Maindample CFA welcomes new vehicle

AFTER 15 years of long service, Maindample CFA Brigade members have said goodbye to their slip-on firefighting unit and welcomed its latest upgrade – an ultra-light vehicle. At a recent special meeting of brigade members, the new vehicle was inspected, and many firefighters – including eight new recruits – underwent training on the updated equipment. The old vehicle, known as the “slip-on,” had served the brigade faithfully for 15 years. It was originally commissioned through extensive fundraising efforts by the brigade over several years. Ongoing fundraising has enabled the brigade to upgrade to the latest model of ultra-light vehicles, which allow firefighters to access more difficult terrain and reach fire fronts that were previously inaccessible. Brigade Captain Vaughan Semler thanked the community for its continued support, which helped the brigade purchase the new vehicle. It features improved water-carrying capacity and the latest in pumps, hoses, and firefighting equipment. The old slip-on carried 400 litres of water, while the new vehicle carries 500 litres. At the same meeting, a special variation to the nominated office bearers was voted on after one member, elected at the April AGM, sold his property and announced plans to move away. The newly appointed executive, who will take up their roles from 1 July 2025, now stands as follows: Captain – Simon Clapham First Lieutenant – Vaughan Semler Second Lieutenant – Chris Fauvel Third Lieutenant – Peter Button Fourth Lieutenant – Graham McKergow VFBV Delegates – Chris Fauvel and Mary Anne Egan All other executive positions remain unchanged from those elected at the April meeting.