Thanks for the info guys, I see that we do have some capabilities like we see in other parts of the world but just not at that level.
My biggest problem with our policies is that we tend to think we are so different from everywhere else, if its not our high terrain (laughable compred to Canada) its the bush is too ruggered (have a look at califoria).
" I don't think there are many agencies in Oz that want people to jump into the path of a fire with a rake hoe & chainsaw"
I understand this comment but why not? should we just hire in the crews from the north each season? that would make sense wouldnt it. I believe they are only attackig small fires that hasnt formed a front.
FarmerPete Would having paid highly trained crews help? (i understand that the volunteers are highly trained, but like the difference between army trained and SAS trained)