Tamworth is one of only six places in NSW where NSW Ambulance holds accreditation to run rescue operations, as a world-first fleet of rescue ambulances starts rolling out across the state.
The eight purpose-built vehicles combine advanced rescue gear with a fully equipped ambulance, giving paramedics a single platform to support patients from the point of rescue right through to transport.
“These purpose-built rescue ambulances will strengthen the ability of NSW Ambulance paramedics to work alongside emergency services partners during complex rescue incidents right across the state,” said Minister for Health Ryan Park.
Emergency services across NSW share responsibility for rescue operations. NSW Ambulance holds State Rescue Board accreditation for rescue operations in Tamworth, Singleton, Rutherford, Cowra, Wagga Wagga, and Bomaderry.
The new vehicles will be based at NSW Ambulance rescue stations across the state. They will be used alongside partner emergency services at challenging incidents, including road crashes, remote-area rescues, building collapses, trench rescues, large animal rescues, and natural disasters.
“Our rescue and special operations paramedics frequently work as part of multi-agency rescue operations,” said NSW Ambulance Executive Director, Aeromedical & Special Operations, Dr Sarah Coombes.
“These vehicles give our clinicians greater capability to support those teams while delivering advanced patient care directly at the point of rescue.”
The rescue ambulances were designed after several years of consultation with frontline paramedics and rescue specialists. Each one carries winches, cutting tools, breathing apparatus, scene lighting, multi-agency communication, a satellite system, and a full suite of clinical equipment for patient care and transport.
Other features include a 360-degree camera system, onboard power generation, a deployable awning for prolonged incidents, and enhanced scene management systems.
“One of the most significant features is the integration of technical rescue equipment and a fully functional ambulance into a single platform,” Dr Coombes said.
“This allows our teams to provide clinical care earlier, operate more efficiently during prolonged incidents and continue working seamlessly with our emergency services partners to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients.”
The first four rescue ambulances have been completed, and NSW Ambulance rescue paramedics from across the state are undergoing specialised training in Singleton this month. The rest of the fleet is expected to roll out across NSW over the next six months.
“When responding to complex rescue incidents, these vehicles will ensure highly skilled paramedics have the equipment they need to provide the very best care to patients,” Park said.
The upgrade has been welcomed by the union representing paramedics.
“Our paramedics are brave and skilled and when they’re performing life-saving operations they deserve cutting edge technology and equipment that helps them in their mission,” said Health Services Union Secretary Gerard Hayes.
“This upgrade offers lightning fast communication and first rate tools a paramedic can depend on, such as onboard power generation, advanced camera systems and specialised winches and cutting tools.”
“This is a serious boost that will help paramedics save more lives, prevent people being admitted to hospital and accelerate rescue efforts.”
Park paid tribute to the union’s advocacy.
“I want to thank Gerard Hayes and Health Services Union members who are strong advocates for our paramedics, making sure they are supported with the very best equipment to do their job,” Park said.
“We thank Premier Minns and Minister Park for backing our paramedics so robustly,” Hayes said.
“This is about ensuring our frontline emergency services are equipped with modern assets that improve safety for patients, paramedics and the wider community,” Park said.
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