The fire ignited in a remote area of Glenorie due to lightning strikes amid thunderstorms. Fortunately, its initial location away from dense residential zones and main roads prevented immediate threats to homes. However, as the fire reached the ridge’s crest, the situation escalated, demanding an urgent and strategic response.
The firefighting efforts began with aerial water bombing, a method that managed to slow down the fire’s pace but not fully control it. Monitoring the situation closely, I, alongside other fire chiefs and teams, prepared for a potential backburn to contain the spread. However, after assessing the terrain and fire behaviour, we opted for a more direct approach.
By the following day, equipped with a Cat 9 Ute fire truck, our crew, including RAFT teams, initiated a ground-based operation. Dubbed a "bushbash," this tactic involved direct suppression efforts using long hose lines, some extending over 300 meters, to effectively black out the fire. This hands-on approach required intense physical effort and coordination but proved essential in halting the fire's advance.
Lessons Learned: From this intense and challenging experience, several key lessons emerged:
Preparedness for Weather Variability: Understanding and anticipating the impact of weather conditions on fire dynamics is crucial.
Communication and Coordination: Seamless interaction among teams plays a pivotal role in the swift adaptation of firefighting strategies.
Decision-Making Agility: The ability to switch tactics based on real-time assessments can be the difference between containment and catastrophe.
Regular Training: Continuous skill development and familiarity with firefighting equipment empower responders to act effectively under pressure.
The Glenorie fire was a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of bushfires and the indispensable value of readiness and flexibility in firefighting. As we reflect on the events and the successful outcome, it is clear that proactive measures and adaptable strategies are vital in protecting lives and properties.