Queensland’s firefighting capabilities are set for a major boost with Volvo Group Australia (VGA) partnering with Fraser Engineering Group to deliver 80 state-of-the-art firefighting trucks to Queensland Fire Department (QFD).
This landmark agreement represents Queensland’s largest-ever acquisition of firefighting vehicles for QFD.
These new vehicles put firefighter safety and performance at the forefront for both regional and metropolitan brigades. Equipped with advanced active and passive technologies, they will give QFD brigades the latest, most reliable and highest-performing equipment to further strengthen their response capabilities.
As part of QFD’s nation-leading strategy, regional communities will be prioritised, receiving advanced firefighting vehicles that deliver contemporary fleet emergency response capability uniformly across the state. QFD has worked extensively to develop an improved fleet delivery model to meet organisational requirements in partnership with Volvo and Fraser.
Built on Volvo’s latest model FL 4×4 Crew Cab chassis and carrying Fraser Engineering’s cutting-edge fire and rescue bodies, these new Type 2 fire trucks will give the QFD one of Australia’s most advanced and high-performing fleets.
The vehicles will also meet the latest Euro 6 emission standards for diesel engines. This improvement on previous vehicle performance and emissions will put the QFD at the forefront of international and Australian emission requirements, taking a significant step forward in reducing the environmental impact of such fleets at the same time improving vehicle performance and firefighter working environment.
From L-R: VGA President and CEO Martin Merrick, VGA Vice President Cameron Bettany, Queensland Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy, Fraser Engineering Group General Manager Martin Simpson, QFD Commissioner Steve Smith, QFD Director Fleet and Logistics Asset Services Directorate Cameron Cash, and QFD firefighters
The project will prioritise certain aspects of assembly and fit out to support Queensland business and strengthen the local automotive industry.
“Volvo Group Australia and Fraser Engineering Group are incredibly proud to lead the way in fire appliance design,” Cameron Bettany, Vice President of Group Governmental Sales at Volvo Group Australia, says.
“We understand the critical needs of firefighters and are dedicated to providing Queensland’s frontline responders with top-tier vehicles that ensure community safety. This partnership sets a new industry standard for fire vehicles and delivers greater preparedness for Queensland communities.”
Martin Merrick, President and CEO of Volvo Group Australia, pictured above with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, says the QFD is leading the way in modern emergency response.
“From last year’s acquisition of Volvo electric vehicles to today’s delivery of 80 state-of-the-art fire trucks, QFD continues to set new benchmarks in safety, sustainability and innovation. Volvo Group Australia is proud to be their partner on this journey,” he says.
Martin Simpson, CEO of Fraser Engineering Group, highlights the strength of local manufacturing. “This partnership demonstrates the strength of regional manufacturing across Australasia. By combining Fraser Engineering’s New Zealand expertise with Volvo Group Australia’s leadership, we’re delivering world-class fire trucks designed for local conditions – proving that regional innovation can set new standards in protecting our communities.”