Precision hose laying in forest plantations

 

In 1997 the Victorian Government passed legislation requiring forest plantation companies to form their own fire brigades when their plantations reached a certain size and asset value.

 

Forestry industry brigades (FIBs), as they’re known, also exist due to the unique fire characteristics of plantation fires, and the specific equipment required to fight them.

While the FIBs are operated by the plantation companies, they come under operational control of CFA. FIBs also have a long history of working with volunteer brigades.

In the state’s south-east corner, plantations make up a significant portion of the landscape.

As Portland Fire Brigade Captain Ian Hamley explained, “You can break District 4 up into thirds. It’s one third plantation, one third native forest, and one third farming land.” Ian said.

At the May Volunteer Forum in Casterton, Ian joined Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook AFSM on the panel, to explain the special hose laying techniques used by his brigade when assisting with plantation fires.

 

Submitted by	Alison Smirnoff