As part of its network maintenance program, ActewAGL will be carrying out helicopter inspections of overhead powerlines throughout February 2013.
ActewAGL General Manager Network Services Robert Atkin said, “The helicopter patrol is a significant part of our overall network maintenance program and bushfire mitigation strategy. Trees and vegetation growing too close to powerlines can cause blackouts and create safety hazards such as grass fires and bushfires. Trees and vegetation can also restrict access, preventing essential maintenance from being carried out.
“The patrol will fly at approximately 250 metres to identify areas where vegetation is encroaching on overhead powerlines.
“It will fly with minimal hovering across Hall, Gungahlin, Belconnen, Central Canberra, Molonglo Valley, Mount Stromlo, Coree, Weston Creek, Woden Valley, Tuggeranong, Paddys River, Cotter River, Tennent, Rendezvous Creek, Booth, Jerrabomberra, Majura and Kowen. The site for take-off and landing will be Canberra Airport.
“Everyday our teams are out in the Canberra community fixing and maintaining our network. But it’s also important for the community to do their bit to reduce the risk of bushfires and keep vegetation on their property well clear of electricity infrastructure.”
