FIVE firefighters from West Gippsland brigades have joined their Tasmanian counterparts to help battle bushfires blazing in the island state.
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A Warragul Fire Brigade spokesperson told The Warragul Citizen one firefighter from each of the Warragul, Drouin and Neerim South brigades and two from the Nilma North brigade are among 64 Victorian fire response personnel being deployed.
The Victorian fire crews flew out for Hobart and Launceston today.
Acting Premier Peter Ryan and Fire Services Commissioner Craig Lapsley said in a media release the move does not limit Victoria’s firefighting capacity.
“The high levels of preparation we have put in for this fire season mean we are in a strong position to provide much-needed support in Hobart and Launceston,” Mr Ryan said.
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“Tasmania has the need, and we have the capability.”
Tasmania sent personnel to Victoria in the aftermath of the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires.