The Border Watch reported that the Green Triangle’s timber plantation companies are investing in firefighting upgrades to increase protection for plantation estates, the natural environment, and the community. The nine forest companies in the GTFA will fund operations for as-needed locations in the region. An investment into floating collar tanks was also made, supplying water to the helicopter in areas with limited surface water.
GTFA General Manager Anthony Walsh said the helicopter’s 1,250-litre bucket could draw water from a variety of sources. “This helicopter is highly complementary to the fixed-wing firebombers that operate in the region,” Walsh said.
According to AirMed&Rescue, the helicopter is registered as VH-EJL and owned by Forest Air Helicopters out of New South Wales. Forest Air Helicopters provides Australia-wide aviation services and is based on the NSW/VIC border at Albury.
The Green Triangle [PDF] region is on the southern coast, spanning the border between South Australia and Victoria. The GTFA includes a broad-based lumber industry and thus is susceptible to an above-average summertime fire risk.
The helicopter was contracted by the government of Victoria; it will come on as a part of the Victorian fleet, based in Casterton for the 14-week summer fire season — unlike other aircraft that are usually relocated as needed. “Other aircraft may leave the region to attend fires elsewhere across Victoria and South Australia,” explained Walsh, “but this helicopter will remain at its Casterton base for the 14-week service period until March.” It’s expected that the new Bell 204B will also operate in South Australia.