Community
28 November, 2025
Fire bomber training will save critical time
The team of 11 came together at the St Arnaud airport to learn a number of new skills.
A TRAINING regiment completed by the St Arnaud Fire Brigade last week will save critical time when fighting fires this season.
The team of 11 came together at the St Arnaud airport to learn a number of new skills.
The brigade had a particular focus on the fixed wing water bombing air craft that will assist them from the air during big grass and scrub fire events.
“Learning how to refill this aircraft here in St Arnaud will save so much time,” St Arnaud Group Officer Wayne Rourke said.
The team will be able to refill the tank in the aircraft in St Arnaud rather than it having to travel all the way back to Stawell to do it. “It will make a whole world of difference,” Mr Rourke said.
“Having as much time as you can when fighting fires can be critical, especially with how quickly it can spread through grass or the bush.
“It could save someone’s property or their life.”
The aircraft, which is a fixed wing water bomber is valued at $4.5 million and can carry 3000 litres of water.
The brigade members refined their skills in setting up the pump and hoses required to refill the aircraft and operating safely around the planes.
The fixed wing water bombing aircraft will have a pilot on standby, ready to support brigades if they are needed across the Northern Grampians area.
Mr Rourke said the brigade had greatly appreciated this support for the last few years.
“There are times when we’ve been called to a big job and sometimes it can take a little bit for us to get a crew together and ready to go,” he said.
“So having that option there that can come over the top and make a start on getting the fire front under control is a huge help.
“It’s also good having eyes up there communicating to us too.”
Mr Rourke reminded residents of the steps they can take to protect themselves and their properties this fire season.
“Remove any long, dry grass from around their homes and follow fire danger period rules,” he said.
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