Four new fire trucks will be rolled out to Rural Fire Service brigades in the Clarence and Richmond Valleys over the coming weeks, Clarence MP, Chris Gulaptis announced last Friday. Mr Gulaptis said the Woodburn, Tomki, Coutts Crossing and Nymboida RFS Brigades will each receive a new fire truck to ensure they are equipped with modern firefighting equipment to keep our communities safe. The local investment is part of a wider $314.6 million allocated to the Rural Firefighting Fund in the NSW Government’s 2015/16 budget. Funding has also been provided to upgrade RFS facilities at Trenayr, Chambigne, Woodburn, North Casino and provide support vehicles to the Northern Rivers Communications Brigade/Group Central. Mr Gulaptis said this funding investment is critical to local RFS firefighters and will play a key role in keeping residents safe. “The devastating effects of bushfires are never far from our minds, particularly during the summer months. “It’s terrific to see that a number of local RFS brigades will benefit from this funding and support them in their efforts in keeping our communities safe. “The new equipment and upgraded facilities will allow our volunteers to continue to be supported with the latest technology and equipment whilst they assist their local community in times of need,” Mr Gulaptis said.