Released 02/08/2018
Ten firefighters from the ACT will fly out to the United States from Sydney Airport tomorrow morning in response to a request for assistance as wildfire activity continues across the USA.
Today I thanked the ACT firefighters who will assist their United States (US) counterparts battle the 89 devastating wildfires that have burned nearly 930,000 acres in 14 states.
The Australian taskforce includes three ACT Rural Fire Service, three ACT Fire & Rescue and four ACT Parks and Conservation firefighters, who depart for Sydney this afternoon ahead of their international flight tomorrow morning.
ACT firefighters are among the best-trained and most highly-skilled in the world, which is why the US has specifically requested their assistance.
This deployment of volunteers and staff is in response to a formal request for assistance from Unites States fire authorities and will be departing Canberra today.
Not only will this deployment give US firefighters some respite; it will also provide our own personnel with invaluable experience by working in foreign conditions side by side with international counterparts to build relationships.
Sadly, our community knows all too well the destruction that bushfires can cause and we are more than willing to share our firefighting experience and expertise wherever necessary. Our experience and commitment to training and development means the ACT stands ready to support others.
Upon arrival, firefighters will travel to Boise, Idaho for induction training on USA fire policies, procedures, safety, driving and wildlife. After completing induction they will be assigned to one of the many fires currently burning across the USA to work two 14-day shifts with recovery days in between before returning to Australia.
ACT firefighters are expected to be deployed for up to 42 days and will fill Area Representative, Divisional Supervisor, Heavy Plan Supervisor, Task Force Leader and Crew Boss positions. They will assist their Australian and international counterparts in the field and will provide welcome relief to exhausted local crews.
To the firefighters departing today, on behalf of the people of ACT, I wish you well. Stay safe and know that we are all very proud and grateful for the selfless work you do.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases