Floods, Fires, Plagues and Drought – 24 Months of Emergency

VICTORIA’S EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT MAGAZINE

WINTER www.oesc.vic.gov.au 2011 Floods, fires, plagues and drought – 24 months of emergency management in Victoria AN ARTICLE BY VICSES The Christmas period in Australia bought with it solemn thoughts of our fellow Australians in Queensland as they were challenged by some of the worst flooding in memory. It was a timely reminder of the outcomes that can arise if we are not mindful of the extremes associated with the Australian climate and weather systems. Here in Victoria, a decade-long drought was broken in September by heavy rainfall and associated flooding in the state’s North-East. What followed was a monthly cycle of heavy rainfall, leading to 2010 being declared the wettest year since 1974 – and the fifth wettest year on record. January 9-15 2011 saw the combined result of record rainfall in the preceding months and a weather system that broke rainfall records in a number of locations across central Victoria. With already full rivers and soaked catchments, Victoria received between 100 and 300mm of rain, with much of the activity concentrated in the catchment areas of the Wimmera, Avoca, Loddon and Campaspe rivers in the Central, Northern and North-Western parts of the state. To be continued on page 3

IN THIS ISSUE

From the Desk

Across the Sector News

Research

E M Events and Awards

E M Movements

Property isolated around flood waters in the Kerang district. Image: Rodney Dekker for VICSES 2 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 3

From the Desk Commissioner’s Across the View Sector News

Duin r g my time as Acting Emergency Services Premier Baillieu with VICSES Commissioner over the last few months, we have volunteers at Horsham experienced the full spectrum of emergency management. Incident Control Centre. Image: Malcolm Fairclough After a decade of drought, Victoria began 2011 with record-breaking flood impacts across the state that saw a multi agency response and a high level of continued from page 1 collaboration from our emergency services. VICSES was able to begin a proactive People and resources were made available significant and not simply due to As many Victorian communities are still recovering media campaign, pre-briefing media from CFA, the Department of Sustainability the size and scope of the event. from the floods and as the Review of 2010-11 Flood partners and other emergency services and Environment, Victoria Police, VicRoads, Victorians had suffered a decade of Warnings and Response calls us to hold true to our partners and receiving support from other OESC and municipalities across almost drought, longer in some areas, and were sector’s commitment to continuous improvement, we agencies across Victoria. one-fifth of the state. not well versed in flood preparation or brace for another winter and stand ready to lend support. This support would prove crucial in In addition, early February saw response. This meant combining flood In the midst of much work, planning and mitigation, maintaining a strong, consistent and timely metropolitan Melbourne hit with widespread education and response messages for the bright spirit and efforts of Victoria’s volunteers response to the worst flooding seen in flash flooding after 100mm fell in 24 hours, both communities and media in the continue to shine, selflessly sacrificing their time with many areas for more than 100 years. inundating entire suburbs and wreaking affected areas. a focus on the safety of the Victorian community. The Over the next four weeks, VICSES havoc on transport across the city. As we begin to see the last remaining CFA Volunteer Charter, recently enshrined in legislation, volunteers and staff responded to over Mildura received 178mm in 48 hours, affected communities move into recovery, signals that volunteerism will always be a cornerstone 15,000 requests for assistance, with 4,000 breaking all existing records for rainfall it is important VICSES and the broader of emergency management in Victoria. I hope the recent properties and 7,500 people affected and leaving areas of the regional centre emergency services communities do not National Volunteer Week festivities served to celebrate across 140 towns in 35 municipalities. inundated for weeks. lose sight of what was learned, what and invigorate our women, men and children whether in The combined response from Victoria’s The challenges faced by VICSES partnerships were formed, and crucially plain clothes or uniform. emergency services was enormous. and its partner emergency services were how we improve upon it next time. Across the sector, new partnerships and innovation are strengthening many different parts of the emergency DS E and VICSES crews management system, bolstering our dynamic environment at Benjeroop Public Hall. with fresh ideas and energy. The programs addressing Image: Department recovery, children, education and vulnerable groups of Sustainability highlighted in this issue of EM Info are only a small and Environment part of the work our sector undertakes to tackle difficult challenges, open new avenues and move closer to a vision of seamless emergency management. Nominations are now being called for the 2011 Australian Safer Communities Awards, and I strongly encourage agencies to submit an entry for eligible projects that contribute towards building safer, more disaster resilient communities. It is important we remember that both the community and our emergency services have a mutual responsibility to build community resilience. We must make a concerted effort to take a collaborative approach and focus on continuous learning and improvement during this time of change. As winter brings some chance for reflection, we “Across the sector, should focus on using this time for additional training and exercising to enhance our skills across the sector new partnerships and reinforce our commitment to the Victorian people. We must continue to move forward together, regardless and innovation are of our differences, with a sense of drive and urgency strengthening many to make the community safer. different parts of the emergency management system, bolstering our dynamic environment with fresh ideas and energy. ”

Flood waters in Kerang. Image: Rodney Dekker for VICSES 4 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 5

H ead of the review Neil Comrie AO APM, said “It’s important for the review to gather all the necessary information and some of the most important information will come from communities in the flood affected areas.” “Throughout March, April and May we are visiting a total of 16 locations to speak with residents of those towns and surrounding areas and hear their thoughts,” Mr Comrie said. In addition to attending community meetings, individuals, groups and organisations have provided input through written submissions to the review, and communities in a range of flood affected towns and locations have provided their feedback through telephone surveys. “With flood waters still present in some communities, the fact people in these communities are still able to contribute to this review while they are rebuilding lives, properties and towns is a reflection of the strength of spirit and the bond they have to their community,” Mr Comrie said. The review has also undertaken a range of meetings across Victoria with emergency service personnel involved in the response to the floods, and will seek advice from experts in the field of flood management. “The findings of the review will help guide the government’s response and planning to make sure Victoria is better equipped to deal with similarly severe flooding events in the future,” Mr Baillieu said. An interim report will be provided to the Premier by 30 June, with a final report Flooding around Swan Hill. on 1 December 2011. Image: Department of For more information, visit Sustainability and Environment www.floodsreview.vic.gov.au

Community consultations channel change H elping people to recover from the AN ARTICLE BY VICTORIAN FLOODS REVIEW AN ARTICLE BY DHS V iCTORIANS sharing their views on the psychological impact of the Victorian floods recent severe floods are helping guide the The Departments of Health and Human Health and Human Services DHS telephone outreach program has state’s future emergency management Services have been helping people to are providing: been contacting and identifying people arrangements through the Review of recover from the psychological impact • preventative mental health services, who may need further assistance, 2010-11 Flood Warnings and Response of the recent Victorian floods with a range including ‘psychological first-aid’ at information and referral. The DHS and community consultations. of initiatives. recovery centres to address the partner agencies have called and sent The review, announced by Premier A package of $1.55 million over the next immediate impacts of the disaster letters to everyone who received an Ted Baillieu on 8 February 2011, six months is being used to provide a range • community workshops and meetings on emergency grant to check on their examines issues including: of support services to ensure individuals what the effects of trauma from disasters wellbeing, provide information, and to • the adequacy of flood predictions and and families get the help they need, when are, and how to deal with them offer further supports, such as referrals to modelling they need it. • a range of outreach support to counselling, temporary housing assistance • the timeliness and effectiveness of The support services include generalist townships and rural communities and other personal support services. warnings and public information counselling, outreach support and casework who may be isolated In partnership with Red Cross and • emergency services command and support to people affected by the floods in • casework support to assist households other agencies, such as the Victorian control arrangements the northern, western, and southern metro to access services, get information and Council of Churches, DHS representatives • the adequacy of clean-up and regions of Victoria. provide referrals have already doorknocked hundreds recovery efforts Having a better understanding • generalist counselling through of houses in flood-affected towns and • the adequacy of evacuations of people of the short and long term impacts of community health services. rural communities to talk to people most at-risk disasters from the 2009 Victorian Bushfires, The Department of Human Services affected by the floods and to connect • the adequacy of service delivery by Chair of the Victorian Floods these initiatives are designed to address (DHS) has engaged professionals and them with services. federal, state and local governments Review, Neil Comrie, surveys and reduce the wide range of emotions services from local areas, because they have This program has already made some • the adequacy of funding provided by the affects of Loddon River which people may experience, including greater understanding of what flood affected big inroads, but recovery from disasters flooding near Serpentine. state and federal governments for Image: Brian Hinneberg distress, anxiety, grief, sadness, anger, Victorians have experienced and will be in a such as the floods is a long-term process emergency grants. uncertainty and insecurity. better position to help them recover. and will continue over the coming months. 6 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 7 Victorian USAR teams lend a helping hand Review of Tostaree Fire 2011 AN ARTICLE BY Fire Services Commissioner & MFB “The more information we receive the the effective issuing of community R eCENT severe weather events in Image: Geoff Stanton, better informed we will be in undertaking information and warnings, the line of Australia and New Zealand saw the CFA volunteer, Bruthen. specialised skills of Victorian Urban the review,” Mr Buffone said. control that was established and the fire Search and Rescue (USAR) technicians Communities were invited to participate safety preparedness levels of communities utilised to provide vital assistance during in the review through community affected by this event. these times of need. consultation meetings held in Newmeralla “The review will be undertaken on a no USAR technicians specialise in the and Wairewa, a phone survey undertaken blame principle with a view that the findings search and rescue of people in confined by Quantum Market Research or by written will be determined and fully reported without spaces, often after structural collapse. submission to OESC by post or email. bias,” Mr Buffone said. They are also trained to assess damage Mr Buffone said the review was an It is expected that the review will be to infrastructure, determine its ongoing important part of OESC’s ongoing role completed by the end of July 2011 and will be viability, and in the case of buildings, Th e Office of the Emergency Services can take measures to secure them. Victorian USAR operators Commissioner (OESC) has been requested Victoria sent two USAR teams of working as part of one of the “The review will be undertaken on a no blame principle MFB, CFA and DSE operators to Australian teams in Christchurch. by the Fire Services Commissioner to with a view that the findings will be determined and fully Queensland as part of the state’s flood undertake a review into the fire that commenced around Tostaree in East reported without bias.” response. The first contingent deployed locals by handing out much needed and form-work around them, then Gippsland on 1 February 2011. as part of a 44 person Australian team. bottled water. filled them with rapid set concrete Acting Emergency Services During these devastating floods,U SAR More recently, Victoria provided to make the structure as safe as Commissioner Joe Buffone focused in the emergency management sector presented to the Fire Services Commissioner teams came up against some challenges, 11 members as part of an Australian, possible for demolition crews. After on the importance of the community’s and will be looking at a number of who will release the report to the public. including working side by side with multi-agency team to Christchurch, 24 hours, USAR teams were able participation in the review by providing areas including the control strategies For more information on the Tostaree snakehandlers for protection due to the New Zealand, including eight USAR to enter the building to search it their views and feedback. implemented by the Incident Controller, Review, visit www.oesc.vic.gov.au high number of reptiles in the flood waters. specialists from CFA, MFB and VICSES, and recover personal effects of Emergency Management Australia two Ambulance Victoria paramedics hotel guests. (EMA) coordinates national and and a structural engineer. In the later part of their tour, team on behalf of CFA volunteers on any international assistance efforts when Participating in the painstakingly members assisted local police to inspect matter that might reasonably be disasters occur. Victoria’s USAR capability delicate removal of multi-storey dwellings, identifying those that were expected to affect them; is lead by MFB but is a multi-agency buildings floor by floor was just one safe, thereby helping the community • a requirement that the CFA, in approach to disaster response involving of the many tasks carried out by the move back into these residences. performing its functions, has regard to personnel from CFA, VICSES, DSE and Victorian personnel. Having the ability to respond to the commitment and principles set out Ambulance Victoria. Another important role was to make an emerging crisis locally as well as in the Volunteer Charter; and Conducting rapid impact assessments stable the 11-storey Copthorne Hotel nationally and internationally helps • a responsibility on the CFA to develop of flood-affected buildings across that had two unstable support structures, communities who are struggling with policy and organisational arrangements Brisbane was the team’s primary role. putting the entire structure at risk. unexpected events and provides an that maintain and strengthen the However, once the official working day The team removed rubble from opportunity for Victorian teams to capacity of volunteers. was over, many also pitched in to help around these columns, placed bracing use their skills and to learn from others. Deputy Premier and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Peter Ryan said (L-R) CEO of VFBV, Andrew Ford, President of VFBV, Hans van Hamond, Premier during the 2009 Victorian Bushfires, the of Victoria, Ted Ballieu, Captain of the Upper Ferntree Gully Fire Brigade, Peter USAR crews inspect Upper Ferntree Gully Brigade was damage on their first day Smith, CFA Chairman Kerry Murphy, Deputy Premier and Minister for Police and in Christchurch CBD. Emergency Services, Peter Ryan and Fire Services Commissioner, Craig Lapsley. involved in fighting fires on two fronts, including Nixon Road, where one of the brigade’s tankers was destroyed. Legislated charter strengthens “Every day volunteer firefighters take enormous risks to protect Victorian volunteer commitment communities. This is our chance to say O n 27 February 2011, the importance of the CFA and signatories to the Charter are thanks and ensure the interests and needs Country Fire Authority (CFA) volunteers to committed to ensuring volunteers are fully of volunteers are protected in the future,” the safety and wellbeing of Victorians was and fairly consulted on issues that affect Mr Ryan said. formally recognised with the signing of the them,” Mr Baillieu said. The all volunteer brigade was Volunteer Charter. Key aspects of the Country Fire presented with the keys to two new fire Premier Ted Baillieu and Deputy Premier Authority Amendment (Volunteer Charter) trucks, a pumper tanker that can hold and Minister for Police and Emergency Act 2011 include: 2,700 litres of water and a heavy tanker Services Peter Ryan signed the Volunteer • recognition that the CFA is first and fitted with a 3,750 litre tank, and two Slip Charter during a ceremony at the Upper foremost a volunteer-based organisation, On firefighting units. Ferntree Gully CFA Station alongside CFA where volunteers are supported by paid The Slip On units, fully equipped Chairman Kerry Murphy and Volunteer Fire staff in a fully integrated manner; four-wheel-drive firefighting vehicles used Brigades Victoria (VFBV) President Hans • recognition of the Volunteer Charter as an alternative to trucks for accessing van Hamond. and in particular, that it requires the hard to reach area, have been made The symbolic public signing reaffirms CFA to recognise, value, respect and available through generous donations the commitment to volunteers originally promote the contribution of volunteers from the local community. made between the parties in December to the wellbeing and safety of the On Thursday 5 May 2011, the Victorian 2001 when the charter was first signed. community and requires the Parliament enshrined the Volunteer “The Charter acknowledges that government and the CFA to consult Charter in legislation. These changes volunteers remain the core strength of with Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria came into affect 11 May 2011. 8 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 9 Play it Safe by the Water campaign targets toddlers AN ARTICLE BY Emergency Services Policy and Support

A $1.5 million government boost to Victoria’s These strategies have played a huge role Play it Safe by the Water education and in urging Victorians to take responsibility for their information campaign will directly target a rise own safety to minimise incidents and injuries in in toddler drownings. and around water. The Play it Safe by the Water campaign addresses There have been 44 fatal toddler drownings over a recent spike in toddler drowning deaths with a new the past 10 years, with seven deaths reported over toddler water safety campaign – Twenty seconds is the period 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010. Many of all it takes for a toddler to drown and Never take your these deaths have occurred in a home pool or spa, eyes off children around water – targeting parents and with deaths involving water in dams, buckets and carers of toddlers between 0 – 4 years of age. bathtubs on the increase. This new focus significantly strengthens the Fences and child-resistant gates are important water safety campaign messages in an attempt to for keeping youngsters away from water, and educate parents about adult supervision of young television, radio, print and online advertisements children when they are around water in the home emphasise the need for adults to be vigilant. or outside near a backyard pool or a dam. Life Saving Victoria Chief Executive Officer Department of Justice Emergency Services Nigel Taylor said most deaths occurred while a Policy and Support manage the program and note parent or carer was distracted.

Metropolitan Fire Brigade Acting Chief Executive that although drownings increased last financial “At the end of the day, no fence or barrier can Officer, Shane Wright, and Country Fire Authority’s year, Victoria still has one of the lowest drowning be a substitute for proper adult supervision of a Chief Officer,E uan Ferguson, remind everyone rates in the world largely due to prevention efforts toddler around water,” Mr Taylor said. about the importantance of working smoke alarms. by government and the aquatics industry. Play it Safe by the Water is a joint initiative Three key strategies have been the foundation between the State Government, Life Saving Victoria, contributing to Victoria’s low drowning rates; Aquatics and Recreation Victoria, Surfing Victoria, • the Play it Safe by the Water campaign, raising Swimming Victoria and Marine Safety Victoria. Only working smoke alarms save lives awareness of water safety issues such as the For more information visit AN ARTICLE BY MFB need to supervise toddlers around water www.watersafety.vic.gov.au • community and school education programs, V iCTORIA’s fire services attended over 4500 residential fires last “Property can’t always be saved, but the simple task including Water Safety Week and students year, during which 299 people were injured and 12 lost their lives. of ensuring a working smoke alarm can save lives. When learning water safety skills in open water Unfortunately, many of these tragedies could have been avoided you think about it like that a nine-volt battery is pretty cheap!” environments with a working smoke alarm, which is why MFB and CFA partnered If you didn’t get a chance to change your battery yet – it’s • lifesaving services, including support for again this year for the annual Change Your Clock, Change Your not too late! Make sure you replace your battery before the paid lifeguards, club administration and training Smoke Alarm Battery campaign. start of the winter fire season, when house fires have a higher of lifesavers. The campaign reminded Victorians to change their smoke chance of starting. alarm batteries when they changed their clocks for the end of For further information please contact; daylight saving on Sunday 3 April, through media and social MFB Community Education Department media campaigns, posters, displays at Bunnings stores, a (03) 9665 4464 or [email protected] colouring competition in the Herald Sun and campaign signage CFA Community Safety on over 40 fire trucks. (03) 9262 8416 or [email protected] MFB Community Safety Commander Frank Stockton www.cfa.vic.gov.au said that smoke alarms played a crucial role in providing early warning to escape from fire. “A small fire can grow to involve an entire room in just two or three minutes,” Commander Stockton said. Quick facts “Many people don’t realise that we lose our sense of smell • Smoke alarms are compulsory in every home when we go to sleep. A smoke alarm is your electronic nose • It is the legal responsibility of all owners and which will alert you if there is smoke from a fire.” landlords to install working smoke alarms Thanks to sponsorship from Duracell, now in its eleventh year, over 13,000 batteries were distributed throughout All smoke alarms: vulnerable communities as part of the campaign. • Must contain a battery MFB and CFA also worked with aged and disability departments • Need to be tested regularly to have new batteries installed for Home and Community Care • Need to be replaced after 10 years (HACC) clients who are over 65, have a health care card and didn’t have anyone in the home to change the battery for them. Testing and cleaning: CFA Executive Manager Community Safety Terry Hayes urged people to take responsibility for reminding those around • Monthly: Test by pressing the test button them to change their smoke alarm battery. with a broom handle “While many of our brigades and staff do a lot of great work • Yearly: Vacuum around your smoke alarm vents behind the scenes, it’s really everyone’s responsibility to make • Yearly: Replace your nine-volt battery each year sure their friends and family remember to change their smoke at the end of daylight saving alarm battery,” Mr Hayes said. 10 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 11

Lifesavers prepare for transition to the next lifesaving season AN ARTICLE BY LIFE SAVING VICTORIA

Ths i year Easter marked the end of education and working with stakeholders toddler campaign is a great example beach patrols for the 2010/2011 season, to keep the water safety message and of how research, sound strategy, with lifesavers across the state reporting preparedness front of mind. partnerships and education can strong crowds over the break as people This winter LSV, in partnership reduce drownings,” Mr Taylor said. flocked to the beach to enjoy the pleasant with stakeholders, will promote water Toddlers should always be within weather and terrific conditions. safety under the Play It Safe By The arm’s reach when in the water and parents This summer over 650 people were Water banner. or carers should maintain visual contact rescued at patrolled beaches and over Life Saving Victoria Chief Executive with children five to ten years of age. 1700 were administered first aid. Tragically Officer Nigel Taylor noted that the hard If swimming at unpatrolled beaches, 27 people have lost their lives due to work is not over. seek local knowledge about the drowning since 1 July 2010. “We have a lot of work to do over conditions, never swim alone and While the red and yellow patrol flags winter, working with the community, never swim when under the influence may be in storage until next summer, government and our partners to keep the of alcohol or drugs. Students from St James For more information on Riding the technology wave School Sebastopol took part lifesaving does not stop. Over the next six water safety message strong and remain in activities with Captain Koala months Life Saving Victoria (LSV) will be vigilant in keeping water safety high on the Life Saving Victoria visit to celebrate the launch of Fire in full swing providing research, training, communities conscious. The recent www.lifesavingvictoria.com.au for Fire Safe Kids AN ARTICLE BY CFA Safe Kids, CFA’s revamped school education program.

In April 2011, CFA were proud to launch Fire Safe Kids, an Mrs Hartog said the result is ‘prepped up’ students eager to education program aimed to teach pre-primary and primary demonstrate their knowledge when the presenter walks through school aged children about fire awareness in an engaging and the door, along with teachers who are more deeply engaged with interactive way. the content. The friendly face of Captain Koala has long been associated “Certainly teachers really want to be involved in this process with fire safety messages to school age children but a recent and are keen to teach the content which they see as being very review and redevelopment of the previous Brigades in Schools important for the students,” Mrs Hartog said. education program has seen the character – and the program CFA Executive Manager Community Safety Terry Hayes said as a whole – roll with the times. that all CFA’s community safety programs represent a shared The need to keep pace with the curriculum and technology responsibility between the fire agency and the community. being used in school classrooms was a core driver behind the “It’s great to see this approach flowing on into schools,” review, leading to the transformation and rebranding of this Mr Hayes said. important program. “The consultation for the review has been extensive, involving principals, teachers, students and brigades, and when I look at Fire Safe Kids is entirely free of charge and provides: the quality of this new program I believe everyone will reap the • presentations with strong links to Victorian Essential Learning rewards of that process.” Standards (VELS) for all levels of primary school As part of the Fire Safe Kids program, CFA has created an • interactive and engaging activities additional session for pre-primary school children aimed at • giveaways for students including pencils, rulers, stickers building familiarity with firefighters and their role, as well as and certificates introducing the concept of 000 in an emergency. • pre and post visit lesson plans and support materials A secondary school program is also in the pipeline, to be for teachers. guided by an external reference group that includes fire agency CFA has delivered fire safety lessons in schools since 1997 with partners and education association bodies. visiting presenters encouraging children to be aware of potential Rather than simply taking a natural disaster perspective, hazards in the home, and survival actions to take in the event of a fire. the program will cover the history of fire in Australia – both good Project Manager Dawn Hartog said that the review process of the and bad – while aspects of personal responsibility and how education program had taken on feedback ranging from small but individuals can work to minimise fire risk are promoted. significant details, such as the size of the program posters, to how Mrs Hartog observed that while we devote a lot of time lessons could be further enhanced using SMART board technology. educating primary age children and adults, there was the “We wanted to know what schools are using in terms of potential to lose audiences during the formative secondary years. technology and resources, and what they would like to see more “We need to continue the education so there is a consistent of,” Mrs Hartog said. focus on personal awareness and personal responsibility.” “When we first developed our Captain Koala e-learning game More information on the program, including how to book, a couple of years ago, e-learning seemed like something of a can be found on the CFA website: www.cfa.vic.gov.au trend. Now it is very much everyday practice.” > Fire Safety > Education and Training > Fire Safe Kids All Fire Safe Kids materials has been updated, with Captain Koala receiving a graphic image makeover and a host of new friends, including Bianca Bilby (already a favourite with the under 10s), Neville Numbat and Wozza Wombat. A significant addition to the Fire Safe Kids program has been the development of pre and post lesson materials for teachers. 12 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 13

Communicating in Recovery AN ARTICLE BY RED CROSS Emergency markers a trailblazer AN ARTICLE BY ESTA Rde Cross has recently released its latest Australian communications and recovery resource, Communicating in Recovery, expert Dr Susan Nicholls consulted on the designed to support the recovery of project, which was supported by the Bendigo The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail in North East Rail trails, national and state parks and open communities after emergencies. Bank Community Foundation. Victoria is now a safer place to ride, walk and space reserves are frequented every day by The resource is a guide for people Over the coming months, Red Cross recreate thanks to emergency markers. thousands of Victorians exploring the great outdoors. or organisations communicating public will consult with stakeholders in local Emergency Services Telecommunications However, if you are injured or hurt and require information after an emergency and is in line government and community organisations Authority (ESTA) spokesman Wayne Debernardi emergency services, not knowing where you are with one of Australia’s National Principles for to identify how to use Communicating in said emergency markers are now positioned every can mean dangerous delays in getting help to you. Disaster Recovery – employing effective Recovery to its full potential. This may kilometre along the full length of the 90km trail, ESTA has the legislated responsibility for call communications. It focuses on how to deliver include developing training or professional ensuring faster, more accurate verification of an taking and dispatch for Triple Zero (000) calls and messages to different audiences by following development activities. emergency 000 call location. the key to providing effective and efficient emergency nine principles for recovery communications. For a copy of the resource or to be Emergency markers enable ESTA’s operators response is the ability of emergency call operators The resource also provides general involved in the consultations and to pinpoint a caller’s exact location in seconds and to verify the exact location of the caller. information on recovery and ideas on feedback, contact Bushfire Recovery provide emergency services with precise directions Each emergency marker has a unique three letter, different communication methods. It offers Project Officer Lauren Gould to the location of an emergency. three number code and attached to each marker advice on media liaison, writing media on 03 8327 7391 or “While we have these markers on a number of in the central database is additional information, releases, advocating for ‘forgotten’ [email protected] tracks in Melbourne, this initiative is the first of its including descriptive text-based instructions to emergencies and monitoring and Communicating in kind for regional Victoria,” Mr Debernardi said. describe the access route from the last street corner. evaluating communication plans. Recovery and other The ESTA/CVGT 000 Emergency Marker Emergency markers will strengthen the overall Following the 2009 Victorian Bushfires, Red Cross resources Project was officially launched at the Old community safety arrangements initiated by the Red Cross consultations identified that are also available at Beechworth Railway Station on 4 February municipalities and emergency services. people and organisations were looking for www.redcross.org.au 2011 and is a strategic partnership between For further information about the emergency practical information and guidance on how to the Rural City of Wangaratta, Indigo Shire, markers contact ESTA’s Emergency Markers effectively communicate with their community Alpine Shire, Central Victorian Group Training Manager Jeff Adair on 03 8656 1218 or visit as it recovers from an emergency. and the community. www.esta.vic.gov.au The resource is based on research into best practice recovery communications from Australia and overseas, consultations with people tasked with coordinating communications following the 2009 Victorian Bushfires and other emergencies, as well as seeking input from individuals affected by disasters. The resource has no geographic focus and can be used in large or small emergencies.

Communicating in Recovery follows nine principles for recovery communications: • Public information, not public relations – recovery communications should assist the community not promote an organisation. • B uild on local assets – utilise existing local networks and strengths. • Respect people – affected people are rational and able to make decisions for themselves. • The right to know – communities have a right to know about processes and available services. • Acknowledge the impact – affected people have a need to have their story told and their experiences acknowledged and validated. • Ask the community how they want to receive information – consultation will increase the effectiveness of communications. • Repeat information – people have different information needs at different times • Remember the “unaffected” – those not directly affected by an emergency can also experience trauma and stress. • N o spin – communications must address community needs rather than leveraging a brand. 14 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 15

Bushfires Royal Commission Fire affected residents say thanks Implementation Act 2011 to those in orange AN ARTICLE BY VICSES AN ARTICLE BY Victorian Bushfires Royal O vER the last 20 months Victorian State Emergency Service range of different areas and from a community perspective, Commission Implementation Monitor (VICSES) Central Region has implemented four programs of it provided reassurance for residents about the continued support for local residents affected by the 2009 Victorian commitment from SES to assist in their rebuilding process.” R eCOMMENDATION 66 of the 2009 Victorian The Implementation Monitor’s primary Bushfires, showing the overwhelming dedication of volunteers Flowerdale resident Lee McGill, whose home and property Bushfires Royal Commission (VBRC) Final Report functions are to monitor and review the progress to assist in the community rebuilding process. were destroyed during the 2009 Victorian Bushfires, was one recommended the State appoint an Implementation of government departments and agencies in The programs – Chaps and Chainsaws 1 and 2, Strathewen of many individuals grateful to be provided with this generous Monitor to assess and report on the Government’s carrying out actions specified in the State’s timber cutting and removal and the Humevale Fencing projects – assistance and as a token of appreciation, designed and progress in implementing its response to the Royal Implementation Plan, the effectiveness of have received strong local community response and have provided presented an elaborate glass plate to VICSES Central Regional Commission’s final recommendations. the method used and the efficacy of the an opportunity for volunteers to actively engage with these fire Manager Ray Jasper who accepted on behalf of all VICSES In October 2010, Mr Neil Comrie AO APM was implementation of such actions. In addition, affected communities and provide much needed assistance. Central Region volunteers. appointed as the Implementation Monitor by the the Implementation Monitor will assess ongoing Due to the success of Chaps and Chainsaws, VICSES was “Just like the various metal and glass at my home, this plate then Minister for Police and Emergency Services. efforts to improve the interaction between approached by Whittlesea and Nullimbik Councils as they has many interlocking ‘paths’ like our lives; ever changing, but still The Coalition State Government has formalised agencies and councils for the purposes of developed another program to help more residents of the area. connected and beautiful to look at. I hope the intertwining glass the Implementation Monitor’s independence by planning and preparing for bushfires. The Humevale Fencing project was fostered out of a partnership ‘paths’ in this plate inspire you to look at your life with new eyes introducing a Bill into Parliament. The Bushfires A new Implementation Plan is under with the Whittlesea and Nullimbik Councils, Department of Human and to embrace all that is within, just as I have,” Mrs McGill said. Royal Commission Implementation Monitor Act development and will include additional Services and the residents of Humevale and Flowerdale. The plate is now displayed at VICSES Central Region 2011 was passed on 7 April 2011 and establishes commitments by the Coalition Government The programs have been coordinated by VICSES Central Headquarters and will serve as a constant reminder about the position, powers and functions of the and an update on the progress of current Region staff John Chaplain and Alan Barnard who have seen the important and worthwhile role of VICSES for the Implementation Monitor. projects. This new plan is to be tabled in the benefits of the programs for both the volunteers and Victorian community. Deputy Premier and Minister for Parliament by 31 May 2011. community members. Due to the success of the Chaps and Chainsaws program Bushfire Response Peter Ryan said the Bill The Implementation Monitor will provide “It has been great to see the bonds created through these VICSES will be joined by the Australian Defence Force to established clear boundaries that would allow two reports for tabling in Parliament programs for both our volunteers as well as those residents undertake the program again in the coming months. the Implementation Monitor the independence – a progress report by 31 July 2011 affected by the fires,” Mr Chaplain said. For further information about the programs contact Scott needed to carry out this important role. and a final report by 31 July 2012. “From a volunteering perspective, the programs enabled Hilditch, Community Education Coordinator, VICSES on new and existing volunteers to exercise and improve skills in a 03 9684 6651 or by email [email protected]

Community information and warnings at the forefront AN ARTICLE BY The Fire Services Commissioner

The focus on primacy of life and the issuing of timely, Importantly, the strategic control priorities take an all- relevant and tailored community information and warnings hazards approach to incident management and have been is an important focus for incident management in Victoria. issued for flood and storm by the Victoria State Emergency The new Fire Services Commissioner Act 2010 clearly Service, a fundamental step to improve consistency in incident states the Fire Services Commissioner and/or fire agencies management for all incidents. must issue warnings in relation to fires and provide information The strategic control priorities are also underpinned by to the community to protect life and property. protection of critical or essential infrastructure, residential As part of the 2010/11 fire season, one of the key changes property, economics and the environment. was to elevate the provision of community information and warnings to be a primary consideration of incident controllers. To support the new direction, strategic control priorities were issued to incident controllers and regional controllers outlining that protection and preservation of life is paramount – including the safety of emergency services personnel and community members generally, visitors and vulnerable individuals. Secondly, the strategic control priorities outline the need for community information and warnings that are timely, relevant and tailored to help community members make informed decisions about their safety. Providing the community with the information they need, Flowerdale resident Lee McGill presents and in a way they understand so they can prepare and make the glass plate she designed to VICSES their own informed choices has to be a priority. Central Regional Manager, Ray Jasper, In some instances, particularly on days where first attack pictured alongside Manager for Health is likely to fail, the importance of providing information equals and Bushfire Recovery at City of Whittlesea, Neville Kurth. and may surpass firefighting efforts. 16 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 17 Inverloch Clubhouse One on one advice stands out from targets property owners the crowd AN ARTICLE BY CFA AN ARTICLE BY LIFE SAVING VICTORIA The Inverloch Surf Life Saving Clubhouse, officially opened in January 2011, has recently been announced as Victoria Coastal Building and Design Award Winner 2011. This award recognises outstanding examples of built facilities and infrastructure that respect and complement the coastal landscape and incorporate ecologically sustainable design and construction principles. Nominations came from residential, commercial, institutional, private or public buildings and infrastructure or renovations in coastal locations. The state of the art design and construction of the $1.5m Inverloch Surf Life Saving Clubhouse was undertaken with the needs of the environment and a wide range of the community groups in mind. Set behind the primary dune, it protects coastal view lines and the delicate sand dune environments. CFA Fire Safety Officer Scott Wilder has first hand The building incorporates passive heating and cooling experience working with communities in high bushfire risk elements in additional to power and water saving. areas. He outlines what this service means for residents: Inverloch’s new multi-purpose community facility will allow the club to continue to build its volunteer What is the advantage of these individual home site membership and further support the viability of this assessments as opposed to providing general advice? valuable community service into the future. Rather than giving people some general advice and sending them home to go through it by themselves, we’re actually there walking around someone’s garden and sitting Fire Safety Officers deliver a site at their kitchen table pointing out things – and what happens assessment as part of CFA’s Home then is that people start to ask all those little questions they Bushfire Advice Service. would otherwise forget about. Inverloch Surf Life Saving Clubhouse. A program at the forefront of CFA’s community engagement strategy What kind of response do you receive from residents? is the recently launched, free Home Bushfire Advice Service. All the residents have been just fantastic. We found While the take up of bushfire preparedness programs during last people to be so willing and so appreciative and you could summer was affected by unseasonably high rainfall, the silver lining see that they were really taking things on board. Test flights of new fire ground technology was the number of people who contacted CFA for the first time to A big part of what we do is just getting the idea out of register for home site assessments. people’s minds that ‘it won’t happen to me’ and a lot of AN ARTICLE BY MFB Currently around 50 per cent of appointments represent first people needed to be made aware of the risk and hear MFB is testing new technology with MFB Acting Chief Executive “It will undergo significant testing, not time contacts for CFA and in some areas, that figure is as high as some hard hitting facts first hand. the potential to improve the future Officer Shane Wright said the just at incidents, but also in how we deploy 75 per cent. Part of that is dispelling the idea that you will be able of firefighting. organisation is very open to innovative it, before it goes into service.” The Home Bushfire Advice Service, delivered door to door by to pack up and leave after you hear about the fire or smell CyberQuad – a remote controlled, ways of using new technology to help MFB is currently working with staff to CFA Fire Safety Officers, provides a specialised site assessment the smoke. We found that most people have not considered eye-in-the-sky fan-driven aircraft – has manage emergencies. train CyberQuad pilots and expects to for residents in high bushfire risk areas. Residents also receive what leaving early really means. been out for test flights around Eastern “CyberQuad is a great example determine training and deployment advice about maintaining their property to reduce fire risk and Are there any fire hazards that are commonly overlooked Hill, showing off its capabilities for the of that philosophy,” Mr Wright said. protocols in the next few months. writing a bushfire survival plan. by residents? media on 27 January and as part of the CFA Executive Manager Community Safety Terry Hayes said Every property has its own issues, but one thing we United Firefighters Union Centenary that initiatives like the Home Bushfire Advice Service and the come across frequently is people using woodchips or straw Parade on 30 January 2011. online Household Self Assessment Tool will empower people as mulch, particularly where people are putting it right up The hi-tech camera platform is to make informed decisions based on their own circumstances. against their house. capable of hovering above fires to “Tailoring our programs to meet the needs of individuals Water supply is another issue, even for householders detect hotspots and send real time and backing those programs with strong communication and who plan to leave early. People were quite surprised when vision back to a central control. promotion is of the highest priority in terms of our strategic we told them that if there’s a fire in the area its likely that the CyberQuad has huge potential direction,” Mr Hayes said. electricity will go off and there won’t be much more than a for delivering information from difficult “With that comes a desire to go out and engage directly dribble of water coming out of the taps. Only about five per incidents where an aerial perspective with people rather than passively waiting for them to come cent of people had a water tank with a backup diesel pump. would greatly help manage and and seek advice.” We saw a lot of houses in the Ballarat area with coordinate the emergency effort. Door knocking, direct mail and follow up calls were all utilised overhanging branches and many of these belong to elderly MFB is currently testing two as initiatives to target households in selected neighbourhoods. residents. We’ve been encouraging people as much as models; one equipped with a high Residents can register for the Home Bushfire Advice possible to get to know the people around their street – definition camera, while the other Service by calling the Victorian Bushfire Information especially if they are elderly – and to do the neighbourly records standard definition and CyberQuad shows off its Line on 1800 240 667 (TTY 1800 122 969) or by visiting thing by offering to clear out any vegetation. thermal imaging. capabilities on a test flight. www.cfa.vic.gov.au > Fire Ready > Book a Site Assessment. 18 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 19 Inclusive Emergency St John Ambulance DRSABCD Action Plan Management Project AN ARTICLE BY LEADERSHIP PLUS In an emergency call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance The Inclusive Emergency Management from local and state government, steering committees and the statewide resuscitation Project (IEMP) is currently being piloted Municipal Association Victoria, reference group. DANGER Ensure the area is safe for your self, others and the patient across three municipalities with diverse local emergency services agencies, “The diversity of stakeholders is crucial guidelines change D → → needs – City of Whittlesea, Wellington Shire community members and peak to the success of IEMP as it ensures the Council, and Nillumbik Shire Council – disability and community organisations. widest possible input and resources to RESPONSE F oLLOWINg a recommendation from the Australian Check for response—ask name—squeeze shoulders aiming to identify and incorporate the needs A key component of the IEMP, being develop strategies that meet the identified R No response Response of vulnerable people into local and statewide achieved through a number of initiatives, community needs. It also ensures the Resuscitation Council (ARC), St John Ambulance Australia Make comfortable has introduced some minor changes to resuscitation guidelines, Monitor response emergency planning arrangements. is ensuring that community members with ongoing relevance of the project to the effective from 1 January 2011, with the launch of DRSABCD. SEND for help The project is being delivered through a disability, their families and carers are emergency services sector and the wider Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance not-for-profit organisation Leadership Plus engaged in every stage of the project. community,” Ms Litchfield said. The changes are designed to make it easier to remember or ask another person to make the call → S → how to perform resuscitation in an emergency. and IEMP Project Manager Kirra Litchfield Currently all parties are represented The statewide reference group The first change, the addition of the letter ‘S’ or ‘send for said that the project used a community on the local steering committees recognises the key leadership role of AIRWAY development model to ensure the and on the statewide reference group. Councils in all stages of emergency help’ to the acronym, emphasises the importance of calling an Open mouth—if foreign material present ambulance as soon as you are aware that you have a person A Place in recovery position perspectives of people with disabilities Another initiative is a series of management for their local communities Clear airway with fi ngers who is not responding. and senior Victorians are included in workshops between community members, and ensures that the learnings at a local The second change emphasises the importance of emergency management planning. the agencies that support them and the level are shared, benefiting the broader BREATHING commencing resuscitation as soon as you recognise that the There is a key emphasis on enabling local emergency service providers. The emergency management arrangements Check for breathing—look, listen, feel these community members to develop workshops allow broader community throughout Victoria. person is not breathing normally and to commence with chest B Not normal breathing Normal breathing Start CPR Place in recovery position the capacity to best support themselves engagement and facilitate conversations The reference group also ensures compressions. The protocol remains at 30 compressions to 2 → Monitor breathing breaths but if unwilling or unable to perform breaths, perform during an emergency event. about what is needed to support the that IEMP is not operating in isolation baby child adult chest compressions only (100/min). CPR “This is a critical step in building the capacity of people to prepare, respond and uses the current knowledge within First aiders who have recently received training with the Start CPR—30 chest compressions : 2 breaths capacity and resilience of local communities and recover from emergencies. local communities and the state. C Continue CPR until help arrives previous DRABCD Action Plan should remain confident with or patient recovers in dealing with emergencies as too often the “The workshops provide an opportunity Whilst IEMP is based on an all-hazards → the skills and knowledge they have acquired. However, to keep different abilities and needs of groups are for the emergency service agencies to approach to build community resilience overlooked, with assumptions made about deliver comprehensive information about against any emergency, it will be of great informed with the delivery of first aid, St John recommends all DEFIBRILLATION personal planning to community members assistance in the implementation of first aiders renew their skills regularly. Apply defi brillator if available the capacity of people in an emergency,” and follow voice prompts For more information about the DRSABCD resuscitation D Ms Litchfield said. in a way that is easier to understand,” Recommendation 3 of the 2009 Victorian Learn First Aid with St John Ambulance Australia | Free call 1300 360 455 | www.stjohn.org.au Local steering committees, with Ms Litchfield said. Bushfires Royal Commission to establish guidelines visit ww.stjohnvic.com.au This information is not a substiute for training in fi rst aid. © St John Ambulance Australia, January 2011 members from local government, Once community needs have been mechanisms for helping municipal councils community, emergency services sector identified, the local steering committee to undertake local planning that tailors and community service providers, will facilitate the development of personal bushfire safety options to the needs of have been established in each of the plans and strategies that ensure local individual communities. municipalities and are working together emergency service providers have a The project is being funded by the Volunteer Emergency Services to identify local needs. better understanding about the needs Commonwealth Government under “The municipalities have committed to and capabilities of the target group. the Victorian Emergency Management an ongoing voice at the local community Emphasis will be placed on the Grants Program (VEMGP), administered Equipment Program level through the endorsement of the steering committees exploring non- by the Office of the Emergency AN ARTICLE BY Emergency Services Policy and Support steering committees as formal sub- traditional emergency support structures, Services Commissioner. committees of their Municipal Emergency such as assistance to individuals from For more information on the Inclusive On 20 February 2011, Deputy Premier includes trucks, tankers, vehicles, boats, including the Australian Volunteer Coast Management Planning Committees,” volunteers and community agencies Emergency Management Project and Minister for Police and Emergency trailers and other emergency equipment. Guard Association, Country Fire Authority, Ms Litchfield said. to prepare and implement plans. please contact Kirra Litchfield, Project Services Peter Ryan launched the Life Saving Victoria, Victoria State A statewide reference group has also IEMP involves a range of stakeholders Manager, Leadership Plus 03 9489 2999 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Funding Emergency Service and other eligible been established with representatives linking together through the local or [email protected] Program (VESEP). The VESEP is a new The maximum grant under the VESEP is volunteer emergency services groups. equipment grants program for local $100,000. The VESEP will contribute $2 The 2011/12 VESEP application emergency services volunteer groups, for every $1 of funding up to $100,000. process closed on 29 April 2011 and replacing the previous Community Eligibility the successful bids will be announced Safety Emergency Support Program. To be eligible to apply for a VESEP grant, in mid 2011. The new name better reflects what an emergency services volunteer group The VESEP is managed by the the program will achieve and aims to must, within the two years prior to the Emergency Services Policy and Support enhance the capability and safety for application being made: (ESP&S) Unit of the Department of local volunteers when responding to • have performed a role or discharged a Justice, building on the successful emergencies. The program also provides responsibility of an agency, as defined partnership between communities, the State with assets to continue to by the Emergency Management Act volunteers, emergency services respond to the increase in significant 1986, or agencies and government. events such as bushfires, floods • be able to demonstrate a history of and heatwaves. emergency services in Victoria. To help recognise the significant contributions made by emergency Emergency services volunteer groups services volunteers, $11.5 million has been must also obtain independent expert allocated for the first round of the VESEP confirmation that they meet this definition. Wellington community members with a disability, council staff and emergency services in 2011/12 to provide volunteers with Brochures and application packs were staff at the November Wellington Community Workshop discussing what is needed to funding for additional equipment, which delivered to agencies in February 2011, support the capacity of people to prepare, respond and recovery from emergencies. 20 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 2121

Research Climate change & the emergency management sector

The Office of the Emergency Services Commissioner (OESC) has previously examined the physical and social changes that are likely to impact on Victoria’s emergency management sector in the coming decades, including climate change. There is a growing body of evidence that climate change events will intensify and increase in frequency. This will result in a range of emergency events requiring a response from the emergency management sector. Victoria has experienced unprecedented climatic conditions in recent years, resulting in bushfire, drought, heatwave, severe storms, coastal inundations and flood. The impacts of these events have required a response from the emergency management sector that at times was significantly beyond the responses that were anticipated and planned for. The Climate Change and the Emergency Management Sector: Building Research Capacity program Bushfire CRC research commenced in January 2011 and will Dr Cruz leading a field trip near Mildura run for three years. The principal with fire agency staff demonstrating demonstrated in the field AN ARTICLE BY BUSHFIRE CRC his Quick Guide for fire behaviour objective of the program is to establish prediction in semi-arid mallee-heath. the critical steps for adaptation to climate change in the emergency management sector. On a warm, cloudless afternoon, a dozen “The program was funded by the arid parts of Australia that have a reliable location of the planned burn, the time of to make calculations from the quantity The gaps and areas of concern firefighters and park rangers from distant Bushfire CRC,” Dr Cruz tells the assembled winter rainfall. day, whether it was sunny or cloudy, and and height of the trees at different places. identified in previous work by parts of Victoria and New South Wales participants in what is the third one-day Fire behaviour in the sparse mallee the relative humidity and air temperature. Though this day is fine and hot, there OESC include: wander about a thick area of mallee event of this type in a fortnight – he lands is different to that in forests and This information was designed to be is little wind, and wind is needed to get • climate change and urban scrubland south of Mildura, waving small, conducted the earlier ones in Adelaide grasslands, creating a problem in deciding used in conjunction with the Quick Guide, flames to spread through the sparse emergencies plastic-coated fold out guides to the flora and Berri in South Australia. the best conditions for controlled burns with its four-step tables allowing ready vegetation. And there has been more • climate change and our privatised of the area while uttering what to the “Our [CSIRO] group looks at bushfire that will get under way productively but calculation in the field of the probability than 40mm of rain in the past few days. essential services uninitiated might sound like the coded behaviour and pretty much everyone in not go out of control. of a controlled burn working properly. In fact, the rainfall in recent months has • impact of climate change on mantras of a secret society. our group was involved in this research. In conjunction with South Australia’s “With information from a weather been the best in a decade and the region rural volunteers. Leading them is Dr Miguel Cruz, a The main objective was to produce a Department of Environment and Natural forecast, the guide allows you to predict is positively blooming. Despite the day’s The program will draw on the scientist with the CSIRO’s Bushfire prescribed burn guide that could be used Resources, a team led by Dr Cruz the time of the day when a fire will be a warmth, some water still lies in shallow experiences of agencies and individuals Dynamics and Applications group in to predict whether a controlled burn will conducted 67 separate test burns in goer,” Dr Cruz says. puddles from the weekend falls. in those agencies to identify how Canberra and a Bushfire CRC researcher. ‘go’ under varying conditions, such as the Ngarkat Conservation Park. The burns “It lets you know the best time of the “So will a fire now be a goer?” organisations can plan to manage During four years of research for height of the vegetation, the fuel moisture, were at different times of the year over day to light a fire to get sustained burning. Dr Cruz asks. future emergencies, while delivering the Bushfire CRC, Dr Cruz studied fire the time of day and the rate of spread of several years, in many types of vegetation, It will also show the time of the day the The fire managers conduct some more quality and effective responses. behaviour in the semi-arid mallee-heath the fire.” from mallee shrubs to pure heath. fire will stop spreading.” chanting and mantras, gazing at the sun, A steering group has commenced areas of this general part of Australia, Mallee are eucalypts that sprout The research found that the moisture The firefighters and rangers at this measuring the temperature and humidity meeting and will guide the project particularly in the Ngarkat Conservation stunted multiple stems from an content of the fuels to be burned was very day’s session are from as far away as with hand-held devices, scrawling some team, in particular to ensure that Park, South Australia. The field trip he underground tuber, in contrast to the important. Moisture increased at night Cobar and Broken Hill, Sydney and more calculations down from the guide. research questions and priorities is leading is the practical culmination of more common eucalypt trees that grow then reduced during the day, with its Ballarat, as well as officers from around “Not a hope!” is the consensus reply. are relevant to the sector. Quick lowest about noon. The Quick Guide for fire that research, demonstrating his tall and proud with a single trunk. Mallee Mildura itself. They keenly engage with For further information contact Julie Guide for fire behaviour prediction in The guide includes tables allowing fire behaviour prediction in semi-arid are found particularly in the region where Dr Cruz, asking many questions. Hoy, Manager Climate Change Project, semi-arid mallee-heath managers to calculate the fuel moisture mallee-heath is available from , published just the borders of South Australia, New South The group walk from one spot to OESC on [email protected] content by marking on a chart the date and www.bushfirecrc.com/products weeks earlier. Wales and Victoria meet but also in other another in the scrub, using their guides or 03 8684 7914. 22 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27 23

Working together better at the 2011 E vents & Awards Emergency Management Conference

The 2011 Emergency Management The conference is ESF’s annual Conference Working together better is fundraiser to ensure it can continue to 2011 Australian Safer being held at The Sebel Albert Park, provide support to families of emergency Melbourne, from 12-14 July 2011. service workers and scholarships for Communities Awards The Emergency Management emergency services personnel to study Conference (EMC) is an annual relevant topics. Acting Emergency Services Entries for the 2011 Australian conference presented by the Emergency The conference also features a Commissioner Joe Buffone said that the Safer Communities Awards close Services Foundation (ESF) to provide growing trade exhibition which showcases awards were a great opportunity to highlight Friday 1 July, 2011. a forum for the exchange of the valuable products of interest for emergency the continuing commitment of Victorians For further information on the awards, information gained by emergency services services as well as integrated workshops towards building safer communities. eligibility criteria and how to enter visit professionals in a range of areas. ‘scenario building within a diverse “Our Office is once again proud to www.oesc.vic.gov.au or call 03 8684 7900. ESF Chairman Laurie Lavelle landscape’ on the final day. be facilitating the Victorian component AM said the conference was a great EMC is proudly sponsored by ESF, of the awards which are a fantastic way opportunity to bring together emergency Office of the Emergency Services to recognise the variety of innovative There are seven categories management professionals from Commissioner, Department of Human work happening across the sector,” based broadly on the type emergency services organisations, Services, Australian Bureau of Metrology, Mr Buffone said. of organisation applying; local, state and federal government, Department of Sustainability and “I strongly encourage any individual • State and Territory, community groups, technology experts, Environment, Department of Transport or organisation with an eligible project including government-owned researchers, non-government and Metropolitan Fire Brigade. to submit an application in one of the business enterprises organisations and industry. For more information about the 2011 various categories.” • Local Government, single “This year we are expecting over Emergency Management Conference The awards cover all aspects of and collective subcategories 400 delegates and a range of eminent visit www.esf.com.au or contact High community safety and resilience with • Volunteer and Community speakers for what we believe will be our ProfileE vents on 03 9533 1000. an emergency management focus Groups (where membership best conference yet as we look at ways including risk assessment, research, is substantially voluntary) to improve how we work together in this education and training, information and • Private Sector sector of constant change and challenge,” knowledge management, prevention, • Education and training, including Mr Lavelle said. D o you have a project that has made preparedness, response and recovery. vocational training and research Acting Emergency Conference delegates are invited to your community more resilient? “In 2010 we had a record number • Federal (projects which are Services Commissioner, talk about their experiences, expectations If so, the 2011 Australian Safer of applicants and I believe that this cross-jurisdictional and/or projects Joe Buffone, speaking at and ideas about partnerships and Communities Awards may be the perfect year is going to be even bigger,” of national significance) the 2010 Emergency collaboration across the complex Management Conference. way to promote and recognise this project. Mr Buffone said. • Projects developed and/or emergency management spectrum. The Office of the Emergency Services The awards are hosted in Victoria managed by youth (under 18) Commissioner is calling for nominations for by the Office of the Emergency Services this years awards that recognise innovative Commissioner and are sponsored by the While there is no specific award for practices and achievements across the Australian Government Attorney-General’s individuals, they may submit entries in nation that are making our communities Department in conjunction with states any appropriate category listed above. Disaster response capability exhibition safer and more disaster resilient. and territories. AN ARTICLE BY MFB Whn e we get to see our specialist emergency response Deputy Premier and Minister for Police and Emergency E mergency services honoured on Australia Day resources, it’s usually in the middle of an emergency, which Services Peter Ryan attended the exhibition on Thursday 31 doesn’t provide many opportunities to stop and ask questions March, together with Fire Services Commissioner Craig Lapsley, Ec a h year on Australia Day and on Queen’s Birthday, recipients of the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) and Emergency Services or explore capabilities. DSE Chief Fire Officer Ewan Waller and Ambulance Victoria Medal (ESM) are announced by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the responsible state and territory Ministers. The Disaster Response Capability Display, held at Melbourne Operations Manager Paul Holman. The AFSM recognises distinguished service by the men and women of Australia’s fire services organisations. It was introduced Showgrounds from 30 March – 1 April gave emergency Feedback received by event organisers has been into the Australian system of honours in 1988. The ESM recognises distinguished service by members of Australia’s emergency management workers and volunteers the opportunity to do just overwhelmingly positive – a great outcome for increasing services organisations and was introduced into the Australian system of honours in 1999. that, with a number of specialist response capabilities on show. interoperability across Victoria’s emergency services. The following are the worthy recipients of the AFSM and ESM announced on Australia Day 2011: The exhibition, organised in conjunction with the Fire Services Commissioner, explored an all-hazards, all agencies approach Australian Fire Service Medal Mr Murray John Fullerton AFSM For more information on the awards to crisis and consequence management and provided the Mr Alexander Gerard de Man AFSM Department of Sustainability and please contact Ruth Kumaresan, opportunity for MFB, CFA, VICSES, DSE and Ambulance Country Fire Authority Environment Policy Officer, Emergency Services Victoria to showcase specialist tools and multi-response Mr Murray John Fullerton AFSM Mr Andrew Graystone AFSM Policy on 03 8685 1310 or by email capacity for major disasters. Country Fire Authority Parks Victoria on [email protected] Assembled was a great display of the expertise and Mr Robert Henry Rankin AFSM equipment ready to respond to emergencies in Victoria, including Country Fire Authority Emergency Services Medal Urban Search and Rescue, High Angle Rescue, HazMat and Mr Robert James Ispen AFSM Mr Graeme Edward Poulton ESM Congratulations to Inspector Douglas Scientific capabilities, Mass Decontamination facilities, Incident Country Fire Authority Victoria State Emergency Service John Hocking for receiving the Management Teams, Command and Control vehicles, lighting Mr John Paul Hale AFSM Ms Michelle Louise Olinder ESM Australia Police Medal (APM), resources, containerised kitchens and laundry modules from Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Victoria State Emergency Service recognising 40 outstanding years a mobile base camp and emergency medical response. Services Board Mr Richard Lentel Head ESM of service with Victoria Police The three day exhibition attracted fire, rescue and (L-R) Fire Services Commissioner, Craig Lapsley, MFB Mr Paul Stuart Illman AFSM Bush Search and Rescue Victoria researching, practising and promoting medical practitioners from emergency services organisations, Leading Firefighter Matthew Burr, Deputy Premier and Metropolitan Fire and Emergency emergency management. local government authorities and departments, both state Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Peter Ryan and MFB Acting Chief Executive Officer Shane Wright. Services Board wide and nationally. 24 WINTER 2011 ISSUE 27

E M Movements

building close working relationships with the MFB Board President Neil Comrie AO MFB appoints new CEO MFB Executive Leadership Team, along APM said the Board was delighted to On 27 April, Nick Easy was appointed with colleagues across the emergency have secured a senior and experienced as the new Chief Executive Officer of the management sector. executive of Nick’s calibre for the critical Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Services “One of the challenges for us all in position of CEO. Board (MFB). the emergency services is the absolute “Nick will bring a strong record Mr Easy is currently the Executive necessity to operate cooperatively and of leadership, innovation and achievement General Manager, Port Capacity, Port of efficiently across our various portfolios. to the MFB and his outstanding planning Melbourne Corporation and has been with This will be a key priority for me,” and project management skills will the organisation since 1998. Prior to this Mr Mr Easy said. significantly enhance our capacity Easy has worked in senior local government “MFB is an outstanding organisation, to deliver on major projects,” said planning roles. which provides vital fire and emergency Mr Comrie Mr Easy said he was delighted to accept services to almost four million Melburnians Mr Easy will take up his appointment his appointment and was looking forward to and I am proud to be a part of that.” on 6 June 2011.

Sudan, Afghanistan and Pakistan and previously the Executive Director, Appointments has also worked with the United Nations Service Delivery and Performance in Mr Neil Comrie AO APM appointed in Somalia. the Department of Human Services and head of the Review of 2010-11 Flood was extensively involved in the State Warnings and Response. Mr Comrie Mr Ken Shymanski appointed Chief Government’s response to the 2009 is currently the Bushfires Royal Executive Officer ofE mergency Services bushfires, providing overall management Commission Interim Report Telecommunications Authority (ESTA). of the DHS Bushfire Recovery Services Implementation Monitor and President Mr Shymanski has worked in the public Unit, working closely with VBRRA. She of the Metropolitan Fire and Emergency safety and telecommunications industry has also been a member of the Victorian Services Board (MFB) and was the former for more than 40 years, including the last Bushfire Appeal Fund Advisory Panel. Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police. nine as the President and Chief Executive He has significant expertise in undertaking Officer of E-Comm 9-1-1, Emergency Mr Ron Walker AC CBE appointed chair comprehensive reviews and a strong Communications for Southwest British of the Red Cross Victorian Floods understanding of Victoria’s emergency Columbia in Canada which provides the Appeal. Mr Walker has an accomplished management arrangements. 9-1-1 service and the call taking and record in leading major fundraising appeals emergency dispatch for police and and is currently the Chairman of Australian Ms Carmel Flynn appointed Director of fire departments. Grand Prix Corporation and was also a Emergency Management for Department former Lord Mayor of Melbourne. Mr Walker of Human Services. Mrs Flynn was Ms Pam White appointed Chief has served Australia in many charitable previously the International Emergency Executive Officer of the Victorian capacities including the Cancer Institute, Manager at the Red Cross and in the past Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Heart Foundation Appeal and Save the has managed disaster relief programs in Authority (VBRRA). Ms White was Children Fund.

What do you think of EM Info? By completing the quick online EM Info readership survey, you will automatically be in the running for a Nikon camera! We encourage your valid thoughts about the format, content and fit of the magazine with your involvement in the emergency management sector. To complete the short survey visit www.surveymonkey.com/s/eminfosurvey

Victoria’s emergency management magazine The Office of Emergency Services Commissioner OESC thanks all individuals and emergency services ISSN 1836 – 5450 (OESC) works with communities and agencies for photographs and contributions appearing Authorised by the Emergency Services Commissioner, government to enhance the state’s emergency in this issue. 121 Exhibition Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000 management arrangements. Printed by ON-DEMAND (TDC3) OESC hopes you have enjoyed EM Info magazine. For Published by Office of the Emergency 323 Williamstown Road, Port Melbourne, 3207 more information on articles in this issue, to contribute Services Commissioner. a story or to provide feedback, please contact the editor EM Info is printed on ReArt stock containing on (03) 8684 7900 or email [email protected] Edited by Lucy Bell. 100% recycled fibre with a minimum of 90% post consumer waste. To receive this publication in an accessible format such as large print or audio, please contact OESC on EM Info is also published on www.oesc.vic.gov.au (03) 8684 7900 or email [email protected]