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South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) volunteers will be the first beneficiary, with RAA’s support lifted to $675,000 over three years to better prepare them to help save lives on our roads this summer.
RAA has been a major partner of the CFS Foundation since 2020, providing essential resources including infrastructure improvements, training opportunities, and vital equipment, including the recently updated CFS Breathing Apparatus Rehabilitation Pod.
The new funding will strengthen the existing relationship and bolster the CFS Road Crash Rescue Training Program, which provides specialist casualty care skills for CFS volunteers, as well as purchasing critical tools and equipment upgrades needed for vehicle extrication.
CEO Nick Reade said RAA has established the Community Impact Fund to build on the work the organisation is already doing in the community, supporting grassroots and local organisations across the state.
“Our conversations with members and the community have made it clear: people want, and expect, RAA to play an active role in the community, particularly when it comes to road safety,” Mr Reade said.
“Our courageous CFS volunteers are often first responders when the worst happens on our country roads – so it’s only fitting they’re among the first to receive increased support through our new community impact fund.
“Around 50% of serious injury crashes occur on regional roads, where the Country Fire Service are often one of the first responders on the scene.
“CFS volunteers give so much of their time and energy to protect South Australians, and we’re proud to support them with the tools, training and resources they need to continue their lifesaving work.
“Along with advocating for better roads, educating our members and community on road safety, and supporting a range of initiatives that reduce road crash trauma, this new investment forms a key part of RAA’s mission to help keep South Australians safer on our roads.
“This is just the first step for the RAA Community Impact Fund, and we can’t wait to share more partnerships and opportunities for community groups in the coming months.”
CFS volunteers provide road crash rescue to more than 90% of South Australia and have responded to approximately 25,600 vehicle-related incidents over the past 10 years.
CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin said the RAA’s donation will ensure CFS volunteers remain prepared for the next 25,000 emergencies to which they respond.
“This funding not only strengthens our excellent partnership with the RAA but also ensures the CFS Road Crash Rescue Training Program can continue delivering the specialist training our volunteers rely on,” Mr Loughlin said.
“These investments mean our volunteers are better equipped, better trained, and better prepared to save lives as they serve our communities across the state.”
CFS Foundation Chairman, John Lynch OAM said the Foundation is very appreciative to the RAA for expanding their sponsorship.
“These funds will allow us to further strengthen our support for the remarkable men and women of the SA CFS who volunteer their time to protect our communities.
“We commend the RAA for their increasing commitment to community engagement and are honoured to work alongside them on this shared journey.”
For more information on RAA’s Community Impact Fund, visit www.raa.com.au/communityimpact
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