MURRAY Wellington MP Murray Cowper has called on the state government to help the owner of a Coolup airstrip instrumental in fighting the Waroona/Yarloop bushfires in January.
The airstrip, known as “Wheelerfield” after its owner Ra Wheeler, is renowned as a base for water bombers, and saw as many as 500 aircraft movements a day during the fires. Mr Wheeler, an engineer and aviator, said water bombers had been using the airstrip, which he had custom-designed for their use, for 18 years.
A million litres of water had been collected and dumped from the airstrip over the course of the most recent fires.
Mr Cowper said Mr Wheeler received limited funds from the Department of Parks and Wildlife to maintain the airstrip, but more work was needed to properly maintain the field for use in emergencies.
“Ra Wheeler has the same passion as other members of the local community when it comes to fires and getting things done,” he said.
“Our job is to see that he can continue to provide and expand this highly unique bushfire service without being impeded by too much red tape and indecision.”
A spokesperson said the Department of Parks and Wildlife was appreciative of the arrangements with Mr Wheeler.
“The department has previously worked with Mr Wheeler to restore the airstrip to a pre-bushfire incident condition following high volumes of aircraft use during department-managed bushfires, and will do the same following the Waroona/Yarloop bushfire,” she said.
“A contract is in the process of being awarded for the repair of the airstrip.
“Works will commence as soon as practicable to ensure that the airstrip is ready and available for future bushfire suppression operations.”
