Just a question,
Conservation and Land Management (CALM) in WA used to have
'flying spotters' in the bushfire 'season' over here.
With Piper Super Cubs and the like based in the country/forest areas, at least they were able to provide a 'timely' warning at the first sign of smoke.
Does the Vic. Govt or NSW Govt have a similar service??
As 'Werbil' said, 'early spotting and immediate attack' before they develop seems to be 'an' answer.
Regards.