Singleton and Rutherford communities will benefit from two new purpose-built Ambulance Rescue vehicles designed to strengthen the state’s ability to respond to complex rescue incidents alongside partner emergency services.
This is part of NSW Ambulances’ fleet of eight world-first rescue ambulances being rolled out, which were designed following several years of consultation involving frontline paramedics and rescue specialists.
The NSW Ambulance vehicles combine advanced rescue capability with a fully equipped ambulance, providing a single platform that can support patients from the point of rescue through to transport.
The first four rescue ambulances have now been completed, with NSW Ambulance Rescue Paramedics across the state undergoing specialised training in Singleton this month.
These vehicles will be based at NSW Ambulance rescue stations across the state and will strengthen our collaboration with our emergency service partners in responses to challenging incidents, including road crashes, remote-area rescues, building collapses, trench rescues, large animal rescues, and natural disasters.
Emergency services across the state share responsibility for rescue operations, with NSW Ambulance holding State Rescue Board accreditation for rescue operations in Tamworth, Singleton, Rutherford, Cowra, Wagga Wagga and Bomaderry.
Each vehicle is equipped with specialised rescue equipment including winches, cutting tools, breathing apparatus, scene lighting, multi-agency communication, satellite system and a full suite of clinical equipment to enable clinical care and patient transport.
Other features include a 360-degree camera system, onboard power generation, deployable awning for prolonged incidents, and enhanced scene management systems.
The rest of the fleet is expected to be rolled out across NSW over the next 6 months.
Minister for Health Ryan Park:
“These purpose-built rescue ambulances will strengthen the ability of NSW Ambulance paramedics to work alongside emergency services partners during complex rescue incidents right across the state.
“When responding to complex rescue incidents, these vehicles will ensure highly skilled paramedics have the equipment they need to provide the very best care to patients.
“I want to thank Gerard Hayes and Health Services Union members who are strong advocates for our paramedics, making sure they are supported with the very best equipment to do their job.
“This is about ensuring our frontline emergency services are equipped with modern assets that improve safety for patients, paramedics and the wider community.”
Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:
“Nobody ever expects to need a rescue ambulance. But when the worst happens, you want to know the best people and the best equipment are on their way – the Hunter deserves nothing less.
“From busy highways to remote properties, the Hunter presents some incredibly challenging conditions for our emergency services. These new vehicles will make a real difference when lives are on the line.
“Our paramedics, police and rescue crews do extraordinary work, often in the most difficult circumstances. We owe it to them to make sure they have the equipment they need to get the job done and get home safely.”
Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison:
“Having these two new rescue ambulances based in Singleton and Rutherford is a fantastic outcome for the Hunter.
“These vehicles bring together specialised rescue equipment and advanced medical care, giving our paramedics the tools they need to respond to some of the most challenging incidents.
“Our paramedics do an incredible job working alongside other emergency services, and the roll out of these Ambulance Rescue vehicles will help make sure they have the right equipment to keep doing that job safely and effectively.”