ADF Helicopters Finish Northern NSW Flood Mission

The two Australian Army Black Hawk helicopters which flew to Lismore late Wednesday afternoon have returned to their home base in Oakey after providing dedicated support to local authorities on Australia Day.

The Black Hawk crews assisted local authorities by providing aerial reconnaissance along flood-affected waterways, including the inundated Tweed River, and evacuating a patient from isolated Ewingar to Lismore.

Acting Deputy Chief Joint Operations, Commodore Michael Noonan, said the helicopters and their crews were released from the support task following further discussions with Emergency Management authorities and have returned to Oakey this morning.

"The aircrew have provided local authorities with useful information on the extent of flooding in the region, allowing them to prioritise mitigation and relief efforts," Commodore Noonan said.

"At this stage, there is no requirement for further ADF support in the area, but as always, the ADF remains ready to assist if required."

Army and Navy helicopters played a crucial role in supporting flood relief operations in South-East Queensland and Victoria in 2011.

Defence remains postured to support State and Federal agencies should specialist assistance or equipment be required.

The two Army Black Hawks and crews who deployed on this mission are based at the Australian Army Aviation Training Centre in Oakey, Queensland.

They were dispatched to the region following a request from NSW authorities, through Emergency Management Australia.

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