The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has enhanced its flood rescue and operational capabilities with new boats, vehicles, and “ark angels” distributed to units across Western NSW, including the Eugowra SES which was one of the areas devastated during the 2022 floods.

The bolstered fleet aims to strengthen response during storm season and aid communities across the region, from Orange to Broken Hill.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib and Member for Orange Phil Donato attended a ceremony on Sunday (October 27) to officially hand over a new Gemini inflatable rescue boat (IRB) to the Eugowra unit.

"This rescue boat in Eugowra will be used to undertake flood rescue, reconnaissance, and support tasks to help communities," Mr Donato said, acknowledging the significant role SES volunteers play in local emergency response.

The latest assets mark a sizeable addition to the SES fleet in the past financial year, including 17 ark angels, three Gemini IRBs, six command vehicles, five large flood rescue boats, and a light rescue vehicle.

Acting SES Commissioner Debbie Platz emphasised the importance of these resources.

"These new assets ensure we can provide swift and effective assistance to those who need it most during times of crisis."

The ark angels are compact and versatile, capable of being transported atop operational vehicles, enhancing rapid deployment to flood-affected areas.

Meanwhile, the Gemini IRBs enable the SES to perform flood rescues, reconnaissance, and community support tasks.

All new vehicles come equipped with ‘Vehicle as a Node’ (VaaN) technology, ensuring reliable communication over 4G and satellite networks, even in communication blackspots.

Last financial year, the SES Western Zone responded to over 1340 calls for assistance, including flood and storm emergencies, with the new resources expected to aid in managing similar demands.

Following 2022’s record-breaking year for the SES, which involved more than 3800 flood rescues and extensive animal and medical missions, the organisation has called for more volunteers to strengthen its ranks, inviting community members to join and support their local units.

The newly delivered assets include a Gemini IRB in Dubbo, and ark angels in Gilgandra, Molong, Mudgee, Narromine and Wellington.