An Australian Army CH-47F Chinook moved vital fuel stores to the Kimberley region, Western Australia, on January 13 to support the state’s flood-relief efforts.
The helicopter, from Army’s 5th Aviation Regiment, conducted two external lifts of almost 10,000 litres of aviation fuel and transferred it to Nerrima Station, a regional property located between Derby and Fitzroy Crossing.
Commander of Task Unit Destrier, Major Jeremy Costello, said the Australian Defence Force (ADF) had been requested to transport the fuel by the WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services – the lead government agency supporting the flood response.
“There’s a lot of general aviation support being used to deliver supplies and personnel to the Fitzroy Crossing area and surrounding communities, so allowing them to access fuel closer to the area will save time and cost,” Major Costello said.
Three MRH-90 Taipans, two CH-47F Chinooks, and a team of support personnel had previously arrived in Broome from Townsville on January 9.
CH-47F pilot Captain Jaime Spragge said the work the team had done to transport essential stores had been highly valued.
“For our crew, it’s great to be helping the communities, because we know what a tough time they’ve had following the floods,” Captain Spragge said.
The ADF continues to work closely with the National Emergency Management Agency and remains postured to respond to any future requests for assistance.
