Moving tonnes of medical and logistics equipment just got easier for the National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre (NCCTRC) thanks to the generosity of the Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service.

Dr Len Notaras, Executive Director NCCTRC said the NTFRS has handed over the keys to an Isuzu light truck.

“Having ownership of this truck will allow the Trauma Centre to move its deployable equipment to Darwin International Airport in the event of a disaster response activation. 

“We would not have the ability to deploy and provide a world leading disaster relief response without the support of the Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service,” Dr Notaras said.

NT Fire and Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer, Steve Rothwell said NTFRS were pleased to transfer this asset, which will support local requirements and in the event of an international disaster.

“The NT Fire and Rescue Service values the great work of NCCTRC and is pleased to provide this asset due to an upgrade of our vehicle.

“The NTFRS works closely with the Trauma Centre providing logistics support and most recently provided fire fighters in the deployment to the Philippines in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan.

“It is important for our agencies to work together to provide the best response to local and international incidents and we will continue to provide support for the benefit of the community,” Chief Fire Officer Rothwell said.

During the medical response to Typhoon Haiyan, the NCCTRC moved almost 30 tonnes of equipment to RAAF Base Darwin for shipping to the Philippines.