CFA moves to salvage

By Russell Bennett
EMERALD residents can get behind their local fire brigade at a fundraising auction night on 3 June.
The brigade will soon take ownership of a new salvage vehicle, worth more than $200,000, and is searching for help to build its finances back up.
Emerald brigade captain Paul Yandle said the new truck had been funded with the help of long-time supporters, the Emerald Opportunity Shop, Ritchies IGA and, more recently, Elevation@Emerald.
“Without their help, we would never have such a modern, custom-built vehicle to meet the specific needs of the Emerald community,” Captain Yandle said.
The new vehicle will be able to support appliances at incidents and fires, and can also be used independently.
Captain Yandle said it could be used for crew transport or as an operation command post at incidents.
“It also has an extensive lighting tower, salvage tools, and chainsaws, tarps and ropes for dealing with storm damage,” he said.
The new truck will replace Emerald’s current salvage vehicle, which is more than 30 years old.
Captain Yandle said the brigade was expecting delivery of the new vehicle by the end of June.
Elevation@Emerald will host a fundraising auction for the brigade for the second year running.
“Last year we raised $7500,” venue manager Ken Billman said.
“It would be great if we could raise $10,000 this year.”
Local residents can bid on a range of memorabilia provided by local businesses, with all the proceeds headed straight back to the fire brigade.
“Some items went for $10 last year, while others went for as much as $900,” Mr Billman said.
“Each year we hold The Big Gig – a 3MDR fundraiser – and we have held World’s Biggest Tupperware Party events for breast cancer as well.
“We give back to the community in the same way as we’d like to think they support us.”
Elevation’s auction night will be held on 3 June from 7pm onwards. Two-course set menu meal tickets are $40 per head.
“Everyone is welcome,” Mr Billman said.
“Whether you want to bid in the auction, or just have some fun.”
Call Elevation on 5968 2911 for bookings.