CFA is boosting its driver training capability across Victoria thanks to 10 new driver training trucks along with additional driving educators.

Recently, the keys to five of the 10 new driver training trucks were officially handed over to CFA by the Victorian Government.

Operational Doctrine and Training deputy chief officer, Rohan Luke said the new custom designed driver training trucks will be delivered to CFA training grounds across the state which will provide greater access to driver training without the need to draw on operational vehicles.

“These trucks have been built to replicate the size, weight and configuration of operational firefighting vehicles,” Mr Luke said.

“We’re one of the first in the Australian fire services to have purpose-built driver training trucks for our volunteers to use for driver training.

“Driver training courses are important for future capability within a brigade as they provide the key elements to ensure our drivers operate safely in high-risk environments whilst protecting Victorian communities.”

The 10 new trucks, which cost a total of $2.2 million, can be used for both on road and 4x4 off road driver training as they are self-sufficient, containing everything the trainer needs to deliver driver training.

CFA recently offered the first female only Driver Educator Course which six women have successfully completed.

CFA State Driving commander, Malcolm Hayes said this group of newly qualified  women will soon be delivering driver training to brigades in their area and across the state when required.

“As a result of this female-only course, we will have tripled the amount of volunteer female driver educators in CFA which is an incredible achievement and asset for the future of driver training,” Mr Hayes said.

“While we always encourage any CFA members to undertake the course, we do find creating female only courses provides a more comfortable space and environment for them to train.”

Female driver educator and Kangaroo Ground Fire Brigade 2nd lieutenant, Kate Lamble said CFA has a strong representation of women who need encouraging to take on these challenges.

“My motto is you can’t be what you can’t see, if we want more women to do these things, we need to show women we can do it and we need to get women out there doing it,” Ms Lamble said.

“I want to help break down those barriers and empower women to become CFA truck drivers and educators, creating a more equal representation across the organisation.”