Tim Slade’s #47 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG V8 Supercar from Erebus Motorsport will carry the logos of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service at this weekend’s Sydney NRMA Motoring and Services 500 at the Olympic Park precinct.

Regular sponsor Heavy Haulage Australia has agreed to have its logos removed for the occasion as Erebus Motorsport pays tribute to the 2000-strong volunteer rural fire brigades which compromises a total membership of just over 70,000.

The RFS was in the headlines in October as they battled fires through NSW, with a massive effort in the Blue Mountains and Hunter regions.

“Our members have worked tirelessly over the last few months and will continue to do so throughout the fire season,” said NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons.

“We are honoured by this opportunity to publicly acknowledge the courageous efforts of the men and women who volunteer their time to serve communities across NSW.

“From the RFS we certainly thank Erebus Motorsport V8 for the privilege of being part of the popular Sydney 500 race.”

Erebus Motorsport V8 team owner, and proud Sydneysider, Betty Klimenko says the opportunity to support the RFS is something she is proud to do.

“The Australian way is to get in and help a mate and nothing typifies that more than the Rural Fire Service,” Klimenko said.

“Having the logos on one of our cars is a real honour. The aim is to thank the RFS not only for what they have done, but what they will continue to do for residents who have bush fire risk as part of their lives.

“A lot of people see the V8 drivers as heroes, but we need to admire the RFS and its massive volunteer force each and every summer. I trust our effort in showing support draws the much needed focus on those people.”

Heavy Haulage Australia’s CEO Jon Kelly was in support of the initiative.

“Heavy Haulage Australia is a big supporter of this initiative and we are sure that the RFS logos on the #47 car is a great way of showing the support for the Rural Fire Service heading into the summer period,” he said.

Slade sits 22nd in the Championship points and will depart Erebus at the end of the season. He fininshed on the podium in one of last year’s two races at Sydney Olympic Park.