THE region is now better prepared for the fire summer season, with the arrival of 10 critical firefighting aircraft in north east Victoria, which are stationed at airbases across the region including at Shepparton airport.
The aircraft will be used by Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) and the CFA to respond to bushfires this summer in the region and across the state if required.
Throughout the summer period, Shepparton will be home to a Bell 212, which can be used for personnel transport, firebombing (buckets and bellytank), rappel and external sling load, and is capable of carrying 1,350 litres in its bellytank.
FFMVic assistant chief fire officer, Aaron Kennedy said, “Aircraft are an essential tool in supporting ground crews to contain fires before they spread and impact communities.
“As soon as a fire is reported, an aircraft will be deployed at the same time as the fire trucks, giving firefighters a greater chance of limiting the size and spread in the early stages.
“Immediate response is one of the most effective ways to help stop the spread of fires and helps keep communities safe this bushfire season.
“There are 49 aircraft in the state’s base fleet, consisting of fixed wing planes, helicopters, air tankers and large air cranes that will be ready to respond to fires.
“For the first time Victoria will have two night vision enabled aircraft joining the fleet, and one of them will be based in our region at Mangalore, near Avenel.
“Night firebombing will be used as an extension of day operations, meaning aircraft will be able to assist ground crews on fires for longer when conditions are suitable.”
“The state’s aircraft fleet compliments on ground firefighters and heavy machinery as part of the number one priority to protect lives and property.
“This summer we are facing an increased risk of bushfires due to the underlying dryness on both public and private land. However, our region is well resourced and prepared to respond to bushfires,” Mr Kennedy said.
