More than 200 firefighters and specialists from the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), Fire & Rescue NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service and ACT RFS have been deployed to help battle major bush fires in Queensland.
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Rural Fire Services, Daniel Osborne said while the the Southern Tablelands Zone are yet to send firefighters to assist they stand ready should a request be received.
“This morning, 33 volunteer firefighters from our neighbouring district (Lake George Zone) departed Canberra airport bound for Gladstone, QLD to assist with the firefighting effort over the next few days,” Mr Osborne said.
Currently there are a total of 208 personnel, 24 appliances and vehicles and 8 aircraft deployed from NSW and ACT to Queensland.
Significant fire activity is being experienced across Queensland which is being influenced by strong winds and high temperatures.
Several homes have been destroyed and conditions are forecast to remain hot over coming days.
As at 8.30 this morning, there are currently 114 bush and grass fires of which 6 remain at “Watch & Act” level. There are no fires currently at “Emergency Warning” level.
Minister for Emergency Services Troy Grant said said over the past week, NSW firefighters and specialist personnel have been working in very challenging conditions.
“Despite the difficult situation, they have performed exceptionally well, doing important work in Queensland both on the frontline protecting communities, and in positions of analysis, investigation and aviation,” Mr Grant said.
“The NSW community should be incredibly proud of their commitment and professional approach to the immense task at hand”.
In a response coordinated by the NSW RFS, Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers has also praised the support of families and employers of the firefighters.
“Firefighting can be very demanding and our men and women can’t do it without the support of their loved ones,” Deputy Commissioner Rogers said.
“We should also thank the many employers across NSW who have so generously given their workers time off to help in QLD’s time of need.
“These deployments are part of national resourcing sharing arrangements, and further assistance will be provided if QLD needs it.”
Mr Osborne said, “Our thoughts are with all Emergency Service Personnel currently deployed as they work to protect communities across QLD in very difficult conditions.
“Locally, whilst we have had some much welcome rain in recent days this is not the time for residents to become complacent.
“This weekend will see a return to temperatures in the low 30’s and gusty westerly winds, particular on Sunday. This may once again raise the Fire Danger Rating to “Very High”.
“It can take just 5 minutes to be better prepared for a bush/grass fire. Check www.myfireplan.com.au and ask yourself – “How fireproof is my plan?” Mr Osborne said.
