19 December
New Zealand Injured Firefighters Update
Three New Zealand fire fighters are still recovering at The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne but remain in high spirits
after suffering burns and smoke inhalation while fighting a fire in the Howqua Valley on Saturday.
Ian Millman, Representative of the New Zealand National Rural Fire Authority said that the injured fire fighters were in
good spirits and looking forward to setting a return date home.
"We are pleased that none of them suffered life threatening burns and all are recovering well.” Mr Millman said.
Angela Duggan, partner of injured firefighter, Barrie Hunt, said the many messages of support – particularly from the
people of New Zealand – had greatly aided the recovery of the men.
Barrie Hunt, from the High Country Fire Team based at Canterbury, South Island, said they were still thinking about
their mates on the fire front.
Two more New Zealand fire fighters who were hospitalised in Wangaratta and Mansfield are fully recovered and returned to
their colleagues at camp while the remaining five have returned to full duties.
The incident on Saturday involved 40 of the 48 strong contingent of New Zealand fire fighters while they were fighting
the main fire, on Steiners Road in the Howqua Valley, 30 kilometres South East of Mansfield in north-east Victoria.
While attempting to restrict the spread of a spot fire, the main fire increased intensity and the fire fighters took
evasive action.
Andrew Graystone, State Duty Officer, Department of Sustainability and Environment said that the New Zealand contingent
had been a valuable resource in fighting the fires.
“The efforts of the New Zealand contingent have been greatly appreciated and their presence has certainly assisted the
control of these severe fires,” Mr Graystone said.
The New Zealand fire fighters and the New Zealand National Fire Authority would like to extend a note of thanks and
appreciation for all the support and comradery they have experienced from all those involved in the fire fighting
efforts in Victoria.
ENDS