Just spotted this thread.
Worth noting that the bushfire risk would be mitigated if people actually did more back burning. Its better for the environment here in Aus, and it reduces the risk of major fires. Problem is there is to many city slickers who move to the bush areas and refuse to back burn. Not sure whether it's because they are scared or because they have some stupid green concepts in their head. I have a mate who refuses to backburn, and I just cant figure out why. HE is in a prime spot to get killed if a bushfire comes through, and no matter what I tell him he wont listen. If you have ever been caught in a bushfire, you will understand why its so important.
So rather than paying exorbitant amounts of money transporting fire bombing aircraft from EU to AUS , perhaps we would be better of spending the money getting rural fire brigades educating people about back burning, and out there doing effective back burns. A proactive approach to the situation would be far more appropriate.