DURING the raging bushfires in the Tumut area last week, the Cootamundra SES was called to assist their Tumut colleagues with the refilling of water bombing aircraft.
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The operation was essential as the planes had to take on water and fire repellent chemicals. There were three different chemicals used and each one had to be mixed with water at an exact ratio.
The aircraft carry a water capacity of 2800 litres of water and take three minutes to refill, with the time from take off to landing and refilling taking as little as 13 minutes and the loading involved three planes.
At least five people are involved to ensure the task is completed.
Cootamundra SES volunteers Shirin Baxter and Des Rowe travelled to Tumut for three days to assist with the emergency.
Cootamundra SES volunteers are still on call should further assistance be required.
