The purpose of the Fellowship was to undertake an overseas study program in Pine forest fire control in France, Spain and Portugal, to gain knowledge and observe methods used to combat wildfires in mainly pinus forests.

Obtain information on the suitability and effectiveness of the latest equipment available for pine forest fire control. From heavy machinery such as tracked machines through to 4WD trucks and hand tools.

Observe how other fire control organizations are structured to determine the most efficient command structure. Also assess how professional and volunteer organizations work together.

Find the most suitable P.P.E.( Personal Protective Equipment )for forest fire fighting.

The essential safety items such as helmets, boots, protective clothing, smoke respirators,smoke goggles and gloves.

Assess how effective the training systems are that the European organizations use based around pine forest fires. Training for both professionals/staff and volunteer fire fighters.

Obtain information on the establishment and management of pine forests with the limited use of chemicals. Many plantation areas in Western Australia are also key Public drinking water sources. A reduction on pesticide use can only increase the acceptance of these plantation areas on such a valuable water source.

Observe forest-harvesting techniques to understand how the Europeans minimize waste from commercial operations.

Observe improvements in fire and forest control to improve the way we manage forests, by bringing this information back to Australia

Encourage European foresters to visit Australia to develop better lines of communication between like organisations (forester exchange program).