Two firefighting aircraft have returned to Avalon Airport to help respond to emergencies during one of the most high-risk fire seasons this summer.
Two Large Air Tankers based at Avalon will add to this year’s core firefighting fleet, featuring 54 dedicated aircraft strategically positioned across the state.
Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes said she was excited to see the return of the two Large Air Tankers to Victoria this year.
“With hardworking crews on the ground and a strong aerial fleet, we are ready for the season,” she said.
“From its base in Avalon, it can reach Mildura in the north to Horsham in the west or Benambra in the north east.”
Most of Western Victoria will face the highest fire risk this summer since the 2019/2020 season, according to the AFAC summer outlook released on November 28.
Geelong recently experienced one of its hottest days of the year, with the temperature reaching 42 degrees on Monday, December 16, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent said preparedness was a shared responsibility among the community.
“Sit down with your household to talk about your emergency plan and what you will do in case of a fire or other emergency,” he said.
“We are well prepared for this higher risk weather season, with excellent support from our aerial firefighting fleet and thousands of dedicated emergency services personnel.”
