fire strikes.
“I encourage everyone to have their bushfire survival plans up-to-date and be ready to enact them if needed.”
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