STUDENTS at Lakeside Lutheran College were thrilled to see a helicopter land for a short visit last week.

The helicopter is used by Central Victoria’s electricity distributor SP AusNet for inspecting powerlines, powerpoles and pole top hardware to ensure the company is well ahead in its preparation for the bushfire season.

Students got a sneak peak at the helicopter and its state-of-the art technology during the visit, which was part of SP AusNet’s community program aimed at strengthening links with communities.

SP AusNet spokesperson Joe Adamo said the inspections would survey powerpoles in SP AusNet’s electricity distribution network in eastern and north eastern Victoria.

“These aerial inspections are being carried out in addition to SP AusNet’s annual inspection program, which sees more than 65,000 powerpoles inspected each year to ensure a safe and reliable power supply,” he said.

“SP AusNet has comprehensive bushfire mitigation and vegetation management strategies in place for the fire season.” Mr Adamo said the helicopter allowed the company to take photos of almost 700 poles each day, as well as identifying GPS co-ordinates of poles, allowing determination of the location if maintenance work was needed.

“SP AusNet is working to conduct mid-cycle, additional inspections using this technology to further improve safety and reliability.

“These helicopter inspections will go a long way to ensuring we are as prepared for the coming bushfire season as we can be,” Mr Adamo said.