Lara CFA has reached its fundraising target of $148,000 for the purchase of an Ultra-Light Tanker, in less than four months.

The Ultra-Light will be a valuable addition to Lara CFA that will assist in protecting the Lara township and surrounding communities.

During the national bushfire emergency earlier this year, Lara CFA volunteer fire fighters were on the front line in NSW and Victoria continuously for more than two months.

Extensive analysis of the fire risk in the rapidly developing Lara CFA area, determined that an additional vehicle was required to assist in protecting Lara and surrounding communities.

In July, 2020 CFA Lara launched a fundraiser for an Ultra-Light Tanker which is manoeuvrable, able to access areas that are not accessible to the larger tankers and only requires a crew of two, ensuring rapid response.

The Lara District Community Bank kicked off the appeal with a grant of $20,000 to the cause, going on to match every $3 raised in the community with a further $1, up to $30,000.

Meanwhile, Bisinella Developments’ Managing Director Lino Bisinella donated $25,000 towards the appeal.

As well as Bisinella and the Lara District Community Bank branch, major donations were received from Chemring Australia, RAPP Australia, Boomaroo Nurseries, VO Hydroponic Tomatoes, and Mr S Trevena.

CFA Lara Captain Roger Buckle said numerous donations from Lara residents were also deposited into the account.

“We thank everyone for their contribution – without them we would not have reached our target.  The Ultra-Light will truly be a firefighting unit totally funded by the Lara Community and crewed by Lara CFA volunteers.”

Captain Buckle said reaching the fundraising target was “an amazing result from a wonderful community”.

“We can’t mention everyone, but our sincere thanks to every person and every group who donated. The support from Lara businesses and the Lara community enabled us to reach the target.”

“To have reached the target within less than four months given COVID-19 and its impact on the general community, is absolutely amazing.”

Due to COVID, there is a delay in starting the build (due to shortages of components and the cab-chassis). Delivery of the completed Ultra-Light is due mid-2021.