Western Australia has ramped up its support for fire-ravaged Victoria, deploying a further 30 emergency services personnel to assist local crews battling dangerous blazes. This latest contingent brings the total number of West Australian firefighters and incident management specialists on the ground in Victoria to more than 50.
Second Wave of WA Support Arrives
The fresh deployment of 30 highly trained individuals left Perth on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. They are joining 22 of their colleagues from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) who were already embedded in Victorian firefighting efforts. This coordinated response underscores the severity of the bushfire situation unfolding in the eastern state.
The team comprises 27 career firefighters and three incident management specialists, all volunteers for this critical interstate mission. Their departure follows a formal request for assistance through the National Resource Sharing Centre, a system designed to mobilise help across state borders during major emergencies.
A Coordinated National Firefighting Effort
Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson confirmed the deployment, highlighting the spirit of cooperation that defines Australia's emergency response networks. "When our interstate colleagues need help, we answer the call," Minister Dawson stated. He emphasised that this mutual aid is a cornerstone of national disaster management, ensuring resources are directed where they are needed most.
The WA personnel are expected to be stationed in Victoria for up to one week, providing crucial relief for local firefighters who have been working tirelessly for extended periods. Their tasks will involve direct firefighting on active fire fronts and providing strategic support within complex incident management teams.
Safety and Preparedness Remain Paramount
While WA crews assist overseas, authorities at home are urging residents not to become complacent. DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm used the deployment as a reminder for West Australians to stay vigilant. "The conditions in Victoria are a stark reminder that we must all be prepared," Commissioner Klemm said.
He strongly advised residents to finalise their bushfire survival plans and ensure their properties are adequately prepared. The message is clear: the threat is real, and proactive preparation is the best defence. The WA government has assured the public that sending this assistance will not compromise the state's own firefighting readiness, with sufficient resources retained to handle any local incidents.
This interstate deployment is a powerful example of Australia's collective resilience in the face of natural disasters. As Victoria confronts a severe bushfire challenge, the reinforcement from Western Australia represents a tangible commitment to a national, unified response, ensuring that no state fights alone.
