South Australia reports extended fire danger season and record aircraft activity

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

Fire season extended in Mt Lofty Ranges following increase in aerial firefighting

The Government of South Australia has reported that the Mount Lofty Ranges Fire Ban District’s season has been extended to 14 May 2025 due to continuing hot and dry conditions.

This marks the first extension in the region since 2019 and comes after the state’s aerial firefighting fleet recorded a sharp increase in activity during the 2024/25 Fire Danger Season.

According to the Government of South Australia, aircraft were deployed to around 3,000 drops this season, compared with approximately 1,600 in the 2023/24 period.

Aircraft hours and dispatches increase across South Australia

The Government of South Australia stated that aerial firefighting aircraft flew 1,920 hours this season, compared to 1,399 hours last season.

Over 1,300 aircraft dispatches were recorded in response to more than 200 incidents.

The government said these resources supported ground crews during major events including the Wilmington fire in the Flinders Ranges and fires caused by lightning in the South East.

Additional aircraft brought in under $26.7 million funding

The Government of South Australia reported that its $26.7 million investment last season enabled the largest aerial firefighting fleet in the state’s history.

This included the addition of five new aircraft, bringing the total fleet to more than 30.

The state government said this increased capacity allowed for a faster and broader response to emerging fire threats.

Safety reminders remain in place as fire season continues

The Government of South Australia reminded the public that restrictions around campfires and barbecues continue during the Fire Danger Season.

Campfires are not permitted on a Total Fire Ban Day without a permit.

Gas and electric barbecues are allowed under specific conditions, including distance from vegetation and proximity to residential or coastal premises.

Emily Bourke, Assistant Minister for Autism and South Australia’s Upper House member, said: “After the driest summer we’ve seen in years, conditions remain a concern for frontline personnel – particularly in the Mount Lofty Ranges.”

Emily Bourke added: “CFS volunteers on the ground have been supported by crews in the sky, with our aerial fleet recording more drops and hours flown than last season.”

Emily Bourke said: “Their combined skills protect communities across the state and South Australians are reminded to follow simple steps to help volunteers get a break this Easter.”

CFS Acting Deputy Chief Officer Brenton Hastie said: “Fuel loads vary across the Mount Lofty Ranges, with high forest and scrub fuels in parts and somewhat low fuels in others, and the exceptionally dry conditions and lack of forecast rain in the near future poses a risk of fire.”

Brenton Hastie added: “Volunteers have worked incredibly hard to keep the South Australian community safe throughout this Fire Danger Season and will continue to respond to incidents across the state, but the community need to be aware that the risk of fire won’t abate until there is significant rainfall.”

South Australia reports extended fire danger season and record aircraft activity: Summary

The Government of South Australia extended the Mount Lofty Ranges Fire Ban District season to 14 May 2025.

This is the first extension in the district since 2019.

Aerial firefighting aircraft recorded around 3,000 drops this season.

This compares to nearly 1,600 drops during the 2023/24 season.

Aircraft flew 1,920 hours this season.

This is up from 1,399 hours in the previous season.

Over 1,300 dispatches were recorded.

More than 200 incidents were responded to using aerial support.

Major events included the Wilmington fire and lightning-triggered blazes in the South East.

The Government of South Australia previously invested $26.7 million to increase aerial firefighting capacity.

Five new aircraft were added, with the fleet totalling over 30 aircraft.

Campfire and barbecue restrictions remain in place during the active Fire Danger Season.

Gas and electric barbecues are permitted under certain safety conditions.

Campfires are not permitted during a Total Fire Ban Day without a permit.

The information was reported by the Government of South Australia.

Aerial Fire Fighting Europe 2025 reveals new air tankers and fleet modernisation plans

by Aerial FirefightingEventsFeatured News
Image: Aerial Firefighting Magazine

France hosts aerial firefighting summit in Bordeaux

Aerial Firefighting Magazine has published an overview of Aerial Fire Fighting Europe 2025 which place in Bordeaux, France, on 26–27 March.

The event, hosted by the General Directorate of Civil Security and Crisis Management and organised by Tangent Link, brought together stakeholders from across the aerial firefighting sector.

Delegates included national civil protection agencies, air forces and ministries of defence, alongside manufacturers and service providers in the aerial firefighting sector.

The event showcased new aircraft and equipment and included presentations on operational tactics, fleet developments and interagency collaboration.

To read the full report by Babak Taghvaee, visit: https://aerialfiremag.com/2025/04/02/revolutionizing-aerial-firefighting-aerial-fire-fighting-europe-2025/

Spain and France detail fleet expansion and upgrade programmes

The Spanish Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Spanish Air Force presented current and future capabilities, including plans to modernise the CL-215T fleet and acquire seven new DHC-515 amphibious aircraft.

Spain’s €375 million programme was announced in April 2024 and two of the aircraft will be procured via the European Civil Protection Mechanism.

France’s Sécurité Civile, meanwhile, is scheduled to receive two DHC-515s as part of an order of 22 across several countries, with deliveries beginning in 2028.

Speakers also highlighted lessons from international deployments, referencing the 2022 Bordeaux wildfires which drew assistance from Greek, Italian and Romanian firefighting assets.

Industry unveils new Type-II and Type-III air tankers

Four new aerial firefighting aircraft were introduced during the conference: the Metrea FireSwift, Kepplair Evolution KE-72, Positive Aviation FF-72 and 19-01 Holding WF-X Waterfall.

Metrea Aero’s FireSwift, based on the Dash 8-300, offers a 5,700-litre capacity and is equipped for night operations with EO/IR sensors and satellite communications.

The KE-72 ‘Forest Keeper’, based on the ATR-72, features removable tanks and freight capability, aiming for reduced operational costs and multifunctional use.

Positive Aviation’s FF-72 adds amphibious capability to the ATR-72 platform and exceeds the water capacity and engine power of legacy aircraft like the CL-415.

The WF-X Waterfall, a Type-I tanker under development by 19-01 Holding, is designed for both firefighting and maritime operations with a projected capacity of 12 tons.

Global collaboration in aerial firefighting strategy and innovation

Speakers from the United States, Germany and Greece shared operational strategies and domestic challenges in aerial firefighting.

Chris Siok and Mike Sagely from the Los Angeles County Fire Department briefed on wildfire response protocols and aircraft use in California.

Bavarian officials discussed firefighting in forests affected by munitions contamination and compared rotary and fixed-wing aircraft performance.

The Hellenic Fire Service announced an expansion of its helicopter fleet, with eight new H215s scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2028.

French firms including Safran, AgroDrone and Airbus Helicopters also presented airborne surveillance, drone-based detection, and helicopter firefighting technologies.

Aerial Fire Fighting Europe 2025 reveals new air tankers and fleet modernisation plans: Summary

Aerial Fire Fighting Europe 2025 took place on 26–27 March in Bordeaux, France.

It was hosted by the General Directorate of Civil Security and Crisis Management and organised by Tangent Link.

Delegates included national governments, defence officials and aerospace companies.

New aircraft presented included Metrea FireSwift, Kepplair KE-72, Positive Aviation FF-72 and 19-01 Holding WF-X Waterfall.

Spain announced a €375 million programme to modernise its aerial fleet, including the purchase of seven DHC-515s.

France, Croatia, Greece, Indonesia and Portugal are also scheduled to receive DHC-515s from 2028.

Presentations were made by speakers from Spain, the US, Germany and Greece.

Topics included firefighting in contaminated forests, new fleet capabilities, and the use of fixed-wing and rotary aircraft.

French companies and manufacturers showcased airborne surveillance tools and helicopter technologies.

The full report by Babak Taghvaee can be read at Aerial Firefighting Magazine: https://aerialfiremag.com/2025/04/02/revolutionizing-aerial-firefighting-aerial-fire-fighting-europe-2025/

John O’Hara appointed CEO of TracPlus in leadership change

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsPeople

Leadership change at TracPlus confirmed

TracPlus has announced the appointment of John O’Hara as its new Chief Executive Officer.

The company, based in New Zealand, provides mission-critical tracking and intelligence tools for aerial firefighting operations.

O’Hara previously served as Chairman of the Board for TracPlus for four years.

O’Hara brings aviation and technology experience

TracPlus said that O’Hara has a background in both aviation and information technology.

According to the company, this combination of experience aligns with the organisation’s goal of supporting aerial firefighting operations through improved mission management tools.

Mark Vivian, Chairman of the Board at TracPlus, said: “John O’Hara’s extensive experience in aviation, technology, and strategic growth, combined with his deep knowledge of TracPlus, makes him the ideal leader to propel our company forward.”

Role includes strategic direction and operations

In his new role as CEO, O’Hara will oversee company operations and guide its future strategy.

TracPlus stated that O’Hara will focus on developing new capabilities, building industry partnerships, and enhancing safety for firefighting teams.

Vivian added: “His vision and leadership will be instrumental in expanding TracPlus’ capabilities, strengthening our industry partnerships, and delivering next-generation solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety for aerial firefighting teams worldwide.”

O’Hara outlines objectives for TracPlus

O’Hara said he intends to continue advancing TracPlus’ tools and services for firefighting agencies.

He said: “TracPlus is at the forefront of empowering aerial firefighting teams globally to turn their data into strategic action, improving decision-making and driving better mission outcomes.”

He continued: “I am honoured to lead this company in its mission to equip agencies and operators with the tools they need to protect communities, resources, and lives.

“With my deep understanding of TracPlus and its capabilities, I am committed to driving continuous innovation, delivering best-in-class solutions, and ensuring our customers have the insights they need to make faster, smarter, and safer decisions in the face of evolving wildfire threats.”

John O’Hara appointed CEO of TracPlus in leadership change: Summary

TracPlus has appointed John O’Hara as its Chief Executive Officer.

O’Hara served as Chairman of the Board of TracPlus for four years.

TracPlus stated that he has a background in both aviation and technology.

The company is based in New Zealand and provides tracking and intelligence tools for aerial firefighting.

Mark Vivian, Chairman of the Board, said O’Hara’s leadership will support the expansion of capabilities and services.

O’Hara said he aims to help firefighting teams improve mission outcomes by delivering data-driven tools.

His responsibilities will include guiding company strategy and operational development.

The announcement was made by TracPlus.

Australia extends aerial firefighting base access for NSW RFS until 2029

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

Agreement secures ongoing use of defence bases for firefighting

The Australian Government has announced that the New South Wales (NSW) Rural Fire Service (RFS) will continue to have access to key military bases for aerial firefighting operations until 2029.

The agreement extends the current arrangement, allowing the NSW RFS to use RAAF Base Richmond, RAAF Base Williamtown and HMAS Albatross to support firefighting efforts.

Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy, said: “This commitment provides important certainty for the RFS and supports their critical work to keep Australians and communities safe from bushfires.”

NSW RFS to maintain aerial support from military sites

The NSW RFS, recognised as the world’s largest volunteer fire service, delivers fire and emergency services to approximately 95% of New South Wales. Access to Defence sites has played a key role in supporting its operations over the past decade.

The partnership has facilitated aerial firefighting efforts during major emergencies, including the Black Summer bushfires, the 2022 Eastern Australia floods and the recent North Queensland floods.

Conroy said: “This relationship goes to the heart of the concepts of national defence and resilience, as outlined in the National Defence Strategy, by bolstering the NSW Rural Fire Service’s ability to respond to natural disasters.”

Government highlights inter-agency cooperation

The Australian Government has emphasised the importance of collaboration between federal and state agencies in disaster response.

Conroy said: “It is a further demonstration of the outcomes that can be achieved through greater partnerships between the Commonwealth, states, territories and industry.”

Defence has reiterated its commitment to supporting emergency services to enhance disaster response efforts across the country.

Australia extends aerial firefighting base access for NSW RFS until 2029: Summary

The Australian Government has extended an agreement allowing the NSW Rural Fire Service to continue using RAAF Base Richmond, RAAF Base Williamtown and HMAS Albatross for aerial firefighting operations until 2029. The NSW RFS, which serves 95% of New South Wales, has relied on Defence support for the past decade.

This collaboration has assisted responses to major disasters, including the Black Summer bushfires and the North Queensland floods. Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy, said the agreement reinforces national resilience and inter-agency partnerships in disaster response.

Air Tractor reports increase in aircraft demand and production plans for 2025

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

Rising demand for Air Tractor aircraft

Air Tractor has reported an increase in demand for its turboprop aircraft, particularly in international markets, according to the General Aviation Manufacturing Association (GAMA).

The company produced 210 aircraft in 2024 and plans to increase production to 215 units in 2025.

Air Tractor president Jim Hirsch said: “We are proud of our contributions to efficiency, productivity, and safety in both our agricultural market and the firefighting sector.

“Our team remains committed to meeting the growing global demand while maintaining the high standards that define Air Tractor.”

2024 aircraft production and market position

GAMA’s 2024 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report lists Air Tractor as a leading manufacturer in its agricultural, aerial firefighting, and utility aircraft sectors.

The report highlights the company’s continued production growth and market presence.

Since its founding, Air Tractor has focused on producing purpose-built aircraft designed for aerial application, firefighting, and other specialised operations.

The company marked its 50th anniversary in 2024.

Partnership with Pratt & Whitney Canada

A key factor in Air Tractor’s aircraft development is its long-term partnership with Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC), the manufacturer of the PT6 turboprop engines used in Air Tractor aircraft.

Hirsch said: “The strong relationship between Air Tractor and Pratt & Whitney Canada has been instrumental in delivering high-quality aircraft to our customers for 50 years now.

“This partnership has played a significant role in making Air Tractor the industry leader it is today and ensures that every aircraft we produce is equipped with a dependable turboprop engine our customers can rely on.”

Future production outlook

Air Tractor’s production increase in 2025 reflects continued demand across its key markets.

The company plans to maintain its focus on reliability and efficiency as it expands manufacturing.

Hirsch stated that Air Tractor remains committed to supporting global demand while ensuring its aircraft meet industry standards.

Air Tractor reports increase in aircraft demand and production plans for 2025: Summary

Air Tractor has reported an increase in demand for its turboprop aircraft, with plans to produce 215 units in 2025, up from 210 in 2024.

The company’s market position in agricultural, aerial firefighting, and utility aircraft was highlighted in the General Aviation Manufacturing Association’s 2024 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report.

Air Tractor’s partnership with Pratt & Whitney Canada continues to play a role in its aircraft production, with the PT6 turboprop engine being used in its fleet.

The company recently marked its 50th anniversary and has stated its commitment to meeting global demand while maintaining production standards.

UAFA Annual Conference 2025 to take place in Boise, Idaho

by Aerial FirefightingAssociations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured News

Industry leaders to convene for aerial firefighting discussions at UAFA Annual Conference

The United Aerial Fighters Association (UAFA) has announced the 2025 UAFA Annual Conference, scheduled to take place from 18-20 November in Boise, Idaho.

The event is designed for professionals in aerial firefighting, bringing together industry leaders, executives, innovators, and government officials.

Attendees will engage in discussions on industry advancements, policy updates, and future challenges.

John Longhurst from Tangent Link said: “The complexity of the US AFF mission in the years ahead demands a strong and coordinated voice for the aerial fire community.

“Since November 2022, the success that UAFA has already achieved for the US aerial fire and wildfire management communities has been immense.

“UAFA events and activities are now essential for any practitioner or stakeholder. Tangent Link is proud to support UAFA and its mission.”

Keynote sessions and interactive panels planned

The conference will feature a lineup of keynote speakers, interactive panels, and networking opportunities.

These sessions will focus on equipping attendees with insights into wildfire management, emerging firefighting technologies, and policy developments.

Breakout discussions and roundtables will address industry challenges and strategies for collaboration.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with experts and decision-makers shaping the aerial firefighting landscape.

Networking opportunities for industry professionals

The event is expected to attract stakeholders from across the aerial firefighting community, offering attendees opportunities to connect and establish professional partnerships.

UAFA has stated that networking will be a key focus, with structured sessions designed to encourage dialogue between agencies, private sector representatives, and policymakers.

Registration and exhibitor details to be released

UAFA has confirmed that information for exhibitors and sponsors will be available in late spring.

Registration for attendees is set to open in the summer.

Further details about the event, including the full agenda and speaker lineup, will be made available on the UAFA website.

UAFA Annual Conference 2025 to take place in Boise, Idaho: Summary

The United Aerial Fighters Association (UAFA) has announced that its 2025 Annual Conference will take place from 18-20 November in Boise, Idaho.

The event will bring together professionals from the aerial firefighting sector, including industry leaders, executives, and government officials.

The conference will feature keynote speakers, interactive panels, and networking sessions focused on wildfire management, aerial firefighting technologies, and policy updates.

Discussions will address real-world challenges facing the industry.

John Longhurst from Tangent Link stated that UAFA events have become essential for practitioners and stakeholders in the aerial firefighting community.

UAFA has confirmed that details for exhibitors and sponsors will be available in late spring, with attendee registration opening in the summer.

More information will be available on the UAFA website.

Upgraded Chinook helicopter boosts firefighting capabilities in NSW

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsVehiclesWildland Fire

Upgraded Chinook enhances water capacity and night operations

The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has announced upgrades to its CH-47 Chinook helicopter, enhancing its ability to combat fires across the state.

The Chinook now features an internal tank capable of holding 11,000 litres of water.

This replaces a temporary 10,000-litre bucket, enabling faster water refills, improved safety, and the ability to conduct night-time operations when fire intensity is generally lower.

The upgrade provides a permanent solution for aerial firefighting, making the Chinook the largest water-carrying firefighting helicopter in Australia, second only to the Boeing 737 Large Air Tanker in the RFS fleet.

Expanded aerial fleet supports fire response across NSW

The Chinook is part of the RFS’s extensive aerial firefighting fleet, which is the largest in Australia.

This season’s fleet includes the Boeing 737 ‘Marie Bashir’, two Cessna Citations, one King Air fixed-wing aircraft, and six Bell 412 helicopters.

Operating from multiple bases, including Richmond, Dubbo, Coffs Harbour, and Cooma, the fleet is further supplemented by over 200 additional aircraft available through the National Aerial Firefighting Centre and other agreements.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said: “This new capability to safely conduct aerial waterbombing at night is a game-changer for our response, allowing for faster turnarounds and greater capacity to protect people and properties.”

Strategic partnerships strengthen firefighting readiness

The Chinook operates as part of a strategic partnership with the Royal Australian Air Force, using RAAF Base Richmond as its home base.

This collaboration enhances NSW’s ability to deploy robust and versatile firefighting resources as needed.

Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service Rob Rogers stated: “The RFS is prepared to deploy our robust and versatile fleet wherever and whenever needed to protect communities and respond swiftly to fires across NSW.”

The helicopter has already proven its value in combatting fires across New South Wales, marking its role as one of the few Chinooks globally used for firefighting.

Encouragement for community readiness

As the summer months approach, the RFS is urging residents to prepare their properties and emergency plans.

Minister Dib said: “We can never be too prepared for summer, and the upgraded Chinook makes the RFS aerial fleet even stronger in the fight against fires.”

He added: “Communities across the state should also do their bit by checking the readiness of their properties and their plan in the event of an emergency.”

Upgraded Chinook helicopter boosts firefighting capabilities in NSW: Summary

The NSW Rural Fire Service has enhanced its firefighting capabilities with upgrades to the CH-47 Chinook helicopter, increasing its water capacity to 11,000 litres and enabling night-time operations.

The Chinook, part of Australia’s largest state firefighting fleet, now provides a safer and more efficient response to fires.

Supported by the Royal Australian Air Force and over 200 additional aircraft, the RFS is prepared for the upcoming summer season.

Authorities are urging communities to prepare their properties and emergency plans to mitigate fire risks.

Avincis integrates TracPlus tracking for enhanced aerial emergency operations in Europe

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

TracPlus to provide operational intelligence for Avincis’ emergency fleet

Avincis, a major provider of emergency aerial services in Europe, has selected TracPlus to supply operational intelligence and tracking across its fleet of approximately 220 aircraft, as reported by TracPlus.

The collaboration, unveiled ahead of the European Rotors event in Amsterdam, aims to integrate Avincis’ Emergency Medical Services, Search and Rescue, and Aerial Firefighting operations onto one coordinated platform across 180 locations.

This integration, involving TracPlus’ technology, will enable Avincis to consolidate data from its extensive operations spread across multiple countries, facilitating a comprehensive view of fleet activity.

TracPlus supports more than 60 tracking devices, including ADS-B, capturing key data such as flight times, locations, operational patterns, and mission-specific metrics.

Enhanced data integration across Avincis’ 220-aircraft fleet

The TracPlus platform provides operators with critical operational insights by consolidating mission data into a single source.

This unified approach offers Avincis a complete perspective on asset utilisation, including detailed views of individual aircraft patterns and overall fleet trends.

Avincis’ Group CEO, John Boag, stated that choosing TracPlus was motivated by the platform’s flexibility and capacity for integration: “TracPlus stood out for their ability to seamlessly consolidate our diverse operations into a single, coherent system.

“Their ability to integrate hardware from existing install devices was instrumental in our decision.

“This seamless integration not only simplified our transition but also revolutionised how we answer the critical questions of ‘where are my aircraft and what are they doing?’”

Avincis to improve visibility and operational efficiency with TracPlus

TracPlus’ system allows Avincis to achieve higher levels of operational efficiency and visibility without needing to replace existing tracking devices.

This comprehensive approach to operational intelligence has reportedly enhanced Avincis’ understanding of fleet performance and operational safety.

Boag emphasised the benefits of this data-centric approach: “With TracPlus, we’re able to achieve a level of operational visibility and efficiency which we simply couldn’t before, and we didn’t need to change any of the tracking devices already installed.

“This comprehensive approach to data analytics and operational intelligence has revolutionised our understanding of fleet performance, safety metrics, and operational efficiency and ensures Avincis remains at the forefront of aerial emergency services.”

TracPlus supports mission-critical operations with advanced analytics

Todd O’Hara, Chief Product Officer at TracPlus, expressed his pride in partnering with Avincis, noting the platform’s ability to support demanding mission-critical operations: “Our solutions are specifically engineered to support the demanding nature of mission-critical operations like those undertaken by Avincis.

“Through seamless integration with existing systems and advanced analytics, we’re helping Avincis focus on what matters most – delivering exceptional emergency services.”

For Avincis, the partnership consolidates various data points into a single, accessible view, allowing comprehensive tracking of operational activities such as flight durations, mission-specific data, and response metrics.

O’Hara added: “This consolidated operational intelligence enables better decision-making, enhanced safety oversight, and improved operational efficiency across their entire network.”

Avincis integrates TracPlus tracking for enhanced aerial emergency operations in Europe: Summary

Avincis, a leading provider of emergency aerial services in Europe, has selected TracPlus to enhance tracking and operational intelligence for its fleet of around 220 aircraft, as reported by TracPlus.

Announced at European Rotors in Amsterdam, the partnership integrates Avincis’ various services, such as Emergency Medical Services, Search and Rescue, and Aerial Firefighting, across 180 bases on one platform.

TracPlus’ technology, compatible with over 60 tracking devices, enables Avincis to consolidate operational data into actionable insights, enhancing fleet visibility and efficiency.

Image Credit – Ned Dawson

Western Australia deploys aerial firefighting fleet to protect grain harvest during fire-prone season

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

Aerial firefighting fleet deployed early for crop protection

The Government of Western Australia has activated its Grain Harvest Aerial Fleet early in response to the heightened fire risk during the state’s peak grain harvesting season.

The fleet, managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), includes two aerial strike teams strategically located in the primary grain-growing areas of Geraldton and Narrogin, positioned to rapidly respond to crop fires sparked by lightning or machinery.

Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson explained the initiative, stating: “Grain is one of our State’s most valuable export commodities and by all reports the grain growers are in for a bumper year.”

Dawson highlighted the importance of early activation of the strike teams, adding that it “takes the pressure off our farmers, who are usually first responders themselves, by providing extra resourcing when it is needed most.”

Fleet configuration and capabilities

Each strike team in the fleet comprises two fixed-wing waterbombers, an air attack supervision aircraft, and a fuel truck.

The waterbombers, capable of flying at 280 km/h, can deliver up to 3,150 litres of water, foam, or fire retardant with minimal downtime for refueling and reloading.

This rapid response setup aims to contain fires swiftly, reducing the potential for widespread crop damage.

As reported by the Government of Western Australia, these aircraft will initially be stationed in Geraldton and Narrogin but are set to relocate south as the season progresses.

Strike teams are also prepared to pre-deploy to other regional airbases as necessary, based on real-time fire intelligence and weather conditions.

Seasonal preparedness and historical effectiveness

The Grain Harvest Aerial Fleet program, now in its fourth year, is funded by DFES with additional support from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

The program has demonstrated its effectiveness, as during the 2023-24 harvest, the fleet completed 216 water drops across 33 incidents, dispersing 680,400 litres of water and retardant across firegrounds from Geraldton to Esperance.

Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis emphasised the strategic placement of resources: “By activating the Grain Harvest Aerial Fleet early, and strategically basing these aircraft in our main growing regions, we’re ensuring our farming communities are best prepared for this high-risk time.”

Local and regional support for the initiative

Local representatives, including Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton, have expressed strong support for the fleet’s activation, particularly as grain growers anticipate a productive season.

Dalton noted: “The Grain Harvest Aerial Fleet program has proven its worth over the past three years, and the statistics from the last harvest season speak volumes about its effectiveness.”

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM reiterated the importance of the program in addressing crop fires in high-risk areas, stating: “Crop fires can spread incredibly quickly in these high fuel load areas as the weather heats up and the surrounding vegetation dries out, so we’ve based waterbombing aircraft in strategic locations to provide a rapid firefighting response.”

Western Australia deploys aerial firefighting fleet to protect grain harvest during fire-prone season: Summary

The Government of Western Australia has preemptively deployed its specialised aerial firefighting fleet to safeguard grain crops during the high-risk harvest season.

The Grain Harvest Aerial Fleet, managed by DFES, includes strategically placed strike teams in Geraldton and Narrogin, each equipped with two fixed-wing waterbombers and an air attack supervision aircraft.

Capable of delivering up to 3,150 litres per drop, the aircraft aim to prevent crop damage from fires ignited by lightning or machinery.

Now in its fourth operational year, the fleet’s early activation is intended to address the increased fire risk linked to the grain harvest season.

Funded by DFES and supported by state agriculture and conservation departments, the program continues to aid Western Australia’s farming communities by providing rapid response resources as the season progresses southward into more fire-prone areas.

Australia’s Green Triangle to gain enhanced aerial firefighting support at Mount Gambier Airport

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

Upgraded aerial firefighting support for Green Triangle region

Work has commenced to install new firefighting equipment to protect 334,000 hectares of forest plantations across Australia’s Green Triangle region, as reported by the Minister for Emergency Management.

A 144kL water tank and dual diesel-electric water pump are being added to Mount Gambier Regional Airport’s infrastructure, enhancing the area’s aerial firefighting capabilities.

The installation, co-funded by over $415,000 from the Albanese Government’s Disaster Ready Fund and the District Council of Grant, is expected to bolster the capacity of fire authorities to manage bushfires.

This initiative aims to protect forest areas, including pine and blue gum plantations, and communities from Kingston SE, South Australia, to Warrnambool, Victoria.

New assets replace decades-old infrastructure

The upgrade replaces aerial firefighting infrastructure dating back to the 1960s, with the new tank and pump slated for completion in early 2025.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Senator Jenny McAllister, highlighted the importance of this upgrade to the region: “The Green Triangle Region is an important part of Australia’s Forestry and Forest Products industry, with this investment core to protecting the pine and blue gum plantations across South Australia’s Limestone Coast and Western Districts of Victoria.”

She added: “Modernising and increasing water access for aerial firefighting means the region is better equipped to combat bushfires, protecting the forestry plantations and the lives and livelihoods of thousands of Forestry workers across the Region.”

Regional and community benefits from new firefighting resources

South Australian Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon Dan Cregan, also commented on the project’s benefits: “This upgraded asset will be a critical resource to assist firefighting efforts in the South East, protecting communities and our timber resources.”

He noted that the Disaster Ready Fund’s support would improve fire response for residents and workers in one of the state’s most productive regions, further ensuring safety and industry protection within the Green Triangle.

Local authority’s role in enhanced emergency response

According to the Mayor of the District Council of Grant, Kylie Boston, Mount Gambier Regional Airport serves a critical function in regional emergency management, including aerial firefighting.

Boston remarked: “The Mount Gambier Regional Airport services the Limestone Coast and parts of Western Victoria, as does its infrastructure which plays a critical role in emergency management, particularly in supporting aerial waterbombing over our region.”

Boston explained that the need for this upgrade was identified in collaboration with the Limestone Coast Zone Emergency Management Committee, given the extreme risk bushfires pose without aerial support.

The project’s aim is to provide reliable fire mitigation tools, ensuring a sustainable and effective aerial waterbombing response for decades to come.

Australia’s Green Triangle to gain enhanced aerial firefighting support at Mount Gambier Airport: Summary

New firefighting equipment, including a 144kL water tank and dual diesel-electric water pump, is being installed at Mount Gambier Regional Airport to support bushfire mitigation in Australia’s Green Triangle.

Funded by over $415,000 from the Albanese Government’s Disaster Ready Fund and the District Council of Grant, the project will replace ageing 1960s infrastructure, aiming for completion in the first half of 2025.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Senator Jenny McAllister, and South Australian Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon Dan Cregan, emphasised the project’s role in protecting forest plantations, communities, and workers across South Australia and Victoria.

Local leaders, including District Council of Grant Mayor Kylie Boston, recognised the airport’s pivotal role in emergency management, with this upgrade marking a significant advancement in regional fire response capabilities.