It is with deep regret that the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) can confirm that a DSE firefighter has died in Tasmania this afternoon (Sun Jan 13 2013) where he was part of the Victorian contingent of firefighters sent to assist with the Tasmanian bushfires.
The firefighter from Gippsland was found deceased near Taranna in Tasmania where he had been working on foot to identify potential containment lines on the southern boundary of the Forcett Fire about 2-3 kilometres from the active fire edge.
Tasmanian Police have said there appears to be no suspicious circumstances at this stage and will investigate and prepare a report for the coroner.
The firefighter’s family have been notified and no further personal details are available at this time.
Our sincere condolences are with the family and support is being offered.
We are also offering support to all DSE staff members. Representatives from DSE have been sent to Tasmania to support crew members still on the ground in Tasmania.
DSE are working with Tasmania Police and Tasmania Fire Service to assist in the investigation.