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Latrobe Valley Airbase Open For Business  Latrobe Valley Airbase Open For Business The new fire-fighting airbase for Latrobe Valley was officially opened today by Member for Morwell Russell Northe. By Russell Northe - 24th January 2012 - Back to News The upgraded airbase, a three year project costing just under $1 million, includes two new buildings and permanent facilities to cater for up to 80 fire-fighting personnel during a full-scale incident.
Mr Northe said the previous portable communications hut and temporary equipment had been replaced with a permanent retardant mixing area, communications building and equipment, and an amenities facility. The upgrade also includes a new taxi-way and standing area for loading of fire-fighting aircraft.
"The new base is a great asset for fire-fighting in the Latrobe Valley and Gippsland, and sets a new standard for airbases across Victoria," Mr Northe said.
Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) and CFA fire-fighting crew have already undertaken training at the facility to ensure they are familiar with the new equipment. This has included testing every component of the aerial response system from the communications links to supplying and loading fixed-wing aircraft at the base.
"This airbase is now permanently set up and ready to cater for a full-scale fire incident immediately its a huge step up and very welcome for Gippsland, Mr Northe said.
The upgrade project involved input from all users of the airbase to ensure it meets their needs during fire season. The airbase is located adjacent to the Latrobe Valley Airport in Traralgon.
Media: Russell Northe 0408 22 55 23 / Julia Auciello 5133 9088
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com

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