Water bombers and crew return to Australia after fighting wildfires across Greece

·

After 155 flight hours, 986 water-bombing operations, and more than 2,460 tonnes of water dropped, four water-bombing helicopters and 20 crew members have been redeployed back to Australia from Greece.

The Four Bell 214BI water-bombing helicopters owned and operated by McDermott Aviation Group, along with a crew of 20 pilots, translators and engineers, were donated by industrial group Mytilineos to the Greek fire-fighting and civil protection authorities for a period of two months.

READ MORE: Mytilineos sources helicopters and crew from Australia to fight fires in Greece.

“Mytilineos has proven over time that it is always present during difficult times of our country. This disaster has shocked us all,” Vivian Bouzali, General Manager of Communications and Strategic Marketing at Mytilineos, told The Greek Herald in August.

“These helicopters, with a cost of 3.3 million euros, fully covered by Mytilineos will remain in our country for two months. Until the last spark that threatens our homeland goes out.”

READ MORE: Australian helicopters arrive in Athens and prepare to fight wildfires across Greece.

And so with a moving ceremony, the Greek authorities, Mytilineos, and Consul Sue Parkes, bode farewell to the crews and Australian helicopters that assisted in the Greek firefighting efforts over the summer.

“A big thank you to the authorities and Mytilineos SA for their confidence in fire-fighting capability. A big thank you to the crews for their efforts to support Greek firefighters and the local communities,” the Australian Embassy in Greece said in a Facebook statement.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Party for a purpose: Support the Pontian House at the Winter Wonderland Gala 2025

The Pontian Association of NSW Pontoxeniteas will host its highly anticipated Winter Wonderland Gala 2025 on Saturday, May 31, at 6.30 PM.

‘Comedy Cartel’: A night of laughter at the Hellenic Club of Canberra

Get ready for a night of laughter and cultural celebration as Comedy Cartel makes its debut at the Hellenic Club of Canberra this June.

Cypriot courage remembered: Join the ANZAC Day March, keep their legacy alive 

On Anzac Day we commemorate the bravery and good deeds of Australian, New Zealand and Allied forces over many conflicts.

Orthodox Mission in Madagascar uplifted by Australian generosity

As Bishop Theophilos prepares to return to Madagascar, he issued a statement expressing his deep gratitude for the support and affection.

Aaron Zerefos Enterprises acquires Fresco Beverages 

Aaron Zerefos has announced the acquisition of the Fresco Beverages business, enhancing his hold on the Australian drink distribution market. 

You May Also Like

Greek Community of Melbourne announces 2024 ‘XOROS’ dinner dance

The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) has announced the 2024 ‘ΧΟRΟS’ Dinner Dance, scheduled to take place on Friday, March 22, 2024.

Greek Australian students among top in NSW for 2022 HSC results

The HSC first in course awards for Year 12 students in NSW have been revealed and among top students are at least three Greek Australians.

Oakleigh Grammar School succeeds in student competitions across Victoria

During this year, Oakleigh Grammar students in Victoria had the opportunity to participate in three different competitions.