New light tanker rolls into Mannerim fire brigade

A NEW light tanker is helping Mannerim Fire Brigade members keep the Bellarine safe thanks to a $200,000 state government grant.

Bellarine MP Lisa Neville recently handed over the 1,400-litre tanker and congratulated the volunteer brigade for their dedicated service to the community.

“Mannerim’s volunteer firefighters do a wonderful job protecting the local community, and this new light tanker is an excellent addition to its capabilities,” Ms Neville said.

The vehicle is a welcome boost to the brigade’s firefighting capacity, both locally and as part of strike teams deployed across the state.

The new vehicle also provides the volunteers firefighters with a greater level of safety when attacking fires.

It can carry a crew of three firefighters, as well as the equipment needed to respond to fires and other emergencies.

The total cost of the tanker was $236,000, with $200,000 provided courtesy of the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).

The remaining $36,000 was sourced through fundraising initiatives organised by the brigade, including sausage sizzles, garage sales and generous community donations.