CFA's Asset Protection Unit has been deployed in an active bushfire emergency for the first time, helping to protect the town of Woods Point from the Gaffneys Creek fire.
The unit, which is traditionally used during planned burning operations, uses a network of portable sprinkler systems to provide an added layer of protection around key buildings and infrastructure.
CFA Planned Burning Commander Tim McKern said the deployment reflected a different way of using specialist capability already embedded within CFA.
"This capability was designed to support the work that ground crews were already doing when they were undertaking asset protection duties," Tim said.
"The system is capable of expanding to up to 70 sprinklers, we deployed around 30 on this occasion supported by several kilometres of both 38mm and 64mm hose," Tim said.
A key feature of the system was its ability to operate independently of the town's water supply, with water pumped directly from the local river, ensuring the hydrant network remained available for firefighting appliances.
"That meant appliances could continue to focus on protecting individual homes and assets, while the system provided additional support around critical infrastructure," Tim said.
CFA District 23 Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer Brett Myers said the deployment proved effective.
"This was the first time this initiative had been used in a community setting in response to a potential fire threat, and the feedback from Woods Point was overwhelmingly positive," Brett said.
"Once the system was installed and tested, the community could see the level of protection it provided, and that reassurance was significant."
The system also allowed crews to be used more flexibly during the incident.
"One of the major benefits was that it reduced the need for fire appliances to be positioned throughout the town," Brett said.
"That allowed crews to be deployed elsewhere, knowing the sprinkler system was in place and operating to support asset protection."
Brett said the deployment highlighted how the capability could be used more regularly in the future.
"Only about half of the available equipment was used at Woods Point, which shows this could be applied in larger communities where there is an independent water supply," Brett said.
"Having a system that can be activated quickly is particularly valuable in remote locations, where it can take time to get additional resources on the ground."
