The Green Triangle Fire Alliance (GTFA) operated a Squirrel helicopter from the Casterton airfield for the last two fire seasons and has contracted a larger Bell helicopter, with a greater water carrying capacity, for the next three fire seasons.

The helicopter has been contracted through the Victorian Government, and forms part of the Victorian aerial fleet. The GTFA’s nine forest grower member companies are providing funding for it to be positioned in the region.

GTFA General Manager Anthony Walsh said the helicopter’s 1250 litre bucket could draw water from a variety of sources close to the fire line. GTFA members have also invested in floating collar tanks that supply water to the helicopter in areas where is limited surface water.

“This helicopter is highly complementary to the fixed wing fire bombers that operate in the region.” Mr Walsh said.

“While the fixed wing bombers carry a greater load, the advantage of a helicopter is that it can find water in close proximity to a fire which enables very short turnaround times.

“Other aircraft may leave the region to attend fires elsewhere across Victoria and South Australia, but this helicopter will remain at its Casterton base for the 14-week service period until March 2024.”

Mr Walsh said that while the helicopter has been contracted through the Victorian Government, arrangements are in place for it to operate in South Australia as well.

The helicopter extends the industry’s extensive investment in fire management which amounts to $15 million per year. The Green Triangle plantation industry collectively has 100 fire appliances with 300 trained fire fighters available, ready to rapidly respond to fires throughout the fire season.

“This helicopter provides a further layer of support to our Forest Industry Brigades that work tirelessly over the summer months to not only defend our forest estate, but to protect our broader communities,” Mr Walsh said.