South Australia's Country Fire Service (CFS) are once again stepping up to support firefighting operations across the country - and beyond, including four from the Hindmarsh Valley brigade.

Yesterday, Thursday 31 July, a team of 13 personnel - 11 from the CFS and 2 from Department for Environment and Water (DEW) - travel led to the Northern Territory to assist Bushfires NT in the ongoing emergency response to fires burning in the Barkly region, east of Tennant Creek.

These firefighters have been equipped with Quick Response Vehicles (QRVs), designed for swift access to remote terrain and challenging landscapes.

CFS State Duty Officer Simeon Telfer says the deployment builds on a strong tradition of inter-agency support.

“This marks another significant moment for South Australian firefighting efforts this season,” he says. 

“We’re proud to support Bushfires NT by sending skilled personnel and QRV-equipped teams capable of operating in difficult conditions.”

Internationally, CFS continues to assist in Canada with the deployment of additional firefighters to assist crews battling widespread wildfires. 

One firefighter flew out last Monday, with an additional four personnel - two from CFS and two from DEW - to depart for Canada next Monday.

At the same time, SA firefighters deployed to Canada in June will be welcomed home today, following the completion of their mission.

“We are incredibly proud of the dedication and professionalism our firefighters continue to show on the global stage”, Mr Telfer says. 

“Their deployment to Canada is a testament to their skill, resilience and unwavering commitment to protecting lives and communities, wherever the need arises. We are grateful to them and their families for the sacrifice they’ve made in undertaking this overseas deployment.”

Returning CFS staff member Peter Ikonomopoulos says his Canadian experience was one he will always treasure.

“To take the skills I’ve honed with the SA Country Fire Service to help Canada in its time of need was an honour,” he says.

“Meanwhile, the new skills gained during the deployment will be invaluable to myself and the other South Australians involved as we prepare for the next Fire Danger Season.”

Minister for Emergency Services Emily Bourke says the latest deployments demonstrate South Australia’s willingness to help. 

“Whether it’s across the border or overseas, our skilled firefighters repeatedly answer the call to assist communities in need,” she says. 

“Our capacity and capability in emergency services is enabling personnel to gain first-hand experience in different jurisdictions and acquire skills which can be used back home.” 

“We are truly grateful to our CFS volunteers and these deployments highlight the diverse opportunities available to South Australians considering joining their ranks.”

For more information on becoming a CFS volunteer, visit the website. 

Northern Territory deployees

Wayne Bowman, CFS Region 1

Emily Vanzo, Hindmarsh Valley CFS

George Stolz, Hindmarsh Valley CFS

Lachlan Collins, Hindmarsh Valley CFS

Jessica Collins, Hindmarsh Valley CFS

Peter Nenke, Macclesfield CFS

David Schulz, Macclesfield CFS

Matthew McGrath, Lenswood/Forest Range CFS

Charlie Gregory, Clarendon CFS

Andrew Francis, Mount Barker CFS

Geoffrey Nairn, Basket Range CFS

Brenton Park, DEW

Jordan Prettejohn, DEW