Oldpinger
In the olden days we had people on standby for these sorts of things. Much planning took place in the period prior to the Xmas stand-down on likelihoods/contingencies. [I worked 7 Xmas days in a row eg.] Of course the general holiday break should occur for all non-essential people especially those returning from tours o/s.
Mate when people are losing their lives getting going is real urgent no matter who pays. It could be you or your family next.....
[Obviously must be authorised for f$$%ks sake.]
Here there is no attempt to criticise the guys and girls who participated at all. They are to be highly commended actually. The argument is about the overall preparation and early deployment. Also we've spent big bucks of helicopters that don't seem up to the task [MRH90]..
Chopper engine woes for defence force | Herald Sun 