Transgrid takes to the skies for bushfire inspections

Between May and July, a specialist team will inspect more than 13,000 kilometres of transmission lines and infrastructure on TransGrid’s network across NSW and the ACT.

TransGrid Head of Maintenance Programs Ian Davidson said the patrols help identify any potential bushfire risks and assess the condition of towers and transmission lines.

“In recent years we’ve all seen just how devastating bushfires can be. These annual safety inspections are a key part of our comprehensive maintenance program to ensure the transmission network is safe for the community and our staff.

“The helicopters will fly along transmission lines across the state to help us identify any potential fire risks so we can make repairs before they become a problem,” Mr Davidson said.

The patrols also help identify where trees or vegetation may be growing close to lines. 

The helicopter will fly low near transmission lines at about 50 kilometres per hour and may startle livestock in rural areas so property owners may want to consider securing animals during the patrols.

“We’d like to thank the community for their patience and understanding as we carry out these critical inspections to keep the community safe and remind the public to always exercise caution around transmission lines and towers,” he said.

The patrols will begin in the New England, Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast regions before moving south through the Hunter, Newcastle, Greater Sydney, South Coast and across to Central West and western NSW.

Landowners can check the flight schedule and online map by visiting www.transgrid.com.au/patrols

For more information, please contact TransGrid’s toll-free hotline on 1800 222 537.

Jonathon Hall 0428 413 708