NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release 2009FOR0019-000186 Feb. 13, 2009	Ministry of Forests and Range
B.C. HELPS AUSTRALIA FIGHT CATASTROPHIC BUSHFIRES

VICTORIA – Australia has formally requested nine fire specialists from British Columbia to help battle devastating wildfires sweeping across the State of Victoria, Forests and Range Minister Pat Bell announced today.

 

            “What’s happening in southeastern Australia is truly heartbreaking. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the residents of Victoria as they cope with this tragedy,” said Bell. “I’m happy we can help by lending the world-renowned expertise of our dedicated forest fire professionals.”

 

The B.C. team will consist of fire behaviour, planning and operational experts from across the province, plus two agency representatives. Staff leave Feb. 17, and will be deployed for about 30 days. An advance group of two senior managers flew to Australia last week to help assess the most useful role for B.C.’s contingent and prepare for their smooth arrival and deployment.

 

“We offer our condolences to those in Australia who have lost loved ones and friends as a result of the devastating bush fires. As neighbours on the Pacific, British Columbians are eager to provide assistance in any way we can,” said Joan McIntyre, Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations. “B.C.’s wildfire personnel are some of the best in the world and they have skills and knowledge to provide assistance on the front lines to help protect people and their homes.”

 

            Costs of the operation will be paid by Australia under an agreement reached the last time the State of Victoria requested assistance. Fifty-two B.C. firefighters were deployed to the area in January 2007 to help respond to wildfires that burned approximately one million hectares.

 

B.C. and the State of Victoria are among the most fire prone environments in the world. The 30-day exchange will help hone the skills of B.C. firefighters and strengthen the Province’s mutual-aid relationship with Australia.

 

Nearly 180 people have died and more than 800 homes have been lost in the Australian wildfires, which are being fuelled by unprecedented high temperatures, drought and windstorms.

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Media contact:	Vivian Thomas Communications Manager 250 387-5728 250 213-2972 (cell)
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