Ranfurly Volunteer Fire Brigade is one step closer to adding a new 4WD light support vehicle to its fleet.

The brigade received $20,000 in the latest round of Otago Community Trust grants to go towards the purchase.

Project convenor for the purchase of the new vehicle Ewan Mason said the vehicle would serve multiple purposes, including in a support role.

“When one of our main trucks goes out this will likely accompany it.”

He said it would also be used to help control traffic, transport more people to an incident and act as a front runner to a medical call out.

“It doesn’t have a set function.

“This new vehicle, with custom built deckhand lockers, will allow the firefighters improved access to more remote and often difficult locations.”

The fire brigade covers a large area of the Maniototo, which includes about half way down the Pig Route (SH85), and towards Danseys Pass, Middlemarch and Becks when required. 

Ewan said the new vehicle, which he hoped could arrive in August, would allow the crew to “keep up with the times” and would replace a similar vehicle it has on loan by Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

The Ranfurly Volunteer Fire Brigade started its acquisition project last May, which meant placing an order, making the purchase and turning it into a fire unit.

Otago Community Trust noted in a statement earlier this week the investment recognises the vital role played by volunteer firefighters in ensuring the safety and preparedness of rural communities.

The trust’s latest funding round has injected a combined $756,276 into the Otago area, benefiting a diverse range of organisations and initiatives.

Its aim is to empower local communities, bolster social services, promote arts and culture, and enhance educational opportunities.