Low Flying Helicopters Across the Hunter As Power Line Safety Inspections Kick Off

BY ISABEL EVERETT

Ausgrid has started its annual bushfire safety program, assessing power poles and powerlines across the Hunter for any issues or faults that could increase the risk of a bushfire in the warmer months.

From June 11th, residents may see helicopters flying low over powerlines above Adamstown, Ashtonfield, Belmont, Cameron Park, Cardiff, Charlestown, Fern Bay, Newcastle, Raymond Terrace, Shortland, Toronto, Tomago, Warners Bay and surrounding areas.

On the ground, crews are also contacting property owners in the Hunter who have private power poles on their land and completing inspections to ensure they address maintenance issues.

Crews will be in the air from about 7.30am to 5.30pm (weather permitting) and property owners may want to consider securing livestock during the patrols.

“The helicopters fly between 25 and 40 kilometres per hour and have been modified to allow for the quietest possible operation, but they may fly low at times, which can startle livestock in rural areas,” Mr Armstrong said.

 Ausgrid Chief Operating Officer Trevor Armstrong said this year’s bushfire safety program was more important than ever.

“No-one will forget the catastrophic fires which caused so much loss of life and property destruction over last summer which proved just how dangerous bushfires can be.

Mr Armstrong said that the helicopter patrols provide the safest and most efficient way to inspect large and expansive high-voltage powerlines.

“We will be using multiple helicopters, so we can finish the patrols by the end of July, before the start of the next bushfire season in September.

“The helicopter crews will be using laser scanning equipment and taking high-resolution photographs to identify any hazards on our poles and wires and trees growing too close to powerlines”, he said.

Private power pole inspections on the ground are also underway and Ausgrid is encouraging property owners to help do their part in ensuring poles on their property are safe and clear of any tree branches or vegetation which could spark a fire.

“Private poles and powerlines that aren’t safely maintained by property owners can become a serious bushfire risk and we need property owners to do their part in keeping our communities safe,” Mr Armstrong said.

A full flight schedule and more information can be found at Ausgrid.com.au/bushfirepatrols