South Australian firefighters heading to Canada
04/08/2026
Three skilled firefighters from the South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) are being deployed to support our Canadian colleagues battle remote wildfires in British Columbia.
The 3-member deployment will depart Adelaide tomorrow, on Wednesday, 5 August, as part of a contingent of 41 Australian personnel supporting the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre.
The participants in this deployment include two CFS volunteers and a staff member:
- Malcolm Biscoe (volunteer) - Divisional Commander
- Steven Douglas (volunteer) - Divisional Commander
- Brittany Evins (staff) - Public Information Officer
Volunteer Steven Douglas described the honour of representing the CFS on an overseas deployment.
"It's great that we can represent the CFS and Australia and do our part, because we know that when we ask the Canadians to do the same, they'll be here in a heartbeat. It's a great relationship we have," he said.
"There are many similarities to the way we operate in South Australia, but also many differences. There will be steep terrain, hard work and big fires - I'm ready for whatever comes my way."
Canada is currently experiencing significant wildland fire activity and there are more than 800 active fires, with more than 700 of those out of control.
These fires are generally in hard to access areas, requiring specialised firefighting techniques.
Wildfires in these areas are generally fought on foot, and heavy machinery is used to create control lines. Aircraft are also highly involved in fire suppression and transporting firefighters to the various firegrounds.
Authorities in Canada have indicated that the potential for emerging significant wildland fires could result in further requests for support.
"Fire knows no boundaries and the willingness and ability of our personnel to contribute to international wildfire operations reflects CFS volunteers are highly skilled, well-trained and are always ready to respond, whether that be to fires in our own backyard or overseas," Acting Deputy Chief Officer Brenton Hastie said.
"We are exceptionally proud of the commitment made by our volunteers and staff, their families and employers to ensure that our personnel can undertake this experience."
This deployment will last for up to 35 days and this is the fourth consecutive year that CFS firefighters have travelled to support our Canadian colleagues.
Media are invited to attend Adelaide Airport tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5 at 10.15 am.
For further enquiries call the CFS Media Line on 08 8115 3531.
