North East airbases will be home to 11 critical firefighting aircraft this summer.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Albury, Ovens, Benalla, Mansfield, Shepparton and Mangalore will host the aircraft, which will be used by Forest Fire Management Victoria and the CFA in response to bushfires if required.
Depending on weather and fire risks, the aircraft may also be moved to other locations.
FFMVic acting deputy chief fire officer Jarrod Hayse said the aircraft play a critical role in the fight against bushfires.
"As soon as a fire is reported aircraft are deployed, giving on-ground firefighters the best chance of limiting the size and spread of the fire in the early stages," he said.
IN OTHER NEWS:
"A fast, aggressive first attack is the most effective way to limit the impact of bushfires."
FFMVic fire crews responded to just under 250 fires on public land last season, with more than 87 percent of fires kept to under five hectares in North East Victoria.
The state has 51 aircraft in the base fleet, including helicopters, air tankers, fixed wing planes and large air cranes.
"The state's aircraft fleet complements on ground firefighters and heavy machinery as part of the number one priority to protect lives and property," Mr Hayse said.
"While the region has received significant rain during spring, the landscape won't take long to dry out and if fire starts, they will be challenging to contain.
"However, our region is well resourced and prepared to respond to bushfires."
