General News
23 November, 2025
CHOPPER CHARGED
BACKUP has landed as Loddon volunteer firefighters brace for summer fires.
An 1800-litre firefighting helicopter will be based at Boort until the district harvest is finished.
Crews arrived last week and the chopper has already been called to help at fires north along the Murray River.
CFA Terrick group captain Richard Hicks said a chopper based in the district gave firefighters a vital resource.
“There have been several times in the last five years when the chopper has arrived and helped save houses and sheds in the district,” Mr Hicks said.
“While we’re on the ground tackling fires from the flanks, the chopper can fly over and attack the head of the fire.
“The rapid response time - in the air within 15 minutes of an incident being reported - can also see the helicopter at a fire scene before some of our trucks.”
Mr Hicks said the helicopter would be based in Boort until at least the end of December.
Pilot Ash Hogan said the chopper could take in 1800 litres of water in 30 seconds.
“We’ll be here until the harvest is completed,” he said.
Mr Hicks this week urged farmers to be alert during harvest and to also keeping checking hay stacks.
“The weather has made it difficult for bales to dry and this increased the risk of self-combustion.”