Bourke is one NSW community that now has better protection during emergencies such as bushfire, receiving one of 18 state of the art fire-fighting appliances that have been deployed across the state. The newly arrived multi-purpose vehicle is an Iveco 4 x 2 which is equipped with a 3000l/pm water pump, a compressed air foam system (CAFS) and a 2000 litre water tank.

Bourke Captain, John Milgate, says the new Pumper will have a major impact on his crew’s capabilities in the field.

 “This vehicle will be invaluable to a community like ours as it will allow us to deal with emergencies, such as truck fires on the highway, more efficiently because of the truck’s capabilities,” Captain Milgate said. “This will help reduce potential harm to human life and damage to property and land."

Emergency Services Minister, Jihad Dib, said that a new Bushfire Pumper in Bourke would provide a major boost for the local area. 

“Providing modern appliances in regional New South Wales assists communities to protect vulnerable areas during bushfire season," he said. “The Pumper is part of a new fleet of trucks which will provide greater capability and allow our firefighting crews to continue to help save lives and protect their local community.” 

The Bourke brigade are proactive with their training, running recruitment drives.

NSW Rural Fire Service Far West Team (encompassing Cobar, Bourke, Brewarrina and Central Darling) recently thanked the volunteers of Bourke HQ and the Goodooga Captain Willie Pokarier for organising and running BF (Bush Firefighter) training.

"Thanking all the course participants who took the time to attend and obtain the skills necessary to become part of such an outstanding volunteer organisation. It is people such as yourself that make our organisation what it is," a spokesperson said.

Mr Milgate said the new appliance will be a crucial addition to the Bourke Brigade.

“The Pumper will also help us respond to emergencies as it can deal with the difficult terrain that we encounter out here in the bush,” he said. ”That will be crucial when it comes to the bushfire season and being able to protect the local community during that period.”