The Green Triangle’s 334,000 hectares forest plantations will be better protected from bushfires with a new 144kL water tank and dual diesel/electric water pump being installed at Mount Gambier Regional Airport. Source: Timberbiz
Co-funded by more than $415,000 from the Albanese Government’s flagship Disaster Ready Fund and District Council of Grant, the new aerial firefighting assets will improve the ability of fire authorities to slow the progress of bushfires and better protect communities spanning from Kingston SE to Warrnambool, Victoria.
Significant preparatory work to replace the existing 1960s built aerial waterbombing infrastructure has been completed with the installation of the new tank and pump expected to be completed in the first half of 2025.
“The Green Triangle Region is an important part of Australia’s Forestry and Forest Products industry, with this investment core to protecting the pine and blue gum plantations across South Australia’s Limestone Coast and Western Districts of Victoria,” Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Senator the Hon Jenny McAllister said.
“Modernising and increasing water access for aerial firefighting means the region is better equipped to combat bushfires, not only protecting the forestry plantations but also protecting the lives and livelihoods of thousands of Forestry workers across the Region.”
South Australian Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon Dan Cregan said that this upgraded asset will be a critical resource to assist firefighting efforts in the South East, protecting communities and our timber resources.
“The Green Triangle is one of the state’s most productive sectors and the support provided through the Disaster Ready Fund will ensure improved responses to those living and working in the region,” he said.
