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Australian pilot Thomas Firth remembered for his heroics after being killed while fighting Canadian wildfire 'for a month'

skynews.com.au 3 days ago

An Australian pilot has been remembered as someone who brightened people's lives following his tragic death while fighting a wildfire in North America.

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An Australian pilot has died while fighting a wildfire in North America.

Thomas Firth was flying a helicopter when it crashed near Fort Good Hope Airport in remote bushland in Canada's Northwest Territories on June 28.

The company he was working for confirmed his death in a statement.

"It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the loss of one of our own," Great Slave Helicopters said, adding he showed "unwavering courage and dedication".

"He was a beacon of light, beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing him."

"As we navigate this time of sorrow, let us hold on to the memories of Tom – his smile, laughter, the love, and the countless ways he made our lives better."

Australian pilot Thomas Firth was killed while battling a Canadian wildfire. Picture: Facebook
Australian pilot Thomas Firth was killed while battling a Canadian wildfire. Picture: Facebook

The Queensland local had relocated to Yellowknife in Canada.

He had lived with his wife and two children there for a number of years.

Mr Firth's father spoke about the loss of one of his four sons.

"Tom was a good pilot, he had a really good record and he was not a risk taker – he had too much to live for,” Peter Firth told Dalby Herald.

"He had been fighting this fire for about a month. When we catch our breath we will have a memorial service for him.”

Tributes have poured in for the father-of-two from Queensland. Picture: Facebook
Tributes have poured in for the father-of-two from Queensland. Picture: Facebook

More than 200 well-wishers flooded the comment section of a Facebook post offering their condolences to the young father, his family and the Australian community.

Those who knew Mr Firth shared their previous encounters with the pilot.

"A beautiful larger than life gorgeous boy who will be missed so dearly. Sending big hugs to everyone who is feeling what we are," one person wrote on Facebook.

"As I sit and cry for Tom, I remember he was very professional, you could see he valued safety during his helicopter safety briefings. Sincere condolences for knowing such a wonderful man. RIP Thomas," another added.

"I remember Tom as a kid being this fearless daredevil who had the guts to do the things other people wouldn’t and who had so much love for his family," a friend wrote.

"Hearing of his heroic passing protecting the community and doing what he loves, he was still all heart."

Mr Firth was the only person on board the aircraft when it crashed.

Canada's Transport Safety Board have launched an investigation into the incident.

The country is facing one of its worst fire seasons of the summer, with a blaze the size of about 8,000 hectares threatening a small town of some 500 residents.

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