The separate services have developed a Memorandum Of Understanding, and shared operations guidelines.

These strategies aim to make joint responses to hazardous materials, rescue incidents, fire reconnaissance, fire investigation and fire training during the pre-bushfire period better and faster.

Batemans Bay Fire and rescue spokesman Craig Mashman said the connection between the two services was a longstanding one.

“Historically, firefighters have served as winch operators and as water rescue crewman with the Westpac (chopper) for many years,” he said.

“With both agencies coming together it will only strengthen and further develop those rescue capability skills, and enhance quick access for the Eurobodalla and Bega communities.”