Mount Fox Among First Brigades To Receive New Satellite Technology

Business Support Officer Tayah Doolan and Area Manger Michael Thomson with the SatCom at Mount Fox RFB. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Wayde Chiesa MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa is pleased to share that Mount Fox Rural Fire Brigade is among the first brigades in Queensland to receive new satellite communications technology, helping local volunteers stay connected in remote and isolated areas.  

The new equipment will be installed in frontline Rural Fire Service Queensland vehicles, helping volunteers maintain communications in areas where traditional mobile coverage can be limited or unavailable.  

Mr Chiesa said the satellite communications rollout would strengthen local emergency response capability across the region.  

“Our volunteer firefighters are often responding in rural and remote areas where communication can be challenging, particularly during fast-moving emergencies,” Mr Chiesa said.  

“By equipping Mount Fox Rural Fire Brigade with satellite communications, the Crisafulli Government is helping volunteers stay connected in the field and better coordinate their response when it matters most.”  

The rollout forms part of the State Government's $5 million election commitment to equip more than 400 Rural Fire Service Queensland brigades across the State with satellite communications capability.  

RFSQ Deputy Chief Officer Clint Tunnie said the new technology would help keep crews safe and connected while responding to emergencies.  

“Satellite technology gives us the opportunity to keep our teams safe, because any communication we can maintain while firefighting helps us know where our crews are and what they’re doing,” Deputy Chief Officer Tunnie said.  

“It gives our crews the ability to stay connected and call for help when it’s needed, particularly in areas where other communications may not be available.  

“This technology simply wasn’t available to us in the past.”  

RFSQ Chief Officer Kaylene Jones said the rollout would further strengthen frontline operations as the service continues to enhance its fleet capabilities.  

“Satellite connectivity provides an extra layer of safety for our frontline crews, particularly during bushfires and other emergencies where traditional communication networks may be unavailable,” Chief Officer Jones said.  

“Maintaining reliable communications helps our firefighters make informed decisions, improves situational awareness and supports safer operations in the field.  

“As we prepare for another higher-risk bushfire period, investments like this continue to strengthen the capability of our volunteer brigades across Queensland.”

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