The Opposition Leader, Tony Abbott, has delayed his annual holiday to join a crew from the Davidson Rural Fire Brigade that has been deployed to fight fires around Nowra.
In a media release, Abbott pointed out he has been a member of the Davidson Brigade for 12 years.
The National Party leader, Warren Truss, will be Acting Leader of the Opposition in Abbott’s absence.
- Listen to Truss comment on the bushfires, Abbott & Peter Slipper (5m)
Text of a media release from the Leader of the Opposition, Tony Abbott.
Statement from The Leader of the Opposition
Earlier this morning, a crew from the Davidson Rural Fire Brigade has been deployed to Nowra to assist with fires there.
As a consequence, I have delayed my annual holiday due to start tomorrow and for the next three days, subject to operational requirements, I will join this deployment.
I have been a member of the Davidson Brigade since 2000 and was Deputy Captain between 2008 and 2009.
During my absence, the Hon. Warren Truss MP will assume responsibility as Acting Leader of the Opposition. I thank Warren for his assistance. Tomorrow he will be visiting fire affected areas of Tasmania.
I urge all people living in areas facing fire risk at this time to monitor emergency messages carefully, activate their fire plans and stay safe.
