$80,000 BOOST FOR CASINO RESCUE SQUAD

Volunteer first responders at the Casino Rescue Squad have received a welcome boost with $80,000 in funding secured through the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnerships Program.

Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson announced the funding this morning at Casino, which will go towards the purchase of a new 4WD rescue vehicle to replace the Squad’s ageing and outdated unit.

The current rescue vehicle, once considered state-of-the-art, no longer meets modern safety standards. With a low ANCAP safety rating and design suited to older equipment, the vehicle’s replacement will significantly enhance the safety and operational capacity of local volunteers.

Mr Williamson said the Casino Rescue Squad plays a vital role in the region, responding to a wide range of emergencies and supporting other emergency services in critical situations.

The new vehicle will provide safer and more efficient access to rescue equipment and ensure the Squad is better equipped to serve the community.

“This funding recognises the incredible dedication of the volunteers who give their time to help others and ensures they have the resources they need to do their job safely,” Mr Williamson said.

Region Operations Manager of the Casino Rescue Squad, Inspector Paul Cowles, said the support from the community and government was deeply appreciated.

“We are incredibly grateful to Richie Williamson, the NSW Government and the people of Casino and the wider region for their support. This funding means a great deal to our volunteers and the community we serve,” Inspector Cowles said.

“The new all-terrain 4WD rescue vehicle will enhance our ability to respond quickly and safely across challenging environments, ensuring we’re ready to respond 24/7, 365 days a year whenever and wherever our community needs us most.”

The Casino Rescue Squad is part of the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association, a network of professionally trained volunteers providing specialist rescue services throughout the state.

PHOTO: Richie with volunteer members of the Casino Rescue Squad – L-R: Eathan McDonald, Samantha Slaney, Matthew Jackson along with Region Operations Manager of the Casino Rescue Squad, Inspector Paul Cowles (white shirt).