Hamilton Operational Support

In 2005 the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Brigade - based at Chartwell station - began a transition towards providing Operational Support services, re-commissioning with a dedicated support appliance and equipment in mid 2007. The prime tasks of the re-roled unit are heavy salvage, incident lighting, storm/natural disaster relief, Urban Search and Rescue and all round extra hands. During 2011 funding was secured and construction began on a second, much larger appliance that when completed in early 2012 will form the basis of a heavy duty lighting plant, double crew and equipment carrying capacities, plus allow for response to multiple incidents. With these in mind, plus the fact many members come directly from fire fighting roles, the group forms a unique Operational Support resource whose services are called upon not only within Hamilton but throughout the enitre Waikato area. The Hamilton Volunteers respond to between 40 and 60 calls a year, mostly for salvage and lighting.