News

GEELONG CITY TRUCKS HELD TOGETHER BY TAPE

Geelong City Fire Station is facing significant fleet maintenance issues heading into what is expected to be an elevated fire season. Local fire fighters are having to repair their rescue car faulty window with yellow tape to prevent the windows going down during a call out. Local Fire fighters have more faith in the yellow […]

Read more

Bendigo and Ballarat FRV members demand answers after missing out on meeting

Firefighters have called for safer work practices at a rally outside a Bendigo MP’s office on 30 September. Members from Bendigo and Ballarat Fire Rescue Victoria crews joined the United Firefighters Union at Bendigo East MP Jacinta Allan’s office after the MP declined a meeting request.

Read more

APPLIANCES ACROSS MELBOURNE AND STH EAST MELBOURNE LIMITED!

Firefighters have called for safer work practices at a rally outside a Bendigo MP’s office on 30 September. Members from Bendigo and Ballarat Fire Rescue Victoria crews joined the United Firefighters Union at Bendigo East MP Jacinta Allan’s office after the MP declined a meeting request. Pumper 88 (Hallam) is off-line this morning due to […]

Read more

CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE AT RISK!

Key Victorian energy infrastructure has been left with a significantly reduced capacity to fight fires. Power Stations at Loy Yang and Yallourn are both serviced by Fire Rescue Victoria. FRV’s Morwell Fire Station has one of its four Pumpers in the La Trobe Valley area out of commission. Efforts are being made desperately by on-duty […]

Read more

THE MUSEUM CALLED. IT WANTS IT’S TRUCK BACK!

St Albans is now being serviced by a Pumper Tanker that looks like it’s out of the Museum. This is the second replacement tanker after the first replacement broke down, all whilst their actual Pumper Tanker is off for repair Can’t keep up? Neither can we. #firecrisisvictoria#firerescuevictoria#stalbans#melbourne#victoria

Read more

Melbourne cbd left without ladder platform!

Residents and workers located in High Rise premises within Melbourne CBD are urged to develop a fire safety plan that involves vacating quickly in case of an emergency. Following a downgrade of the CBD’s only Ladder Platform Truck on Saturday night, it has officially been placed out of Commission on Monday morning. This means if […]

Read more

No spare fire trucks!

Following yet another fault with the Pumper Fire Truck at Hallam, Victoria was left without a spare truck across the state. FRV are scrambling to find a replacement for Hallam, who is relying on a Truck that has been moved from Dandenong. With hot conditions being experienced across the state, this is far from an […]

Read more

Prevention is the best safeguard for breakdowns!

Unfortunately, FRV are falling miles behind on preventative Maintenance on fire trucks. This trucks transmission failed due to oil not being replaced.

Read more

frankston Truck shortage 12 midday 8th december!

Currently Frankston has NO FRV Fire Trucks in the vicinity as Fires are breaking out across the East and South East.

Read more

8th December – critical infrastructure at risk!

Ladder Platform Appliances in short supply. As of this morning Dandenong is without a dedicated Ladder Platform. Its dedicated appliance has been sent to service the La Trobe Valley. Critical infrastructure is at risk.

Read more

Update – critical!!!! infrastructure at risk!

Firefighters battling the factory blaze in Dandenong on Friday were working with an appliance that is out of date and not fit for purpose. Pumper emits hazardous black smoke engulfing firefighters, due to a foam pump problem, likely the cause of the pumper failing to produce. Firefighting foam is critical when dealing with flammable liquid […]

Read more

PAKENHAM AND SURROUNDING AREAS WITHOUT BA SUPPORT!

Pakenham and surrounds is without a Breathing Apparatus support vehicle to supply replacement air cylinders and Breathing Apparatus sets in case of an emergency. This appliance also covers the La Trobe valley. Currently there is no replacement available, leaving Pakenham, surrounds and the La Trobe Valley without crucial emergency support. #firecrisisvictoria #springst #frv #ohs #firefighters

Read more

LABOR GOVERNMENT SILENCE CONTINUES!

It’s now almost two weeks since this deadly fire occurred, leaving two firefighters injured and one fatality. Yet the local member of parliament, Gabrielle Williams MP remains silent on the need to update our fleet.

Read more

Essendon Airport left with reduced coverage!

There is currently diminished Emergency Response Capacity at Essendon Airport and Melbourne’s northern urban/rural interface due to an Inadequate Replacement appliance, that has now broken down. Two days ago Tullamarine Station lost its dedicated high-capacity pumper tanker. Its replacement was a lower-capacity pumper which also has a reduced foam capacity. Yesterday on its way to […]

Read more

western suburbs serviced by appliancE THAT IS NOT FIT FOR PURPOSE!

Melbourne’s West serviced by appliances not fit for purpose Sunshine station has had its Teleboom appliance out of commission since February this year, due to a number of faults with the Truck. This has left the Western Suburbs of Melbourne without an aerial appliance to perform multi storey rescues. Its replacement Truck has been a […]

Read more

Ballarat without critical Rescue Service

On 27 November FRV asked for an inspection of the dedicated Ladder Platform stationed at Ballarat. On 19 December its compliance plate became invalid and today it was taken off line due to safety concerns and it being non compliant. This leaves Victoria’s Western Region from Bacchus Marsh to the SA Border without an appliance […]

Read more

BALLARAT COURIER HIGHLIGHTS FRV SAFETY CONCERNS

The Front Page of The Courier, Ballarat, has highlighted safety concerns over Fire Rescue Victoria’s out of date fleet. https://www.thecourier.com.au/…/ballarat-frv-faces…/

Read more

Craigieburn Firefighters unable to attend Tobacco Shop Fire in Craigieburn!

With a Craigieburn Tobacco shop fire the latest in the long list of shops to be targeted by arsonists, it’s alarming to note that the closest truck was off-line due to a series of Faults. In the hours leading up to the fire, Craigieburn firefighters had reported multiple faults with the truck, and told they […]

Read more

The North West of Victoria are without a ladder platform!

The North West of Victoria are without a ladder platform. Critical to rescues from multi story building due to Bendigos Ladder platform failing safety checks this morning. Premier Allan’s own electorate left exposed by her Government’s negligence to the fire services. At what point will she intervene. #firecrisisvictoria#FireCrisis#bendigo#springst#firetruck

Read more

No Spare Pumpers across Victoria!

FRV hasn’t a single spare Pumper in the fleet, with crews from multiple stations today putting out statewide emails in search of one. On a shambolic day (even by FRV standards) Fire Trucks were taken offline only to have their replacements taken offline as well. Caroline Springs Pumper broke down today only to have its […]

Read more

As Temperatures rise, Victoria remains without any spare Pumpers

Eastern Hill attempted to secure a spare Pumper Tanker this morning, as their dedicated appliance has been offline for a month, waiting on parts. The crew picked up an older Mk4 Pumper Tanker, however it has been taken offline due to an inability to use the emergency stop button to cease pumping operations. Eastern Hills […]

Read more

Freeman and the #failarmy

Commissioner Freeman hired a PR firm to “improve his image” after a strong vote of no confidence by firefighters recently. One of the moves was to show up to the vehicle workshops in hi vis, taking photos in front of trucks. The problem, the vehicle he’s posed in front of was removed from service in […]

Read more

Rowville Appliance falling apart:

Rowville is currently being a serviced by an appliance that is simply falling apart. Some of the faults associated with the appliance include: • Burnover Protection Sprays dribbling water, not spraying – Cab O/S & N/S rear window protection sprays. • Driver Seatbelt fraying. • Airbag suspension dash warning light is active, truck is not […]

Read more

Lucas Appliance Foam Fail

A Pumper at Lucas had its on-board foam pump fail yesterday, with spare parts at least a month away. Unfortunately, a portable transfer pump supplied to assist has been taken offline due to OHS risks. With no spares Pumpers for Division B stations across Victoria, Lucas will be relying on a time costly manner to […]

Read more

Station in Minister Symes electorate required to take drastic measures

Station in Minister Symes electorate required to take drastic measures to cover for lack of appliances across Victoria. @JaclynSymes#firecrisisvictoria#shepparton#springst

Read more

3RD ALARM YESTERDAY EVENING IN TULLAMARINE

Not good enough, Minister Symes. #springst #fire #firecrisisvictoria #tullamarine #springst

Read more

GEELONG’S ENTIRE FLEET IS IN DISREPAIR – EVERY TRUCK IS OFFLINE

Not good enough, Minister Symes. Geelong’s fleet in disrepair – every Truck offline Geelong is experiencing unprecedented issues with its fleet, every Truck is currently out of commission. Replacements, up to 20 years old. A pump built in 07 B pump built in 10 Rescue built in 06 Ladder built in 04 #springst #springst

Read more

Out of Date Trucks are a hazard to Firefighters!

Not good enough, Minister Symes. A Firefighter at Richmond yesterday nearly suffered a heavy fall upon entering an 18 year old Truck, where the grab handle snapped due to metal fatigue. Thankfully the Firefighter was able to regain his balance. Unfortunately it is another example of the hazard Victoria’s aged and not fit for purpose […]

Read more

Mildura Fire Truck breaks down at Fire

Not good enough, Minister Symes. Aerial Pumper 72 has once again broken down at a fire. This is the 2nd fire that this vehicle has had to be abandoned at in as many months. In addition to these breakdowns, Aerial Pumper 72 had been away for a seperate mechanical fault, and was only returned into […]

Read more

Victorian firefighters call for funding to maintain aging truck fleet

Not good enough, Premier Allan & Minister Symes. Frustration rather than relief overcame firefighter Luke Alexander after he put out a grassfire in north-west Victoria earlier this year. The 14-year-old truck his crew operated had broken down and he was forced to book a taxi to get back to the station. “We were stuck on […]

Read more

BREAKING! AGAIN & AGAIN!

FRV Commissioner, Premier Allan & Minister Symes. Please stop putting firefighters and our community at risk.Please take action, speak with honesty. No more spin, please do the rightful meaningful thing that the safety of our community demands of you! Following over a year out of service, Sunshine’s Teleboom broke down in the middle of a […]

Read more

Fire Trucks in Melbourne CBD are falling apart and unroadworthy!

Victoria’s fleet is a safety risk and needs urgent investment. It is unacceptable that a State Labor Government would continue to provide its workforce with unroadworthy and unsafe appliances.

Read more

Community Safety compromised!

The safety of communities across Victoria is being compromised due to a Fire Rescue Fleet that is aged and unreliable. Send your local politician a letter today! https://firecrisis.com.au/send-the-letter/

Read more

FRV Truck Situation is in Dire straits!

Data obtained by the UFU Victorian Branch in early 2024 reveals a dire situation facing firefighters and the community in relation to age and reliability of FRV’s fleet. The UFU can reveal that currently the following Trucks are deemed out of date or approaching the end of their service life in the context of FRV’s […]

Read more

CBD left without essential Fire Fighting Appliance. No spares available!

Breaking: CBD left without essential Fire Fighting Appliance. No spares available. The CBD is served by some of the oldest Trucks in Victoria’s Fleet. Now one of them is currently out of commission. There is a desperate search for a spare Truck across the State. Meanwhile, the CBD is not receiving the coverage and Truck […]

Read more

Altona Appliance taken offline following smoke poring out from vehicle

After returning from a call on Tuesday night, the St Albans crew noticed its offside middle wheel smoking. This Truck has been in service for over 15 years and should have been replaced in accordance with FRV policy. The Truck was taken out of Commission on Tuesday night, left on the side of the road. […]

Read more

Our Community Deserves Better: Outdated Trucks Threaten Safety!

Our Community Deserves Better: Outdated Trucks Threaten Safety! Melbourne, is you fire service prepared? A critical fire truck is currently out of service due to a malfunction. This truck is essential for battling major blazes across Melbourne. The accelerator is stuck on: This poses a serious safety risk to firefighters. Replacement parts are unavailable: Due […]

Read more

Our Community is at risk! fire trucks are outdated.

Our Community Deserves Better: Outdated Trucks Threaten Safety! Almost half of Victoria’s fire trucks are outdated, putting our communities AND firefighters at risk! These breakdowns can mean the difference between saving lives or a tragedy unfolding. Fire trucks NEED to be replaced every 15 years to ensure reliability for firefighter and community safety. Let’s keep […]

Read more

Rowville Fire Pumper Out of Service, Community at Risk!

Pumper 86 (Rowville), is currently out of commission due to a mechanical fault discovered during routine checks this morning. This is a major concern for the safety of our community. While testing the pump, the PTO failed, causing a loss of water pressure and a disturbing grinding noise. Firefighters attempted to fix the issue but […]

Read more

Community Safety compromised – No Spare Truck across Victoria

Fire Rescue Victoria is scrambling to find Trucks for communities across the state this morning. Alarmingly, this has resulted in all operational appliances at the Training Academy being removed to meet some of the shortfall. Subsequently Recruit Training, continuation training and Operational Promotional Training do not have Fire Trucks to provide critical training and have […]

Read more

Out of Date Ballarat Ladder Platform riddled with faults

Fire Ballarat and Western Victoria is being serviced by a critical appliance that is out of date and experiencing significant complications, leaving firefighters and the community at risk . #springst #ballarat #firecrisis

Read more

Breakdown in Keilor – No Spare Fire Trucks across Victoria

The Victorian Community is currently being left at risk, as our Fire Rescue Fleet continues to break down across the State. A 20year old Truck at East Keilor Station failed to start this morning due to a damaged starter motor. The station has been advised there are no spare Trucks available, leaving the community of […]

Read more

Faulty firetruck replacements affecting Ballarat fireys

UFU Shop Steward and Ballarat leading firefighter Matt MacGillivray says Ballarat City Fire Station (FRV 67) has had issues with its permanent and temporary ladder platforms. Picture by Adam Trafford An ageing fleet of fire trucks continues to plague Ballarat’s firefighters, with a temporary replacement vehicle sent out also having issues. The United Firefighters Union […]

Read more

Mildura Firefighters Left High and Dry!

Our Aerial Pumper 72 has been a nightmare for the past month! Repaired after months, only to break down WITHIN 24 HOURS! (Locking crews in/out, suspension failure) Weeks later, it tried coming back online, but the SUSPENSION FAILED AGAIN! Last week, another “fix” but TODAY, it FAILED A FIRE CALL! (Airline failure, locked brakes, then […]

Read more

Bendigo Advertiser

#bendigo #fixourfiretrucks #FireCrisis #firetruckcrisis

Read more

Trucks left on side of road

As Victoria’s Fire Truck crisis continues, the community is seeing our Fire Trucks being left on the side of the road as Breakdowns continue. This 18 year old appliance broke down at a busy intersection in Canterbury this afternoon. This is yet another alarming example of the potential dangers our community and firefighters are facing […]

Read more

Melbourne’s Western Suburbs at Risk Due to Fire Truck Crisis!

There’s currently NO multi-storey fire rescue available in Melbourne’s west. This means critical delays if a high-rise rescue is needed during peak hour traffic. Lives could be at stake! The situation is even worse because: The eastern suburbs’ Teleboom is also out of service, with no backup available. The western suburbs’ Teleboom, the oldest Teleboom […]

Read more

Victoria’s Firefighters Left High and Dry – AGAIN!

Just emerged: footage of a Melbourne fire truck with a broken speedo and a lit-up dashboard like a Christmas tree! Apparently, the only spare fire truck in the ENTIRE STATE is all the way in Warrnambool, which means Melton crews have to travel ages to get it now their truck has broken down. This is […]

Read more

Update: Another truck offline, no spares available!

Yet another Truck has been taken offline today, this time in South Warrandyte. It’s pump is dropping out. Right now there are NO SPARE TRUCKS to replace this appliance. Victoria is in a Fire Truck crisis, yet there is only silence from Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister Jaclyn Symes. The State Government is playing Russian […]

Read more

POLITICIANS STANDARDS – THEIR EARN – SEEMS IT’S MORE IMPORTANT THAN OUR SAFETY?

Read more

20 year old Truck broken down at Woolworths Brunswick!

Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis continues to escalate as a 20 year old Truck breaks down in Brunswick. The public is seeing more and more Trucks break down on the streets of Victoria, in what is becoming a public relations disaster for Fire Rescue Victoria and the State Government. This Truck should have been taken off […]

Read more

Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis Heats Up: Lucas Fire Truck, where there is smoke, there is FIRE!

Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis continues to escalate as a 20 year old Truck breaks down in Brunswick. The public is seeing more and more Trucks break down on the streets of Victoria, in what is becoming a public relations disaster for Fire Rescue Victoria and the State Government. This Truck should have been taken off […]

Read more

Concerns Grow as tanker lost!

The Brimbank & Northwest Star features a story highlighting the risk to Firefighters and the community of having out of date and unreliable Trucks on the road. #taylorslakes #fixourfiretrucks #firetruckcrisis #firecrisisvictoria #springst

Read more

Brakes on Ballarat fire truck catch fire as fleet woes continue

Read more

South Warrandytes’ pumper is falling apart!

South Warrandytes’ pumper is falling apart, leaving its exhaust dragging along the road. Jacinta Allan’s Government has failed Victorians with another truck unable to respond. How long until someone is killed by the government’s neglect.

Read more

No Spare Appliances across Victoria

Firefighters on the ground are reporting that Victoria currently has no spare Trucks. Should one of Victoria’s unreliable and out of date Trucks breakdown, there are no spares to replace it. Victorians are experiencing a Fire Truck Crisis. The failure of the State Government to act on this crisis is leaving the community and Firefighters […]

Read more

Major Fire Truck Failure in Brookfield!

Crews from Melton responded to a car accident on the Western Freeway last night, but faced a series of setbacks: Hose Reel Jammed: The off-side hose reel malfunctioned, delaying fire protection for the public and responders. Firefighters had to use a step ladder to fix it temporarily while working near moving traffic! Pump Failure: The […]

Read more

Firetruck crisis hits home again!

Victoria’s Fire Truck crisis hits home today as this 23 year old, out of date and not fit for purpose truck was towed away from FRV HQ this afternoon. #fixourfiretrucks #firetruckcrisis #firecrisisvictoria

Read more

House Fire in Point Cook hampered by lack of Aerial Appliances

A multi storey House Fire in Point Cook yesterday morning, involving the rescue of a 15-year-old boy. The crews on the ground have been commended for their brave actions, however the incident yet again brings into sharp focus the precarious position of Victoria’s Fire Rescue Service Fleet. Earlier this month, Western Melbourne was left without […]

Read more

Minister Jaclyn Symes declares – ‘Just because a Truck has a Birthdate, doesn’t mean its not fit for purpose…’

On 18 July 2024 Emergency Services Minster Jaclyn Symes declared – ‘Just because a Truck has a Birthdate, doesn’t mean it’s not fit for purpose…’ CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE MINISTER #fixourfiretrucks #firetruckcrisis #firecrisisvictoria

Read more

trust faults hindering fires!

The Melton and Moorabool Star Reports on how firefighters from the Melton Fire Brigade experienced major equipment setbacks on their fire engine when responding to an incident in Brookfield on Monday, July 15. FOR FULL DETAILS CLICK HERE

Read more

Equipment including truck issues plague major firefighting efforts!

Community and Firefighters lives at risk due to equipment failure and missing gear! When will the Minister listen and make the fixing the problem and community safety the number one priority for us all!

Read more

Firefighter Matt Morgan speaks to Sammy J about the Derrimut blaze

Click on the below image to listen to the interview

Read more

Peter Marshall discusses Derrimut response with Tom Elliott on 3aw

Click on the below image to listen to the interview

Read more

Kat Dunell on ABC NewsRadio on the Derrimut Response

Click on the below image to listen to the interview

Read more

9 News derrimut fire response

Click on the below image to listen to the interview

Read more

7 News derrimut fire response

Click on the below image to listen to the interview

Read more

10 News derrimut fire response

Click on the below image to listen to the interview

Read more

‘YOU CANNOT PUT FIREFIGHTERS INTO A SITUATION WHERE THEY HAVEN’T GOT THE TOOLS TO DO THE JOB.’ – PETER MARSHALL, UFU VIC BRANCH SECRETARY

Click on the below image to read the article:

Read more

Firing up after minister blow!

The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, believes real action needs to be taken to support our firefighters in regional Victoria. The Mildura electorate, spanning over 37,000 km², faces some of the harshest weather conditions in the state. Despite promises, the Allan Labor Government has not delivered the necessary support to FRV and some CFA […]

Read more

Victorians left at risk as Fire Truck Crisis worsens

3 out of 5 Telebooms are currently off the road. Victoria has 5 Telebooms that perform multi storey rescue, all of which are out of date and should have been replaced years ago. 3 of these Appliances are now off the road! But due to a lack of planning and investment these appliances have been […]

Read more

Protect the west – Protect all Victorians

Members and Supporters are encouraged to attend a rally on Saturday that will address issues concerning health impacts associated with toxic waste fires. The rally will also highlight issues concerning Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis and the impact it is having on battling these blazes. A representative from the UFU will be addressing the Rally.

Read more

Firefighters Fed up

This week’s Brimbank Star highlights the importance of establishing a rolling fleet replacement for Victoria’s Fire Rescue Fleet. Click on the Below Photo to Read More

Read more

Mildura’s aerial pumper out of commission – again!

Milduras Aerial Pumper 72 out of commission again! The only multi story capable appliance from Bendigo to the South Australian Border now is Bendigos Ladder Platform!!! A large coolant leak when driving has put Aerial Pumper 72 out of commission, with no mechanics avaliable to inspect it until tomorrow. This has the cascading effect on […]

Read more

Protect the west – no more toxic fires – fix the truck crisis

Colleen Hartland, former Member of The Legislative Council, Parliament of Victoria, joined 774 ABC to discuss the recent spate of Toxic Fires occurring in the Western Suburbs.

Read more

Minister, Minister, Premier, Premier, where are you?

In response to a question concerning Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis, The Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes, claimed that she regularly caught up with firefighters to hear their needs. At FS 01, a short distance from her Ministerial office, a rehab unit is parked. It is literally held together by grey tape. Also stationed at […]

Read more

More pumper problems?

The Front page of today’s Sunraysia Daily takes a look at Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis and it impact on Victoria’s North West.

Read more

Minister Symes – what next from you?

Last week in Question Time Mr David Ettershank MLC asked Emergency Services Minister, Jaclyn Symes, about Victoria’s Fire Truck crisis and its impact on the Western Suburbs of Melbourne. Mr Ettershank noted that Trucks had broken down at multiple fires in the West recently, including the Chemical Blaze in Derrimut. He went on to ask […]

Read more

FRV becoming a Bucket Brigade Service!

Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis continues, with a Broadmeadows Pumper Tanker malfunctioning on scene, whilst producing foam for a flammable liquid fire. Pure foam concentrate is leaking out into lockers, over equipment and hoses. Unable to produce foam the Pumper Tanker is out of Commission, being replaced with an appliance that has less water capacity, due […]

Read more

Breaking – yet Another fire truck break down on a job!

During this morning’s Gym fire in Dandenong a Fire Truck in attendance broke down. 87B failed last night at a gym fire. During the operation while pumping it kept shutting off. It could not be rectified. There were no replacement trucks so truck and crew went off-line. All operations on that sector had to be […]

Read more

Another truck towed – What will it take minister symes -your actions show you just do not care about this dangerous situation- Fail!

An increasingly familiar sight as another Fire Truck is towed away, from Frankston Fire Station. The Truck is due for replacement next year in accordance with FRV policy, but there are no plans to replace it. Frankston will continue to be served by a Truck that is unreliable, faulty and not fit for purpose. Local […]

Read more

Ballarat’s Aging Ladder Platform Fails Again, Exposing Community to Risk

A critical piece of firefighting equipment in Ballarat is out of commission again, highlighting the urgent need for investment in Victoria’s fire services. Ballarat’s 20 year-old ladder platform spewed metal shavings from its stabilizers this morning, forcing it offline. Despite the best efforts by the Ballarat mechanics who tirelessly maintain this outdated equipment, it’s simply […]

Read more

FRV crews in Lara Left with Faulty Trucks – Community at Risk!

FRV firefighters in Lara have recently been struggling with a truck riddled with faults, one of which involves a failure in the vehicles engine braking system, a crucial feature to slow the truck down, especially when responding to emergencies! A glimmer of hope arrived on Friday when a spare fire truck was found, allowing their […]

Read more

Another critical issue – just adding to the mess this government has created!

Last night’s fire at the Morwell Bowling Club exposed a critical issue: a lack of reliable aerial firefighting equipment. Traralgon’s 14-year-old Ladder Platform 77 had a hydraulic malfunction, forcing them to shut down operations and wait on Dandenong’s ladder platform, leaving that community vulnerable. This isn’t new. The Dandenong Ladder Platform covered for Traralgon in […]

Read more

Portland House fire – minister symes is in denial and speaks only of mythical realities!

Minister Symes keeps saying that 80% of the fleet is ready to respond, but as firefighter on the ground know that is not the reality for regional fire stations. A 75 year old lady hast lost her house and it is quite clear the outcome could have been different. Reality is Minister Symes has known […]

Read more

Portland Guardian reports on the fire truck crisis!

How many times do we have to say it. Minister Symes you are wrong! you keep saying that 80% of the fleet is ready to respond, but as firefighter on the ground know that is not the reality for regional fire stations. A 75 year old lady hast lost her house and it is quite […]

Read more

The new Pumper Platform has arrived in Mildura! Still many more are needed!

Following strong advocacy from local UFU delegates and members in Mildura, the community of Northwestern Victoria will benefit from the services of a new Pumper Platform. Local delegates, Luke Alexander and Matt Duda, with the support of local firefighters have been instrumental in obtaining this new appliance for the community. One of the first new […]

Read more

Northern Victoria Left Without an Aerial Rescue Truck!

Northen Victoria Left without an Aerial Rescue Platform A 19-year-old Ladder Platform stationed at Bendigo broke down during a fire fight in Inglewood yesterday afternoon, forcing a firefighter to self-evacuate from a cage that was working over the fire. This Ladder Platform services all of Northern Victoria. Dramatic footage taken on scene shows the firefighter […]

Read more

Ladder Platform capability Beyond Breaking Point!

This week we saw FRV’s Ladder Platform capability beyond breaking point, it simply imploded. Within 48 hours there was nearly a 50% reduction in Victoria’s Ladder Platform capability! Bendigo had their Ladder Platform fail during a fire, forcing the firefighter into an emergency evacuation. Footscray’s 44m Ladder Platform had hydraulic failure, so a reduced capacity […]

Read more

Firey forced to evacuate!

The front Page of today’s Bendigo Advertiser landed on the local MP’s desk, Premier Jacinta Allan, highlighting how Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis is leaving local communities and firefighters at risk. Well done to the UFU members bringing these issues to light. Please continue to report truck faults to faults@ufuvic.asn.au You deserve to be safe at […]

Read more

Shepparton Aerial Pumper failure! Symes lets Victoria Burn

Shepparton Aerial Pumper has failed after a training drill and has a slow leak requiring it to be refilled constantly. This occured only 90 minutes after the firefighters were told the new Pumper Platform was no longer coming, but instead being diverted to the Westerb Suburb’s of Melbourne. This means Shepparton is now left with […]

Read more

Community of Shepparton down to a Hazmat

Following yet another breakdown of Aerial Appliance and with its dedicated Pumper at a job, the Community of Shepparton and surrounds are down to a Hazmat Response Truck to protect life and property. Local workshop mechanics are working overtime to keep the community of Shepparton and local Firefighters protected, local firefighters express their thanks for […]

Read more

Firetrucks towed – “Minister Symes leaves us in a FIRE CRISIS!”

Fire Trucks Towed, Victorians Left in a Fire Crisis! Just another Friday night in Victoria? Fire Station 53’s pumper getting towed away in Sunbury! This is becoming WAY too common for our fire services. Victorians deserve a MODERN fire service, not one reliant on tow trucks! We pay a fire levy, yet Minister Symes leaves […]

Read more

2 Photo’s 22 years apart – Same old Truck!

The state of Victoria’s Fire Rescue Fleet can be summed up in these two photo’s. LFF Paul Whelan is shown with his 4-year-old son in 2002, in front of Teleboom 44 (Car 376). 22 years’ later LFF Whelan, now retired, stands with his son Ed (now 26) in front of the same Teleboom which Ed […]

Read more

Victorian Motorists at Risk from Old Faulty Trucks

Victorian Motorists, including an Ambulance, were forced to dodge a 9-metre ladder yesterday on the Burwood Highway, as it fell off the back of a 19 year old appliance enroute to a fire call. The ladder was found by Ambulance Victoria members and was reportedly removed from the roadway by passers-by. A faulty strut used […]

Read more

Critical shortage of Ladder Platforms across Victoria

Victoria’s Fire Truck crisis has escalated over the weekend, as out of date Ladder Platforms have been taken offline with regions across the State left without protection from these critical appliances. Stations across Victoria are reporting that there are no spare appliances available. This includes Dandenong, which currently is without a Ladder Platform. The Ladder […]

Read more

Dandenong loses yet another appliance

Dandenong loses yet another appliance. Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis Continues to impact the community of Dandenong with another appliance taken off the road, following plumes of smoke emitting from the appliance. With its Ladder Platform already out of commission, this leaves the community of Dandenong at serious risk. This is what the community gets as […]

Read more

Community of Melton left with Leaking Truck

The Community of Melton is once again being left with a Fire Truck that is unreliable and hazardous. This morning footage emerged showing the Fire Truck leaking due to a thermal valve being stuck open.

Read more

sigh – ANOTHER BREAKDOWN!

Motorists along Burwood Highway getting a good look at the truck crisis firsthand with yet another pumper breakdown. Starter Motor breaks, leaving crew stranded unable to get to a fire. #firetruckcrisis

Read more

No Ladder platform at fire Station 1 since 30th August. Whole CBD compromised!

Fire Station 1 has been without a Ladder Platform since August 30th! This is the first responding aerial appliance for the CBD of Melbourne, and without it the thousands of workers and residents are at risk. Firefighters on station have resorted to drastic measures!

Read more

Tick-tock, firefighters left in shock!

A training drill at Fire Station 67 in Ballarat City turned dangerous when the 20-year-old Ladder Platform’s front driver-side stabilizer started losing hydraulic pressure. The truck has been taken out of commission, and the ticking sound was a stark reminder of its deteriorating condition. There is no reserve Ladder Platforms left in the state to […]

Read more

COMMUNITY OF CORIO AT RISK! 

FRV’s fire truck crisis has hit new lows with Corio now losing a fire truck for today and tonight because of a breakdown. With NO SPARE FIRE TRUCKS IN THE STATE to replace the broken down truck, the community of Corio and the firefighters who protect it are forced to go without. It’s time for […]

Read more

 Missing from warRnambool!

Due to no spare FRV pumpers in the state Warrnambool’s spare pumper 70C (a pumper station at Warrnambool to be used when all trucks are committed at a job) was taken to fill in at Corio as 62B when their truck broke down. When Geelong pumper 63B broke down Corio 62B was taken to Geelong […]

Read more

 Victoria’s Firetruck Crisis – Now a Quiz Question!

Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis has made The Shepparton News Quiz in Thursdays paper. True or False? Hint, go to www.firetruckcrisis.com.au for the sad facts about this sad truism.

Read more

Urgent – Minister Jaclyn Symes – Greater Dandenong Area, including sections of the Eastlink and Monash Freeway, have NO road accident or industrial rescue capability tonight! Truck Crisis!

URGENT: Greater Dandenong Area at Risk! Rescue 87 Dandenong is OUT and there are NO replacements!  This means the Greater Dandenong Area, including sections of the Eastlink and Monash Freeway, have NO road accident or industrial rescue capability! You pay a fire service levy and TAC fees to cover this response, yet this critical service […]

Read more

Minister jaclyn Symes continues to fail firefighters and our community!

Following significant media coverage of the impact Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis is having on the community and Firefighters of Shepparton, The Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes, has responded …. ‘Shepparton is not the centre of the Universe…’ Victoria is experiencing a Fire Truck Crisis, Shepparton Fire Station has responsibility of covering a number of […]

Read more

Dandenong truck woes continue!

The community of Dandenong has lost yet another Fire Truck this morning. The Pumper had to be towed away due to Transmission issues. Victoria’s Fire Truck Fleet is not fit for purpose, with Trucks continuously breaking down and being taken out of commission, often without a replacement available.

Read more

Car 107, a 15 year old Truck has been towed away from Mentone Station.

The Truck should be taken off the road, according to FRV policy, but due to Victoria’s Fire Truck crisis it has been forced to remain on line. The lack of a sustainable rolling replacement program is leaving Victorian Firefighters and communities at risk as they are forced to rely on Trucks that are out of […]

Read more

Behind The Smoke and Mirrors: FRV’s Fire truck reality!

While FRV Commissioner Freeman focuses on showcasing new toys, our dedicated firefighters are forced to fill gaps with whatever they can find. The only reason the new EV fire truck is parked where it is? The ladder platform that is usually parked there is busy plugging holes around Victoria, being moved to where outdated fire […]

Read more

Minister Symes – how is this acceptable?

A Truck from Sunbury has been taken out of commission, due to a pump failure, only weeks after it was taken off line for a similar fault. Motorists following the truck have sent footage of it leaking along the Highway. The 14 year old appliance is due to be taken off the road in 7 […]

Read more

Another Disaster: Truck Troubles Put Lives at Risk

A critical call to assist Ambulance Victoria with an unconscious patient locked in a house was delayed due to a series of failures. All four crew members were in the truck doing truck checks when the call came in. Three crew exited to get dressed, but the officer was locked inside due to a central […]

Read more

Victorian Communities left at risk with 3 of 5 Teleboom’s currently offline!

Telebooms are critical for performing rescues from heights and fighting large scale fires. All 5 are out of date and constantly failing. The latest to break down is from Sunshine, where is had only recently returned to after being broken down for months. Due to a lack of planning and investment these appliances have been […]

Read more

Teleboom 44 – Sunshine grounded AGAIN!

Another day, another breakdown for our outdated fire trucks. This time, Teleboom 44 in Sunshine is stuck in the up position thanks to a broken cover, exposing critical parts to damage. This 24-year-old truck is 9 YEARS PAST its recommended service life! It shouldn’t be on the road, let alone putting firefighters at risk. But […]

Read more

Minister Jaclyn Symes – The mess gets messier – Footscray Fire Station Double Fire Crisis! Major chemical facilities at risk!

Footscray Fire Station DOUBLE Fire Crisis! Fire Station 47 in Footscray is facing a HUGE problem. Their main fire truck went down with a pump failure. They had to rely on a 21-year-old spare truck, 6 YEARS past its service life! This “spare truck” was pulled from the training academy as there are no spare […]

Read more

Western Suburbs at major risk of disaster!

Sunshine fire station was down a truck for 24 hours because of a breakdown in Footscray. This isn’t the first time and our suburbs are facing a FIRE CRISIS! These are the areas most prone to massive industrial fires, and Sunshine’s trucks are often the first on the scene. Reduced capacity puts everyone at risk […]

Read more

Western Suburbs at major risk of disaster – 3aw interview!

Read more

another breakdown – No reserve pumpers – minister symes continued reaction “crickets”

Victoria has no reserve Pumpers available as breakdowns and faults continue to plague our Fire Rescue. A Pumper Tanker was taken offline in Thomastown and replaced with the last remaining spare across Victoria. Meanwhile at a Regional fire station, Footage has emerged of a Truck leaking significantly. Victoria is experiencing a Fire Truck crisis. Day […]

Read more

firetruck crisis – Brimbank & northwest Star

The Brimbank & North West Star Weekly takes a look at how Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis is impacting the Western Suburbs.

Read more

firetruck crisis – Nick McGowan – Member for Northeast Metropolitan

Yesterday in State Parliament, Nick McGowan MP, called on Minister Symes to reinstate a rolling replacement program to help fix Victoria’s Fire Truck Crisis. Nick highlighted the dangers firefighters and the public are facing using examples such a 9-metre ladder flying off the back of a 19 year old Truck en route to a call, […]

Read more

Western Suburbs Left High & Dry: Fire Truck Shortage a Burning Issue!

Caroline Springs residents left exposed with Pumper 55 offline, and guess what? NO SPARE fire truck could be found in Victoria on Thursday! Our fire service is stretched dangerously thin. To plug this gap, Derrimut fire station has lost a truck, leaving them vulnerable after recent major factory fires. We pay a fire levy, where […]

Read more