Official magazine of the Government of Western Australia Department of Fire and Emergency Services
Issue 2, 2014
24seven
From the Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner
Magazine articles are welcome – please email 24seven Editor at DFES Media and Corporate Communications: [email protected]
Stories should be up to 500 words in length and submitted with accompanying images and captions wherever possible. Digital photographs are required at high resolution (300dpi) to ensure acceptable quality for printing.
For permission to use material in this publication, please contact the Editor on (08) 9395 9588.
Cover photo: Statues at Firefighters’ Memorial Grove, Kings Park. Photo courtesy of Matt Hayes.Managing Editor: Ivana Oroz-BootsmaEditor: Roslyn MulcahyRegular Contributors: Lauren Gardiner, Nic Hatherly, Dana Jackson, Elena Kane, Laura Keating, Bren McGurk.Special thanks to the departing editor Kristine Smith for her 15 years as editor of 24seven.
ContentsGeneral News .......................... 3 – 21Operational Incidents.............. 22 – 32Resources and Training .......... 33 – 39Awards and Recognition ......... 40 – 45Youth .................................... 46 – 48
WAYNE GREGSON APM COMMISSIONER FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
The momentum of progress has continued well into 2014, as we have completed a significant amount of the ground work required to build a more cohesive and dynamic Department. The attainment of further milestones has demonstrated that the DFES family continues to deliver on its commitment to improve our operational efforts and maintain high standards that we are already known for.
In April the Fire and Emergency Services Simulation Centre (SIMCEN) was officially opened to further enhance our operations. Located in Belmont, the centre is a key asset in providing all emergency responders with the exposure, training and experience they need, in the kind of environment they can expect to deal with at a real incident.
SIMCEN is part of the bigger picture to ensure that the skills, knowledge and experience of our personnel and volunteers are tested so they are fully prepared for a range of incidents. The facility has been fitted with the latest audio visual technologies, information systems and infrastructure to ensure the most realistic emergency management setting. As it utilises the systems that DFES, the Department of Parks and Wildlife, WA Police and volunteers all use, both individually and collaboratively, this will enable the transition from training to responding to real world incidents to be seamless.
Concurrently, we have been working towards making fire and emergency services legislation more relevant to the
current environment by progressing with the legislative review. As this legislation provides the framework for guiding our operations, it is critical that it is in line with current practices across our state and best practice across the globe. A Concept Paper outlining possible options for the legislation was open for comment earlier this year and provided an opportunity for all DFES personnel, volunteers and stakeholders to provide feedback to be considered as part of the review process.
The enhancement of the State’s capability and our ability to meet the future needs of the community have continued to develop with a number of new fire stations, including the Kiara Fire Station and the opening of five upgraded volunteer fire stations in the South West Capes region. A new Perth West Fire Station and the replacement of the station in Albany were also announced with the State budget. Combined with new fire stations in Butler, Bunbury and Geraldton due for completion in 2014/15, this provides us with a great foundation to meet the growing demands of the increasing WA population.
At the same time we have seen the continuation of important community support from all of our emergency services. This has ranged from State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers devoting almost 2,000 hours to the MH370 aircraft search, as well as SES and Volunteer Marine Rescue Service involvement in a number of other searches and incidents.
I am also pleased to announce that the RAC will continue to sponsor our Perth-based emergency rescue helicopter, which provides much needed help to West Australians involved in medical emergencies.
While we think big in terms of our strategic goals, it is also fundamental to remember that underpinning these larger plans is a raft of equally vital local activities. It is great to see so many community engagement accomplishments from street meets through to bushfire ready programs, station open days and cadet participation.
As we are to be at the forefront of emergency services it is essential that we continue to educate ourselves and share our learning with our peers. The 2014 WA Fire and Emergency Services Conference will be held in October and is a fantastic opportunity for career and volunteer emergency services personnel to increase their knowledge, as well as network with fellow delegates.
We have accomplished a great deal already this year and there are more initiatives to come in 2014 that will keep us firmly on the path of progressing our capability.
I thank you all for your continued dedication to achieving our strategic vision of being a leading fire and emergency services organisation and working towards building resilient Western Australian communities.
GENERAL NEWS
2 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 3
“Having highly trained and experienced
personnel is vital for the State to
respond effectively to the variety of
emergency situations we face.”
Fire and Emergency Services
Commissioner Wayne Gregson said
the SIMCEN is a key asset in providing
emergency responders with the
exposure, testing and experience
they need, in the kind of environment
they can expect to deal with when
disaster strikes.
“In the past, this real life experience
has been developed on site, in the heat
of battle, at real emergencies where
mistakes can and do happen, with real
life consequences,” Commissioner
Gregson said.
“With the opening of SIMCEN, we
can now test our people in a safe but
realistic environment.
“The incident management training
held at this new facility will enable us
to build truly dynamic and well trained
personnel across the sector, ensuring
we meet the level of preparedness,
response and recovery expected of us.
“It will also form the basis for us being
recognised as a centre of excellence for
world class emergency management.”
The new Fire and Emergency Services Simulation Centre (SIMCEN) will enable WA’s emergency services personnel to be better prepared to respond to emergencies and disasters.
Officially opened in Belmont on Friday 4 April 2014, the dedicated SIMCEN is housed in WA’s only purpose built bunker from World War II.
Speaking at the official opening, Emergency Services Minister Joe Francis said SIMCEN’s emergency management incident simulation capability would be statewide and apply to all hazards.
“The SIMCEN uses the latest audio visual technology to simulate real life emergencies, allowing our career and volunteer personnel to gain valuable experience in incident management,” Mr Francis said.
“When a life-threatening incident occurs, whether it is a bushfire, cyclone or earthquake, personnel need to be practised, tested and trained to respond immediately, whatever circumstance they encounter.
The SIMCEN combines adult
learning processes, emergency
management experience, quality
training methodologies and computer
supported simulation to provide a
realistic, scenario driven incident
management and co-ordination
environment. It operates within a
discussion and operations based
training and exercising framework.
Personnel began training at the
SIMCEN in October 2013, ahead of the
2013/14 bushfire and cyclone seasons.
The facility was modified thanks to
funding through the $2million DFES
Command, Control and Co-ordination
Information Systems project.
‘Real life’ training centre opens
2 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 3
bravery and sacrifice of all Western
Australian firefighters and was a tribute
to those who have given their lives.
Premier Colin Barnett spoke of the devotion and perseverance of Western Australian firefighters and said the statues were a fitting commemoration.
About the statuesThe life size statues encapsulate
a distressed firefighter who is
kneeling with head bowed, holding
a helmet and mourning the loss of
a fellow firefighter. His firefighting
companion has a hand on his shoulder
symbolising comfort, support and an
unspoken understanding.
Standing at 180cm tall at the highest
point and weighing approximately
400 kilograms together, they are made
of bronze silicon and are painted with
a silver nitrate patina, resulting in an
ash-like colour. This is intended to
blend the statues with the bushland
setting and represent a realistic look
and feel of firefighters in action.
The statues are part of an
enhancement of the Firefighters’
Memorial Grove, originally unveiled
in 2000 to mark 100 years of WA
fire services.
Complementing them is a
commemorative curved stone wall
which includes a script reading,
‘In memory of all Western Australian
firefighters who have served and
given their lives in protecting our
communities’. New pathways have
also been developed to increase the
amenity of the space and provide
greater community access to
the memorial.
Western Australian artist Jon Tarry
who originally created the memorial
returned to design the new statues, in
collaboration with landscape architect
David Smith.
At this year’s International Firefighters’ Day Memorial Service more than 300 DFES personnel, volunteers and distinguished guests gathered in Kings Park for the unveiling of new firefighter statues to enrich the memorial.
A fitting memorial for firefighters
The two life sized bronze statues,
modelled on real WA firefighters, give
families, friends and the community
a place to honour those who have
passed away while serving and
protecting the community.
The memorial service, held in
Firefighters’ Memorial Grove on Forrest
Drive in Kings Park, honoured the
4 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 5
GENERAL NEWS
“We are extremely grateful to have
dedicated firefighters who battle very
difficult conditions without hesitation
to assist people in times of need,” the
Premier said.
“As we pay respect to firefighters who
have given their lives, it is important
to acknowledge the sacrifices that all
firefighters and their families continue
to make.
“The statues have been designed to
reflect the sorrow felt by firefighters
losing a comrade, and are a fitting
tribute to commemorate the courage
and selflessness of the State’s
fire services.”
Emergency Services Minister Joe
Francis said the date chosen for
International Firefighters’ Day was
linked to the feast day of Saint Florian,
the patron saint of all firefighters.
“On the fourth of May he is globally recognised and honoured, and now so too, is International Firefighters’ Day,” Mr Francis said.
“It is a fitting tribute to hold this service on a day that honours those who serve communities all around the world.”
Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Wayne Gregson then addressed guests and said the addition of the firefighter statue
and the memorial service were an acknowledgement of the ultimate sacrifice that has been made.
“It provides an opportunity for friends and family to come together and remember their loved ones, and for
A fitting memorial for firefighters
the community to show their gratitude,” he said.
“I trust that people will feel a sense of serenity and comfort when observing the statues, knowing that firefighters are steadfast and resolute to continue to protect the community even when facing the most challenging of circumstances.
“The memorial represents the deep respect held for firefighters in the Western Australian community, and is a tribute to those who have fallen whilst serving.”
Following the unveiling, Chaplain
Ron Wingate recited the Firefighters’
Prayer, and representatives from the fire
services read out the names of fallen
firefighters, punctuated by the ringing of
a brass bell.
4 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 5
Seventeen Western Australian fire and emergency services personnel travelled to Adelaide to assist the South Australian Country Fire Service (SACFS) respond to significant bushfires earlier this year.
The WA Strike Team was made up of 12 personnel from DFES, four from the Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW), as well as one volunteer from Jandakot Bush Fire Brigade.
Country Assistant Commissioner Chris Arnol said the group provided assistance to support the South Australian incident management team working on the Eden Valley bushfire in the Barossa region.
“Despite recent bushfires in our own state at the time, WA immediately responded to the request for help from its eastern states neighbour,” Chris said.
“While the safety of our state remains the priority and we always ensure there is adequate protection in place, SACFS was battling a significant number of major protracted bushfires across the state and we were happy to bolster their resources.
“We provided specialist incident managers and firefighters to help the SACFS tackle the blaze both from a logistical perspective and on the frontline.”
The fire that the WA Strike Team provided support to the SACFS with burnt through 25,000 hectares and at the time had destroyed three homes.
The team from WA was deployed to an Incident Control Centre at Gumeracha to work in Eden Valley, north east of Adelaide. Along with a team from NSW, they filled the roles within an Incident Management Team to manage the fire on a 12 hour rotating roster system.
Country North Chief Superintendent Rob Cox, the state liaison for the contingent, said that with the SACFS badly in need of incident commanders and firefighters, the West Australian firefighters acted quickly to fill the void.
“After receiving the call for help we arranged a skilled team and departed to South Australia within 24 hours,” Rob said.
“Upon arrival our team worked during the nightshift to consolidate boundaries around the fire, protect residential properties, key infrastructure, deal with any flare ups, develop logistics plans and resourcing, and keep the public and relevant agencies informed.
“This allowed local crews to get some rest after a number of gruelling days battling the large fires across the state. It also played a large role in assisting the NSW dayshift to maintain control of the fire and it was soon declared as contained.
“The deployment provided an excellent opportunity for contingent members to work together as an interagency team, interact with fire managers from South Australia and trade processes and procedures used in dealing with large fires.”
Jandakot Bush Fire Brigade Captain Shane Harris said the experience was a positive one.
“Being a firefighter myself, I put my hand up as I wanted to help our neighbouring firefighters and be involved in a multi-agency effort to overcome such difficult conditions across multiple locations,” Shane said.
“I was the resources manager for the four days I was there, ensuring that we had the appropriate resources we needed, from dozers through to firefighting equipment and spare tyres.
“Although I was the only volunteer in the WA crew the career firefighters made me feel welcome and part of the team, and the experience has enabled me to make further friends and contacts.”
Chris said feedback received from the SACFS after the incident was very positive.
“They remarked on the can do attitude and collaborative efforts of the WA team.
“The SACFS were extremely grateful for the prompt and expert assistance that we provided.”
© S
ACFS
Avi
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Cross-border firefighting
6 24seven Issue 2, 2014
GENERAL NEWS
SES volunteer assistance in MH370 search
“The focus required to search the seas
for hours on end can be draining, but
we were willing and able to contribute
to the international response to
this tragedy.
“The volunteers searched with all their focus on finding any piece of the puzzle that might assist. We have families too and feel for those that had loved ones on the missing flight.”
Volunteers provided specialist expertise as air observers from Saturday 22 March 2014, assisting the Australian Government led operation.
The SES volunteers assisting with the operation came from units across the Perth metropolitan area, the Goldfields/Midlands and Pilbara regions, with DFES co-ordinating.
Operations Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey congratulated those involved for their efforts.
“The SES commitment to the search operation has been outstanding, with volunteers from across the service putting up their hand to perform shifts.
“They have spent time away from family, friends and their workplace to put in hours searching as part of this international effort.
“On behalf of the WA community, we
are proud to have such committed
emergency services volunteers serving
our state,” Lloyd said.
Cockburn SES volunteers May
Bowser and Paul Neville contributed
approximately 72 hours between them.
May said volunteers were
completing long shifts, which included
the flight to reach the search area,
an intense period of searching the
ocean from the plane and then the
flight home.
“Whilst the search techniques can
be quite demanding, it is rewarding
to be able to help and really make a
contribution,” said May.
SES air search observers regularly
assist the Australian Maritime Safety
Authority (AMSA) and WA Police in
searches for missing aircraft, vessels
or people on land or at sea.
SES volunteers have to be
qualified air search observers
to assist as air searches require
special techniques, which differ from
land search. Training for SES air
observers is undertaken by AMSA.
More than 75 State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers completed over 1,900 hours in the air searching for missing Malaysian Airlines flight MH370.
The volunteers completed 176 shifts
over two weeks, scouring the waters
of the southern Indian Ocean from civil
aircraft for any signs of debris.
SES volunteer Lyn Bryant said the
SES volunteers were well versed in
searching for missing persons, but the
MH370 search operation was beyond
the norm in scale and difficulty.
“The search area was vast, weather
conditions at times difficult and
spotting items in the swell can be
extremely challenging,” she said.
SES volunteer observers assisting with the Australian Government led search for missing Malaysian Airlines flight MH370, on 27 March 2014 (l to r): John Preece Belmont SES, Lynette Bryant Canning SES, Michael Wood Northshore SES and David Brennen Wanneroo Joondalup SES.
24seven Issue 2, 2014 7
This year we are embarking on a new
strategy to increase the effectiveness
of Portal2Progress (P2P) that involves
looking at and stimulating discussion
on specific campaigns, as well as
giving DFES personnel and volunteers
the opportunity to provide feedback.
With this aim in mind, Fire and Emergency
Services Commissioner Wayne Gregson
launched the P2P Innovation Campaign
Strategy earlier this year.
Commissioner Gregson said P2P was
a key tool in helping the Department to
continuously improve the way things
are done and the use of campaign
focus areas would form part of a
broader innovation strategy.
“P2P is a channel of communication
that enables us to draw upon the
knowledge and vast experience of our
staff and volunteers,” he said.
“Central to its success is the way in
which it can capture ideas from those
who know fire and emergency services
management best.
“The use of campaigns will provide
further opportunity to enhance
communication, prompt concentrated
discussion and seek input on current
issues.”
The individual campaigns will run for
a period of six weeks alongside the
normal P2P and Safety Matters sites.
Empowerment CampaignThe first campaign Empowerment ran
from the 5 March to 18 April, calling
for ideas from P2P users who may not
feel sufficiently empowered to make
decisions and take appropriate action
in their roles.
Executive Director Governance and
Strategy David Caporn said there
is no doubt that when people feel
empowered, they perform more
effectively.
“In my experience they are usually
much happier coming to work.
“Six issues have been raised through
the campaign, mostly identifying
cumbersome approval processes.
“These ideas have been reviewed by
the Innovation Council and are being
progressed for implementation with the
business,” David said.
Commissioner Wayne Gregson APM at the campaign launch.
P2P continues to impressSince its launch in 2011, the Department’s online platform for sharing of ideas and feedback has undergone a process of continual improvement.
Not registered for P2P?Visit the DFES Intranet or Volunteer Portal and join the P2P community. Get involved today.
Contact the P2P teamEmail: [email protected] or call 08 9395 9882.
8 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 9
GENERAL NEWS
Mr Francis said the new station would
service the growing city, with an extra
15,000 residential dwellings expected
to be built in the CBD, East Perth and
West Perth over the next 10 years,
resulting in a doubling of the population
in those areas.
“Major infrastructure projects including
the Perth City Link, Elizabeth Quay and
Riverside Drive will also increase the
number of daily visitors to the CBD,
adding to the demand on emergency
services,” Mr Francis said.
A suitable site for the new station is
being evaluated and it is expected
to become operational in 2016/17.
The station will complement the
existing Perth station at Wellington
Street, which is nearing its operational
capacity and experiencing a five per
cent growth in demand every year.
The State Government will also spend
$9.1million replacing the 78 year old
Albany Fire Station.
Fire and Emergency Services
Commissioner Wayne Gregson said he
welcomed the major new investment in
fire and emergency services.
“Developments such as the new
station west of Perth will enable DFES
to keep pace with the demands of
protecting the growing city community,”
Commissioner Gregson said.
“A second CBD fire station is a
necessary development in order for
DFES to continue providing effective
emergency services into the future,
particularly in the rapidly growing urban
West Perth area.
“The new facility in Albany, due to open in 2017, is also a much needed boost for the Great Southern region
New fire stations for WA communitiesEmergency Services Minister Joe Francis announced a new $20.3million fire and rescue station would be built west of Perth CBD, as part of the 2014/15 budget.
Major infrastructure projects including the Perth City Link, Elizabeth Quay and Riverside will also increase the number of daily visitors to the CBD, adding to the demand on emergency services.
“
”
and will help us to accelerate response times to house fires and road crash emergencies in the area.”
Fire stations due for completion in 2014/15 include Butler and two in Geraldton, one being a career Fire and Rescue Station (FRS) and one a volunteer FRS Station.
8 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 9
Metropolitan Assistant Commissioner
Brad Stringer said the agreement
consolidates the collaborative working
relationship that currently exists
between the two agencies.
“The document acknowledges that
both parties will provide specified
support services to produce and
maintain an effective and efficient SAR
capability,” he said.
“As a statewide emergency service
provider with expertise in SAR, DFES
is responsible for assisting at major
incidents that require significant
co-ordination of search operations,
when requested by either AMSA or
hazard management agency WA Police.
“This may involve people lost or in
distress on land, inland waterways and
in fishing vessels or pleasure craft.
“This is the first formal MOU between
DFES and AMSA. It has been entered
into in a spirit of co-operation, with
each agency agreeing to jointly develop
and maintain SAR support capability
that would otherwise not be available to
the community.”
Commitments made by DFES under
the MOU include provision and training
of State Emergency Service (SES) Air
Search Observers, Observer Leaders
and Radio Direction Finding Operators,
as well as supplying and administering
relevant equipment and materials.
DFES will also co-ordinate the delivery
of welfare services for air search crew
during incidents, including catering,
local transport, rest areas and
accommodation.
Additionally, in consultation with AMSA
and at their request, DFES will assist in
co-ordinating the availability of suitable
facilities and services for use as an
AMSA air search base.
AMSA has accepted responsibility
for assisting with co-ordination of
aircraft and pilots to support search
and observer training and assessment
activities and will also provide
safety and technical training to SES
instructors.
In consultation with DFES, AMSA will
maintain and audit the national Air
Search Observer and Observer Leader
competency set.
Importantly, it will conduct
assessments of the workplace health
and safety hazards and risks likely
to be encountered by Air Search
Observers, Observer Leaders and
Radio Direction Finding Operators and
take steps to minimise these.
South Coastal District Officer Will
Blackshaw, who frequently delivers
training courses and responds to
operational incidents including SAR
operations, said it was opportune to
have the joint responsibilities outlined
in an MOU.
Joint search and rescue is go with MOU
Commissioner Wayne Gregson APM and AMSA Manager SAR Resources and Training, Mr Julian Mitchell, with the inaugural MOU.
The provision of search and rescue (SAR) support services between DFES and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) was recently formalised with the signing of an inaugural Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
“The MOU clearly states the roles and
responsibilities of our two agencies,
and this effectively removes any
ambiguities that may arise,” Will said.
“In the WA metropolitan area we
have approximately 100 trained SES
observers and leaders, with many more
strategically located across the State.
“The number of requests for DFES
to participate in significant SAR
operations is increasing and in the past
year alone SES volunteer air observers
have been involved in eight incidents
offshore and three over land.”
… entered into in a spirit of co-operation, with each agency agreeing to jointly develop and maintain SAR support capability …
“
”
10 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 11
GENERAL NEWS
Over the weekend of Saturday
29 March and Sunday 30 March,
25 teams from 21 brigades across
Western Australia and including two
from Victoria, entered the heat of
battle at Gilbert Fraser Reserve in
North Fremantle.
The going was tough throughout the
competition, with 18 events testing
a range of skills. There were timed
activities that included running with
large fire carts, as well as events
showcasing skills and accuracy with
hydrants, hoses and water targets.
No strangers to success, Bassendean
VFRS once again claimed the title of
Champion Brigade, their 16th win
since 1970.
Roleystone scored top honours in
‘B’ Class, while Harvey were placed
first in ‘C’ Class and Bassendean
pipped Roleystone at the post in the
Junior Class.
Marc Papalia from Bassendean VFRS
continued his winning streak, taking out
his 6th consecutive title of Champion
Firefighter, with 13 points.
Operations Deputy Commissioner
Lloyd Bailey said the championships
showcased the agility and skills of our
VFRS firefighters.
“The competition events have evolved
from training exercises that were
undertaken for firefighting at the turn of
the 19th century,” Lloyd said.
“The use of various traditional and
modern day equipment and the types
of exercises are designed to enable
teams and individuals to demonstrate
their speed, dexterity, teamwork
and leadership.”
Lloyd said the championships also
provide an opportunity to acknowledge
the outstanding contribution made by
the State’s fire and rescue volunteers.
“Recent bushfire emergencies have
shown the invaluable contribution our
volunteers continue to make as they
selflessly risk their own lives for the
safety of our communities,” he said.
“This was an opportunity for volunteers
to gather in friendly rivalry and socialise
at the end of a busy fire season.
“Congratulations to all who took
part and well done to the WAVFRS
Association for such a well planned
and successful weekend.”
Fiery competition at volunteer championshipsMore than 200 volunteer firefighters fought it out at the 111th Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services (VFRS) Association Easter State Championships, as teams and individuals vied for the honour of being named Champion Brigade and Champion Firefighter.
Marc Papalia took out his sixth consecutive title.
The Bassendean brigade with their trophies.
10 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 11
On the morning of Saturday 22 March
the sounds of the Last Post rang out at
the State War Memorial in Kings Park for
a special memorial service. It was played
by Station Officer Ted Tait accompanied
by two Belgian buglers from the Menin
Gate, Mr Dirk Vandekerckhove and Mr
Tommy Desodt.
Operations Deputy Commissioner
Lloyd Bailey was present along with a
contingent of firefighters to lay a wreath
in honour of the former firefighters
who joined the armed forces and died
in the Ypres Salient during the First
World War.
Menin Gate is a war memorial dedicated
to the tens of thousands of British and
Commonwealth troops who remain
missing in France and Belgium. Its Hall
of Memory contains names on stone
panels of almost 55,000 soldiers who
died in the Salient but whose bodies
have never been identified or found.
Station Officer Ted Tait said firefighters
had been playing the Last Post at
Menin Gate since 1928, broken only
during the German occupation of Ypres
from 1940 to 1944.
“It is a tradition that goes back a long
way. After the opening of the memorial
the citizens of Ypres wanted to express
their gratitude towards those who had
given their lives for Belgium’s freedom,”
Ted said.
“As such, every evening at 8pm,
buglers from the local fire brigade
close the road which passes under the
memorial and sound the Last Post.
“The Last Post at Menin Gate has
always been played by a member
of the fire brigade and the Last Post
Association. It is the intention of the
Association to continue this daily
homage in perpetuity.”
The buglers were invited to Perth by Mr
John Davis of Forrestfield, who funded
their trip after being inspired by his visit
to Menin Gate last year. The buglers
were accompanied by the Head of
the Belgian War Graves Service Mr
Didier Pontzeele and Chairman of
the Last Post Association Mr Benoit
Mottrie, who also attended the special
memorial service.
“For me, the journey of the Belgian buglers to Perth can be seen as symbolic of them bringing home the Australian spirits they pay their respects to every night,” John said.
State RSL President Graham Edwards said the visit was an opportunity to repay the hospitality and commitment of the Last Post Association in Belgium.
“On a nightly basis they play the Last Post at Menin Gate to recognise those men and women who gave their lives during the First World War,” Mr Edwards said.
“They have done this in Belgium nearly 30,000 times.”
Mr Vandekerckhove has been a Last Post Bugler at Menin Gate for 30 years and says it is a very small thank you for what soldiers did for Belgium and for those who never returned home.
Written by Lucy McLeod, ECU journalism student.
(Far left) Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey AFSM and Mr Didier Pontzeele, (front and centre) WA RSL President Graham Edwards AM and (kneeling) Mr Benoit Mottrie, (in middle, centre) Belgian buglers Mr Tommy Desodt and Mr Dirk Vandekerckhove and Warden of the State War memorial Jan Stewart PSM, (far right) Lance Corporal Dave Scott and DFES Station Officer and bugler Ted Tait. Also pictured are firefighters from the Perth, Daglish and Osborne Park Fire Stations.
© T
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12 24seven Issue 2, 2014
GENERAL NEWS
The group of ‘Girls on Fire’ really were
on fire as they put themselves through
their paces at the triathlon course
north of Hillarys Marina, with most
members of the team opting to
complete the challenging long triathlon.
The course involved a 750 metre
swim, 20 kilometre cycle and a five
kilometre run.
Firefighter and triathlon participant
Carla Ball said it was a great
opportunity to raise the profile of
women in firefighting.
“Although there are only a fraction of
women firefighters compared with
male firefighters, we pass the same
highly competitive recruitment criteria
and are equally important members of
the team,” Carla said.
“Entering the triathlon also motivated
some of us to step up our usual fitness
training regime and I personally enjoyed
the friendly competition against my
colleagues.”
DFES Principal Workforce Planning
Consultant Jodie Saunders said
benefits of participation in the event
were several fold.
“Competition in the triathlon was a
great team building exercise for our
female firefighters,” she said.
“It also helped them realise that
although they may be at different fire
stations, they still have female peers
and can support each other.
“The event was also a good
recruitment opportunity as triathlon
athletes generally possess personal
drive, emotional resilience and high
levels of personal fitness.
These are all valuable attributes that we
look for in firefighter recruits.
Girls on fireA team of six female firefighters banded together as ‘Girls on Fire’ to compete in the SunSmart Women’s Triathlon on the morning of Sunday 16 March.
The Girls on Fire (l-r) Kelsie Stanford, Brittania Bailey, Karen Roberts, Kellie Betts, Simone Paardekooper, Pippa Williams and Christina Stephan.
“This was the first year we have had
a team competing and I think we
will be back next year with an even
bigger team.”
During the event, Firefighter Brittania
Bailey and several DFES staff were on
hand to talk to interested women and
give out goodie bags which included
information about an upcoming
recruitment day.
“Having a presence on the day meant
that staff were able to talk to competing
athletes about the DFES open day
in April. This led to increased female
attendance and many of those who
came along seemed very interested,”
Jodie said.
Corporate staff members Karen
Roberts and Stacey Naughtin also
competed in the triathlon event.
Firefighter Carla Ball (left) on the home stretch.
24seven Issue 2, 2014 13
Great Southern Community
Engagement Officer Sarah Matthews
said DFES was keen for tourists to
know where and how to get emergency
information and have a planned escape
route in the event of a serious bushfire.
“A range of emergency services have
participated in the project and are
represented in the handy reference
guide,” Sarah said.
“These include DFES, WA Police,
Department of Parks and Wildlife, St
John Ambulance and local Volunteer
Marine Rescue Services.
“The effectiveness and success of the
initial concept also encouraged four
other Great Southern regional Shires
with similar safety issues to adopt
localised booklets of their own.
“In addition to the first publication
tailored to the Shire of Jerramungup,
others who have embraced it include the
City of Albany and Shires of Esperance,
Denmark and Ravensthorpe.
“Visitors often lack essential local
knowledge and this fold out guide
includes important emergency contact
details and safety messages.”
The booklet also lists the DFES
Emergency Information Line number
which enables visitors to keep up to
date with any significant bushfires or
incidents impacting the region.
Great Southern Superintendent Daniel
Austin said it was rewarding to see
the booklets in circulation after many
months of hard work.
“There was great collaboration
between all the agencies which worked
well together in the interest of public
safety,” Daniel said.
“The population of many Great
Southern towns swells in summer
when around 15,000 people head to
the south coast, and this will be an
extremely useful resource for everyone.
“The way the booklets are intended
to work is that a dialogue is initiated
when they are being handed to people
registering for accommodation,
requesting local tourist information or
making purchases.
“This opens up an avenue for
increasing visitor awareness of regional
emergency services.
“There is also an opportunity for shire
rangers, police, firefighters, ambulance
officers and volunteer marine rescuers
to provide booklets and give advice to
visitors who are unfamiliar with the area.”
Shire of Jerramungup Chief Executive
Officer Bill Parker said the idea was
first suggested at a Local Emergency
Management Committee.
“Instead of each agency handing out
their own individual contact information,
we agreed it would be more effective to
combine them,” Bill said.
“It took off from there and all agencies
represented in the booklets supported
DFES in their development, production
and launch.”
The booklet fits easily into a pocket
or wallet. It will be distributed through
visitor and resource centres, holiday
homes, caravan sites, local roadhouses
and bait shops.
Safety at heart of new visitor guide
Photo caption: Celebrating the booklet launch in Albany (l-r): Department of Parks and Wildlife Regional Fire Co-ordinator Mick Hand, DFES Superintendent Daniel Austin, City of Albany Manager of Ranger Services Tony Ward, WA Police Superintendent Cath Bullen, City of Albany Ranger Rob Forster, visitor to the local area Chris Graham, St John Ambulance Regional Manager David Schober, Denmark Sea Rescue volunteer Derek Stone, DFES Community Engagement Officer Sarah Matthews and Shire of Jerramungup CEO Bill Parker.
A newly released visitor information booklet co-ordinated and developed by DFES in collaboration with shires in the Great Southern is now circulating in the region, providing essential information about emergency services.
© A
lban
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14 24seven Issue 2, 2014
GENERAL NEWS
Fremantle Sea Rescue joins the foldFremantle Sea Rescue was formally approved under the DFES Act one year ago, bringing the busy volunteer marine rescue group into the Department’s family.
With 121 active volunteers, Fremantle
Sea Rescue operates a fleet of four
dedicated rescue vessels across their
area, distributed from Rottnest Island in
the west to Perth City in the east.
Commander Philip Martin said the
formal approval from DFES was
welcome as it means Fremantle Sea
Rescue enjoys all the support and
assurance that goes hand in hand with
having official affiliation.
“We are a very busy volunteer marine
rescue service, having undertaken
712 rescues in the last year alone,”
Philip said.
“We commonly assist with a wide
variety of incidents, ranging from
vessels that are adrift following
mechanical failure through to vessels
running aground, medical issues,
vessel fires, missing swimmers, divers
and kite-surfers, and vessels striking
the reef at Rottnest Island.
“For example, on Easter Sunday we
were called to assist with a five year
old girl who slipped on a yacht at
Carnac Island and had a suspected
spinal fracture.
“We despatched two of our vessels at
speed from the Swan River.
“While all of our crew are qualified
first aiders, several of them are also
paramedics and fortunately we had a
paramedic on board that day who was
able to stabilise the injured girl.
“We then transferred her onto our
vessel using a spinal support board
and medivaced her back to Fremantle
to the waiting ambulance.”
Commander Martin said that due to the
nature of volunteer marine rescue and
instances such as this one, support
from DFES is immensely important.
“Assistance with running costs
helps us with operating, training and
administration expenses and enables
us to budget ahead more effectively
with funds raised from sponsorship and
donations,” he said.
“This ensures that we can afford the
best safety gear for volunteers, as
well as the best search and rescue
equipment for our vessels, which
enables us to respond quickly
and effectively.
“It is also reassuring for our volunteers
to know they are covered by the most
comprehensive insurance possible,
which they are with the state insurer.”
Fremantle Sea Rescue currently has two rescue vessels underway at all times during weekend daytime hours, however more than half of their annual rescues are conducted either at night or during midweek working hours.
These call outs are handled by a dedicated volunteer on-call crew who are on a five minute standby for emergencies and a 30 minute standby for non-emergencies.
“We have four vessels and also have access to up to six more private vessels when required, such as during major sporting events that we assist with.
“Now that we are under the DFES umbrella, we are in the process of entering our gazetted vessels into the DFES refit and replacement program to ensure they are in line with the latest and best standards.”
The rescues undertaken by Fremantle Sea Rescue are usually evenly split across their area, with around a third occurring in the Swan River, a third at Rottnest Island and the remainder in the ocean around Fremantle.
24seven Issue 2, 2014 15
Regional fire stations across the state marked International Firefighters’ Day with open days and a range of family friendly activities for the community.
GeraldtonGeraldton Fire Station opened its doors
to around 350 people to mark the day.
Appliances and equipment were on
display for the community, while career
and volunteer firefighters engaged with
attendees, providing information on
smoke alarms, home fire safety and
triple zero calls.
Firefighters completed a road crash
rescue display for interested members
of the public, showing them how
casualties are removed from the vehicle
using rescue equipment and how
injuries are managed in the process.
Geraldton Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service also provided a sausage sizzle
to feed the hungry crowd.
Appliances and equipment were on display for interested community members.
Firefighters demonstrated a road crash rescue removing a casualty from the vehicle.
International Firefighters’ Day around WA
BunburyCareer and Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service personnel together with
volunteer Bush Fire Service members
from across the Greater Bunbury area
joined together at the Graham Bricknell
Music Shell with their appliances to
celebrate the day.
They held a variety of demonstrations
for the gathered crowd of around 300
people, including road crash rescue
scenarios and kitchen fire simulations.
Crews also educated the community
on home fire safety and home fire
escape plans, while miniature fire
engine Freddy was on hand to entertain
Superintendent Rick Curtis and Salvation Army Chaplain Harriette Farqhaur, who recited the Firefighters’ Prayer.
16 24seven Issue 2, 2014
GENERAL NEWS
Regional fire stations across the state marked International Firefighters’ Day with open days and a range of family friendly activities for the community.
Kids also got the chance to try using the firehose at the open day.
Young Bradley Austin tried on a firefighter helmet for size.
International Firefighters’ Day around WA
Albany Albany Fire Station held a family
open day where career and volunteer
firefighters took the opportunity to carry
out fire safety related competitions and
activities.
Four fire appliances were on display,
with community members encouraged
to ask questions about the equipment
and how it is used. There were also
displays of home fire safety and
smoke alarm information, and a room
the kids and Bunbury Surf Life Saving
Club provided a sausage sizzle.
In commemoration of fallen firefighters,
Salvation Army Chaplain Harriette
Farqhaur recited the Firefighters’ Prayer
and a minute’s silence was observed.
Eaton/Australind VFRS undertook a kitchen fire simulation for the crowd.
Liam Waite tries his hand with the jaws of life.
of personal protective equipment
(PPE) set up for demonstration and
discussion. Children were able to spray
the fire hose, have their photo taken
in front of a light tanker and enter a
colouring competition.
The sausage sizzle was snapped up by
young and old and there was a free raffle
which was entered by 100 families, with
the lucky winner receiving a fire bucket
containing a collection of fire safety
items. Close to 500 local community
members turned out for the day.
24seven Issue 2, 2014 17
Jennifer said the team recognises
the valuable contribution that DFES
volunteers and career staff have in
delivering the message of ‘shared
responsibility’ to the community.
“The Directorate will be introducing a
process of evaluation and will continue
to regularly update the Toolbox to
reflect research into community
engagement and best practice
methods,” she said.
“We would like to hear success stories
from staff and volunteers so they can
be shared with other brigades, units
and groups through the Toolbox.
“We are also interested in hearing
about activities that may not have been
successful, as we learn as much from
these as we do from successes.
All these stories help us better support
community engagement efforts across
the organisation.
“Any comments or suggestions from
those using the Toolbox are welcome
too as the Community Engagement
team want to ensure the information
provided is relevant and easy to use.
“This will assist us with continuous
improvement and ensure that DFES
volunteers and career staff are
well supported in their community
engagement related activities.”
The toolbox can be accessed through
the DFES intranet and extranet.
We would like to hear success stories from staff and volunteers so they can be shared with other brigades, units and groups through the Toolbox.
“”
Community Engagement Toolbox a guide to best practice
The Community Engagement Toolbox has been created as an online tool to support DFES career personnel and volunteers conduct effective community engagement activities.
The Toolbox provides information,
examples, case studies and templates
to assist personnel and volunteers to
plan, conduct and evaluate community
engagement activities and events.
Community Engagement Acting
Director Jennifer Pidgeon said
users are provided with examples of
successful community engagement
activities that DFES personnel have
either organised or participated in.
“These examples provide great
ideas for how successful community
engagement activities can have
a positive effect on community
preparedness,” Jennifer said.
Importantly the Toolbox provides a
calendar of community engagement
programs and campaigns to enable
personnel and volunteers to plan their
activities over the year. Also included
are publication catalogues, resource
order forms and contact details for the
Community Engagement team.
18 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 19
GENERAL NEWS
Launched last year, the Commissioner’s
Aboriginal Scholarship Program offers
two annual scholarships of up to
$5,000 each, to undergraduate and
postgraduate Aboriginal students in
Western Australia.
Fire and Emergency Services
Commissioner Wayne Gregson
said the program demonstrates the
commitment of DFES to working with
Aboriginal people to ensure they are
armed with the knowledge to prepare
for, respond to and recover from a
diverse range of emergencies.
“Aboriginal students are being given
the opportunity to apply for the
scholarships if they are studying a
field that contributes to emergency
management,” Commissioner
Gregson said.
“The program aims to provide them
with the necessary tools to assist
with employment, volunteering and
inclusion in decision making that
will help to develop and maintain
safer communities.
“At DFES we value the importance
of education and recognise the
opportunity that a tertiary qualification
provides for Aboriginal people when
they are applying for a job.
“In the long term we want to see
increased employment of Aboriginal
people in the public sector and it is
through programs like this that we
hope to achieve this.”
Senior Workforce Management
Consultant Gabrielle Bird said that
DFES was aware that many Aboriginal
communities in Western Australia
were especially vulnerable to natural
disasters and other emergencies.
“In its Reconciliation Action Plan
2008-2013, DFES made a commitment
to work with Aboriginal people to
promote opportunities for employment
and volunteering,” Gabrielle said.
“These scholarships are a first
for DFES that will increase
Aboriginal understanding of
emergency management.
“All eligible Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander students are being
encouraged to consider this unique
opportunity.
Aboriginal student scholarships openA scholarship program developed by DFES to support Aboriginal university students who are studying emergency management related units is now seeking applications for 2015.
“The scholarships have an immediate
practical purpose and can be used
for unit fees, course materials or
sundry expenses associated with
relevant studies.”
Applications for the scholarships can be submitted all year round through the University of Western Australia and Edith Cowan University Scholarship websites at www.scholarships.uwa.edu.au and www.ecu.edu/scholarships/overview.
For further enquiries contact the DFES Senior Workforce Management Consultant on 9395 9312 or email [email protected]
18 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 19
Primary school students can now learn about natural hazards in the classroom thanks to the development of an online tropical cyclone and flood program.
Developed by DFES for upper primary
school teachers to access and use in
class, the lessons are aligned with the
Australian curriculum and are suitable
for students in years five to seven.
School Aged Programs Co-ordinator
Liz Addison said the materials
consisted of a teacher overview, an
introductory lesson on natural hazards
in WA, and four tropical cyclone and
flood lessons.
“The lessons are evidence based
and enable children to increase their
knowledge of natural hazards in a local
and regional context,” Liz said.
“The aim is to encourage them to take
action to prepare themselves, their
homes and their families for cyclone
and flood.
“A child’s perception of risk is
challenged through hands on activities
and these are an important part of the
program. Some elements have also
been designed for completion
at home.”
Liz said that year five students
from East Butler Primary School in
Perth’s northern suburbs took part in
the program.
“They created a class checklist for a
flood emergency as well as their own
individual emergency contact lists.
They also learnt how to recognise and
avoid flood risk," she said.
“The learning experience included a
scenario where students prepared an
emergency kit and evacuated to their
school for a sleepover.”
Pilbara teacher Penny Squibb provided
suggestions for classroom activities
and feedback throughout the program
development.
“Educating the students also has the
flow on effect of helping to increase the
knowledge of other family members,”
Penny said.
“The lessons incorporate activities
which involve students conducting an
audit of their homes and participating
in preparation activities at home with
their families.
“I have been a member of the Port Hedland and Karratha State Emergency Service units for most of the time I have been teaching in the Pilbara. As a result, cyclone awareness and education has always been a priority with students I have taught.
“Assisting in the development of the tropical cyclone and flood lesson plans was a great way to use my experience and passion to reach more students and families.”
The resources can be found at www.dfes.wa.gov.au by following the links to Education and Heritage/Teachers and Schools.
For more information about the program, contact Liz Addison, School Aged Education on 9395 9864.
Flood and cyclone education boosted
20 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 21
GENERAL NEWS
The street meet is just one initiative in
a series of community engagement
activities aimed directly at absentee
landowners, real estate agents and
property managers, undertaken over
the past year as a result of research
DFES has conducted.
Community Engagement Acting
Director Jennifer Pidgeon said
the research was carried out by
Community Engagement and focussed
on absentee landowners and their
understanding and awareness of the
bushfire threat.
“Over 850 absentee landowners
from 10 communities in the Midwest
Gascoyne, South West, Lower South
West and Great Southern regions
participated in the research, which
also looked at absentee landowner’s
barriers and drivers to property
preparation,” Jennifer said.
“As a result of what we discovered
through the research we have now
developed a working partnership with
the Real Estate Institute of Western
Australia (REIWA) and have worked
with them to conduct briefings and
participate in the South West Property
Manager’s conference, attended by
over 200 people.
“Community Engagement staff have
also begun a visitation program to
regional real estate agents promoting
bushfire preparedness messages to
tenants and owners.”
Direct action has been taken with
absentee landowners with two open
house activities conducted in the Perth
Metropolitan area and the successful
street meet in Meelup Hills.
The street meet was run in conjunction
with the City of Busselton and with
Driving action with absentee landownersA street meet held in Meelup Hills near Dunsborough recently attracted a large turnout with an attendance of around 150 enthusiastic community members and absentee landowners.
support from local volunteers. It was
evident from feedback collected on the
day and via an online survey that the
format, which included guided property
walk throughs, was very effective.
The information covered ranged
from preparing your property to how
to stay informed and more than 94
per cent of responses indicated that
participants would actively apply the
knowledge they gained to prepare for
the bushfire season.
Community Engagement Officer
Stephanie Green said the initiative was
a great start to the regional community
engagement strategy that works to
increase preparedness and engage the
high absentee landowner population in
the area.
As a result of this event secondary
property owners and local community
members have now signed up to the
email distribution list and have been
sent monthly updates and information
regarding bushfire preparedness
“It is important to keep people up to
date with helpful information on being
bushfire ready, as well as letting them
know about upcoming community
events,” Stephanie said.
“This will hopefully increase their
connection with the local community
and in turn their overall resilience.”
The absentee landowner research is available on the Community Engagement intranet page or by contacting staff at communityengagementresources @dfes.wa.gov.au or 9395 9816.
20 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 21
multi-agency response of 200 career
and volunteer Fire and Rescue Service,
Bush Fire Service and Department of
Parks and Wildlife firefighters, and more
than 60 appliances.
While firefighters battled against the
flames, support was provided by the
aerial fleet which utilised a total of
18 aircraft.
Initially reported shortly after midnight
on Monday 3 February, the fire
flared up late that morning and burnt
with relentless intensity throughout
the afternoon.
Despite the difficult conditions that
included wind and high fuel loads,
the combined determination of the
response team brought it under control
by 10am next day.
This concentrated effort saved many
homes from destruction. Unfortunately
six properties were impacted by the
fire, with four sustaining major damage
and two affected in a minor way.
Incident Controller Superintendent
Stuart Wade said that rural urban
interface firefighting strategies worked
well to protect heavily populated areas
within the fire perimeter.
The fast moving fire that was south
of the city affected the suburbs of
Forrestdale, Banjup, Aubin Grove and
Atwell, and burnt through 500 hectares
of bushland.
The biggest civil emergency to occur
in the City of Cockburn, it required a
Banjup bushland up in flamesWestern Australian firefighters again teamed up in a massive effort to protect the community, just three weeks after a major bushfire in the Perth Hills.
22 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 23
OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS
“A concerted response ensured that
the fire was contained by evening
on the first day and controlled next
morning,” he said.
“A cornerstone of the incident
management plan was to locate crews
at properties soon after the fire front
had passed through. This ensured that
firefighters were ready to extinguish
spot fires before they flared up and
possibly damaged properties.
“Many residents had established
building protection zones at their
homes and this, together with the
excellent contribution of firefighters and
aerial support, helped to restrict losses.
“The work that occurred earlier in the
summer with strike teams and extra
resources being kept at the ready, plus
centralised co-ordination, were also
crucial to the swift, effective response.”
Cockburn and Armadale Local
Governments, WA Police, Water
Corporation, Western Power, the
Department for Child Protection and
Family Support, Bureau of Meteorology,
Red Cross, St John Ambulance and
the Salvation Army, were among many
agencies that provided expertise and
assistance.
Throughout the incident rotary aircraft
dropped 1.7million litres of water,
eclipsing the figure of 1.6million litres
dropped during the Parkerville bushfire.
The DFES website also experienced
its most significant day of traffic ever
with almost 330,000 visitors generating
close to 12million hits to the site.
Fire and Emergency Services
Commissioner Wayne Gregson
said he was impressed with the
entire response.
“There was tremendous co-operation
across the board as Western Australian
fire and emergency services personnel
and volunteers again rallied to protect
the community,” Commissioner
Gregson said.
“The team showed great diligence and
purpose, whether they were in the thick
of the action or working hard behind
the scenes.
Personnel in the Metropolitan and State
Operations Centres played a crucial role
in monitoring, planning and co-ordinating
the overall firefighting effort.
“The support of our emergency
management partners through the
provision of vital resources including
personnel and equipment, also had a
significant impact.
“The quick, well co-ordinated response and dedication of all fire crews, emergency volunteers and staff combined to prevent this fire from escalating into a potentially devastating incident.
In the aftermath of the main fire members of the Urban Search and Rescue Rapid Damage Assessment Team were brought in to apply their specialist skills and comprehensively inspect the area.
A temporary evacuation centre was set up at Armadale Arena and two community meetings were held to keep residents up to date on the incident status and recovery operations.
Senior operational staff addressed the group and responded to questions to ensure everyone was fully informed, while members of the Community Liaison Unit were also on hand to advise and offer assistance.
During these meetings residents thanked all the firefighters and officers who had worked tirelessly to protect their homes, expressing high regard and gratitude for their commitment.
22 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 23
Emergency re-supply as Pilbara flood waters riseWhen communities in the Pilbara were cut off from the rest of civilisation for eight days by flood waters earlier this year, DFES personnel and multiple volunteer units pulled together to provide much needed support and essential supplies.
Marble Bar Volunteer Emergency
Service and police met the aircraft at
the airport for supply transfers to the
town of Marble Bar.
The Jigalong community located east
of Newman was also isolated due to
high river levels and inaccessible roads,
and two resupplies were conducted to
the community using fixed wing aircraft.
The DFES Karratha regional office
co-ordinated the first resupply, which
originated from Meekathara due to
Great Northern Highway being closed
between Meekatharra and the Capricorn
Roadhouse south of Newman.
“The second Jigalong resupply was
co-ordinated in Newman by the local
SES Manager Connie Reed, who
organised the loading and dispatching
of the aircraft. She was ably supported
by Newman SES volunteers,” Paul said.
Once the Great Northern Highway reopened further supplies for Jigalong were able to get through to Newman by road. Eight fixed wing airlifts, co-ordinated by the Regional Operations Centre at Port Hedland, were then
needed over two days to fly essential supplies from Newman to Jigalong.
Newman SES provided invaluable logistical support by managing the transfer of food and essentials from a semi-trailer onto the waiting aircraft at Newman airport. Newman Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service also provided manpower until they were called out to an incident.
East Pilbara District Officer Peter Cameron said although the remote desert communities take measures to try and ensure their preparedness for the wet season, it is not always possible.
“They generally stock up their stores in October and this lasts them through to January, then giving them a window of opportunity to restock again before the season starts.
“In this instance there was cultural business which brought more people into the Jigalong community location than is usual and the supplies were not sufficient when they were surprised by bad weather.”
Pilbara Superintendent John Newman said the resupply of the affected communities and towns provided challenges to all involved, however the endeavour was successful.
“It would not have been possible without the co-operation and dedication of our volunteers who willingly provided assistance throughout this demanding time.
“It is a credit to everyone involved that the resupplies to these isolated communities were achieved in such a timely and efficient manner.”
Marble Bar and Newman received considerable rainfall into the catchment areas surrounding their towns in the early months of 2014, causing river levels to rise significantly.
The Shaw and Coongan Rivers experienced high levels, immersing the Marble Bar to Port Hedland road. This isolated the town of Marble Bar, while the Waralong community which sits north of the road and between the two rivers, was cut off from both Marble Bar and Port Hedland.
West Pilbara District Officer Paul Leiper said Port Hedland DFES personnel co-ordinated an airlifted resupply to the remote Waralong community from Port Hedland.
“The re-supply was undertaken using fixed wing planes and helicopters and was supported by the Port Hedland State Emergency Service (SES), who collected supplies from local providers in Port and South Hedland,” Paul said.
“DFES and SES crews also accompanied the aircraft to assist with loading and unloading of supplies, and conducting welfare checks.”
24 24seven Issue 2, 2014
OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS
The man was flown to Hedland Health
Campus by the BHP Billiton rescue
helicopter and later transferred to Royal
Perth Hospital by the Royal Flying
Doctor Service.
Pilbara Superintendent John Newman
said the man was fortunate to be alive.
“Aside from the South Hedland VFRS
and BHP Billiton emergency services
and helicopter crew, there was also
involvement from St John Ambulance,
the Tom Price private VFRS, an Aspen
paramedic, WA Police, a doctor and
a nurse.
South Hedland Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) raced to extract a 36 year old man from his badly damaged Toyota Hilux following a traffic accident on Tuesday 22 April.
The man was driving on the Great
Northern Highway from Port Hedland
to Newman when his car collided
with a triple road train, leaving him
seriously injured and trapped inside
the wreckage.
South Hedland VFRS Captain Vaughan
Price said four brigade members were
mobilised as well as the nearby BHP
Billiton emergency response team
consisting of an ambulance and fire
truck.
“We arrived on the scene at around
11am and it took firefighters 40 minutes
to remove the wounded man.
“We did a roof fold and removed the
driver’s side door to extricate the
casualty,” Vaughan said.
“This was truly a great example of an effective multi-agency effort.
“Everyone involved is to be commended for their quick response and the part they played in saving the injured man.”
The man escaped with a broken right femur and broken ribs.
The crash occurred approximately 150 kilometres south of Port Hedland. It was 50 kilometres north of Auski Roadhouse and 50 kilometres south of the Hillside Woodstock Road, forcing the closure of the highway in both directions.
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24seven Issue 2, 2014 25
“They are unpredictable and it is very
hard to tell what the currents and the
depths are like.
“Fortunately the SES were quick to
respond to the incident and were able
to rescue those in need of help.”
Russell Levine of Exmouth SES who was
involved in rescuing a driver, said with
the heavy rainfall people couldn’t get
from one side of the town to the other.
“The water accumulates in the ranges
on the west and travels down the
gullies into Exmouth town. The flood
water then rushes through town and
floods everything,” Russell said.
“We had to firstly get to the rescue site
some hundred metres downstream,
secure ourselves, gain access to the
vehicle, get the driver off the truck and
bring him back safely to the bank.
Aside from the drivers stranded in
their vehicles in the floodwaters,
emergency services received several
other calls including one from a
nursing home where help was required
with sandbagging.
While no one was hurt, the deluge
resulted in some damage to homes
and businesses, and caused part of
the main road to collapse.
Exmouth is also a very popular tourist
destination and tourists camping in
nearby Cape Range National Park were
evacuated and housed temporarily in
Exmouth, as the park was affected by
the flood and caravans were washed
away. The park had to be closed and
assessed for damage after the incident.
Minilya-Exmouth Road from the Burkett
Road turnoff remained closed until
Monday 28 April due to extremely high
levels of water and debris.
DFES staff and SES also worked
together with the Shire of Exmouth,
WA Police, Australian Federal Police,
Horizon Power, Department of Parks
and Wildlife, Main Roads and the
community themselves to quickly
recover from the flooding event.
This was especially important as
subsequent significant rainfall was
forecast for the area only five days after
the original event. Thankfully this did not
occur to the full extent of the forecast
and the town was able to resume some
normality in the following days.
Unexpected and sudden flood waters took the northwest town of Exmouth by surprise during the ANZAC Day long weekend, with two people needing rescue from their vehicles by local State Emergency Service (SES).
On Saturday 26 April the main route
into Exmouth, Minilya-Exmouth Road,
was transformed into a river, with over
200 millimetres of rain falling on the
town and nearby Cape Range National
Park. At several floodways the water
was reportedly up to two metres deep.
West Pilbara District Officer Paul Leiper
said after little rain in the last eight
months, a string of thunderstorms hit
the town and by 4pm the main road
into Exmouth was cut off, leaving some
residents and tourists stranded.
“Unfortunately many drivers take their
lives into their hands and try and cross
the flooded waters, which in most
cases is not safe,” Paul said.
Deluge cuts off Exmouth
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OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS
The RAC Rescue helicopter arrived
just before last light and were able to lift
him to safety and fly him to Jandakot.
A relieved and grateful Kim said he was
thankful to the crew for coming to get
him just in the nick of time.
“I was in my wetsuit and prepared
to get in the water and I was going
to leave it until the very last moment
before I stepped off the boat as it was
going down,” Kim said.
“My biggest concern was stepping
off the boat and then I was going to
be alone.”
Critical Care Paramedic Clint van der
Westhuyzen was on board the RAC
Rescue helicopter and undertook the
wet winch water recovery, lifting Kim to
safety. He said Kim was well prepared
and had good safety gear on board.
“People who are not prepared make it
more difficult for us and ultimately they
make it difficult for themselves because
the result is not always as good as
this,” Clint said.
The 46 year old man, Kim Jamieson,
was 50 nautical miles west of Cape
Bouvard in the late afternoon when
his 12 metre yacht Elkin started taking
on water.
Kim set off an Emergency Position
Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) at
5.27pm to alert the Australian Maritime
Safety Authority (AMSA), who then
contacted the RAC Rescue helicopter
with his location.
As the helicopter was tracking to his
location, Kim was preparing to jump
into the water with a life ring as his
yacht continued to take on water.
It was then he was spotted by a Royal
New Zealand Air Force plane, returning
from a day of searching for the missing
MH370 aircraft, who had also picked
up the distress signal.
Upon seeing the plane circling, Kim
set off a flare to attract their attention
and they responded by dispatching
a smoke flare which the rescue crew
used to confirm Kim’s location.
RAC Rescue at last light
“Kim was also very lucky because the
weather was starting to get fierce and it
was getting dark very quickly.
“It was a great team effort between our
flight crew, with pilot Craig Bowman
flying and crewman George Cassey
getting me into the water so I could
retrieve the patient.”
Although Kim was sad to see the end
of his yacht, which he had lived on for
16 years, he was happy to be alive.
A wake was held for the Elkin at the
Fremantle Sailing Club on Saturday
10 May.
A Fremantle sailor was counting his blessings after being winched to safety by the RAC Rescue chopper as his yacht sank on 26 April.
24seven Issue 2, 2014 27
North East Superintendent Craig
Waters said battling the fire was a
co-operative multi-agency effort.
“A WA Police contingent was on
hand to manage road blocks while
support was also provided by the State
Emergency Service (SES) who set up
lighting towers and the Salvation Army
who fed the famished firefighters.
“The main impact the fire had on the
community was due to the location,
which significantly affected people’s
access to their homes.
“The fire burnt through approximately
150 hectares and residents from two
homes had to be evacuated.”
Whilst the first fire was in the later
stages of being contained, another
fire was started in the area. It raged
across the northern part of Ellenbrook
burning approximately 300 hectares of
bushland near Pineroo Terrace, Feredy
Loop and Maralla Road, with several
roads having to be closed.
The fire was met with the same concerted response from fire crews across Perth, with 90 firefighters from DFES, the Department of Parks and Wildlife and Local Government involved at the height of the fire and reinforced by air support.
The incident involved large scale evacuations, including Disability Services residents, as the fire was travelling between people’s homes.
The blaze was brought under control in five hours and took a further three days to be completely extinguished.
Superintendent Waters said it was highly concerning that someone was deliberately lighting fires in the area.
“The Ellenbrook subdivision contains significant pockets of virgin bushland and paper bark trees and while it may look nice, it creates a highly flammable environment for a residential area and increases the potential for ember attack,” he said.
“Fortunately, we were able to bring both fires under control relatively quickly before any homes were lost.”
The first blaze started at Whiteman
Park at around 3pm on Thursday
19 January, crossing Lord Street and
cutting off the main access road into
Ellenbrook for several days.
Firefighters were able to bring the fire
under control in five hours due to the
level of response from fire crews across
Perth and surrounding areas.
Station Officer Wayne Brown said at
the height of the fire 90 firefighters
were involved.
“There were 15 career and 20 volunteer
appliances, as well as support
from an air attack supervisor, two
water bombers and one air crane,”
Wayne said.
“West Swan Volunteer Bush Fire
Brigade opened up their station to help
and we were able to establish a control
point on the ground.”
An Incident Management Team
consisting of ten District Officers and
Superintendents was set up to manage
the incident.
Ellenbrook on alertMultiple fast moving fires in Ellenbrook kept firefighters busy in the January heat, as they tirelessly battled to save many homes in the area.
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28 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 29
OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS
Members of the community used
social media to spread the word, and
hundreds of people also assisted with
the search for the child.
Mundaring SES volunteer Lin Booth
was appointed SES Commander at
8.45pm and SES units were deployed
from Northam, Mundaring and Swan,
along with York Volunteer Emergency
Service and the SES Canine Unit.
“After a briefing the searchers went
straight to work, including SES dog
Jemma and her volunteer handler
Leonie Briggs as well as Karma and
handler Stephanie Briggs,” Lin said.
Leonie, who is also an SES Canine
Section Manager, said that both dogs
and handlers began scouring different
parts of the home paddock, each
accompanied by a police officer.
“After initially tackling the paddock,
we then searched around the dams,”
Leonie said.
It was a happy reunion for a Clackline family when their missing four year old toddler was found safe and well by a State Emergency Service (SES) canine and volunteer dog handler.
The child’s parents had put the boy to
bed early in the evening on Sunday
16 February, only to discover an hour
later that he was gone.
As the family dog was also nowhere to
be found, it prompted the realisation
they may have wandered off together.
The property was a small hobby farm
with paddocks, horses and three large
dams, and fears for the boy’s safety
increased as darkness fell.
WA Police were called in to co-ordinate
a search and, as the hazard managers,
they requested the assistance of SES
volunteers and trained search canines.
“Once these areas had been cleared,
we approached a vacant house on
Great Eastern Highway about 800
metres from the boy’s home.
“Jemma and I scouted around the
exterior and when we checked the
verandah she began barking repeatedly.
“After looking through a window we
spotted the child who appeared to
be asleep.
“The police officers were able to enter
the property through an unlocked door
where the boy was sleeping soundly
with his dog close by.”
Leonie said it was a good outcome that
was achieved quite quickly.
“The important thing was that both the
child and dog were found unharmed
and no worse for the experience, which
was a great relief to his family.”
The SES Canine Unit is always looking for handlers and dogs. Anyone who wants to find out more can call Leonie Briggs on 08 9293 3458.
Four legged friend finds missing child
28 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 29
to co-ordinate a whole of community
response effort.
“An immediate response was provided
by Kununurra State Emergency Service
(SES) and they were well supported
by the local Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service, as well as volunteers from as
far afield as Broome,” Graham said.
“Staff from the Department of Parks
and Wildlife and the Shire of Wyndham
East Kimberley also helped. This was
truly a co-operative interagency effort
to ensure the health and safety of
the community.
“DFES received 39 requests for assistance, with volunteers helping community members with relocations, sandbagging and covering damaged roofs with tarpaulins.”
Road closures were put in effect for Victoria Highway between the Northern Territory border and the Great Northern Highway, as well as the Great Northern between Warmun and Wyndham.
Two remote communities, including 20 people from Emu Creek and nine people from Bell Springs, had to be relocated by helicopter to Kununurra for three days during the incident, due to rising flood waters.
A welfare centre was set up at the Kununurra Leisure Centre by the Department for Child Protection and Family Support, for these communities and others badly affected or stranded by the torrential rain and flooding.
The floods caused widespread
damage to homes and shops in the
area, as well as water and sewerage
infrastructure, storm water drains,
roads and floodway culverts.
SES volunteers conducted rapid
damage assessments after the rain had
finally ceased, to help identify damaged
properties and speed the recovery effort.
The total damage across all agencies
was estimated at over $11million dollars.
A slow moving tropical low brought
heavy rainfall to the region from
Thursday 6 February to early Monday
10 February, causing rising rivers, flash
flooding and damage to many homes.
Over the course of the incident the
rainfall reached levels as high as
422.8 millimetres in Kununurra and
624.4 millimetres at the Microwave
Tower weather station, affecting not
only the town site but also surrounding
irrigation channels and arterial roads.
The deluge started around 5pm
Thursday night. By the next morning
streets in lower areas of Kununurra
were flooded, power had been cut,
highways were closed and planes were
being diverted as the low hovered
over the region. The flooding reached
the town centre by mid afternoon and
business owners were forced to start
sandbagging their shops as the rain
showed no signs of letting up.
Natural Hazards District Officer
Graham Sears said DFES acted quickly
Two months after the flash flooding in the Kimberley, communities were still working hard to recover from what is now being described as a one in a hundred year event.
Kimberley contends with flash flooding
30 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 31
OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS
sergeant, initially responded to the
incident, arriving at around 1am.
“Those first on the scene determined
more assistance was needed to bring
the blaze under control and called for
help,” he said.
“They kept the situation controlled and
monitored traffic until firefighters and
Main Roads traffic controllers arrived.
Two career firefighters and I were flown
into the area to assist.
“All in all, it took around 18 hours until
the fire was out completely but the road
was safely re-opened early Monday
afternoon to allow people through.”
While the truck was completely gutted
by the fire, the driver was uninjured.
Goldfields/Midlands Superintendent
Trevor Tasker said although it was
an unfortunate incident that caused
significant delays for those travelling
between the states, no one was
harmed.
“It was a great effort by all involved
to keep people in the area safe
and to bring the fire under control,”
Trevor said.
The exact cause of the fire has not
been determined, however Ian said
transporting gas cylinders can be
potentially hazardous and great care
should be taken.
“As gas pressure is high, a ruptured
cylinder or valve can cause serious
injury or damage. Some gases are very
flammable and a leakage can create
an explosive atmosphere in a vehicle,”
Ian said.
“People transporting potentially
hazardous substances also need to
make sure that information about what
they are carrying is readily available.
“What made it difficult for us in this
instance was that there was no
placarding on the vehicle and no
manifest, so there was very little
information available about what
chemicals were present.”
A truck fire on the Eyre Highway in early April forced the closure of the only road link between Western Australia and South Australia for 13 hours.
The incident started at 11.40pm on
a privately own freight truck, which
was carrying a load that included gas
cylinders and mixed chemicals.
Travelling on the Eyre Highway, it was
15 kilometres west of the Mundrabilla
Roadhouse and 77 kilometres
west of Eucla, close to the South
Australian border.
Kalgoorlie District Officer Ian
Thompson said two volunteers from
the Eucla Volunteer Emergency
Services, including a local police
Truck fire on Eyre Highway
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30 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 31
section of roof hanging over the side of
the three storey building,” Nick said.
“We then secured the roof structure
ready for handover to the builders who
had been arranged by the property
agent.
“Some of the torn metal from the roof also caused damage to the house next door but fortunately no one was home at the neighbouring property at the time. Volunteers worked quickly to prevent further damage to the property.
“All up it took us around five hours to make that particular scene safe.”
Aside from dealing with this incident, dozens of SES volunteers across Perth and the South West responded and made temporary repairs to homes, fixed minor roof damage and removed fallen trees from homes, cars and fences.
They were supported by career Fire and Rescue Service firefighters, while personnel from WA Police and Western Power also worked in partnership with DFES.
Bringing winds of more than 100
kilometres an hour and 50 millimetres
of rain, the cold front caused damage
and power outages in Perth and parts
of the South West.
DFES answered more than 90 calls
for help. The suburb of Cockburn was
worst hit with 16 calls for help, while
there were six requests for assistance
in the South West region.
Major damage was reported in
Hawkstone Street in Cottesloe after
a squally gust ripped the roof off of
a three storey building. Residents
from the top floor of the building were
evacuated but luckily no one was hurt
due to the prompt response from
emergency services.
Northshore State Emergency Service
(SES) Local Manager Nick Elliott said
SES volunteers were called in to clean
up and secure the site.
“A team of six SES volunteers attended
and our initial task was to remove the
immediate danger, which was the large
SES Change Manager District Officer
Allen Gale said the key to staying safe
and reducing property damage for the
storm season was preparation.
“Each year from May to October,
storms including tornados, thunder,
lightning, hail, flash flooding and gale
force winds impact our state causing
major destruction to the southern half
of WA,” Allen said.
“Dangerous storms are the most
common natural hazard in Australia
and they can cause millions of dollars
in property damage and pose a huge
threat to people.
“Across the lower part of WA, DFES
responded to a total of 87 storm related
incidents last year and dedicated
volunteers contributed over 4,800
hours responding to storms.”
DFES attended more than 880
requests for assistance in 2013 which
included roof damage, water inundation
and fallen trees.
Early storms a timely reminderIn the lead up to Storm Awareness Week which encourages people to prepare their homes for storm season, overnight thunderstorms on Wednesday 7 May were a timely reminder of the destruction severe weather can cause.
32 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 33 32 24seven Issue 2, 2014
OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS
hazards and fire cause determination amongst other things,” he said.
“As a part of the training a series of simulated situations are set up in a controlled environment to demonstrate an actual ‘live burn’.
“The simulations take place in common areas where house fires begin and involve incidents such as a heater setting bed linen alight and a battery charger overheating under a pile of clothing.
“In Tuesday’s simulation we undertook a larger controlled burn of the room and let it go until it reached flash over.
“These exercises are carefully managed and they enable FIAU students to observe fire behaviour and growth within a structure.”
Station Officer Ryan Murtagh said it gave him a better understanding of fire behaviour and how fire spreads.
“Training exercises like these teach you
how to read a fire scene and to become
more aware of what it is telling you.
“It also shows that the greater the care
taken with the fire scene and the better
preserved it is then the easier it is to
determine the cause.
“Overall it has been challenging and
intensive but it has taught me to take
a scientific approach, to remove any
bias and look at things in a logical and
progressive way,” Ryan said.
Other important elements of the
course include legal requirements and
powers, evidence and information
gathering, incendiary devices, fatal
fires, motives of a firelighter and
presenting evidence in court.
“The aim of the FIAU is to identify fire
trends, analyse them and put measures
in place to reduce their frequency. This
will ultimately save lives, reduce injuries
and enormous financial impact that fire
has on the community,” said Andrew.
State wide the FIAU investigated
123 fire incidents in the last year.
A group of firefighters and WA Police arson squad members stand on the front lawn observing as the fire reaches flash over and is quickly extinguished by the firefighters at the ready.
The fire was caused by a badly placed candle, however this was not your typical structure fire incident but a training exercise.
The two week structural fire investigation course commenced on Monday 5 May for metropolitan and country operational crews, as well as representatives from the WA Police Arson Squad.
The course is run every few years by the Fire Investigation Analysis Unit (FIAU) to train new Fire Investigation Officers (FIOs) and give existing FIOs some timely revision prior to the winter months when structure fires increase.
FIAU District Officer Andrew Duckworth said the course focuses on a range of essential topics.
“We cover a variety of subjects including fire language, indicators and patterns, scene investigation, and
Fighting fire with fireIt is around 2.30pm on a Tuesday afternoon and black smoke billows from a house in an otherwise quiet street in suburban Nollamara, as flames engulf the front living room.
32 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 33
RESOURCES AND TRAINING
24seven Issue 2, 2014 33
away from an unconscious person and
not see them.
“The thermal imaging cameras are
extremely useful as they cut through
the smoke and provide an amazingly
accurate image of what is happening,
by utilising infrared to detect body heat.
“The cameras can also be used
to identify hidden hot spots during
a structure fire, which is already
becoming a common practice for
career fire crews.
“Each of the four volunteer brigades
is an asset to their community and
the donated cameras will be another
weapon in their arsenal when it comes
to fighting fires.”
Captain of Eaton Australind VFRS
and Worsley Emergency Response
Co-ordinator Matt Stoltenbarg said the
cameras were a life saving resource for
firefighters and the community.
“We have already had considerable use
out of them at numerous structural fires
and vehicle fires, as well as identifying
hot spots during mop up activities
during the last fire season.
“The thermal image cameras are not
only good for training purposes but
also mean we can improve evidence
available for fire investigation.”
With a total value of $33,374, the
cameras were generously donated
by BHP Billiton Worsley Alumina,
through the proceeds of its scrap metal
recycling program.
Bunbury District Officer Peter Stewart
said the thermal imaging cameras are
a valuable resource to the volunteer
brigades and will allow firefighters to
quickly determine the source of fire
by seeing through the smoke and
detecting hotspots.
“During a house fire one of the first
duties is to account for all occupants
and if necessary conduct an internal
search,” Peter said.
“Visibility is often difficult inside smoke
filled room. A firefighter could be metres
Representatives from Eaton/Australind, Brunswick, Collie and Donnybrook fire and rescue crews and Worsley with the new cameras.
Thermal imaging cameras hit the spot
Volunteer Fire and Rescue crews in Eaton/Australind, Brunswick, Collie and Donnybrook have welcomed the four new thermal imaging cameras which will improve fire services capabilities at incidents.
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34 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 35
RESOURCES AND TRAINING
Emergency Services Minister Joe Francis announced in early July that the RAC had been selected as the naming rights sponsor for the rescue helicopter, enabling the service to continue delivering help to West Australians involved in medical emergencies.
“This sponsorship is invaluable in supporting the delivery of this vital emergency service in Western Australia,” Mr Francis said.
“Over the past 11 years, the rescue chopper has completed close to 3,750 missions. During that time, its highly skilled flight crew and critical care paramedics have saved hundreds of lives.
“RAC Rescue plays a crucial role in community safety by providing a rapid response during emergencies when lives are in danger. In times of trouble, it’s reassuring for all of us to know that the rescue service is ready to help, every hour of the day, every day of the year.
Commissioner Wayne Gregson echoed these sentiments and said it was highly positive to see the RAC’s sponsorship of the vital rescue helicopter continuing.
“The RAC have been sponsoring the emergency rescue helicopter service since it was first established in 2003,” he said.
“It has been a very effective long term partnership and we are pleased to be renewing our agreement with them for another term.”
Former RAC Rescue patient Shannon Bray was present for the announcement and said she was extremely thankful for the help she received following a horse riding accident in March this year.
Whilst she was training at the Brigadoon Equestrian Centre, Shannon’s horse reared up and fell backwards landing on top of her. Shannon said as the horse attempted to scramble to its feet, it fell on her again.
“In the process of that he broke a few ribs, punctured one of my lungs and we thought at the time he had broken my back,” Shannon said.
Shannon Bray sits in the RAC Rescue helicopter that once transported her to hospital, accompanied by pilot Michael Peren and RAC President Esme Bowe.
Due to Shannon’s suspected spinal injuries, the RAC Rescue helicopter was sent for her as transport by road ambulance could have risked causing further spinal injuries, particularly due to the bumpy roads in the area.
“I remember two guys coming towards me and it looked like something from Top Gun,” Shannon said.
“They were straight onto things and getting me into the chopper.
“The ambo said to let it sit there a bit so my blood pressure could level out and then we slowly took off so as not to spook any of the other horses there.
“I’m very grateful to them, as are my mum and dad, my family and friends, for all the great work they did.
“Every day that I live is incredible and I owe a big thank you to them.”
The rescue service is managed by DFES and funded by the State Government, with the assistance of RAC sponsorship.
Life-saving RAC Rescue sponsorship enduresThe RAC will continue its important community safety partnership with DFES by sponsoring our Perth-based emergency rescue helicopter for another four years.
34 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 35
conditions with elaborate reef systems
and high tidal movements,” Assistant
Commissioner Swift said.
“Recreational and tourist boating
activity has been steadily increasing
as access to the area improves
in conjunction with industry and
community growth in the wider
Kimberley region.”
Captain of the vessel and Bardi Jawi
head ranger Phillip McCarthy said
his team had worked extremely hard
to secure the boat and complete the
marine training required to operate it.
“We have undertaken significant
marine training and are aiming for
all of our rangers to have coxswain
qualifications, so they can skipper the
vessel. We have also completed marine
rescue training so we will be able to
use the vessel to assist in emergency
situations,’’ he said.
The Bardi Jawi people of One Arm
Point and Lombadina/Djarindjin are
a traditional owner group of over
900 people who reside in the area.
The specialised ranger boat Almban,
meaning westerly wind in Bardi
language, was launched on Friday 2
May at One Arm Point. It will enable the
rangers to access, manage and protect
the remote islands and coastline of the
Dampier Peninsula.
The new eight metre vessel is a global
marine design air-rider tri-hull vessel,
which was purpose built for the Bardi
Jawi rangers and can carry a crew
of eight. Equipped with the latest
marine communications and search
technology, it will enable the rangers to
more effectively perform their marine
rescue activities.
Assistant Commissioner Graham
Swift said the Bardi Jawi rangers
provide a marine search and rescue
response for communities and visitors
of the One Arm Point region of the
Dampier Peninsula.
“The Bardi Jawi rangers provide a
much needed emergency response
capability in a remote part of WA that
can experience treacherous marine
In addition to the on call marine
rescue operations, they perform
a number of a natural and cultural
resource management activities as
well as community engagement and
research activities.
Facilitated by the Kimberley Land
Council, the Bardi Jawi rangers are
responsible for managing the 200
kilometres of coastline within the Bardi
Jawi native title area and implementing
targeted conservation management
strategies within the Bardi Jawi
Indigenous Protected Area.
Jointly funded through DFES,
Lotterywest and the Department
of Aboriginal Affairs the new vessel
provides a significant stepping stone
for rescue response, training and
skills development.
© K
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Almban to the rescueMarine search and rescue resources in the Kimberley have increased with the delivery of a new purpose built vessel to the Bardi Jawi rangers.
36 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 37
RESOURCES AND TRAINING
New station protecting Perth’s north-east
“The construction of the station reflects
the critical importance of ensuring the
best possible facilities are provided
to those who serve on the frontline,”
he said.
“It is about enabling our firefighters
to be readily prepared for all
circumstances, ranging from
hazardous material incidents through to
road crashes and of course, bushfires.”
The fire station has been fully
operational since December 2013
and its facilities were put to the test
in January during the Parkerville and
Banjup bushfires.
North East Metropolitan A/District
Officer David Radford said the large
appliance bays allowed additional
preformed strike teams to respond
strategically from the station during
these major incidents.
“The additional capacity provided
flexibility so that resources could be
allocated where and when they were
needed the most,” David said.
The fire station houses all previous
personnel from the Bassendean
Fire Station.
A new state of the art fire station opened in the north eastern suburb of Kiara on Monday 10 March and will enhance emergency response capabilities locally in the Cities of Swan and Bayswater.
Emergency Services Minister
Joe Francis said the new station,
located on Morley Drive East, could
serve as a base for strike teams in the
event of fire emergencies, giving DFES
extra capability and capacity during
major incidents.
“With the construction and
commissioning of this $5.3 million
station, firefighters will have access
to a state of the art, purpose built
facility to meet both present and future
requirements,” Mr Francis said.
“The fire station has large
appliance bays and increased
accommodation capacity to allow
for subsequent expansions.
“It also includes a breathing apparatus
servicing area, training tower and
vehicle rescue training pad, as well as
offices, training and study rooms.”
Fire and Emergency Services
Commissioner Gregson said the
opening of a new career fire station
is always a significant event for
the Department.
36 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 37
Volunteers from the Darlington volunteer Bush Fire Brigade (BFB) have put their new fleet addition, a dual cab Toyota HiLux, to good use at incidents in the Perth Hills over recent months.
The second hand vehicle, like its
predecessor, was generously donated
by Rio Tinto. Volunteer firefighters,
led by Nigel Morgan and Helmut Hilz,
worked wonders to transform and
badge it for the brigade.
Darlington Fire Control Officer Greg
Jack said the valuable resource was
more than proving its worth supporting
firefighting operations.
Darlington BFB welcomes new support vehicle
“The vehicle has a multi-purpose
capability,” Greg said.
“It can be used for deploying the
collar tank and fire support trailers
as well as transferring fire crews to
and from fire grounds, delivering
supplies and welfare to incidents, and
supporting Incident Management Team
operations.”
Metropolitan Assistant Commissioner
Brad Stringer said the donated
resource was brought on stream at an
opportune time.
“The vehicle was certainly put to good
use during the Parkerville-Stoneville
bushfire when it was utilised as
an incident management vehicle,”
Brad said.
“State Government funding provides a
certain amount of vehicles, appliances
and equipment. When brigades receive
additional support from other areas it
complements their fleet and assists
with mobilisation throughout the Hills
escarpment.
“The Darlington Brigade is both a great
supporter of the community and a
strong community based organisation,
and this donated vehicle is an asset to
their operations.”
The Darlington Brigade is both a great supporter of the community and a strong community based organisation …
Handing over of the keys – Metropolitan Assistant Commissioner Brad Stringer, Darlington Bush Fire Brigade Fire Control Officer Greg Jack, James Petty from Rio Tinto and Mundaring Shire President Helen Dullard.
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38 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 39
RESOURCES AND TRAINING
local governments to assess risks
in the area and protect community
infrastructure, such as schools,
hospitals, communication towers and
bridges against bushfire threat.
“A pilot program has also commenced
with the Shires of Augusta-Margaret
River, Boyup Brook, Collie and Nannup
to develop bushfire risk management
plans to protect the community.
“The comprehensive plans will identify
vulnerable communities, as well as
key assets and infrastructure to be
protected based on importance to
the community.
The stations have been boosted with
extra fire trucks, improved response
arrangements, specialised training and
extra crew protection systems.
Emergency Services Minister Joe
Francis, who visited each of the
stations, said the upgrades were
part of a $7million State Government
investment to improve firefighting
capabilities in the region.
“As we know from the Margaret River
fires two years ago, the Capes region
is a high bushfire risk area so we have
responded with extra protection for the
community,” he said.
The five stations will operate as both
Bush Fire Brigades and as Volunteer
Fire and Rescue Services, meaning
the region will have volunteers with
the skills and equipment to fight all
types of fires.
Capes District Officer Danny Mosconi
said there are more than 1,400
dedicated volunteer firefighters in the
Capes region.
“This additional capability will ensure
they are well placed to deliver for the
future needs of our growing population
in the event of fire or emergency,”
Danny said.
“In addition, DFES and volunteers
have been working together with the
“It is projects like this that are vital
in achieving effective and efficient
management of bushfire related risks in
Western Australia.”
The program involves both state and
local government agencies, community
members and private landowners,
reinforcing the message that the
mitigation of bushfire risk needs to be a
shared commitment.
Minister Joe Francis MLA with Captain of Yallingup Coastal BFS Peter MacDonald and Captain of Yallingup Coast VFRS Paul Blight.
Extra boost for South West Capes
Five upgraded volunteer fire stations officially opened on Friday 7 March in Dunsborough, Cowaramup, Yallingup, Wallcliffe and Witchcliffe, making the volunteer firefighters in the Lower South West Capes region better equipped than ever to protect local communities.
38 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 39
DFES has now adopted a new public number for the emergency information phone line – 13 DFES or 13 3337.
The phone line enables people to listen to recorded information about current DFES incidents. In a major incident it also links to a call centre in the State Operations Centre.
Community feedback indicated that the former phone number (1300 657 209) was difficult to remember, and a shorter number was preferred.
The new number is now live, although the former one will remain active for the foreseeable future.
Sincere condolences go to the family, friends and colleagues of these personnel who have passed away.
Alby Crocker – Senior Firefighter (retired) at Albany Fire Station
Ray Beasley – Captain of Tammin Volunteer Fire Service
Allan Bourne – member of Glen Forrest Bush Fire Brigade
Allan Brinkworth – Station Officer (retired) at Belmont Fire Station
Ted Clothier – Station Officer (retired) at Welshpool Fire Station, member of DFES Vintage Restoration Team
Darol Hay – member of South West Regional Headquarters Incident Control Vehicle crew
Ian Hills – District Officer Shift (retired) at Fremantle Fire Station
Robert Lewis – member of Augusta/Margaret River State Emergency Service
Bruce Lillywhite – District Officer Goldfields (retired)
Bill “Tiger” Lyons – Senior Firefighter (retired) at Mandurah Fire Station
Tom Miller AFSM – member of Bunbury Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service
Colin ‘Robbie’ Robinson AFSM – Superintendent (retired)
Ron Sargent AFSM – Chief Officer (retired) at WA Fire Brigades Board
Nial Wilmot – SES Regional Director South West (retired)
DFES will again be hosting a special Thanksgiving Prayer Service.
It is being held in recognition and appreciation of the vital role that Western Australia’s fire and emergency services play in protecting local communities.
The church service, which is open for community members to attend, will also thank families and loved ones for their wonderful support.
The service will be multi denominational and a unique opportunity for everybody involved in the State’s emergency services to join together and give thanks.
Service of Thanksgiving Date: Sunday 26 October 2014
Time: 5pm – 6pm followed by a light supper
Location: St George’s Cathedral, 38 St Georges Terrace Perth
Dress: Dress uniform or smart casual required
RSVP: 17 October 2014 [email protected] Phone 9395 9520
13 DFES
40 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 41
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
information on home fire safety, smoke alarms and evacuation plans.
As Bushfire Ready facilitators, Chris and Bob have both worked hard to build the capacity of the community to be able to prepare for and respond to bushfires.
This has involved conducting numerous community engagement activities including street meets, station open days, information displays and community meetings. They are currently responsible for overseeing 40 Bushfire Ready Street Co-ordinators, who they train and support to operate the program in their area.
Assistant Commissioner Gary Gifford
said Chris and Bob have been leaders
in the field for many years.
“They have both been members of
the Roleystone Volunteer Fire Brigade
for over 20 years and for the past 12
years they have both volunteered their
time to be JAFFA Support Officers and
Bushfire Ready Facilitators,” Gary said.
Volunteers Chris Cairns and Bob Littman from the Roleystone Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service were recently presented with an award from the Injury Control Council of WA (ICCWA) in recognition of their outstanding achievement in injury prevention and safety.
Volunteers awarded for injury prevention and safety
“Whilst they have always been
recognised at the local level, it is
fantastic that their achievements have
now been acknowledged by the State.
“Chris and Bob donate hundreds of
hours each year to these valuable
community safety programs. They have
had a positive influence on dozens of
children and have touched the lives of
many people in their community.
“The efforts of Bob, Chris and the
Roleystone Volunteer Fire Brigade
have provided community members
with the skills to prepare and respond
to bushfires. Residents have also
benefited from being part of a
supportive network, which enables
them to work together more effectively.”
For more information on the JAFFA or Bushfire Ready Programs, contact DFES Community Engagement on 08 9395 9816.
Bob and Chris were awarded for their commitment to community engagement programs promoting injury prevention and safety
The two volunteers have worked on the JAFFA
program for 12 years
The two volunteers were joint recipients of ICCWA’s 2014 ‘Individual Achievement Award’ for their commitment to DFES Community Engagement programs including the Juvenile and Family Fire Awareness (JAFFA) and Bushfire Ready programs.
Through their voluntary work as JAFFA Support Officers, Chris and Bob provide education and intervention to address fire lighting behaviour in children. Over the past 12 years they have visited the homes of many children, delivering fire safety education which addresses the risks associated with each child’s fire behaviour.
They also discuss burn injuries, legal consequences, the potential impact on the environment and emergency service workers, and provide
40 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 41
Mr Ambler was also presented with his
Second Clasp to the National Medal.
Emergency Services Minister Joe
Francis made the presentations and
congratulated all of the recipients.
“It is an honour to recognise firefighters
and other operations personnel who
have spent many years protecting life
and property,” Mr Francis said.
“The awarding of these medals and
plaques is a chance to thank people
who do not seek recognition and who
consider the exceptional work they do
as just part of the job.”
Mr Francis said loyalty and dedication
were increasingly rare qualities in
today’s workforce, making the long
service and commitment all the
more remarkable.
Longest serving member Station Officer Terry Ambler (45 years) with Minister Joe Francis MLA.
“While some actively serve on the
operational frontline as firefighters,
others are involved behind the scenes
in management or administrative
support roles.
“Whatever your area of expertise, the
awarding of the medals and plaques
is our way of saying thank you, and an
expression of our appreciation for all
that you have achieved.”
Firefighters and emergency services personnel past and present were honoured at a prestigious ceremony at the Government House Ballroom in Perth on Tuesday 25 March.
Recognising more than 2600 years of service
A total of 121 career personnel were
recognised with National Medals and
Emergency Service Diligent Service
Medals (ESDSM).
The National Medals and Clasps
honour the long and diligent service
to the community by our operational
personnel. Many also qualified for their
ESDSM and Clasps in recognition
of their time with DFES. Between
operational and corporate staff, the
group’s collective service amounted to
an outstanding 2605 years.
A further 26 firefighters and six
operational staff, who retired after a
combined 930 years of service, were
also acknowledged for their dedicated,
longstanding service with DFES.
Station Officers Terry Ambler and
Ted Tait were honoured as the longest
serving members there on the day
for their 45 and 40 years of service
respectively.
42 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 43
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
40 years of Hills Fire Brigade
“The Darlington BFB was involved in
setting up aerial fire suppression in
the Perth metropolitan area, leading to
the formation of both the Air Wing and
Collar Tank operations. These are both
now a regular and important part of
DFES firefighting operations.
“The brigade was also a leader in
establishing mobile forward command
facilities with one of Perth’s first Incident
Control Vehicles (ICV),” he said.
Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey
presented a plaque to commemorate
the anniversary, and reflected on some
of the brigade’s achievements.
“Four decades as a volunteer fire
service is a significant accomplishment,
especially when you consider the fast
pace and competing demands of our
busy world,” Lloyd said.
“The importance of community
has always been a constant at the
heart of the brigade’s activities, as
has the unwavering commitment of
its members to protecting people,
property and the environment.
Attended by over 100 people, the event
was a fitting commemoration of an
important milestone. Past and present
members were joined by their partners,
brigade life members, politicians,
senior representatives from DFES and
the Shire of Mundaring, and other
community members to reminisce on
the brigade’s history and celebrate its
strong future.
Darlington BFB President Neil
Inwood said the brigade currently
boasts a membership of around 60
hardworking volunteers.
“Whilst the Darlington district has had a
volunteer fire brigade on and off since
1948, the current Darlington Bush
Fire Brigade was formed in 1974 and
has been faithfully serving the Hills
community ever since,” Neil said.
“From modest beginnings in a tin shed,
we have steadily grown over the years,
resulting in two significant station
renovations to increase our capacity
and act as a base for volunteers, as
well as up to five vehicles and two
operational trailers.
Darlington BFB Chairman Neil Inwood and Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey.
“Not only have volunteers turned out
to fight fires in their own patch, as they
did recently during the major Parkerville
bushfire, but also further afield. These
have stretched from the Kimberley in
the north to the Great Southern region,
and the Eastern States.
“The loyalty and dedication of brigade
members has remained strong
throughout the years, something that
is reflected in its consistently high
membership level.
“I would like to congratulate past
and present volunteers for the great
dedication and service that has led to
this milestone.”
The Darlington BFB has also held
strong links to the Mundaring
Firefighters School for nearly two
decades, Australia’s only fully volunteer
operated firefighter training facility.
The Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade (BFB) celebrated its 40th anniversary in March with a formal dinner at the beautiful Darlington Estate Winery.
© R
icky
Har
vey
© R
icky
Har
vey
42 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 43 24seven Issue 2, 2014 43
Noel Plowman AFSMNoel has been involved in the
Roleystone Fire Brigades for more
than 30 years and is regarded as a
pillar of his local community. He is
a highly motivated and committed
member who has held many different
brigade positions over three decades.
Noel was the driving force behind
the establishment of the Roleystone
Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service
and the refurbishment of the brigade’s
headquarters. In 2006 he established a
new cadet unit for local youths interested
in firefighter training. Thanks to his
dedication, several of these cadets are
now in the senior levels of the brigade.
Merrilyn Hide ESMMerrilyn has been honoured for her
unwavering dedication to the Volunteer
Marine Rescue Services (VMRS) and
in particular, the Leeman VMR. After
commencing with the group as a
radio operator, she took on the role
of Secretary in 2006 and became
Commander three years later. Using her
exceptional leadership skills and positive
attitude, she has worked tirelessly to
transform the group into an active and
vibrant one with a high public profile in
the community. Merrilyn has proven to
be an active and diligent member who
always goes above and beyond to serve
the community.
John Iffla ESMIn addition to his exemplary commitment
to the Bremer Bay Volunteer Emergency
Service (VES) unit and his local
community, John has been a leading
advocate for emergency services
volunteers throughout Western Australia.
He instigated the establishment of
the Coalition of Volunteer Emergency
Services Associations and has
dedicated an extraordinary amount of
time as President of the Emergency
Services Volunteers Association to
represent the interests of the VES units.
The AFSM and ESM recognise distinguished service by volunteer or career members of an Australian fire or emergency service and only a limited number of medals are awarded each year.
Congratulations to the following recipients:
Brian Landers AFSMBrian’s valued service to the Goldfields
community has been recognised with
this award. A former Station Officer
with the Fire and Rescue Service in
Kalgoorlie, he began his career in 1968
and retired in 2013. Brian served as
a Juvenile and Family Fire Awareness
(JAFFA) Support Officer and Peer
Support Officer. His experience and
knowledge in the JAFFA role led
him to be a mentor for new support
officers. Brian has also undertaken
valuable education work with
Indigenous communities.
Medal recipients (l-r) Brian Landers, Noel Plowman, Merrilyn Hide and John Iffla were presented with their medals by the Governor of Western Australia His Excellency Malcolm McCusker AC CVO QC on Australia Day 2014.
Four feature in Australia Day Honours
44 24seven Issue 2, 2014
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Five Western Australian recipients of the Australian Fire
Service Medal (AFSM) and Emergency Services Medal (ESM)
were recognised in the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours List,
announced by His Excellency General the Honourable Sir
Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), Governor-General of Australia.
The prestigious AFSM and ESM recognise distinguished
service by a volunteer or career member of an Australian fire
or emergency service.
The AFSM will be presented to Secretary for the United
Firefighters Union (UFU) of Australia WA Branch Mr Kevin
Jolly, DFES Station Officer and UFU WA Branch President
Frank Martinelli, and Tambellup Volunteer Emergency Services
Unit member Laurie Hull.
The ESM will be presented to Vice Commander of the
Volunteer Marine Rescue Association Western Australia Roger
Martin and Karratha State Emergency Service Local Manager
Trevor Patton.
Moving on upCongratulations to eleven new District Officers and also Syd Bignell who has been promoted to Superintendent.
Seated: Assistant Commissioner Darren Klemm, Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey AFSM, Commissioner Wayne Gregson APM, Deputy Commissioner Steve Fewster Standing: Superintendent Syd Bignell, DO Brynn Weir, DO Anthony Sadler, DO David Young, DO David Gill, DO Warren Male, DO David Wilson, DO Ross Bradshaw, DO John Manocchio, DO Andrew Duckworth, DO Wayne Green, DO Mark Feast
Bedfordale Bush Fire Brigade members (l-r) Stephen Smith, Lieutenant Nino Scidone, Mark Puttick, Lieutenant Michael Hall, Alex Leach and Michael McCavanagh were presented with their bravery decorations by the Governor of Western Australia His Excellency Malcolm McCusker AC CVO QC (centre).
Australian Bravery Decorations recipients
2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours List
24seven Issue 2, 2014 45
people from cadets through to adult
volunteering.
“We are seeing a new era where an increasing number of young people are interested in taking on adult volunteer roles after graduating from cadets.”
Cadet, instructor and school awards were presented to the recipients by DFES operational and corporate staff within the respective regions at school assemblies and functions. The BGU-ESCC awards were presented at the annual Shire of Denmark Bush Fire Brigade’s Feast Not Fire Dinner.
Cadet Achievement AwardCampbell Simpson – Wongan Hills District High School
Instructor Achievement AwardRichard Hall – Lake Joondalup Baptist College
Johann Schoeman –
Kingsway Christian College
Unit Achievement AwardTom Price Emergency Services Cadet Corps
Host School – Unit Support AwardBridgetown High School
Brigade/Group/Unit – Emergency Service Cadet Corps Unit Support AwardShire of Denmark Bushfire Brigades
• Carmarthen Bush Fire Brigade (BFB)
• Ocean Beach Bush Fire Brigade
• Somerset Hill Bush Fire Brigade
Three bush fire brigades in Denmark were recognised together with the inaugural BGU-ESCC award due to the outstanding work they undertake in the region.
Ross McDoughall of Somerset Hill Bush Fire Brigade spoke very highly of the Denmark District High School Emergency Services Cadets.
“When I look at the calibre of the cadets coming through the program I no longer worry about the future of volunteering in our town,” Ross said.
The Emergency Service Cadet Corps
(ESCC) Awards are held each year to
recognise ESCC cadets, instructors,
units and host schools who have made
a significant contribution.
The 2013 awards were presented
earlier this year within their own local
communities and a brand new award
was introduced to acknowledge the
ongoing support provided by brigades,
groups and units (BGU).
Volunteer and Youth Services Project
Officer Jo Scardigno said it was
important to recognise the contribution
that BGUs make towards capacity
building for cadets.
“They support cadets and their
instructors not only by providing fire
and emergency services technical
training but also through sharing
resources and experience, and
importantly, through involving cadets
in volunteer based community
engagement activities,” Jo said.
“If a partnership is fostered between
the cadet unit and the brigade then this
encourages the progression of young
(l-r) Superintendent Daniel Austin, Cadet Sam Marsh, Community Emergency Services Manager Nathan Hall, Lez Baines of Carmarthen BFB , Ross McDoughall of Somerset Hill BFB, Cadet Ryan Christophers and Joe Baker of Ocean Beach BFB, at the Feast Not Fire dinner.
Building cadets of calibre
46 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 47
YOUTH
EM
ER
GENCY SERVICES
C
ADET CORPS
Change it upThree Western Australian volunteers attend the Young Emergency Management Volunteers ‘Change It Up’ event.
and to help shape and develop youth emergency management volunteering within our local communities.
This was an amazing experience and
I look forward to what the future has to
bring and the opportunities I can create.
Sarah ThomasKalamunda Bush Fire Brigade volunteer
I was lucky enough to be chosen
to represent the WA Volunteer BFS
and attend.
Young volunteers from across Australia
came together to voice their ideas and
opinions on recruiting and retaining
more youth in the volunteering world.
The facilitators used many different
techniques so they could get a better
understanding of our ideas, and gave
us a sense of reassurance that things
are going to change.
Each participant came up with a big
question that was formatted into our
big idea and presented in front of a
panel of four judges. The panel was
so impressed with our ideas that they
decided to fund the group’s visit to
Queensland for the 23rd International
Association for Volunteer Effort to
represent the volunteering youth
of Australia.
‘Change It Up’ was such an amazing
experience I would not change it for
anything. The thought that other young
people share my beliefs and passion
is very encouraging and has made me
even more determined to increase the
volunteering youth ratio.
I have learnt more than I ever thought
I would about other emergency
services and I am so excited to see
where we all end up.
Melusha RobsonCommunications Support Unit State
Emergency Service volunteer
I was lucky to be selected to represent
the WA State Emergency Service (SES)
at the ‘Change It Up’ event.
It offered passionate and dynamic
young emergency management
volunteers the opportunity to share
their experiences, identify ‘big issues’
along with potential solutions and pitch
those solutions to experts in the field.
It was an amazing opportunity to
meet other emergency management
volunteers from a range of agencies
across Australia. We shared our
experiences, explored various ideas to
increase youth engagement including
recruitment and retention and identified
potential hurdles and viable solutions.
The opportunity to meet such a
fantastic bunch of people has further
motivated me to try and develop more
opportunities for youth engagement
at a local and state level. Emergency
management volunteering is an
amazing adventure and more young
people should get involved!
Open to current emergency management volunteers aged between 18 and 25, the event was hosted by the Australian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC). Held at the Australian Emergency Management Institute (AEMI) and AFAC headquarters in Melbourne, it took place from 2 to 4 April 2014.
This is what the volunteers shared about their experiences.
Matthew MastersMandogalup Bush Fire
Brigade volunteer
I was fortunate to represent the WA Bush Fire Service (BFS) at the event, which hosted some of the brightest and most passionate individuals in youth emergency management volunteering from a variety of organisations and locations.
I was able to share my experiences as a BFS volunteer in WA. The opportunity to build relationships and share ideas about increasing youth recruitment and retention in emergency management volunteering was incredible. To learn that there are other young people who share the same passion and desire about emergency management volunteering as me was an eye opening experience.
Aside from meeting these great people, the facilitators from AFAC and Foundation for Young Australians taught us essential skills which will assist us to create long term change in our local communities. The event centred on the idea ‘our voice, our impact’.
By applying this concept we have built our skills and self confidence to share our thoughts with those around us
Young volunteers Sarah, Matthew and Melusha represented WA at the “Change it up” event
46 24seven Issue 2, 2014 24seven Issue 2, 2014 47
A group of 112 cadets, 15 teachers
and 9 Emergency Services Cadet
Units from across the State took part
in the Ultimate Emergency Services
Cadet experience late last year.
Located at Camp Withnell Outdoor
Adventure course in Bedfordale,
cadets had to determine if they had
what it takes to be an emergency
services volunteer.
Throughout the day, teams of cadets
were dropped at a secret location with
only a map and a compass to rely on
to find their way back to home base.
State of the art facilities and a
natural bush setting provided a
unique environment for building team
spirit, improving communication
skills, developing confidence, and
overcoming challenges as cadets
tested their own limits.
Activities included mountain bike
riding, balancing on 20 high rope
elements, abseiling from one of the
highest towers in WA, plunging on a
giant swing, canoeing and paddling
on the recreational lake at Wungong
dam and testing survival skills.
The day also gave cadets and their
instructors the opportunity meet one
another,share information and build
valuable networks.
HAVE YOU GOT
WHAT IT TAKES?
YOUTH
48 24seven Issue 2, 2014