Training day helps Forestry Corporation prepare for fire season
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In preparation for the coming fire season, Forestry Corporation Macquarie Region will be conducting a fire-training day on Friday (26 November) from 8.30 am to 3 pm.
Forestry Corporation employees from the Burraga, Oberon, Orange , Bathurst , Sunny Corner and Lithgow areas will come together at Sunny Corner State Forest to practise for the coming season.
Forestry Corporation regional manager, Mr Dean Anderson, said about 75 staff would be involved with equipment including six large tankers and 15 light-striker units mounted on four-wheel-drive vehicles.
“It is vital that our staff and equipment are ready for the fire season,” he said.
“The day will be devoted to refreshing staff on fire fighting equipment, map reading, fire weather, radio communications and fire line safety. Fire fighters will also be put to the test with a fire scenario.”
Mr Anderson said even though the fire season was looking reasonable at the moment, Forestry Corporation wanted to be absolutely sure it was ready when it did hit.
“An efficient and practised response to fires is essential to protect life and property each summer,” he said.
Twenty seasonal fieldworkers, who began work with State Forests last week, will be mixed with the balance of Forestry Corporation’s experienced firefighting workforce.
“Some of our foresters will also be practising their firefighting and logistical management skills on the day,” Mr Anderson said.
“When there is a fire to put out later in the season, this training helps us to come together as an efficient, well prepared firefighting team,” he said.
Media contact: John Whittall on (02) 6331 2044 or 0429 449813.
Photo opportunity at Black Springs Forest Headquarters on Friday 26 November from 9:15 am .
Directions: Take the Goulburn Rd south from Oberon for about 23km to Black Springs. At the intersection adjacent to the Black Springs shop turn right. Travel another 200 or 300m and take the next right. The forest headquarters are on your left.