Fireseason

We are now well in to February and despite the mild conditions we have seen quite a bit of utilisation of the Helicopters dedicated to the support of the fire suppression in Victoria. Helitack 331 is a Bell 212 based at Moorabbin Airport with 332 another Bell 212 based at Benalla. Helitack 333 is also a Bell 212 and it based at Heyfield in Gippsland. Helitack 334 is our BK117 and this year it is based at Bendigo Airport.

Helitack 345 is on contract to Melbourne Water and is providing coverage to the water catchment area for Melbourne. Helitack 345 is based at Olinda in the Dandenong ranges.

The Helitack’s are fitted with Conair tanks and Kawak pumps that provide quick filling capability providing an efficient system to the fire authorities.

Helitack’s 331, 332 and 333 are also configured with rappel systems. There are highly trained rappel teams strategically located around the state that respond to fires generally caused by lightning strikes. The crews can be positioned directly to the scene of the incident by rappelling directly in to the forest from the Helicopters and then can attack the seat of the fire directly or they can cut helipads if more equipment and staff are required.

With the nature of the weather this season we have had many lighting strikes to contend with. Fortunately none have gone on to cause big wildfires like we have seen in the last few seasons.

Kestrel Aviation has been supported this season again by our joint venture partner, Tasman Helicopters of Canada.