Maroc - TIMBERBIZ.COM.AU - A La Une - 20/Jan 00:41

Deplorable deliberate damage to Tas fire fighting vehicles

The Greens’ reluctance to condemn deliberate damage caused to several Sustainable Timber Tasmania firefighting vehicles has been attacked by Tasmania’s Minister for Business, Industry and Resources Eric Abetz. Source: Timberbiz Several STT firefighting vehicle fleets had their tyres tampered with, police confirm, in a so-called “deplorable” attack. The incidents, described by STT as “malicious”, occurred at its Derwent Park and Hobart offices. “We have shared security footage with Tasmania Police and an investigation is currently underway,” SST said. “As a result, several critical vehicles – including fire trucks and utes with firefighting apparatus – were temporarily taken out of service. This disruption not only affects our operations but also impacts the broader community.” Mr Abetz described the attacks as disgraceful. “The deplorable attack on STT’s vehicle fleet must be condemned,” he said. “The Greens’ condemnation of these unacceptable actions is welcome however, the silence from the Bob Brown Foundation is deafening. “We are in peak fire season and these vehicles are vital to our response,” Mr Abetz said. “These actions have put lives at risk. “By remaining silent the Bob Brown Foundation is creating concern and doubt as to their attitude to this anti-social behaviour. “It needs to immediately condemn the behaviour and explain its tardiness in coming out if they do condemn the vandalism,” he said. STT said that regardless of opinions on forestry, trespassing and tampering with property is never acceptable. “The safety and security of our employees is our top priority, and these actions pose a direct threat to both,” STT said. “Our fleet is vital to Tasmania’s firefighting efforts and must always be ready to respond quickly during fire season. The availability of these vehicles is crucial for protecting our communities and forests.” Tasmania Police confirmed they were investigating the reports. The Bob Brown Foundation in a statement later said damage to property was condemned by the foundation. “The alleged letting down of tyres of Forestry Tasmania vehicles is a matter for the police and we know nothing about the incidents,” the foundation said. The foundation said if Mr Abetz has consideration for the safety of Tasmanians from bushfires, he should end native forest logging, as science proves that logging increases bushfire risk and severity. “If Minister Abetz is concerned with deplorable acts, he should condemn the consistent acts of violence and damage to property that have put lives at risk and that our foundation’s staff and volunteers have experienced,” the statement said.