Australian Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades

Up to 50 fires are burning the Victoria's North East and Gippsland areas, started by lightening strikes last Friday. It is feared that the blazes will join over the next few days, producing a 600,000ha wildfire. The Victorian State Government has sought assistance from firefighters in New Zealand, with other Australian states facing their own fires and worsening conditions. 2500 local firefighters are already battling the fires. A Commonwealth Disaster Plan has been put in place, with the Army supplying fuel tankers and other equipment. Resources will be sought from countries such as Canada and the United States. Employers have been asked to release all volunteer firefighters to assist in efforts to control the fires. * [ABC News (Includes Video) - 7/12/06 | http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200612/s1805971.htm] * [Herald Sun - 7/12/06 | http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,20883685-661,00.html] * [Courier Mail - 6/12/06 | http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,20883681-5003402,00.html] * [The West Australian - 6/12/06 | http://www.thewest.com.au/aapstory.aspx?StoryName=338927] * [Sydney Morning Herald - 6/12/06 | http://www.smh.com.au/news/National/Bushfires-continue-to-rage-in-Victoria/2006/12/06/1165080983519.html]