02 06 17 29 36 Wild storm activity Aerosol factory Big Brother helps A yarn in the Running an in Bourke flare up fight fires shearing shed arrival drill BUSHFIREbulletin THE JOURNAL OF THE NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE VOL 28 No.02 // 2006 01 CONTENTS FOREWORD 25 Publisher NSW Rural Fire Service 02 Editorial Team Michael Watts, Meeka Bailey, Murray Hillan, Matt Schroder, Belinda Landry, Rebel Talbert, Cameron Wade Production/Advertising Coordinator 36 Steve Byers Graphic Design/Art Production Carillon Graphic Communications Cover photo By Meeka Bailey Leanne Gosling of Coutts Crossing Rural Fire Brigade, Clarence Valley. 08 20

am pleased to say that good progress is being made by Chief 01 FOREWORD 20 SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS Supt. Bruce Holz and his team with the process of reviewing 20 Officer in profile Les Bowden IService Standards and Standard Operating Procedures. 02 INCIDENTS 20 Officer in profile Jim Fahey The new draft constitution is ready for release and I’m sure RFS brigades will find it far less prescriptive, more flexible and more 02 Wild storm activity in Bourke 22 Now and then… antique firefighting equipment displayed readily adaptable for individual brigade applications. 02 Truck makes unexpected house call 23 A yarn in the shearing shed As this complex review process continues, with the purpose of 04 Kemps Creek Tip 7-day fire making the volunteer workload less onerous, many standards 05 Historic Nandewar Hotel blaze will be shaped more in the guise of “guidelines” than rigid and 25 OPERATIONS PULLOUT 06 Aerosol factory flare up prescriptive requirements. I commend the efforts of Bruce Holz and all those working with him on this project. 07 150 firefighters tame Eastern Creek 30 Woodenbong’s Anzac Day factory fire I hope our volunteers will see the benefits when the task is 30 Shanes Park medal tally 07 Tamworth RAFT called in to contain complete. lightning strike fire 31 New fire station opening Financially, the Service is on a sound footing. We have enjoyed 32 Hats off for volunteer firefighters another significant increase in our budget which will allow 08 NEWS 32 Bob’s old hat us, amongst other things, to increase expenditure on brigade stations/sheds and so forth from $2M to $10M and will provide 08 Putting NSW’s fire history and fuel 33 Kioloa Brigade celebrates 70 years an opportunity for us to increase our tanker production from some loads on the map 33 Dodge fire tanker bashes to Bundaberg 200 units to approximately 220 units. 10 New OCV makes communication 34 Music and motors at Jindera and Whilst I appreciate that many brigades are still waiting for newer as easy as ABC Walla Walla vehicles and accommodation, and their patience is appreciated, 11 Old Hazelton facility upgraded for it is satisfying to note that modern tankers and equipment are aerial firefighting becoming the norm rather than the exception. 36 TRAINING 12 Alarming display at Maitland 36 Running an arrival drill Finally, given that there are some indicators suggesting that the Super Show fire season may well be difficult, I again ask all our volunteers to 12 Shoalhaven Cadets meet the 38 New cadets program launched exercise caution and put safety first, always. Prime Minister 39 RFS checks out South Australia’s 13 High country fire research structural fire training 14 Commissioner’s Commendations 39 MyRFS tested at regional exercises OUR 15 Australian Fire Service Medals 2006 40 Regional exercise photo gallery 15 Commissioner’s events and visits 40 State of Origin – Region South style May June 2006 42 Mock burn over – Region West VALUES 16 National Escape Day 44 Glen Innes gathering – Region North 17 Big Brother helps fight fires 46 Appin in training debut – Region East Phil Koperberg AO AFSM BEM 17 Canon again supporting RFS 48 Incident management workshops Commissioner Brigades by product donation and exercises UNDERPIN 18 NSW Rural Fire Service Library 49 Breathing apparatus training at 18 MyRFS: 1 year on and 6000 Cessnock members strong ALL OUR 50 RFS OPEN DAY 18 Hawkesbury Rescue Expo showcases RFS skill and technology 52 DONATIONS ACTIONS The views expressed in articles in the Bushfire Bulletin do not necessarily reflect the views of the policies of the NSW Rural Fire Service.

BUSHFIREbulletin // CONTENTS BUSHFIREbulletin // FOREWORD 02 03 Incidents

Truck makes unexpected house call By Media Assistant Matthew Schroder & Inspector Greg Wardle

t 1449hrs Monday 3 July RFS Chifley Zone Office received a triple zero call Areporting an MVA with a rolled car on the corner of Hamilton and Willetton Sts Eglinton.

The Fire Control Centre responded Eglinton Rural Fire Brigade and an Inspector. They arrived on scene within 10 minutes of the ‘000’ call to find a far worse situation than originally reported. Wild Storm Activity A car had failed to stop at a give way sign, in Bourke resulting in a collision with a truck. The car had been pushed on its roof for 10 t about 1700hrs on 21 February 2006 by RFS brigades from Bourke Headquarters metres up the road, trapping the occupant a wild storm tore through the northern and Pera Bore. inside. Apart of the Bourke township. “It was a huge effort by both agencies and NSW FIRE BRIGADES Winds estimated in excess of 100 kph using the RFS specialist skills with chainsaws ripped trees out of the ground and even enabled the SES to attend an over- WORKED WITH RFS CREWS removed parts of the roofing of a local abundance of other incidents ensuring that TO SECURE A POTENTIAL supermarket. all these properties were safe and secured,” GAS LEAK said RFS Barwon Darling Zone Community THE ROOF… WAS RIPPED Safety Officer Inspector Ross West. The truck veered off the road and crashed OFF, LIFTED OVER THE into the front room of a house. HOUSE AND DUMPED IN Single channel communications NSW Fire Brigades worked with RFS crews THE STREET, BRINGING to secure a potential gas leak. Police and DOWN POWER LINES Using new SES radios enabled a single Ambulance attended the incident and channel to be used for both SES and Ambulance crews treated the occupant Wortumurtie and Coomah Sts sustained the RFS communications, which assisted the of the overturned car, who was taken to The truck most significant damage. The roof of the operation. Bathurst Hospital for further treatment. back patio of a Coomah St home was ripped off, lifted over the house and dumped into Co-ordinated contributions from the Bourke RFS personnel remained on scene while the veered off the street, bringing down power lines. Shire Council and Country Energy were Police and RTA carried out an investigation. greatly appreciated. At the height of the storm properties in The truck was removed from the house at the road and Wortumurtie St were damaged by falling Crews returned to their stations at about 1823 hrs. No one was in the house at the trees and properties along Mooculta St had 2200hrs, with the shire council back on the time of the accident. crashed into severe roof damage. job first thing the next morning. Right: The house was extensively damaged from the impact of the truck. the front room Teamwork comes to the fore Top: Coomah St suffered much of the Photo by Brett McMillan damage during the storm in Bourke. SES crews were dispatched accompanied of a house BUSHFIREbulletin // INCIDENTS BUSHFIREbulletin // INCIDENTS 04 05

KEMPS CREEK TIP 7-DAY FIRE By RFS Media Officer Rebel Talbert t about 1735hr on Friday 24 February RFS team enters burning RFS FIREFIGHTER… HIT BY 2006, Kemps Creek 1 and 9 from RFS building FALLING DEBRIS WHEN AMacarthur Zone were called to a fire at Brandon Tip on Elizabeth Drive, Kemps Creek. PART OF THE TOP FLOOR The four of us were able to enter the hotel VERANDAH COLLAPSED Upon arrival, Kemps Creek crews found and evacuate all occupants from the building. As there was no sign of fire or smoke one large pile of bulk, clean timber well It was around this time that an RFS in the rooms on the top floor, we were alight with the threat of spotting into firefighter was hit by falling debris when part able to conduct a room to room search to adjacent piles. of the top floor verandah collapsed. He was ensure there were no other occupants in treated by on-scene Ambulance officers, the building. Electrical power fuses were then transported to Narrabri Hospital. After Limited onsite water removed and the power was shut off. precautionary x-rays and observation, he was later released from hospital and allowed With limited on site water available, Firecom was again contacted, calling to go home. He stopped at the incident to additional crews from RFS Macarthur and for additional resources from Gurley assure all concerned he was OK. Cumberland Zones were called in to assist. and Narrabri HQ RFB, NSW Fire Brigade (NSWFB) from Narrabri, Police, Ambulance The charged line being used by the NSWFB The main pile, which was 100m x 40m x and Country Energy. 30m high, initially produced flame height in CABA operators was cut by falling debris excess of 30m, resulting in large amounts and they exited the building, along with the of dense smoke. It had the potential to spot Bellata RFB joins the attack RFS CABA operators. into surrounding grasslands. Bellata RFB arrived soon after and commenced a defensive attack on the fire, Fire takes hold CREWS WORKED TO assisted by Chris and Alan McLachlan. I In my role as Incident Controller I continually PROTECT GRASSLANDS took on the role of Incident Controller, liaised with Captain Sills and the Police setting up Bellata Control, while Inspector AND OTHER ASSETS FROM commander Inspector Steve Gallagher. It Hall directed operations. Gurley RFB Deputy had become obvious to both Captain Sills RADIANT HEAT Captain Ben Hurle, enroute to the course at and I that the fire had taken too big a hold Narrabri, arrived on scene and assisted until Crews worked to protect grasslands and on the building and offensive firefighting Gurley brigade arrived. other assets from radiant heat and ember HISTORIC was becoming a very unsafe option. attack and continued to cool down the main NANDEWAR HOTEL All bystanders were removed from the area as pile while strategies were developed. As the fire had spread to the majority of the BLAZE power lines were arcing, with the possibility of Resources cat building, offensive firefighting ceased and Story by Inspector Marty Thick dropping to the ground. Water hydrants were Two 30,000 litre bulk water carriers were the RFS continued to direct hose lines into RFS Namoi Gwydir located, some of which had been covered by called in from Warringah Pittwater and NSW Kemps Creek 1 the building, from the safety of the hotel Photos by Inspector Thick and bitumen during previous roadworks. A 22,000 Fire Brigades to support local bulk water yard areas. We discussed with Inspector Kemps Creek 9 Inspector Steve Hall litre water tank in the service station across the carriers. Two privately owned dozers and a Gallagher the necessity to erect barriers Austral 9 highway was also located for water. bulk water carrier assisted crews to contain irefighters battled to save the historic to prevent falling debris from spilling out the fire to one pile. Austral 2 onto the highway so the road could be re- Nandewar Hotel, a valued part of the Newell Highway closed Camden West 1 FBellata community which was gutted opened. Inspector Gallagher organised for Erskine Park 1 by fire on 29 April 2006. Narrabri Shire Council to install the barriers. Firefighters work until dawn It became necessary to close the Newell Eastern Creek 1 Highway as smoke had reduced visibility to More than 110 firefighters worked until Many RFS firefighters diverted their attendance As the incident progressed, I released almost zero. My Service vehicle, with warning midnight to control the threat and four Horsley Park 1 at a driving course in Narrabri to attend the Narrabri RFS and NSWFB crews, leaving beacons activated, was used to block the crews remained on scene overnight until Horsley Park 7 incident…Inspector Marty Thick tells the story. Bellata 1 and Gurley 1 on scene to continue south-bound lane. Traffic was able to be 0600hr when crews returned to begin defensive firefighting, in effect, just cooling Hoxton Park 2 diverted around the area without any problems. dismantling the pile. On Saturday 29 April 2006, I was travelling the structure. Hoxton Park 9 to Narrabri in my Service vehicle to instruct Warialda 9, with Captain Karen Hedges Helitak 401, a Bell 214B medium helicopter, Lyndwood Park 1 a Rural Fire Driving Course at the Narrabri Eventually all agencies departed the scene, and Stonefield RFB Captain David Farrell, was placed on standby at Bankstown Fire Control Centre. Bellata Control closed down and only Bellata Luddenham 1 who were also enroute to the RFD course, Airport as a precautionary measure while Category 1 tanker remained on scene. Narellan 1 activated their warning beacons and blocked the pile was dismantled on Saturday. With me were Pallamallawa Rural Fire Narellan Pump Brigade (RFB) Captain Chris McLachlan and the north-bound lane. Tireless efforts Narellan Lighting Unit President/Firefighter Alan McLachlan and Contractors join the fight During the following 45 minutes or so Gurley 1, the newly appointed Namoi Gwydir Team I can only praise the dedication and effort of Plumpton 1 Narrabri HQ 1 and 7, NSWFB Narrabri Pumper, Operations Officer, Inspector Steve Hall. the RFS firefighters who worked tirelessly Late Saturday afternoon the RFS Ambulance, Police and Country Energy arrived Regentsville 1 to save this historic, and much valued, approached the owner to bring in on scene. The Police set up a command post Varroville 1 heritage building. All agencies, including contractors to take over firefighting WE COULD SEE FLAMES in the service station, which had closed, with the Police and Ambulance officers, worked operations so that local crews could Appin 1 BETWEEN THE GUTTERING fuel pumps shut down. exceptionally well together and carried out progressively stand down. Silverdale 1 AND THE ROOF AT THE their own duties to the highest standards. Campbelltown Bulk Water RFS crews assisted the contractors to pull NORTH EAST CORNER OF HAZMAT Unit apart the piles on Sunday and continued Warringah Pittwater Bulk Water THE BUILDING comes from Narrabri I also speak very highly of our counterparts overall management of the fire, but handed NSW Fire Brigades Bulk Water NSWFB, who also did everything possible At about 0810hrs as we proceeded through NSWFB Captain Brett Sills took on the to save the structure. I can add that it operations over at 1600hrs on Sunday 26 Macarthur Catering February. the town of Bellata, we were waved down role of Operations Officer and directed his was a pleasure working with Captain Sills NSW Police by a truck driver who informed us that the crews to start offensive firefighting within controlling this incident. Decisions were Local RFS crews were called to the fire Ambulance NSW Nandewar Hotel was on fire. Upon taking a the building. Captain Sills responded the made in unison and acted upon without NSWFB HAZMAT Unit from Narrabri to question or delay, especially when the numerous times over the next five days as Helitak 401 Bankstown Bell 214B closer look at the building, we could see flames the pile continued to issue smoke and the between the guttering and the corrugated iron assist with CABA operations. RFS CABA safety of firefighters and members of the glow could be seen by passing motorists on roof at the north-eastern corner of the building. operators started offensive firefighting community were at risk. Elizabeth Drive at night. RFS crews worked all night to contain from the rear of the building while NSWFB the blaze which initially produced flame Inspector Hall immediately radioed Firecom, operators entered through the front door. The fire was declared out at 1515 hrs on height in excess of 30 metres. informing Duty Officer Inspector Michael Defensive firefighting ceased at this time to Friday 3 March 2006. Photos by RFS Media Officer Rebel Talbert Roper of the incident and to respond the allow CABA operators maximum visibility. local Bellata RFB. BUSHFIREbulletin // INCIDENTS BUSHFIREbulletin // INCIDENTS 06 07 150 firefighters tame Eastern Creek Factory Fire Story by RFS Media Officer Rebel Talbert

Walgrove Road RFS Brigades H SP41 Horsley Park

ASPINALL PL Eastern Creek Plumpton TEN1 1234 Eastern Creek Waste Management Centre Staging Area KUR 1 Regentville 1234 Pallets removed

AP97 1234 Erskine Park 1

from this area 2

SECTOR B 3 4 1234 UR3R

GWOL 1 1

2 3

4 Marsden Park 1

FIRE 2 3 BL RID 1 4 Schofields OAK1A HH AMBULANCE BULK POLICE LP27 1234

SECTOR C H ACID Berkshire Park 1234 GLOS 1 ICV2 SECTOR A STORE

1234 Mulgoa OAK 2 H SECTOR D 1234 YAR 1 Orchard Hills P83 LP8 HOT ZONE RAAF AP86 1234 WIL 1 Communications

4 OCV2 3 2 P32 1

1234 Command Post 4

P101 3 2 P82 OAK1B HQ1 1 PLUMPTON

1234 EASTERN CK 1 4 3 2 1 PUMPER P81 P96 P73 H NSWFB Stations HANABUS ST P71 HORSLEY PARK 1 H H BACO Huntingwood Point of Origin AP97 Mount Druitt H Eastern Creek HUDSON PL Seven Hills Mulgrave Factory Fire Rycycling Plant Fire P94 19 June 2006 MULCH PILE May 2006 Blacktown Illustration by C.Wade Drawn by C.Wade ICV2 Parramatta GROVES AVE HAZMAT Aerosol Factory set up in Hanabus Place and immediately Forklift firefighter t 2032 hrs on Friday 12 May 2006 to suppress the fire, while NSWFB aerial Smithfield Flare Up provide exposure protection on sector C. the NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) appliances worked to cool adjoining Dunheved Story by RFS Media Officer Cameron Wade As this was being set up crews from AComCen received a call to a confirmed structures and to cut ventilation holes into Penrith A large crowd had gathered plus those who structure alight on Old Wallgrove Road, the roof. Oakville were protecting the massive Wentworthville ust before 1400hrs on Monday 19 June had been evacuated from the complex storage facility exposure on the C side of Eastern Creek. Oakville Rural Fire Brigade (RFB) in the involved, causing traffic problems for crews. the fire. One of the crew was a forklift Fire reignites for five hours Busby JHawkesbury District was paged to driver and under instruction from the IC and Horsley Park Rural Fire Brigade (RFB) St Marys Oakville 1A and the PC with village trailer from Cumberland Zone was immediately assist NSW Fire Brigades with a factory fire Group 2 removed 14 pallets of flammable The fire continued to re-ignite until about Fairfield in the suburb of Mulgrave near Windsor. were the first RFS appliances to arrive and material. They were stored in an undercover dispatched along with Station 97 from 0130 hrs on Saturday morning while an RFS Cabramatta were tasked to sector C. Ground monitors storage area against the C wall of the NSWFB. En route both reported large excavator driver wearing BA worked to pull New trailer put to the test were deployed to the corners of B and C factory. They were moved away from the volumes of smoke visible from the call apart compost mulch. BA crews continued Rockdale sectors and C and D sectors. fire area. address. fire suppression, ventilation and overhaul of Glebe Oakville RFB had just finished setting up the building until 0824 hrs when a stop was Ashfield their village protection trailer. This unit was Hawkesbury FireCom had additional units Compost factory well alight put on the incident. full of 65mm hose, ground monitors and A SHOWER OF activated and staged near the incident in Lakemba extra stand pipes. The trailer was about to EXPLODING case further resources were required. Upon arrival, Horsley Park 1 found the 250 In total about 10 per cent of the 250 x Gladesville be tested with one of the largest operations Tennyson, Kurrajong, Grose Wold and x 50 metre compost factory well alight 50 metre, lightweight metal construction Matraville the Hawkesbury had seen for some time. Blaxland Ridge were all nearby but not and additional tankers were requested building was destroyed by fire. 10,000 AEROSOL CANS… required. to respond to the scene. Horsley Park 1 tonnes of mulch were involved in fire and Gordon The factory manufactured aerosol cans for RAINED DOWN ON started direct attack on the fire before substantial damage occurred to conveyor Concord the automotive industry and was surrounded RAAF called in retreating to protect a 20,000 litre tank of belts and machinery inside the building. Horningsea Park flammable liquid from flame impact. by storage facilities including gas and fuel THE FIREFIGHTERS Campsie installations. Part of the manufacturing plant The fire continued to burn at high intensity Huge 12-hour team effort Engadine was on fire. The building was a tilt slab The monitor in C and D was actually aimed into the evening. The RAAF airport OPERATORS FROM BOTH construction with fire walls separating the at the internal fire wall in an attempt to keep appliance was brought in an attempt to put SERVICES WORKED About 150 firefighters from 10 RFS Liverpool factory from the storage areas. the fire from spreading into the unaffected a foam layer over the fire. Cumberland Zone brigades and 26 NSWFB Operational Communications area of the factory. The deployment of INTERNALLY TO SUPPRESS stations worked for 12 hours to stop the HAWKESBURY GROUP 65mm hose and ground monitors took place The other major issue was the runoff from THE FIRE spread of the fire and render the area safe. 2 WAS THE FIRST RFS under a shower of exploding aerosol cans the firefighting effort. NSWFB appliances The RFS handed the incident over to a Top: The compost facility at Eastern Creek which rained down on the firefighters as were responded to areas around the Additional appliances from the RFS and private contractor for salvage work and is part of a Mutual Aid Agreement (MAA) VOLUNTEER ON THE SCENE they worked. incident to collect the toxic runoff. This was NSWFB continued to arrive over the next contaminated water handling at 0824 hrs on between the RFS and NSW Fire Brigades. AND IMMEDIATELY GAVE AN a large Hazmat incident. three hours. About 20 BA operators at a Saturday 13 May. INFORMATIVE SITREP Water supply relays time from both Service’s worked internally RFS appliances were in operation until Hawkesbury Group 2 was the first RFS Water supply was going to be a priority and 2030hrs. NSWFB took over sector C and volunteer on scene and immediately gave relays were set up as soon as other their operations continued for several days. Tamworth RAFT an informative sitrep. Based on this appliances arrived. Oakville 1B, Hawkesbury In all 11 appliances and nearly 100 called in to contain information and their own view of the HQ 1, Wilberforce 1, Yarramundi 1 and firefighters from the RFS attended. lightning strike fire massive smoke column, Hawkesbury Glossodia 1 arrived over the next 30 NSW Fire Brigades Blacktown A Platoon. FireCom paged an additional four brigades. minutes and formed part of the relay of amworth Remote Area Fire Team was water to various monitors and appliances Photo by NSW Fire Brigades Blacktown A Platoon inserted into difficult terrain to contain a including Aerial Pump 86(Penrith) and Aerial Large crowd causes problems Illustration by Cameron Wade Tlightning strike fire 1km from the $80m Pump 97(Huntingwood). Nundle State Forest in February. Group 2 met with the NSW Fire Brigades Incident Controller who was the Station Rescue pump 71(Castle Hill) and Pump 96 The fire was extinguished within four hours Pictured are Group Captain Tamworth Zone Officer (SO) of Riverstone (83). Also on (Schofields) also formed part of the relay with the use of helicopter precision water Steve McCrae, Darryl Allsop, Peter Gehrig and scene were Windsor (81) and Richmond (82) which fed water to B, C and D sectors of dropping and RAFT personnel chainsawing Dallis Ramage. Photo by Lachlan Onslow Fleet pumpers. It was agreed that the RFS would the fire. and log rolling. Helicopters (Firebird 211).

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RFS Commissioner Phil Koperberg met with Deputy Commissioner of the London Fire Brigade Roy Bishop at RFS headquarters on 2 February 2006. The RFS was part of a tour of Australian GENERAL fire authorities. NEWS

Putting NSW’s fire digital multi-spectral imagery, HyMap Hyperspectral Scanner and LIDAR laser history and fuel scanner. loads on the map USING OPTICAL SENSORS overnment fire and public land management agencies have combined ON BOARD SATELLITES TO Gtheir skills on two projects to map MEASURE FUEL LOADS fire history and assess the fuel loads for a significant part of NSW. An SCA methodology using optical sensors on board satellites to measure fuel loads and Fire history record the severity, intensity and boundaries of fires will be further tested through the project. The RFS is working with Sydney Catchment Authority (SCA), National Parks and Wildlife RFS volunteers in vital role Service (NPWS) and Forests NSW in a multi- Catching expertise agency project to map the history of the RFS volunteers assisted to undertake the state’s fires. The SCA has become involved in the project field assessments at 130 sites in the study due to its technical expertise in bringing area. The procedure used an updated visual The information collected as part of this together the fire histories from other state fuel assessment methodology based on statewide project will be used to assist agencies and developing historical records. work by Dr Kevin Tolhurst and Dr Peter Ellis the government agencies in their fire from the Bushfire CRC. This methodology is management planning processes. SCA regularly uses satellite imagery to map being validated by using destructive sampling the extent of wildfires and hazard reduction to measure the fuel load. Digitising 40 years of data burns. They have used imagery dating back to 1983 to manually locate fires not already NPWS and Forests NSW are collecting recorded in the collected histories. Maps of past fires and hazard reduction vegetation structure, floristics and crown burns dating back to 1962 have been health as part of a parallel project. collected as paper records for the Special Fuel load measurement Areas managed by the SCA and NPWS. The The fuel load assessment project promises Special Areas surround the SCA’s dams and The same NSW agencies are involved three important outcomes: in evaluating a range of remote sensing other water storages and cover about 3,700 1. The development of a state-of-the-art square kilometres of bushland. methods (airborne and satellite) through the Natural Disaster Mitigation Program. fuel load assessment method that can accurately and reliably determine The paper records have been digitised, with No single method has yet been shown tonnes per hectare by visual details such as the start and end dates and assessment; names of past fires, being recorded by all to quantify all aspects of fuel loads, from four agencies. surface to canopy, so a wide range of 2. The development of the means to sensors will be trialled to quantify the determine fuel loads on the ground INFORMATION ON HOW greatest number of fuel attributes. by remote sensing imagery; and RFS COMMISSIONER OFTEN A LOCATION HAS A meeting of minds 3. Proving the efficacy of the SCA fuel BEEN BURNED SINCE 1962 load assessment methodology in PHIL KOPERBERG AND THE LENGTH OF TIME The Bushfire CRC, CSIRO, University another fuel type and location. BETWEEN FIRES of NSW and Australian environmental AND THE LONDON engineering company GHD are also involved The project is well advanced in achieving in the project. the first of these outcomes. Further detailed The fire histories collected will provide analysis is being undertaken in relation to the FIRE BRIGADES’ information on how often a location has other two outcomes. been burnt since 1962 and the length of time The satellite sensing methods being tested include ASTER, Hyperion, Landsat and DEPUTY between fires. The time since the last burn is Top: RFS members assess ground fuels important for estimating the possible fuel loads SPOT 5. The airborne methods include as part of the fuel load measurement project. that have accumulated since the last fire. Daedalus 12 channel multispectral, Photo by Geoff Parish, Gosford. COMMISSIONER Photo by RFS Media Officer Rebel Talbert

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OLD HAZELTON FACILITY UPGRADED FOR AERIAL FIREFIGHTING Photos by David Hoadley

he old Hazelton facility at Cudal received some attention during the 2005-06 Tfire season from RFS Canobolas Zone (Orange, Cowra, Cabonne and Blayney councils) to facilitate use of larger, modern, water bombing aircraft for firefighting.

“It is appropriate that this project was installed at the Cudal airport to enhance our firefighting ability,” RFS Canobolas Zone Manager Supt David Hoadley said. THE USE OF AIRCRAFT IN FIREFIGHTING TODAY IS BUILDING ON THEIR PIONEERING New OCV makes Taking the high ground The Sutherland OCV is expected to be the first communication of several across NSW with the standard WORK To deal with the inherent difficulties of design and equipment. With the development as easy as ABC communication on the fireground, the RFS and project management costs involved in the “Canobolas volunteers and the wider has developed a range of ‘comms vans’. creation of the first OCV removed, subsequent community remember and appreciate the ommunication for firefighters will These are generally small buses with seats models may cost around $180,000, depending early contribution made to aerial firefighting improve with the arrival of NSW’s first removed and radio equipment installed, on the features required. by the Hazelton family and the use of state-of-the-art RFS Operational C which are placed on hills or other locations aircraft in firefighting today is building on Command Vehicle (OCV) in Sutherland. to provide better coverage. Features of the new OCV include: their pioneering work.” • High roof, long wheel base, air- The state government funded $203,000 While these vans continue to be effective conditioned, Mercedes Sprinter During the 2005-06 fire season Canobolas vehicle not only improves voice and useful, the new OCV will improve and (similar to RTA traffic control units) Zone brigades had great success with the communication. standardise these vehicles. • More manoeuvrable and easy to use of aircraft to hit fires quickly from the air drive than bus based OCV in conjunction with volunteer ground crews All communication solutions available are • Comfortable, safe working space for to keep the fires small and to extinguish ELECTRONICALLY within the new van, from satellite phones to three operators them quickly. TRANSFER MAPS, portable repeaters, a 6m telescopic mast to • Telescopic mast extends 6m to maximise reception and transmission and a maximise reception for various Strategically range of radios and back up power systems. frequencies INCIDENT ACTION • 7 fitted radios (3 x GRN/PMR/ positioned aircraft Interagency Liaison, 1x fireground, RFS and local Rural Fire Brigades, Cabonne From top: RFS volunteers laid about 1km of pipe PLANS AND FIRE Minimal set-up time 1xNPWS and State Forests, 1xUHF Specialist aircraft under Commonwealth Council, National Parks and Wildlife Service, for the water tank at Cudal Airstrip. CB, 1x Airband) contract (part of a number of State and UPDATES… Because it is fitted with advanced State Forests and Cobbs Machinery (the Photo by Supt. David Hoadley. • 8 roof aerials for radios Commonwealth contracted aircraft technology the van simply pulls into position current owners of the site) with a total cost A 247,000 litre tank was installed at the old • Telephones - 1 satellite, 3 CDMA for strategically positioned around NSW) and TO AND FROM to provide almost immediate of about $30,000. Hazleton’s facility at Cudal Airport to assist voice, fax and data transfer via web a retardant batching plant based at the communication solutions, with little or no aerial firefighting in RFS Region West. • Three work stations, surrounded by Canobolas Air Base operated at Orange THE FIREGROUND set up time. It is easier to drive and has a Construction of the tank by contractors Photo by Supt. David Hoadley. white boards Airport. more effective working space for three started on 2 February with RFS volunteers For the first time, RFS personnel will be • Electrical inverter providing 12 volts operators than bus based OCVs. laying 1km of water pipes and erecting able to electronically transfer maps, incident to 240 volts, two large gel batteries Additional State contract aircraft also based at fences at the facility. action plans and fire updates through faxes, for 12 volt current Cowra were valuable in support of brigades email and database entries directly to and THE SUTHERLAND OCV IS • Patching arrangement on rear of in the Canobolas Zone and the neighbouring from the fireground. EXPECTED TO BE THE FIRST vehicle patched to operator inside in Council areas in RFS Region West. OF SEVERAL ACROSS NSW whatever configuration required – Tactical advantages operators can select a different GRN The Cudal airport project included Echidna gets antsy: The van can be placed closer to firefighters channel at will from inside the OCV construction of a 247,000 litre tank as part Wanders off The new equipment and vehicle mean to provide a focal point for information • Operator headphones, foot peddle of a loading facility that is capable of initially firefighters will have better radio contact and collection and distribution, providing all their push to talk enables hands free providing 75 loads to firefighting aircraft. beaten track information flow between fireground crews, communication requirements, reducing • Laptop, colour printer, scanner, with all firefighting agencies, aircraft and with travel and work to access information and photocopier for printing and Reducing turnaround time utherland District Field Officers got incident managers in Fire Control Centres. resources from Fire Control Centres. distributing maps and incident action a spiky surprise recently when they plans and other information to and The upgraded Cudal facility is the second in Scame across an echidna while working This makes it easier for firefighters to Standardisation means all RFS from the fireground a series of planned resources that will assist along a fire trail in Bangor. The disoriented coordinate firefighting tactics, call for communications personnel can easily and • Developed following research on in reducing turnaround times for aircraft and mammal was deposited safely back into resources and assistance and advise of fire efficiently move from one OCV to another Victorian Country Fire Authority and increase their effectiveness in support of its natural habitat by Richard Soar shortly spread and behaviour. and be familiar with the systems. State Emergency Service volunteers across RFS Region West. after – but not before posing for a few communication vehicles. The Cudal tank was a joint initiative of the photographs.

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Below: Children enjoy the RFS display at the Maitland Super Show where smoke alarms featured as a theme. Alarming display at consisting of two smoke alarms, a 1kg dry Maitland S uper Show chemical fire extinguisher and a fire blanket. By Martin Siemsen, RFS Hunter Zone Acting Community Safety Officer The Super Show Coordinator then came up with the idea to give this package away or the past few years the RFS Hunter as a prize. To enter, members of the public Zone Community Education Group and submitted evaluation forms, and once the Fbrigade volunteers have attended the show was complete, a local Hunter resident Maitland Super Show. was the lucky winner.

This year the group decided to try something And what luck they were having - the different. Rather than just handing out resident did not have any home safety material, a theme was chosen for this year’s products and was about to purchase some display: smoke alarms. of these items. Over 800 show bags! Shoalhaven Cadets THEN A BRAVE SOUL meet the Prime This year’s Super Show was down in Minister CAME UP WITH numbers due to weather, however, there By Insp. Chris Palmer, were over 800 show bags given out and Shoalhaven Learning & Development Officer THE SUGGESTION numerous enquires that followed. embers of the RFS Shoalhaven TO INVOLVE NSW There were over 200 evaluation forms filled cadet program formed part of the FIRE BRIGADES out with a “thumbs up” for the RFS and MPrime Minister’s guard of honour NSWFB section and a letter from one of the at the Nowra School of Arts building on Then a brave soul came up with the suggestion local primary schools thanking us for the 24 April 2006. to involve NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) to help educational display and assistance given to deliver information about smoke alarms and their group. PM praises Service their Smoke Alarm and Battery Replacement for the Elderly (SABRE) program. Successful joint venture The Prime Minister addressed cadets from the Defence Force and the RFS in the Once these ideas started, they just kept The smoke alarm theme was very School of Arts Annex, speaking at length on coming! A smoke alarm board display successful for the Hunter and the about what a magnificent service the RFS was created and the personnel selected community education group will be provides not only to NSW but also to other to present the information, but the group incorporating this into their next big event states as well. wanted perfection. - Steam Fest.

Bunnings come to the party The cooperation between NSWFB and THE PM RFS was also a success and showed both When the local Bunnings store was asked fire Services working together with the MENTIONED for their support, they came to party and common goal of FireWise. supplied a Home Fire Safety Smoke Package THE EFFORTS OF THE RFS IN THE CANBERRA FIRES High country fire The research project will enable During the open day, High Fire project research development of a formal risk model for the leader Mark Adams, project manager Maria In particular he mentioned the efforts of risk posed by wildfire in the high country by Taranto and Bushfire CRC Chief Executive considering fuel dynamics, fire history, fire Officer Kevin O’Loughlin gave a general the RFS in the Canberra Fires. n alpine paddock in the NSW Snowy weather, climatology and terrain. overview of High Fire and other Bushfire Plains was the venue for the Bushfire CRC projects. David Cheal, the manager He thanked each and every volunteer for the Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) time and commitment they gave and met A of Flora Ecology Research at the Arthur High Fire Project Open Day on 20 March Rylah Institute in Melbourne spoke of the some of the cadets before touring Nowra. 2006. THE PROJECT WILL ALSO CONSIDER importance of the research. 4-year youth program Around 80 people made the 4WD trek to the open-air venue to see and hear the THE COMBINED Community forum RFS Shoalhaven in conjunction with the ongoing progress of the research trial of fire Shoalhaven Youth Volunteer Initiative and fuels in the high country. EFFECTS OF RFS Assistant Commissioners Rob Rogers (SYVI) have been training students from and Shane Fitzsimmons attended the launch high schools in the Nowra area for the The RFS is a core partner in the Bushfire GRAZING AND and a community forum attended by about past four years. CRC. Guests were welcomed by property 25 people at Berridale Fire Control Centre owners and RFS members Barry Aitchison PRESCRIBED that evening. Training is conducted on the students’ and Darvall Dixon, and treated to a bush- normal sports afternoon. A formal certificate style barbeque under the shade of an BURNING IN THE presentation is held and representatives RFS marquee and surrounding snow gum of the Commissioner as well as state and woodlands. SNOWY PLAINS. federal parliament members attend to present awards to students. The project will also consider the combined Top: Almost 80 people sheltered beside Landholders provide solution effects of grazing and prescribed burning the NSW Rural Fire Service marquee in the Snowy Plains. Three research sites during the launch of the HighFire project For more information on the RFS Cadet The project’s field research has been under by the Bushfire CRC. Training Program go to page 38. in grassland and snow gum woodland will development for almost a year. One of its be used to develop a better understanding major challenges, finding a suitable alpine Top: Prime Minister John Howard of the role of prescribed fire and grazing addresses RFS Shoalhaven Cadets. site in the Snowy Plains, has been solved in mitigation of high intensity fires in high Photo by provided by Federal Member through the generous cooperation of local country ecosystems. for Gilmore, Joanna Gash’s office landholders.

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Commissioner Phil Koperberg officially opened Mylstom RFB station on 27 May. Photo by Claire Poignand

Commissioner’s Events and Visits May - June - JULY 2006

4 May Presentation of Commissioner’s Commendations to RFS members on St Florians day at RFS headquarters, Homebush Bay 6 May Moore Creek RFB Station opening, Tamworth

9 May Region East Conference, Port Stephens 11 May Region North Conference, Commissioner’s in the Wollondilly Rural Fire District Award for training package Coffs Harbour and Superintendent Ken Lucas for his Commendations 13 May exceptional service in the important field of A Certificate of Commendation was also Fire Investigation.” presented to the Mid Lachlan Valley Region South volunteer forum, ural Fire Service volunteers and staff Albury from around NSW were presented Training Team for its work to develop a Certificates of Commendation this year comprehensive training package on fighting Rwith special commendations and were awarded to Robert Vinzenz of 19 May awards by Commissioner Phil Koperberg grassland fires. Glenbrook/Lapstone brigade, headquarters Australasian Education and Fire on St Florian’s Day, the International Day of officer Leigh Pinnington, Olivia Carter of Firefighters, 4 May 2006. Coonabarabran Fringe brigade members Awareness Conference, Hornsby brigade and Barry Whalan from were awarded a Commissioner’s Unit Australian Fire Queen’s Birthday Honours and Awards Newcastle Eulomogo brigade. Recipients: “Each year members of the RFS are faced Citation for Service for their work at a fire in Service Medals 2006 a car dealership. • Bruce Smith, Deputy Group Captain 27 May with situations which call for courage Eurobodalla and dedication of a very high order, and number of outstanding RFS members • Alan Gillespie, Supt., Manager Mylestom RFB Station opening, each year the Service tries to recognise A JOINT “I congratulate all these recipients for their have been awarded the Australian Fire Bellingen dedication and exceptional service, they Lower Hunter their contribution and achievements,” CERTIFICATE OF A Service Medal, given for exemplary • Allan Brett, Deputy Group Captain Commissioner Koperberg said. truly represent the best ideals of the NSW service on the part of an individual RFS 30 May Rural Fire Service,” the Commissioner said. Warringah Pittwater COMMENDATION member. • Bill Rodger, Deputy Captain Wollongong national medals and long service awards Four Commendations The full award citations and photographs of Wilberforce RFB HAS BEEN The leadership and dedication shown by • Gordon Hill, Chief Supt., Region for Service recipients can be seen on the RFS public these members has enabled the Service website at www.myrfs.nsw.gov.au. West Operations Officer 13 June AWARDED TO 22 to move forward, providing professional • David Messenger, Forbes RFB “This year I am very proud to have been emergency and fire awareness services to Wedderburn RFB Station opening and able to award Commendations for Service BRIGADES IN THE the people of NSW. tanker handover with the Minister to four RFS members including Patrick Full details of the recipients’ nomination Emergency Services Quinn, from Ganmain brigade, who statements are available online at the RFS GOSFORD RURAL Australia Day Honours and Awards public website www.myrfs.nsw.gov.au. attended a serious unit fire in which his Recipients: 3-5 July sister passed away.” FIRE DISTRICT • Leslie Bowden, Group Captain Bushfire Cooperative Research Council Port Stephens From Top: Assistant Commissioner “Likewise, Graham Forward, of Mountain In recognition of the outstanding work done Top: Award recipients received their certificates • Brian Favelle, Hannanvale RFB 8 July Lagoon brigade, was commended for his during the New Year’s Day fires this year and medals during the St Florian’s Day Mark Crosweller with AFSM recipients • Alan Robinson, Glenbrook RFB Andy Jaffray, Jack Tolhurst, Jim Drinnan and Presentation of Tankers & Medals efforts in assisting an elderly lady, whom a joint Certificate of Commendation was ceremony at RFS Headquarters. Photo by Adam Hollingworth • Grant Anderson, Insp. Grant Anderson at the investiture ceremony, – Macarthur Zone he resuscitated after finding her collapsed awarded to 22 brigades in the Gosford Rural Clarence Valley Government House, 4 May 2006. unconscious on a roadway. Fire District. Along with the Gosford and • Jack Tolhurst, Insp. Blue Mountains Photo by Adam Hollingworth. 22 July Fire Control Centre personnel. • Jim Drinnan, Camden West RFB Commissioner Phil Koperberg (centre) pictured King Creek Station Opening & Hastings “Group Officer Barry Harvey received a • Andy Jaffray, Oak Flats RFB with Brian Favelle, Alan Robinson, Commendation for his dedicated leadership Leslie Bowden, and Ken Rawlinson District Medals – Wauchope (2005 recipient). Photo by Adam Hollingworth. BUSHFIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS BUSHFIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS 16 17

ural Fire Brigades from Wingecarribee Shire joined with NSW Fire Brigades Rand National Parks and Wildlife to present firefighting and bushfire management to children from Southern Highlands Christian School, Bowral on Wednesday 8 February 2006.

Photo by Norm Britten

National Escape Day The day will be evaluated by all stakeholders VISITORS COULD at the AFAC meetings to be held in number of RFS brigades participated September/October 2006. However, early in the first National Escape Day, held DRAW UP AN feedback has been positive both from the A in conjunction with McDonald’s Family ESCAPE PLAN public and fire Services perspective. Restaurants on 3 June 2006. ON SPECIALLY Increased involvement McDonald’s formed a partnership with the Australasian Fire Authorities Council (AFAC) PRINTED TRAY The RFS had limited involvement in the program in a bid to ensure that all jurisdictions were this year and will be considering an extension of able to participate. MAYS it in coming years. RFS crews either participated on the day in their own right or combined with Firefighters from RFS and NSW Fire NSWFB units to assist families to formulate CANON AGAIN Helping families SUPPORTING escape from fires Brigades provided advice at local their home fire escape plans. McDonald’s restaurants, where visitors RFS BRIGADES BY could draw up an escape plan on specially Top: Community Safety Assistants from PRODUCT DONATION National Escape Day was designed to printed tray mats. RFS Lakes Team provided information at the encourage people to formulate an escape McDonald’s store on the F3 at Jilliby. The cameras were used on New Years Day Big Brother hrough the ongoing generosity of plan to cope with house fires. Photo by Insp. Shane Geerin. to track the Gosford fires, clearly showing the Canon Australia the RFS has taken helps fight fires defined columns of each fire, smoke colour By Ben Shepherd, Captain Terrey Hills RFB delivery of a large range of office and had the ability to zoom in on spot fires. T products for use by brigades.

ecently the Warringah–Pittwater RFS installed two high powered Everyday viewing The products, which consist of either Rsurveillance cameras on their fire superseded models or new product in providing the solutions for your success tower to assist with spotting and confirming Fire control staff use the system daily to damaged cartons (seconds), all carry a full smoke sightings in the area. confirm smoke sightings or to even check Canon warranty. s tack s on potential storms that may be about to hit Huge coverage the area. This is the second product donation made o pays dividends by Canon. A $100,000 donation was made f FirstFirst ChoiceChoice HomeHome LoanLoan Officers can pan across the area, confirm by the company in 2004. a sighting and then make an assessment s The cameras cover from Sydney CBD to on resources that may be required, within Distribution of the products will be through GetGet AheadAhead StartStart HomeHome LoanLoan areas of Hornsby and even into Gosford. seconds. district offices which will be provided with S o a list of the donated products and asked to F AN The system can record everything viewed identify those brigades that have a definite FIR LO l ReverseReverse MortgageMortgage LoansLoans ST CHOICE HOME u THE CAMERAS by the cameras, which can be used later to need for a particular item. t assist in training or in an investigation. NS WERE USED ON Products will be sent from RFS Headquarters T LOA i GET AHEAD STAR o 1300 364 400 NEW YEARS DAY Sites may also be set up in remote locations to the respective brigade secretaries. n 1300 364 400 and dialled into though a PC. This then gives TO TRACK THE the user full control over a camera perhaps A full list of brigades and supplied S s www.sgecu.com.au hundreds of kilometres away. Has the ‘Big products will be included in the next GE R TGA All products are issued by SGE Credit Union Limited. brother’ era truly arrived? Perhaps. But when edition of the Bushfire Bulletin. REVERSE MORT GOSFORD FIRES ERS ABN 72 087 650 637 230 Clarence St Sydney NSW 2000. AFSL No. 238311 it can play a vital role, it’s all for the best! Terms and conditions, fees and charges apply which are available on application, refer to fees & charges brochure.

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NSW Rural Fire MyRFS: 1 Year On and Service Library 6000 Members Strong The library is the place to When a volunteer updates their contact details using MyRFS this will be • See footage of vintage Holden utes immediately reflected in the online Contact battling grassfires! Book for members of their own brigade • Get ideas for your brigade training and to see. A Brigade member will always volunteer activities! have the most current contact details of • Learn more about firefighting members of their brigade, through the techniques! Contact Book in MyRFS. • Study footage of famous fire incidents! • Browse firefighting magazines from all This functionality has been provided for over the world! brigade-related functions and activities • Read the Daily Telegraph! only, as outlined in Service Standard 1.1.14 – Personal Information and Privacy. We have Forms and Documents • Over 600 videos and DVD’s, from training videos like Structural Firefighting Since June 2006 these include: Operations, to DVDs like The RFS Story Safety and Welfare, Community Education, • More than 4,000 books, reports, Training and Administration. Equipment conference papers and training manuals. yRFS, the RFS volunteers’ website, Bushfire Risk Information Management System information is on the way. Titles range from How to Motivate turned one-year-old in July and can (BRIMS) show brigades the current hazard People to Automotive Mechanics Mboast significant new features and reduction activities planned for their area, Stronger Connections Fundamentals nearly 6000 registered users. enabling brigades to monitor burning activity. • Magazines & Journals. 60+ titles, from In 2007 MyRFS will include features Firehouse to Harvard Business Review Connecting with members Permit reports display permits that have allowing brigades and districts/zone/team • Daily newspapers include the Sydney been issued within a brigade’s district in staff to publish information directly to their Morning Herald, Daily Telegraph, The These features are part of the ongoing preparation for the season ahead. members. This means documents such Australian. We also hold weekly issues development program that will continue as training calendars, meeting minutes and of The Land as well as RFS press through 2006-2007 to connect volunteers Maps of district and brigade areas will be fundraising activity information can be made clippings. with the information they need to assist available from July this year. This is the last available directly to members through the their community. feature for phase two, and there are plans MyRFS website. Facilities to expand the range of maps during the Over the last year, a regular stream of users next phase of MyRFS which started in July. “As we’ve travelled around this year, it’s A chillout reading area, desks, computers, has connected to MyRFS to get a range been encouraging to hear all the comments a photocopier and video player. And of information including brigade statistics, Online Brigade and great suggestions from volunteers,” said sometimes there is a jar of sweets. membership information and news. Management Resources James Williams, Project Manager for MyRFS. Additionally, volunteers can get operations “Volunteers are telling us ‘you said you’d do based information like the Operations Brief, The Brigade Contact Book is an online Borrowing it, and you did!’ aircraft movements and notifiable incidents. version of the printed brigade register report volunteers have always been able to You can search the library catalogue via the “Collaboration with our RFS volunteer focus request from their district office. RFS Intranet. RFS staff and volunteers can IMPORTANT NEW FEATURES groups state-wide has ensured that we’ve borrow items for 4 weeks. Volunteers can COMMEMORATE THE ONE delivered the functionality volunteers have contact the library directly to arrange a loan A BRIGADE MEMBER WILL been asking for.” and items can be posted out to your home YEAR ANNIVERSARY address. ALWAYS HAVE THE MOST Three new features are being launched to CURRENT CONTACT DETAILS MyRFS development continues through commemorate the one year anniversary. 2006-07. RFS volunteers can register Brigade Visits OF MEMBERS THROUGH THE themselves for MyRFS at the website Hazard reduction reports directly from the CONTACT BOOK IN MyRFS www.myrfs.nsw.gov.au. Brigades are welcome to visit the library evenings or Saturdays. Contact us to discuss. HawkEsbury Rescue Expo Showcases RFS Skill and Technology Photos by Belinda Landry Who can visit the library?

All members of the NSW Rural Fire Service are welcome. The library is also open to researchers and members of the public by The latest books, Library arrangement with a Librarian. videos etc in on myrfs the library Location & Opening Times RFS Library website is now available to our volunteers on the RFS volunteer website 15 Carter St Search library MyRFS – www.myrfs.nsw.gov.au Homebush Bay NSW 2127 catalogue Monday-Friday 9am-5pm • Logon to MyRFS Click on Links in the left-hand navigation Contact the librarians Electronic resources If you have any questions or suggestions, or Barbara Glass, Senior Librarian would like the RFS library staff to assist you Phone: 8741 5456 with you inquiry, contact us at RFS librarians [email protected] Kristine Wendtman, Librarian or telephone us at Phone: 8741 5455 help to fight fires 8741 5456 or 8741 5455. Email: [email protected] with information!

BUSHFIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS BUSHFIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS 20 21 spotlight on volunteers

What do you think is the most significant brigade as Captain. The brigade was all but change you have seen in the Service? dormant and I was asked to reinvigorate it. In Zoning. It has been great for the Service, 1992 I was voted in as Deputy Group Captain. from there we can only get better. In 1994 I was involved in the fires in Lane Cove Valley, Hornsby and Baulkham Hills. I was I THOUGHT HE WAS A made Group Captain of Operations in 2000 LITTLE BIT CRAZY BECAUSE and was heavily involved with fireground operations in the 2001/2002 fire season. My YOU COULDN’T FIT A HORSE journey through the Service has been a family INTO THE CAR affair, with my son joining in 1998, and my wife Photo by Tamara S harp Photo by Tamara as call out officer for Hornsby HQ Brigade. What is the strangest thing you have experienced at a fire? What has been your most memorable We attended a motor vehicle accident moment? involving a Mitsubishi Express. The driver The 1994 fires and the Black Christmas fires. walked up to me and asked me to get the They were huge and very successful campaigns, horse out of his car. I thought he was a bit where we saved many thousands of homes crazy because you couldn’t fit a horse into compared with very little property loss. the car and there was no trailer. It turned out Officer in profile they had hit a horse and it was in their car. WHEN WE DROVE INTO Les Bowden, What committees/projects are you WINCHESTER ROAD IT WAS Group Officer, involved with for the Service? LIKE DRIVING INTO HELL RFS Lower I was involved with training up until two years ago. I like to get a little involved with What has been your worst fire? Hunter Zone the FireWise side of the Service. I had been Winchester Rd, West Killara, part of the Years in service: 30 on the State Operations Committee as an Lane Cove Valley Fire. When we drove into RFSA member, but am no longer on that. Winchester Rd it was like driving into hell. How did you get involved in the RFS? There was a large fire in the area where What do you or did you do What do you think is the most significant I lived. A woman was riding around on outside the Service? change you have seen in the Service? a horse yelling out that the fire brigade I was a salesman for Streets Ice Cream. The increase in the level of training in the needed help. So I grabbed a pair of spare Then I was a transport supervisor for Service and the upgrade in equipment from overalls and jumped on the truck. Cadbury Schweppes before working as a the old Blitzes to the appliances we have now. salesman for Arnotts for about 20 years. Can you give us a brief history of your What committees/projects are you progression through the Service? Any final thoughts or comments? involved with for the Service? From day 1 I was heavily involved in There are a lot of people on the fireground I’ve always been involved on a district level, training. Back then there was no real who would be a great asset to the RFS if particularly with hazard reductions and formal training, so I helped in training until they were employed. So long as the RFS operations. the modules and standards were up and listens to volunteers they can only running. I became a Deputy Captain and What do you or did you do outside the then a Captain. For the past 10 years I’ve go forward. Service? been a Group Captain. I was self employed, ran my own heavy vehicle Officer in profile repairs and maintenance business. Now I am a ALL FIRES ARE MEMORABLE plant manager for a factory in Sydney. Group Captain BECAUSE THEY ARE ALL Jim Fahey, DIFFERENT Group Captain, Most amazing opportunity the Service Hornsby-Ku-ring-gai has provided you with? Jim Fahey What has been your most Years in Service: 35 Just to work with the volunteers. To meet memorable moment? people from every walk of life, and to be addresses All fires are memorable because they How did you get involved in the Service? associated with a wide circle of friends. are all different. I like the camaraderie in I had a mate in the Service when I was 16, crews the Service, meeting all the people and and was lured in by him Any final thoughts or comments? members as you travel. The Service needs to be mindful of the Can you give us a brief history of your volunteers’ time. Time is hard to come by at the Ellis What has been your worst fire? for volunteers as we have a life outside the The 1994 fires were the biggest fires I progression through the Service? I joined Westleigh brigade when I was 16. Service, and we need to make sure that the attended. It was fast moving, took a lot to time they can spare is being used productively. Trig Fire, 10 contain and round up. We also had to deal I was voted in as Deputy Captain when I was with the old equipment. It was hard yakka. 18. I was heavily involved with the brigade up until I was asked to move to Hornsby HQ January 2004

BUSHFIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS BUSHFIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS 22 23 NOW AND THEN… ANTIQUE FIREFIGHTING Top: Discussions with Mandagery EQUIPMENT DISPLAYED volunteers helped RFS Canobolas Zone By Cudgegong Community Safety Officer formulate its community education and Paul Dewick firefighting strategies. ustralian bush firefighting equipment A YARN IN THE from the ancient to the most modern SHEARING SHED Awas on display at the Mudgee Showground on Sunday 29 January 2006 IMPROVES FIREFIGHTING during the Cudgegong Antique Machinery Club’s Vintage Rally and Swap Meet. olunteer consultation is firmly entrenched in RFS Canobolas Zone’s management Cudgegong Rural Fire District hosted Vplans. Indeed, a cup of tea provided by the display for the fourth time, drawing FireCom in a local shearing shed has proved to hundreds of adults and children to see the be a valuable communication tool. colourful collection of equipment and learn more about fire safety. The second stage of volunteer consultations across Cowra, Orange, Blayney and As an added attraction, the RFS brought its Cabonne Shires reviewed the fire season local Firewise Trailer, a resource shared with and RFS activities across the Zone. The zone Orana Team, to this year’s exhibition. manager, operations and community safety staff attended 10 meetings with 200 brigade Group Captain’s collection and community members in May 2006.

The old-to-new exhibition was launched The objectives of these meetings were to: in 2003 by Group Captain Alan Selman of • improve communication and Mudgee, who assembled a vast collection of understanding between volunteers equipment from bygone days. The collection and staff includes a 1940 Chevrolet Striker four-wheel • build lasting and long term drive fire truck first put into service fighting relationships and alliances with fires in the Blue Mountains and now owned volunteers by Don Lewis, former Mudgee Group • really engage with volunteers by Captain (retired) of Gulgong. listening to their needs or concerns • promote mutually beneficial results. “We have things dating back to the 1930s and 1940s, including antique stirrup pumps Concerns about high fuel loads that an old-timer told us were the most modern equipment on the fireground at a “The initial round of meetings held prior to the fire he attended before World War II,” fire season in November 2005 gave volunteers Mr Selman said. an opportunity to voice their concerns about high fuel loads in the grassland country and the From knapsacks need to supply multiple resources, plant and aircraft for incidents that were likely to occur to vintage vehicles during the summer”, said RFS Canobolas Zone Manager Supt David Hoadley . Mr Selman, better known locally in the district by his nickname, Yowie, has collected “In response to this advice from our an incredible array of other equipment volunteers, zone staff developed strategies including leather and canvas beaters used to to deploy multiple brigades and swift initial attack grass fires in years gone by, an original air attack with the support of the State Air 1939 tin knapsack spray unit, antique water Desk. Aircraft were contracted to ensure pumps and chainsaws, and one of the first fire outbreaks on days of very high fire radios used in the local council bush danger were kept small and containable.” firefighting vehicles. Volunteers’ viewpoints THE VEHICLES Communication builds rapport a one page newsletter to their communities At the latest round of meetings volunteers in councils’ quarterly rate notice. ON DISPLAY HAD provided their comments on the operational Active communication is helping to build a aspects of firefighting strategies used over strong rapport between staff and volunteers. This newsletter will contain information ALL SEEN ACTIVE the summer. relevant to the rate notice mailing dates and “The message we get at each meeting from could include: SERVICE IN THE OVERWHELMING SUPPORT volunteers is to keep these meetings going as they are productive and enjoyable”, • the Bush Fire Danger Period (dates, FORMER MUDGEE BY THE VOLUNTEERS FOR Supt. Hoadley said. obligations etc) display. Many reminisced about fires long loan or donate it to the event, or even swap THE STRATEGIES • awareness for new residents OR RYLSTONE ago fought and how the equipment was stories on the “good” old days, they can THE OTHER MAJOR ISSUE… • smoke detectors very different to that used today; often a contact Alan through Cudgegong Fire Control “There was overwhelming support by the • what a Toban means DISTRICTS branch broken from an unburnt tree did the on 02 6372 4434. volunteers for the strategies we had all THE NEED TO EDUCATE • permit requirements job back then. agreed on and developed together,” Supt. OUR COMMUNITIES ABOUT • home preparation The vehicles on display had all seen active Hoadley said. FIRE MANAGEMENT AND • heater maintenance service in the former Mudgee or Rylstone The event was staffed by members of the • RFS contact details districts, including a C1300 from Crudine “Positive comments were regularly made PREVENTION • how to report fires (what is the Cudgegong Firewise group and volunteers From Top: Lawson (Cudgegong) Brigade, a two wheel drive KDL Bedford on aircraft effectiveness and the active staff relevant information to provide). from the Lawson (Cudgegong) and Rural Fire Brigade Captain Barry Wells, The other major issue to surface out of from Cooyal Brigade through to the support to our brigades in quickly providing Headquarters Brigades. Group Captain Alan Selman, and Deputy the May 2006 meetings was the need latest Category One appliance from the the required resources for each incident. Volunteers also expressed a desire to invite Captain (and Firewise member) Bill Burns, to educate our communities about fire Headquarters Brigade. all helped organise the day. local councillors to future consultation management and prevention. Calling all bowerbirds Photo by Jon Chapman (Headquarters Brigade) “Any previous barriers between districts meetings to ensure that Councils were kept and brigades within the Zone have been up to date on volunteer and Service issues. Stories of the past Plans are already under way for next year’s Antique firefighting appliances collected by RFS Canobolas Zone staff and volunteers RFS members added to the display effectively dealt with as we have all display. If anyone has any equipment that is have agreed that the best strategy to of old vehicles at Mudgee Showground. reflected on how well everyone worked Centre: Cargo volunteers discuss The day was a huge success, with in excess long retired from active duty and wishes to address this problem would be to distribute of 300 visitors passing through the RFS Photo by Jon Chapman (Headquarters Brigade) together during the summer.” the fire season. BUSHFIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS BUSHFIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS 25 Rural Fire Service Approved response driving All items are embroidered with the RFS logo Item Price Qty Colour Size Total

Polo Shirt - Double stitched Polyester/Cotton with pocket & Australian XS-XXL (L)emon/(N)avy/(W)hite $29.00 made 3XL-7XL XS, 6XL-7XL (N)avy only $31.00 S-XXL (N)avy/(W)hite $18.00 T-Shirt - Double stitched 100% Cotton & Australian made 3XL-6XL 6XL (N)avy only $20.00

Polar Fleecy Jumper - Half zip front with 2 slant pockets at bottom XS-3XL (N)avy only $42.50

Polar Fleecy Jacket - Full zip front, Elasticated cuff, Draw cord waist S-XXL (N)avy only $52.50

S-XXL (N)avy only $29.00 Sloppy Joe - Super fleecy / Low pill with round neck & Australian made 3XL-6XL (N)avy only $31.00

Dress Jumper - 80/20 Wool/Polyester blend, Shoulder & Elbow Patches, S-XXL (N)avy only $85.00 Epaulettes, Pencil pockets & Australian made 3XL-5XL (N)avy only $87.00

Beanie - Acrylic - One size fits all - Embroidered RFS Logo OSFA (N)avy only $11.00

Beanie - Fleecy - One size fits all - Embroidered RFS Logo OSFA (N)avy only $13.50

Cap - Baseball - Brushed cotton, Adjustable velcro, One size fits all, OSFA (N)avy only Embroidered RFS Logo 1-24 $8.50 / 25-99 $8.00 / 100+ $7.50

Medium Kit Bag - Heavy duty nylon & zips, Base board, 3 external L 50cm x H 30cm x W 20cm $35.00 zipped pockets with shoulder & hand carry straps

Large Kit Bag - Heavy duty nylon & zips, Base board, 5 external zipped L 73cm x H 33cm x W 31cm $45.00 pockets including “Wet” & Boot pockets with shoulder & hand carry straps

Garment XS S M L XL XXL 3XL 4XL 5XL 6XL 7XL Postage & Handling per shipping address $6.60 Sizes 85 90 95 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135 (Includes badges if part of order) Total SPECIAL OFFER - Order 10 or more garments (excluding caps and bags) and Driving Under RFS Standard TrafficR ules your brigade name will be embroidered under the RFS logo at no extra cost Emergency Conditions Operating Procedures RFS drivers will comply with specific Type (Please Tick) Please print Name and / or Brigade for embroidering on garments and kit bags. Generally RFS vehicles are required to Certain exemptions for emergency vehicles regulations from the Australian Road Rules and Name or Brigade $5.00 or Name and Brigade $8.00 Total Name Brigade Both ‘respond’ as part of the initial response exist under the Australian Road Rules 1999. the NSW Road Transport (Safety and Traffic to an emergency incident, under the Rule 306 provides certain exemptions for Management) Regulation, which include: instruction of the Incident Controller (IC), drivers of Police and other emergency District/Team/Zone Manager (D/T/Z) or other vehicles to operate ‘outside’ traffic a) Speed limit in a school zone. person with delegated authority. legislation under limited circumstances b) Speed limit when passing school provided that ‘reasonable’ care is taken. bus displaying an illuminated 40km/h speed limit sign/lights. *Red on Gold badges are Proban backed Driving under emergency conditions starts However, even the most serious emergency from receipt of the instruction to ‘respond’ does not legally excuse a reckless disregard c) Stopping at a children’s crossing. Colour (Please Tick) d) Giving way at a pedestrian crossing. Sew on embroidered Name or Brigade badges - 9cm x 3cm Qty Total in an RFS vehicle and stops when there for the safety of others. White on Navy Red on Gold* Red on Navy is no longer a risk at an incident or a e) Not entering a level crossing when a requirement to respond. Regardless of legislated exemptions, RFS train is approaching. drivers are to come to a complete stop A response by the RFS is defined as driving and not proceed until it is confirmed as Road Works beyond normal traffic regulations but within safe, if they encounter: the exemptions under the Australian Road Drivers responding under emergency 1-99 Badges $3.30 / 100+ Badges $3.00 Please note there is NO MINIMUM order Postage & Handling per shipping address Rules, using lights and sirens as appropriate a) Red traffic lights or a ‘Stop’ sign. conditions will comply with the speed limits $4.00 For larger orders - please print clearly on extra paper (Not required if included with garment order) for the conditions, to provide both adequate b) Unguarded railway crossings posted at locations where road works are in Total warning to and maintain the safety of other with limited visibility or if a train is progress and will also stop when instructed road users. approaching. by traffic controllers (Note: traffic controllers Please debit my credit card for $ Including postage and packaging c) Blind intersections. are required to progress emergency ALL PRICES INCLUDE GST Remember – if you have an accident en- d) Intersections where traffic in some vehicles when safe to do so). Please make all cheques/money orders payable to: Please Tick Bankcard Mastercard Visa route to an emergency incident you have lanes is not visible. Blue Mountains D.M.P. Enterprises Pty. Ltd. defeated the purpose for which you were e) Intersections where the RFS vehicle Pedestrians Card No. / / / ABN 44 092 928 919 responded. does not have right of way. Credit Card Expiry Date: / Pedestrians do not have to assist the Members in private vehicles driving to the RFS drivers are to slow down to a speed passage of an emergency vehicle. The driver Name on card: Phone:(02) 4739 8619 brigade station or direct to the incident are to which will allow them to quickly stop and of an RFS vehicle can’t force a passage observe all Australian Road Rules at all times. avoid a collision, and stop whenever it is Signature: Fax: (02) 4739 5417 through pedestrians, but whilst pedestrians not confirmed as safe, if they encounter: may choose to give way, the driver must be Please print Name & Address clearly Visit us on the internet at: Support vehicles (communications, catering, prepared to stop for pedestrians at all times. CABA support, lighting, supply, crew transport, a) ‘Give way’ signs. Name: www.dmp.net.au etc.) and appliances called later to assist should b) Pedestrian crossings (unoccupied). email: [email protected] proceed (i.e. drive normally, obeying all traffic c) Buses setting down passengers. Other Road Users Address: rules and without using lights and siren) to the d) The vicinity of schools when students Regardless of the urgency, no exemption incident unless there is an explicit instruction are arriving or leaving. Postcode: Send all mail orders to: gives the RFS driver the authority to force to respond by the IC, D/T/Z Manager or other Blue Mountains D.M.P. Enterprises Pty. Ltd. another road user to break the Australian Contact Telephone: person with delegated authority. 27 Byrne St, Lapstone NSW 2773 Road Rules.

BUSHFIREbulletin // RESPONSE DRIVING NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE response driving Always wear seatbelts

Responding on freeways and highways 1 Take note of speed advisory signs - they are a good indication of how fast a truck can safely travel 2 Know where emergency vehicle u-turn bays are located 3 If using the left-hand breakdown lane use extreme caution

Responding in urban areas 1 Stop at red lights and stop signs 2 Don’t travel to close to other responding emergency vehicles 3 Be ready for unexpected reactions from other drivers

Responding in rural areas 1 Watch out for cattle 2 Watch out for slow moving farm machinery 3 Slow down when crossing fords or narrow bridges and observe weight limits

Responding in rural towns 1 Stop at unguarded railway crossings 2 Watch for cars parked rear to curb suddenly pulling out 3 Watch when going from tarmac to dirt roads Pull out this section to display in your station or Fire Control Centre

BUSHFIREbulletin // RESPONSE DRIVING BUSHFIREbulletin // RESPONSE DRIVING 28

A motor vehicle accident (MVA) is really on private lands or in remote or rural Seat belts must always be worn by all a misnomer, as all accidents could be areas in circumstances where there is members except when direct firefighting avoided if the circumstances were different, livestock, there is no other traffic or there on the fireground and generally it is also so more realistically they are motor is no safety advantage to be gained by safer if the windows are fully wound up. vehicle crashes. Crashes are influenced their use. Visible warning devices are still by three main categories of factors: our to be used at all times. The road or track on which behaviour and distractions; our vehicle and its capabilities; and the road or track The driver must have control of the visible we are driving coupled with on which we are driving coupled with the and audible warning devices and shall make the accompanying weather accompanying weather conditions. decisions on the applicability of their use. conditions

There have been 84 incidents involving Driving under lights and sirens may Consider the particular type of road, track RFS service vehicles reported to State adversely affect a number of drivers, or trail surface, coupled with the width and Operations since 2000 of which 62 were particularly when the adrenalin is flowing number of lanes, road markings, particularly crashes, 19 were affected by fire and 3 and there seems to be an urgency to get to unbroken double lines, the posted speed which were subjected to the impact of a an incident. limit and advisory speed signs. Then add falling tree. to this the results of adverse weather You must consider the type of incident conditions such as wet or icy surfaces, minor Within the last twelve months Brigades and determine whether it is life flooding, foggy conditions and of course responded to approximately 1,600 accidents threatening and adjust your driving darkness and you are starting to identify within Rural Fire District, many of which accordingly. Will a few seconds make any some of the aspects which contribute to were fatal. According to the Australian difference to the outcome? crashes. Always look ahead to identify all Transport Safety Bureau there were 1636 hazards and adjust your driving accordingly. fatalities during 2005 of which 518 were Distractions in NSW. Unfortunately such fatalities are The Rural Fire Service has introduced a so numerous that many do not even make Talking on a mobile phone or text Crash Free Driving Course, so when this the daily news unless there are multiple messaging is illegal and can distract the becomes available to you, it would be great fatalities, an innocent victim is killed, there driver, but equally providing a SitRep over to take advantage of the opportunity. is some specific media interest or it occurs the radio will provide a similar distraction so over a public holiday period. It should also care must be taken. Trying to read a map Road Transport (Safety and be noted that according to Roads and Traffic and drive is also very hazardous. Authority statistics there are around 26,000 TrafficM anagement) Act 1999 people injured annually, many of whom Other distractions may include personnel and the Crimes Act 1900 are seriously injured requiring longer term in the vehicle. For example the Officer hospitalisation, with ongoing trauma which in Charge should ensure that they do not There are no exemptions for drivers for often results in total disruption of their distract the driver when briefing the crew negligent, furious, reckless, predatory family life and their career. en-route. or menacing driving, negligent or dangerous driving causing death or Visible and Audible grievous bodily harm, driving at a speed Our vehicle and its or in a dangerous manner. Warning Devices capabilities Failure to meet the requirements of Visible and audible warning devices Many of our members are used to driving “reasonable care” may mean that the driver (lights and siren/two tone air horns) motor cars rather than heavier trucks so the is subject to civil and/or criminal liability in must be used at all times, whilst driving driver must always be aware of increased the event of a collision. ‘outside’ traffic legislation under stopping distances, reduced manoeuvrability emergency legislated exemptions, and different cornering dynamics. Chief Superintendent Alan Brinkworth AFSM however sirens may not be appropriate Manager Operations, Policy and Standards BUSHFIREbulletin // RESPONSE DRIVING 30 31

Shanes Park Medal Tally By Daniel Busch, Captain, Shanes Park RFB

n Sunday 12 March 2006 members from Shanes Park Rural Fire Brigade O(RFB) from the Cumberland Zone competed in the NSW Police athletics games at the Blacktown Olympic softball stadium.

Members of Shanes Park ran in both the 400 metre single and 400 metre relay race. Fierce competition

Competition was fierce on the day with a RFS ladies contingent from the Wyong district applying pressure (and support) to the Shanes Park members in both races. BRIGADE MEMBERS ENDED THE DAY WITH A SILVER MEDAL IN THE 400 METRE RELAY Brigade members Danny Busch, NEW FIRE STATION them inside the station. It also contains a A slice of life in the Glen Turner, Daniel Staples and kitchen with hot water, a meeting room, OPENING single sex and disabled toilets and showers new station Bill Errington ended the day with a By Tamara Sharp Salt Ash / Williamtown silver medal taking 2nd place in the RFB Secretary downstairs with a private office and decent sized training room upstairs. After the station and firefighters were 400 metre relay. blessed by the RFS Chaplain, a delicious Woodenbong’s Anzac green tree frog, blind in one eye, This is an unbelievable setting compared cake featuring a photo of the new station Day blaze of glory Other Brigade members competing on travelled a kilometre down a busy was cut and quickly devoured before a Story by Greg Gulliver, the day were Todd Arthur, Mick Turner, main road to see the official opening to the previous one-and-a-half bay station A where three trucks were continually shuffled. barbecue lunch Senior Deputy Captain Woodenbong RFB Robert Pate and Keith White. of the Salt Ash/Williamtown Rural Fire Photos by Kim Taylor, Woodenbong RFB Brigade’s (RFB) new station on 10 A highlight of the opening was the beautiful Catering for competition December 2005. Who’s who in the region singing of the National Anthem and ‘Jingle he Woodenbong Rural Fire Brigade (RFB), Bell Rock’ by the Salt Ash Public School located on the Kyogle Tenterfield border, THOSE GATHERED The medal tally was surprising, given the The brigades are uncertain as to how the At the opening were local councillors, Choir – despite the sheer height of the Thad the honour of playing in important part brigade initially attended the event to old station frog followed them to their new RFS Region East Manager Chief Supt station’s roof adding an interesting variable in this year’s local Anzac Day march. HEARD THE STORY provide catering for competing Police and location. However, one popular theory is Bruce Holtz, Lower Hunter Zone Manager to their young voices! OF A LOCAL other emergency service personnel. that it made the effort because it knew of Supt Alan Gillespie, RFS Chaplain, Group Brigade volunteers joined veterans, the wonderful future the new station holds Officers, Brigade Captains and brigade Opening turns into ‘open day’ ex-servicemen and women, RAAF Below: Shanes Park RFB members for all. members, Salt Ash Public School and DIGGER with their athletics medals various churches and businesses who have Base Amberley personnel, local school An equipment demonstration was representatives and many others in the A single bay station was built in Salt Ash in offered continued support. After the march, the traditional Anzac conducted on the field at the station annual commemorative service on 25 April. 1972 in Lemon Tree Passage Rd and after service was held in the Woodenbong Public doorstep (another luxury for training) the 1994 fires was extended to fit three First to speak was Cr Craig Baumann who Hall where young and old gathered to displaying powerful manned and unmanned Riderless whaler leads the way vehicles... but only just! outlined the history of the Williamtown/Salt participate in the remembrance of the fallen. Ash Volunteer Bushfire Brigade, now Salt nozzles. Community Education show bags Ash/Williamtown RFB, where an old farm were handed out as the event became an The march was led by a riderless whaler Those gathered heard the story of a local ‘Open Day’ for the amazed public. (Australian stock horse) carrying a military THREE SPACIOUS shed in Oakvale was originally used to Digger whose letters sent home during World house the equipment. saddle and rifle, followed by a piper. Then War I made everyone again realise what a BAYS ALLOWING Salt Ash/Williamtown RFB is extremely came the proud NSW Rural Fire Service sacrifice these people made in these wars. pleased with their new station and the members and the Woodenbong Cat 1 tanker. PLENTY OF ROOM Thanks to a professional team conveniences and efficiency it will bring It was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices to brigade practises. Entirely funded by All members agreed that it was a privilege made by Australian servicemen and TO WALK AROUND Captain Tracy Lowe gave an insight into the the Port Stephens Council the crews are to be invited to lead the march on this women, this Digger being one of the many brigade and the support it receives. She also grateful for their contribution in making special day. who didn’t make it home. THE TRUCKS reminded everyone of the very professional volunteer services more efficient and team of firefighters who selflessly devote a comfortable. Annual flyover lot of time, effort and energy into protecting Not so squeezy the community. Once again, the town of Woodenbong was From top: Woodenbong RFB member Ken The new station in Michael Drive consists treated to a flyover from an F1-11 from Fahy standing in front of the riderless whaler Capt. Lowe and Cr Baumann unveiled the of three spacious bays allowing plenty of plaque, proudly marking this significant day nearby Amberley. This has become a yearly Woodenbong Cat 1 and members leading the room to walk around the trucks and restock event on Anzac Day. Anzac Day parade. for the brigade and community. BUSHFIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS BUSHFIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS 32 33

Dodge fire tanker Firefighting demonstrations bashes to Bundaberg Story by Brian Graham, RFS Region East The Excalibur Bash Trucks team will Operations Officer entertain the children with firefighting demonstrations and distribute hundreds of riving a Dodge and a pick-up, NSW gifts from various sponsors. firefighters have raised about $17,000 Dfor Variety NSW on the Brookvale to The team is also supported by publisher Bundaberg Bash from 23 July to 2 August Doubleday Australia Pty Limited. This year 2006. Doubleday is organising Creative Writing Competitions for more than 90 small Excalibur Bash Trucks entered a 1970 F100 Australian schools which will be visited by pick-up and a 1965 Dodge AT4 bushfire the seven separate State Variety Bashes. tanker, supported by a 4WD Nissan Patrol. $2 million a year! Helping kids dodge fires The annual New South Wales Variety Bash Four RFS volunteers will be in the Dodge routinely nets more than $2 million each and two retained NSW Fire Brigades year to assist Australian children with firefighters from Lawson will be in the pick- special needs. The Excalibur Bash Trucks up, distributing fire awareness information team has been participating for more than to kids along the route, and raising money five years, and this year promises to be the for Variety’s children’s charity as they go. best so far. KIOLOA BRIGADE The RFS volunteers include Greg Frullani, Involvement from the NSW Fire Brigades CELEBRATES 70 YEARS Captain Woodford RFB (Blue Mountains) and and the NSW Rural Fire Service has Hats off for Keith Lang, Woodford RFB member. They empowered this team to achieve far more ioloa RFB in Shoalhaven district held will be joined by RFS Development Control than ever before, and to deliver happiness volunteer a birthday party at their station on 4 Manager Lew Short, the successful winner of and real benefits to countless children all KMarch 2006 to celebrate 70 years of a raffle which earned him a place on the crew. over Australia. firefighters active firefighting. The evening was well attended and, after The support vehicle will be manned by RFS er father’s old hat serves as a constant My earliest memories of Bob are of his I wish for those days of old; happier days presentations, attendees danced until the reminder to RFS Far West Team rakish smile, and his hat sitting jauntily on when he had a need to wear a hat. wee hours of the morning to the music Community Education Operations Officer Robyn Martin of his head while he steadied his horse. In and singing of local entertainer and NSWFB Community H Michael Downie. her core responsibilities – RFS volunteers. later years, the horse would be replaced IT WAS HIS PILLOW FOR Risk Management by a bike but the faithful hat remained. The Captain of Sandy Creek Brigade for I smile at the diesel and oil stains on the THOSE FEW PRECIOUS Brigade’s history personnel 51 years, Robert Hyde was awarded the hat, remembering the long days Bob spent MOMENTS OF REST ON preserved Resources from both firefighting agencies Australian Fire Service Medal in 2000. Bob’s operating dozers, trying to earn enough THE FIREGROUND will be used at schools throughout the Bash old hat sits on Insp. Martin’s desk as she money to buy the family farm. The brigade’s history has been compiled route to promote fire safety to children, and carries out her work for volunteers and His hat - it protected him from scorching by Joy London, Reg and Innes Collins, both agencies were also working to provide The 1965 Dodge AT4 bushfire tanker, crewed communities in Cobar, Central Darling and WHENEVER THERE WAS summer heat, from the cold and pouring rain; it and Ray and Dorothy Watts through Marie items of office equipment for staff at some by RFS members, returned for the Variety Bash the Unincorporated Zone of NSW. was his pillow for those few precious moments O’Connell. of the schools. from Brookvale to Bundaberg this year. ANY GREASE AROUND, of rest on the fireground; his only protection A story that salutes BOB AND HIS HAT when he fell from his bike (as he did); and of The account includes the transition from all volunteers WOULD SURELY FIND IT course, a water dish for his dogs who were firefighting with axes and shovels to the never far from his side. It was his offsider in the acquisition of tankers, and tells of the Later, his son would operate the dozers while stockyards, helping push stubborn sheep up a Insp. Martin entered the story of her father major incidents attended in 1948, and Bob looked after his stock, but if there was race or wayward cattle into a yard. and his hat to a competition in The Land 1952 and 1968 near the Clyde River, as ever any grease around, Bob and his hat would newspaper. Both the story and the hat well as the 1994 fires. surely find it. Bob was captain of his local The dogs are all gone now, the sheep and went on display at the 2005 Sydney Royal bushfire brigade for more than 50 years, and fires, droughts and floods a distant memory Easter Show. Since then she has had many the big fire seasons of 1974 and 1984 meant for a sad old bushman with a broken heart. requests for copies of the story. TODAY’S BRIGADE Bob was gone with the brigade for weeks on The hat, however, has pride of place in an end. The fires were big news and TV crews air-conditioned office in town. You see, I am “I guess it was written not just about my HAS STATE OF THE were everywhere. Bob became a favourite Bob’s youngest daughter and I am a salaried dad, but for that whole amazing generation with the “journos” and for a while, his hat was officer in the NSW Rural Fire Service. I use ART EQUIPMENT of our older volunteers who made the RFS a regular feature on the nightly news. the old hat at displays, shows and field days what it is today,” Insp. Martin said. alongside all the latest protective clothing “Compared to our beginnings, today’s HIS HAT WAS A REGULAR and helmets. The purpose of the old hat is brigade has state of the art equipment supposed to show just how far we have with the big tankers, hoses and pumps FEATURE ON NIGHTLY NEWS come in the provision of safety equipment and also the radios and assistance of the BOB’S OLD HAT helicopters, better training, uniforms and By Insp. Robyn Martin, Far West Team for our volunteer firefighters. Bob spent 70 years on his beloved western safety equipment,” Mrs O’Connell said. Operations Officer property, until sadly, in what has become a The old hat has proven to be a great fairly common event, the family partnership hen I look at the old hat sitting educational tool and a real talking point for “The Kioloa Brigade has a strong and was dissolved and the station sold. Forced forlornly on my desk, my mind visitors to our display. I guess nearly everyone willing membership and a bright future from the land he loved, Bob retreated to drifts back to my youth and strong has a story about a hat and this is mine. ahead with their ability to protect not W town, taking with him his kelpies and his hat. only our own area but also to travel and memories are evoked of Bob, the hat’s old mate. Bob was a bushman, born and bred I reckon I just like having the old hat close assist others.” In his twilight years and with his memory in far western NSW, a man who never by; like my dad, I have learnt that as we failing, Bob now spends his days on the front ventured far without his trusty Akubra get older, our memories become our most veranda of the old cottage in town, watching planted on his head. precious possession. as life passes slowly by. When I visit him, BUSHFIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS BUSHFIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS 34 39

MUSIC AND MOTORS Below: Walla Walla brigade Captain John AT JINDERA AND Jacob parades the 1923 Garford Fire WALLA WALLA Engine during the station opening. Hatz power. When and where you need it.

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BUSHFIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS BUSHFIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS cca.htz 506B 36 37 Photo by Rebel Talbert TRAINING

Running an The aim is to practice the steps to take “Lay two lines of two lengths of 38mm when you arrive at a going fire, including hose and knock down the fire. Andrew and arrival drill deployment of attack lines, establishing a Sarah on one line, Tony and Mark on the water supply, and support activities. These other one; John, you are pump operator. n the last edition of the Bushfire Bulletin tasks are common to most fire calls. When the lines are out get water supply set we examined how brigades can up. Do you all understand what you are to Idetermine their training needs, and get do? ….. Go!” some ideas on which drills they would Skills come before drills benefit from practicing. In this issue we will The OIC has assigned tasks to people, but look at how to plan and run a drill. Before running a drill, crew members’ skills must be up to scratch. For an arrival drill, has not been too specific. Which locker to members must be able to: get the hoses from, how and where to bowl Peak performance a hose, or which nozzle to use has not been under pressure • Don PPE correctly specified. Knowing these things is part of • Locate equipment on the truck and basic skills training which is covered in Bush know which equipment to use for a Drills give crew members practice in Firefighter and Village Firefighter and should given task combining specific tasks run in a specific be practiced regularly. • Be able to bowl hoses well way. This enables us to develop automatic • Work with other crew members to skills when we need to perform those tasks While the crew gets to work, the OIC can ensure all tasks are done under pressure, such as at a large fire. We practice calling in a Sitrep to FIRECOM, • Ship a standpipe, and/or set up the can then operate almost on auto-pilot, for establishing CONTROL. pump for drafting. tasks such as laying a hose or shipping a standpipe. That means we can maintain our Practice makes perfect situational awareness and active vigilance On the day… for hazards, rather than focussing Run the drill a few times, and you will notice exclusively on the task at hand. Show the crew the area in which they will be the crew getting faster and more confident drilling. Identify any safety issues, such as each time – even if they’re veterans. Once uneven ground, possible vehicle traffic, etc. the crew is performing well, the above drill DRILLS SHOULD Gain permission to use the area and to run a can be run with added contingency skill drill, if needed. You can use barrier tape to requirements, such as replacing a burst BE RUN IN A identify areas to be considered “alight.” hose length, or one line of three lengths instead of two, for example. REALISTIC WAY. The OIC (or whoever is supervising the drill) should break the steps down for the crew. CEWS SHOULD For example, “We are going to practice Adhering to laying hoses as if we were arriving at a training standards Shipping a USE THE SAME bushfire threatening properties. We’ll need to bowl hoses, find a hydrant and ship a It is important to note that the deployment TRUCKS AND standpipe, and get a supply line into the of two lines of two lengths of 38mm hose stand pipe EQUIPMENT THEY truck. Do you have any questions?” Have in this drill is a training standard, designed to the crew seated in the truck as if en route enable the crew to perform multiple tasks and/or setting to a call. effectively and simultaneously. It is not TYPICALLY USE necessarily the required action to take at THE OIC SHOULD GIVE every job. The OIC’s size-up includes up a pump for WHEN ATTENDING deciding what action to take for any CLEAR ORDERS, given fire. A FIRE ASSIGNING OBJECTIVES drafting are Drills should be run in a realistic way. Crews TO CREW MEMBERS Next issue we will look at running drills with should use the same trucks and equipment more than one truck and crew. essential skills they typically use when attending a fire call. The OIC should give clear orders, assigning Let’s look at the example of an arrival/ objectives to the crew members: required for an deployment drill. arrival drill

BUSHFIREbulletin // TRAINING BUSHFIREbulletin // TRAINING 38 39 Top: Emergency Services Minister Tony Kelly, Commissioner Phil Koperberg and Penrith Centre: Nepean High School students MP Karyn Paluzzano with new RFS cadets collect their protective equipment, at the launch of the extended 2006/7 RFS ready to learn life and firefighting MyRFS tested at Secondary School Cadets program. skills through the RFS cadet program. regional exercises Photo by Belinda Landry Photo by Belinda Landry By Belinda Landry uring March and April, the MyRFS team headed to the Regional Exercises in Dorder to showcase the RFS volunteer website and encourage volunteers to register.

Laden with MyRFS mouse pads to hand out to new and existing members of the site, the team found themselves inundated with sign-ups, feedback, and questions about the site. First stop, Glen Innes

The first stop was Glen Innes, for the Region North Exercises held on 17 to 19 March. MyRFS was well received by the region, with many people showing interest in upcoming features such as brigade and district maps, hazard reduction information and permit information.

The next weekend (23 -25 March) saw the team heading out to Wellington, where the Region West exercise was held at RFS checks out Burrendong Dam. The response out west NEW CADETS South Australia’s was fantastic, with many volunteers telling PROGRAM LAUNCHED structural fire the team they had already signed up to the training Service, and contributing valuable feedback. he popular RFS Secondary Schools Story by RFS Media Officer Cameron Wade Over the two weekends, more than 200 Cadets program will expand this year to users signed up to the site, each going in include at least 17 high schools around Recently a contingent of RFS personnel T the running to win one of two Canon laser the state at a cost of $100,000. visited the South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) State Training Centre in printers for their brigades. Drawn on 30 March, the winners were Christine Fennesy The program is one of several RFS initiatives Brukunga, outside Adelaide, to participate of Mt Mitchell RFB (Region North) and Karen aimed at teenagers and allows students in in a Compartment Fire Behaviour Instructor Thurtell of Woodstock RFB (Region West). Years 9 and 10 to learn basic firefighting and training course. fire safety skills, as well as be introduced to the On 27 April the MyRFS team travelled Service’s ideals of dedication and team work. The RFS’ Learning & Development (L&D) Systems section is constantly researching and south to Gundagai for the final exercise. re-evaluating firefighting training methods and Minister and Commissioner content for RFS volunteers. L&D Systems is Over the weekend, close to 70 new users attend launch also focussed on the continuing professional signed up to MyRFS, making it one of the development of the Service’s instructors most successful exercises yet. The team An official launch of the 2006/7 Secondary involving houses and similar structures. also collated over three pages of feedback and assessors, as well as its L&D Officers in Specific fire science knowledge and Schools Cadets Program was held on May Districts, Teams and Zones. from volunteers, which will be used to 15 at Nepean High School in Penrith by the firefighting techniques are required to deal inform the site’s development. with them safely and effectively. Effective Minister for Emergency Services, Tony Kelly, The aim of this approach is to increase L&D and RFS Commissioner Phil Koperberg, compartment firefighting requires a good Some of these suggestions included Officers’ skills and their ability to introduce deal of practice and coordination between the latest firefighting techniques and training layout and design ideas, such as making “In addition, to the five initial schools, a crew members, including those inside and the feedback link more visible, putting methods to their local instructors, in order outside the building. further twelve schools have agreed to run to deliver the best possible training to RFS it in a more conspicuous location, the programme this year, bringing the total members. To this end, a team of L&D Officers navigation suggestions, news and calendar number of participating schools to 17,” the from around the state, and Headquarters, The experience has proposals, and event and mapping ideas. Minister said. spent a week in Brukunga improving their proveN to be valuable, The new schools will include: “It also encourages the cadets to formulate understanding of compartment fire behaviour, The feedback gathered also gave the MyRFS goals to create strategies to enhance life not only in improving “There are several more schools and qualifying in the skills required to combat team a greater understanding of what users • Nepean High School long physical activity – so important to considering the programme, and we expect this type of structural fire. the skills of the RFS’s were hoping to achieve when using the site. that following this launch many more will • Penrith High School young people today.” L&D officers and want to join in this great initiative.” • Guyra Central School A training centre that has it all instructors, but also in At the end of the weekend, Joseph • Weddin High School 20 hours of training Carmody was announced the winner of • Peak Hill High School assessing the value of the MyRFS entry drawer, winning the THE KELSO HIGH GROUP The CFS Training Centre is superbly outfitted, • Kandos High School RFS Cadet training is generally held once a sophisticated hot fire Canon Laser Printer for Adelong RFB. with pollution-free hot fire cells, a large gas- CONTINUED TO PARTICIPATE • Mudgee High School per week during the third term, typically as fired training pad with mocked up semi-trailers training facility. EVEN AFTER THEIR SCHOOL • Gulgong High School an alternative sport option. This will provide and other props for Village Firefighter-style • Dunedoo Central School about 20 hours of the 75 hours students This visit occurred under the Memorandum BURNED DOWN training, a multi-storey hot fire and rescue • Orange Catholic School need to undertake yearly. of Understanding between the RFS and training building, reticulated water, and a large • Lithgow High School CFS, and is one of several occasions Five schools took part in the trial 10 week CABA training facility. It is a residential facility • Portland Central School Each cadet programme will be supported by where members of the two services are program in 2005 - Bingara Central School, with full-time training staff on site, catering for the RFS and, once they have successfully participating in each others’ training, as Parkes High School, Kelso High School, both volunteer and full-time firefighters from “Each of the cadets taking part in this completed the course students will be L&D Systems continues to create programs Forbes High School and Moree High firefighting agencies across Australia. School. The Kelso High group continued to innovative, stimulating and challenging issued with a Certificate of Attendance. If for the professional development of all programme will receive training in the areas fire students decide that they would like to join members of the RFS. participate even after their school burned Compartment fire behaviour deals with awareness, leadership, fire science, personal the RFS then the majority of their basic down with the loss of all their equipment. fires occurring in rooms or compartments development and accident prevention in the training will have been completed. where ventilation is limited or non-existent. Top: The RFS team receiving a debrief work place,” the Minister said. on CFS training facility at Brukunga. All five schools will be offering the Such situations are typically found in fires programme in Term Three again this year. Photo by Dan Meijer. BUSHFIREbulletin // TRAINING BUSHFIREbulletin // TRAINING 40 41 REGIONAL EXERCISES PHOTO GALLERY RFS exercises in Regions North, South, East and West assisted to prepare around 1000 firefighting, communications, catering, incident management and support personnel for the upcoming fire season. The following 8 pages highlights the key events of the exercises that took place at each Region.

State of Origin – Once the drum was full, two team members were allowed to set up a ladder against a Region South Style large cattle trailer, while the remainder of the By Media Assistant Matthew Schroder Photos by RFS Media Oficeer Rebel Talbert team moved the portable pump to the drum.

olunteers were put to the test at the Hose lines were set up and the ladder crew third annual Region South Exercise, became the nozzle crew, knocking down Vheld at Gundagai on 28-30 April. targets on the other side. A range of scenarios were held to help the Fiery origin clash more than 300 participating volunteers to develop their skills Pride came into play when the ACT and NSW Rural Fire Services went head to head, representing their respective organisations THE EVENT HAD in a State of Origin style clash.

MULTIPLE STAGES Both teams were neck and neck right to the finish, with the ACT experiencing a pump CONTAINING failure at the last stage. Teams recognised the friendly atmosphere of the competition, DIFFERENT bonding after the event. SCENARIOS FIREFIGHTERS WOULD BE LIKELY TO ENCOUNTER WHEN CALLED TO AN INCIDENT One of these was a field day style event where teams were pitted against one another in a race to the finish. The event had multiple stages containing different scenarios firefighters would be likely to encounter when called to an incident.

Stage one involved extinguishing a small stove fire with a fire blanket. Speed was essential here as each stage had to be completed before moving on to the next.

Rake-hoeing was next in line. A 44 gallon drum was set up to represent a tree and fuel in the form of straw was placed around the drum. The object was to clear the drum of fuel. A cruel confrontation

A cruel task awaited teams in the next stage with a 44 gallon drum cut in half, fuel poured in and set alight. Nothing strenuous, until organisers armed contestants with only a knapsack. Team members worked hard and fast to extinguish this fire, with many exhausted afterwards.

Team work came into play with pumps and pumping. Teams had to ship a stand pipe and pump water to fill a buoywall. Once this was done the rest of the team were able to start setting up a portable pump to transfer some water into a drum.

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Mock burn over A worthwile exercise surprises crews – After each burn over scenario the brigades Region West Exercise involved all commented on how worthwhile Story and photos by RFS Media Officer Cameron Wade such an exercise was. The element of surprise assisted in creating realism and ungendore State Recreation area was the reactions of those involved meant that once again the venue for the Region decisions had to be made on the spot. BWest Exercise. For the second time crews from all over the west of the state At the end of the Region drove for hours, in some cases over 12, to West exercise all participate in the events and experience the camaraderie which is such an important part brigades agreed that of the RFS. it was an extremely worthwhile event Surprise, surprise! At the end of the Region West exercise all Once again Country Energy, NSW Fire brigades agreed that it was an extremely Brigades, SES and VRA assisted in providing worthwhile event. Even those that invaluable training and information to travelled for many hours felt it was worth volunteers. The annual events such as truck every bit for the experience and training maintenance, fire investigation, aviation they received. Even a crew from Sydney support and pumping were all enthusiastically (Illawong) who joined in found the whole attended. A surprise event, however, was not experience beneficial and commented on on the list and took all crews by surprise. how great it was to work with crews from the west.

A scene of chaos Next year’s Region West exercise is open to any brigades from the region and for more A mock burn over was staged in between information contact your local district /team two listed events. As crews travelled or zone office. between pumps and fire investigation they were approached by a young boy with burns and injuries over his arms and face. He led the crew to a scene of chaos. A fire truck had run over a crew member and the fire had over run the rest of the crew

A fire truck had run over a crew member and the fire had over run the rest of the crew. Injuries included third degree burns, broken limbs, shock and dehydration. Full makeup and fake blood

The injured crew were all teenagers from the Yetadhinnakkal corrective services facility, Brewarrina. The eight boys and a minder repeated the acting scenario again and again complete with full makeup and fake blood.

St John Ambulance assisted with setting up the scenario ensuring the injuries were realistic. Officers from St John also assessed the RFS volunteers who came across the incident and critiqued the actions of the brigades after the scenario was stopped.

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480 Firefighters Another kind of RAFT Gather in Glen Innes Another interesting event was the Remote Region north Area Firefighting Team (RAFT) exercise. Story and photos by RFS Media Officer Meeka Bailey A crew of firefighters equipped with food and equipment to survive overnight in an his year’s Region North Exercise in isolated area assembled at the showground. Glen Innes involved about 470 RFS Tmembers from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 March. The crew were

With a program packed with learning airlifted from opportunities, the event also provided a scenario to encourage team building. base camp to a Crews tested their ability to respond to a local property simulated train and vehicle accident, bush and structure fires, gained insight into The crew were airlifted from base camp to working safely with aircraft and practiced a a local property where they practiced their range of emergency skills. firefighting and bushcraft skills. The RAFT’s overnight remote camping experience Up the creek… included hiking and trail construction.

The next task moved most teams well Once again the catering crews of Region outside their comfort zones. Trying to build a North proved their skills by providing around raft from PVC pipe, rope and containers sturdy 1000 meals, and coping with incredibly early enough to keep a crew member high and dry starts to ensure all participants were fuelled challenged the lateral thinking of most teams. up for a strenuous but fun weekend. Most of those tasked with crossing the creek ended up saturated Most of those tasked with crossing the creek ended up saturated, but teams learned how to think and act as a group to tackle a problem. Powerful lessons

Another new scenario was the Country Energy power lines event. Crews responded to a North Power worker trapped with power lines down in thvicinity.

Brigades had to deal with the incident without instruction, dealing with fire caused by the lines and rescuing the worker. They then received a debrief on how to enter the area safely and use of water around high voltage power lines.

A 30 minute safety video and theory session followed. All crews commented on how valuable this scenario was.

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Region East - Appin in training debut Story and photos by RFS Media Officer Cameron Wade

egion East held its first regional exercise on the weekend of 31 June R2006. Seventeen of the region’s 19 Districts/ Teams/Zones attended with each represented by one brigade. The event was held at the Cataract Scout Camp near Appin in Wollondilly District.

Baulkham Hills, Blue Mountains, Cumberland, Gosford, Great Lakes, Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Illawarra, Lake Macquarie, Lower Hunter, Macarthur, Muswellbrook, Singleton, Sutherland, Wingecarribee, Wollondilly and Wyong all attended. Cadets join in

On Sunday three cadet teams from Cumberland, Hawkesbury and Warringah/ Pittwater also joined in. PARTICIPANTS UNDERTOOK SCENARIO BASED EXERCISES The 120 or so participants undertook scenario based exercises such as motor vehicle accident (MVA), structure fire (defensive), emergency drill, pumps and pumping and trail work.

The organisers from Region East were pleasantly surprised with the amount of people who attended especially considering the camping area overnight got down to very low temperatures.

Next year it is hoped that more teams will join in and that this type of exercise will continue to strengthen the bonds between brigades in Region East.

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Incident management Breathing Apparatus wor k shops and training at Cessnock exercises IMW and IMX - what are they?

ajor incidents require special consideration. It is normal for them Mto be managed by an Incident Management Team (IMT). The key positions on an IMT are Incident Controller, Operations Officer, Planning Officer, Logistics Officer and Public Liaison Officer. How can you train for these important roles?

The training offered to people who wish to carry out these roles is varied. But an RFS learning and development initiative assists in bringing IMT specialists together in Incident Management Workshops (IMW) and Incident Management Exercises (IMX).

An IMW is a workshop run by Regional when these incident managers meet again Operations and Learning and Development at a real incident. staff. Each year each RFS Region runs an IMW. This may be followed by an IMX. Region East In most cases other agencies are invited to attend IMW’s or IMX’s. This could be to assist Wingecarribee Fire Control Centre in in creating a realistic incident management Mittagong was the venue for the Region exercise or other agency staff may need to be East IMX and the IMW was held in the assessed so they can fill the roles in an IMT. Mittagong RSL. The exercise started on the Friday afternoon (2 June) with three consecutive shifts until 10pm then another MORE three shifts on the Saturday. INFORMATION Four agencies take part Woronora Rural Fire Brigade ran a CAN BE FOUND IN There were staff and volunteers from Breathing Apparatus training event Geographic Information System (GIS) at Cessnock hot fire training ground support was also in place adding to the RFS and members of NSW Fire Brigades, THE RFS TRAINING NPWS and Forests NSW. The fire scenario on 17 - 18 June. realism. In total, 40 people participated in Photos by Chris Maw, was a local incident and was based on INFORMATION the exercise. Heathcote Headquarters RFB Captain actual previous fire history. Even though the temperatures outside dropped to 2 BOOKLET Region North degrees and it was raining most of the time all the participants got into the spirit of the RFS staff and volunteers can participate The Serendipity fire was reproduced to give and become qualified in IMT positions. exercise and the realism was maintained for NPWS and RFS personnel a challenging the two day event. More information can be found in the RFS exercise during the Region North IMX Training Information Booklet released at the held at Lismore in May. The activation beginning of each year or by contacting your cell set-up a range of scenarios to really Region South district/team /zone or region L&D officer. test participants, from the closure of all major transport routes and house losses The exercise for region south will be held in Region West to unexploded ordnance, machinery Bega in September this year. Region South breakdowns and rare frog species on run the IMW separately from the IMX. The Region west was the first region to run an potential containment lines. exercise this year will include RFS staff IMW/IMX this year. The event was held in and volunteers as well as other agencies Cobar during the first week of May. The THE OPPORTUNITY TO including the ACT Fire Service. The scenario IMX scenario was a bushfire in the Mudgee will be based on a local incident and will run area and was played out over three days LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH over three days. and two nights. The incident required a DIFFERENT AGENCY’S large number of out of area resources and RESOURCES WAS multiple aircraft. WELCOMED

40 people converge on Cobar A special IMW was held for NPWS staff From top: The Lismore day shift come together for a team briefing to attend earlier in the month, and this during the Region North IMX. Cobar Fire Control Centre was transformed meant a large Parks presence during Photo by Bryan Daly into a very busy IMT with eight hour shifts the exercise itself. The opportunity to Incident Controller Supt. Steve Davis, in place to rotate the participants. RFS was learn more about each different agency’s NSWFB Zone Commander South 7, the only agency involved with staff from resources, firefighting capabilities, planning considers strategies during the the region role playing other agencies and and management skills was welcomed. Do Region East IMX at Mittagong. council creating a very realistic exercise. doubt the teamwork that resulted will help Photo by Cameron Wade

BUSHFIREbulletin // TRAINING BUSHFIREbulletin // TRAINING 50 51 RFS OPEN DAY

RFS Open Day SATURDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2006

rigades are gearing up for the 2006 RFS Open Day, and brand new resources to Bassist them are about to be distributed. Promotional Give Aways

This year, to provide Brigades with greater support, RFS Media & Public Affairs has secured a larger budget than in previous years.

In keeping with this year’s theme: used for the allocation of resources such as “Education, imagination, at your rural fire banners, posters and other promotional tools. station...bring your family to RFS Open Day!” we have a host of promotional give aways. Where do I have my Open Day?

RFS tattoos, rubber A Brigade station is a great first option for tanker key rings, hosting RFS Open Day as it shows the flashing tanker badges community exactly where you are, and all and stickers your equipment is at hand. Some of these include RFS tattoos, rubber To obtain greater tanker key rings, flashing tanker badges, visibility and exposure, and stickers. your Brigade could To get these resources, just make sure you hold its Open Day at a to get coverage in their local newspapers, From top left to right: A tour of the Coffs register that you are participating in Open Day variety of different radio and television. The kit contains media Harbour Fire Control Centre and Headquarters through your district office. The resources will venues release templates, photos for distribution, RFB entertained families from the local Ex- be sent from RFS Headquarters to District backgrounders on the RFS, fire safety and Services Sports Touring & Classic Car Club Offices, and then on to you. on 4 June. Terri Marstaeller, Captain of Coffs However, many Brigades are not located on a Open Day. Harbour Headquarters RFB, shows Matt Corner main thoroughfare or are not easily accessible what it’s like to be on the end of hose with full Sign up now! to the public. To obtain greater visibility and To assist with broadcast promotion, water pressure. Register for Open Day exposure, your Brigade could hold its Open Community Service Announcements A film and photo shoot to get images for the Day at a variety of different venues. Just went into production in July to develop a Open Day television commercial, posters and As Open Day is fast approaching, Brigades some of these are; your Fire Control Centre, television commercial and radio ads. media kit was held at Rouse Hill RFB station are asked to register their participation with local council, or at a local shopping centre. in July. their districts. A spread sheet to be filled Open Day assistance Images from 2005 RFS Open Day out by districts will provide everyone with If you are in an isolated area, another option Clarence Town RFB. Photo by Di Bennett. information to help promote Open Day. is to be thorough with your local promotion For any assistance or questions for Open Gilgandra RFB. Photo by Steve O’Callaghan. of Open Day. Consider letterbox drops, Day contact your District office, or RFS Information such as your Brigade name, the articles in community newsletters and Events Coordinator Claire Poignand on: Deadman’s Creek, Gulgong address of where you are holding your open posters in places where people gather. day, the Council area you are in and the Ph: 02 8741 5479 times you will be open, will be displayed on Media Mb: 0428 264 222 the RFS website, MyRFS and in local media. Fax: 97370171 To assist with promotion, a full media kit will Email: [email protected] This means people will be able to find you Open Day Banner Glenhaven. Photo by Matt Schroder be available for districts and brigades to use Email: [email protected] easily on the day. This information will also be

BUSHFIREbulletin // open day BUSHFIREbulletin // OPEN DAY 52 Bushfire bulletin Reader survey Overall, how appealing did you find this edition? Comments: ...... q Very appealing ...... donations q Fairly appealing ...... q Neutral ...... q Fairly unappealing ...... q Very unappealing ......

For each of the following, please indicate or comment on the features you were interested in reading in this issue (tick column applicable) Yes, I was interested No, I wasn’t interested I will use this section Incidents q ...... q ...... q ...... General News q ...... q ...... q ...... Training q ...... q ...... q ...... Operations Pull out q ...... q ...... q ...... Spotlight on Volunteers q ...... q ...... q ...... Open Day q ...... q ...... q ...... BUNNINGS AND DULUX FUND LEADERSHIP Please list the types of stories, or specific story ideas, you are interested in reading in the Bushfire Bulletin TRAINING “I walked away from the week long course WATER DONATED ...... with new inspiration as well as many new ...... friends in emergency management across FS members were given 85 pallets Australia. I feel that I was extremely lucky to of bottled drinking water by a Sydney ...... have been able to attend this program.” Rbusiness after witnessing the hard ...... work and professionalism of firefighters Generous support over the 2005/06 fire season. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE A COPY OF THE BUSHFIRE BULLETIN DIRECT TO YOUR HOME? Since 2003 Dulux has donated $5 from WATTLE SPRINGS every can of Wash and Wear 101 or Weathershield paint purchased from DONATED THE WATER Cutout and mail to: Name...... TO FIREFIGHTERS FROM Bunnings Warehouses in NSW to the RFS Bushfire Bulletin and NSW Fire Brigades for volunteers’ fire THE HAWKESBURY REGION Address...... safety training. AFTER THEY WORKED NSW Rural Fire Service Reply Paid 67059 This has formed part of an ongoing national HARD OVER THE NEW ...... campaign being coordinated through YEAR PERIOD Granville NSW, 2142 the Australasian Fire Authorities Council (No stamp required) ...... Postcode ...... (AFAC). Since its launch in 2003 more than The drinks are on us $600,000 has been raised. # Ross Bernie, CEO of the bottled water Investing in new technology company Wattle Springs, donated the water to firefighters from the Hawkesbury region ANNUAL PUBLISHING In 2003, $60,000 was invested in volunteer after they worked hard over the New Year Autumn / Winter / Spring / Summer firefighter training and $136,000 was period to control fires in Hawkesbury and on directed toward Global Positioning System the north coast. 02 06 17 29 36 Wild storm activity Aerosol factory Big Brother helps A yarn in the Running an he Bunnings Warehouses/Dulux units for all fire services. production & Advertising in Bourke flare up fight fires shearing shed arrival drill fundraising program has provided BUSHFIREbulletin One good turn… THE JOURNAL OF THE NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE VOL 28 No.02 // 2006 leadership skills to 15 RFS volunteers. In 2004, $200,000 was invested nationally carillon graphic communications T on training a special group of future leaders Hawkesbury firefighters shared the water Advertising: Philip Bell: 02 9906 2444 or 0407 008 351 // [email protected] and in 2005 a further $200,000 was Shanes Park Rural Fire Brigade (RFB) Captain, with their counterparts in Macarthur, Design & Artwork: Steve Byers: 02 9906 2444 // [email protected] Daniel Busch, is one of the RFS volunteers allocated for the same purpose. Warringah, Cumberland, Illawarra, Wyong, who have completed the Leadership Baulkham Hills and the Blue Mountains, to Program at the Australian Institute of Police The 2006 campaign aims to raise a further say thank you for their assistance with fires $250,000 per year for the next three years. BUSHFIRE BULLETIN Management through Bunnings’ sponsorship. in the Hawkesbury area on New Years Day. Advertising Rates & Specifications Enhanced skills Support for initiative John Peters from Western Freight in Blacktown donated his time and equipment to Note: All rates are based on per issue. Popular sizes shown here only. At the campaign launch, Assistant deliver the water to firefighters across Sydney, Daniel gave a brief outline of the program and To view or download the full rate card go to: http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_content.cfm?CAT_ID=510 Commissioner Rob Rogers addressed the and his generosity is also greatly appreciated. the way it has developed his personal and many people who came to see the display and Measurements professional skills at the launch of the 2006 Causal Rate RHP 12 Month 12 Month Contract RHP First reaffirmed the RFS’ support for the Dulux/ (Width x Height) Per Issue First 12 pages Contract rate 12 Pages fundraising campaign on 3 January 2006. Bunnings initiative and stressed the importance “The program enhanced my managerial of investment in training for volunteers. Spread q 420 x 297mm q $2810 q $3232 q $2670 q $3070 and people handling skills, as well giving Full Page q 210 x 297mm q $1405 q $1616 q $1335 q $1535 me new ideas in relation to operational Also in attendance was State Emergency management of volunteers,” Daniel said. Service (SES) Operations Director, Dieter 1⁄2 Page q 132 x 186mm q $984 q $1132 q $935 q $1075 Gescke and members of the local SES unit. “I WALKED AWAY WITH NEW Inside Front Cover q 210 x 297mm q $2038 NA q $1936 NA INSPIRATION AS WELL AS Top: Shanes Park RFB Captain Daniel Busch Inside Back Cover q 210 x 297mm q $1967 NA q $1869 NA at the launch of the next Dulux/Bunnings MANY NEW FRIENDS” fundraising campaign. Outside Back Cover q 210 x 297mm q $2178 NA q $2069 NA

BUSHFIREbulletin // DONATIONS NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE

15 Carter Street t: 02 8741 5555 Homebush Bay NSW 2127 f: 02 9737 0171 Locked Mail Bag 17 e: [email protected] Granville NSW 2142 w: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au PP255003/08075 www.rfs.nsw.gov.au