US experience preparation for harsh Aussie summer

As firefighting agencies in the South West prepare for a tough bushfire season, one Bunbury man will be able to call on his recent experiences in the United States.

Department of Parks and Wildlife air attack supervisor Alf Lorkiewicz was one of 69 Australians and New Zealanders who spent 42 days helping fight dozens of fires in Oregon and Washington.

The 64-year-old returned to Bunbury on October 2 after helping as a water bomber, flying helicopters and twin engine planes.

Mr Lorkiewicz said it was the biggest challenge he had encountered.

"Understanding the different language they use, the procedures and the aircraft was challenging," he said.

"And their terrain is so steep, it's more difficult to see and pinpoint fire locations."

Among the devastation of the bushfires, Mr Lorkiewicz said he took mostly positives from his experience.

"We successfully completed our operation, so it was tiring, but definitely rewarding," he said.

"It was also good to see the countryside."

It was Mr Lorkiewicz's first time to the US after 46 years working with DPaW - 26 as an air attack supervisor.

Starting at 6am while in the US, he was required to work until 9pm every day for 14 days, before a two day break in Idaho.

During that time the firefighters slept in tents at makeshift campsites.

"We were living in tents and having to carry all our gear with us, which could be up to 42kg," Mr Lorkiewicz said.

"So it was nice to come home to a nice soft bed."

Mr Lorkiewicz said the fires were now under control and US crews were in the repair stages.