Training lightens the load(ing)

Led by instructor Graham Hill, eight members from District 15 obtained their accreditation at the one-day training course in Ballarat, while a further four members gained their re-accreditation.

Bomber reloaders are used to fill fixed-wing firebombing aircraft also known as single engine air tankers (SEATs).

The reloading is vitally important in areas where CFA is responsible for manning airbases or assisting DELWP staff including at Ouyen, Hopetoun, Warracknabeal, Nhill, Horsham, Edenhope, Portland, Warrnambool, Hamilton, Colac, Lethbridge, Ballarat, Tyabb, Latrobe Valley and Corryong.

The training teaches hot loading: refilling fixed-wing aircraft bombers with water, foam or retardant while the aircraft engine is still running.

Once qualified, volunteers are stationed at relevant airbases to improve the turnaround times of bombers delivering water, foam or retardant to a fire ground.

CFA and FFMV have a state-wide network of 30 airbases with CFA providing 150 trained bomber reloaders ready to support aircraft operations across the state. 

In recent weeks in the east of the state at Latrobe Valley airport near Traralgon, the FFMV airbase has been actively supporting the Rosedale fire. CFA members are assisting FFMV counterparts in operating this airbase and managing aircraft at this incident.

In the 2017/18 financial year, CFA doubled the amount of accredited members within its ranks who are able to refill bombers. 

Those interested in completing the training should get in touch with their local district headquarters. 

Photos courtesy Peter and Heatheranne Bullen