NATIONAL

RESPONSE Official Journal of the Australian Institute of Emergency Services

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Print Post Approved EMERGENCY PP 337586/00067 RESPONSE DISCLAIMER Official Journal of the Australian Institute of Emergency Services Views expressed in this journal, unless specifically acknowledged, are not necessarily those of the Publisher, of the Institute, of its Council or of the Editor. Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response EDITORIAL RIGHTS The Editor of National Emergency Response reserves the right to grant permission to reproduce articles from this journal. Such Approval is hereby granted, unless a specific withdrawal of this permission is included in the article in question. CONTENTS The Author and the journal must be acknowledged in any such reprint. REGULAR COLUMNS MAILING AMENDMENTS OR ENQUIRIES For any amendments or enquiries regarding mailing, please email: 2 President’s Report [email protected] 3 New Members NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS This publication is the official journal of the Australian Institute of 26 Membership information Emergency Services. It is published by Countrywide Austral for the Australian Institute of Emergency Services and will be distributed 27 AIES Contacts to its members. An illegal practice is presently operating where advertisements from some of our publications are used to produce unauthorised FEATURES publications and our advertisers are contacted for payment for the unauthorised advertisement. 4 on the move If you are approached to place an advertisement or with a request for payment for another publication, you should verify that the 6 One flash and you’re ash advertisement has been authorised and establish the bona fides of the company. 10 Giving the farmers a hand The invoice and any correspondence should have the company name, ABN, and an address (not just a PO Box) and you should ask 14 Examining Pinery for proof of publication. 21 Emergency sign of the month If you do receive a request for an unauthorised advertisement, or have concerns about the bona fides of a company, we suggest 22 AIES Young Volunteer Award you refer it to the Office of Fair Trading in your capital city. 23 Annual General Meeting & Conference PUBLISHER National Emergency Response is published by 24 National Emergency Response: Winter flashback Countrywide Austral 28 A stair-climbing event of epic proportions

Level 2, 310 King Street, Melbourne GPO Box 2466, Melbourne 3001 Ph: (03) 9937 0200 Fax: (03) 9937 0201 Email: [email protected] ACN: 30 086 202 093

EDITORIAL TEAM Editor: Kristi High Associate Editor: Ron Jones LFAIES 2.53pm Send articles for inclusion to: The fire grew and expanded so fast it Email: [email protected] looked different every minute.

WEBSITE www.aies.net.au

WEBSITE CONTENT The website has sections for each State as well as National Areas. If you have ideas for State Division content, please contact your State Registrar, for National content, email [email protected] Please be aware that all content must go past the National Registrar prior to web publication to ensure it meets required guidelines. FRONT COVER Examining Pinery. Page 14. Photo by Mark Dowson.

Disclaimer Countrywide Austral (“Publisher”) advises that the contents of this publication are at the sole discretion of the National Emergency Response and the publication is offered for background information purposes only. The publication has been formulated in good faith and the Publisher believes its contents to be accurate, however, the contents do not amount to a recommendation (either expressly or by implication) and should not be relied upon in lieu of specific professional advice. The Publisher disclaims all responsibility for any loss or damage which may be incurred by any reader relying upon the information contained in the publication whether that loss or damage is caused by any fault or negligence on the part of the publisher, its directors and employees. Copyright: All advertisements appearing in this publication are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced except with the consent of the owner of the copyright. Advertising: Advertisements in this journal are solicited from organisations and businesses on the understanding that no special considerations other than those normally accepted in respect of commercial dealings, will be given to any advertiser. 2 FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK Steve Jenkins MAIES National President

he 2016 Annual General and has held not only the Victorian Meeting (AGM) of the Australian Division presidency, but also that of TInstitute of Emergency Services National President for many years. took place at University House in Alan has been a source of support the Australian National University and advice for myself since I took in Canberra on Thursday 21 May. office, and I am pleased to see that There was a good attendance with he is continuing his involvement with some members travelling some the Victorian Division Management distance to be here. As an organisation Committee as a Committee Member. that covers the entire country, the We thank Alan for his service in these tyranny of distance restricts our ability president roles. to meet formally more frequently, so The official publication of the AIES for those who were able to attend in is the National Emergency Response person, the AIES is extremely grateful. (NER) Journal, which is published

PRESIDENT’S REPORT PRESIDENT’S Likewise, we are also appreciative of quarterly. Special thanks to President The Constitution and those who could not attend but went to the Tasmania Division Ron Jones for to trouble of submitting an apology, his efforts in the role of sub-editor and Rules also allow for the or nominating a proxy. providing the conduit between the AIES appointment of non-voting Since the new Constitution and and NER Editor Kristi High. There are Rules were approved in Sydney at the deadlines to meet with the publishers Directors to the Board. AGM last year, there have been many and without the efforts of Ron and Kristi governance-related issues that the we would be in all sorts of trouble. One John know so he can post it. John is Board has been required to progress. thing that is frequently lacking is articles also desirous of having divisional media I thank the Board members involved for the journal. I would like to encourage officers who can be provided limited for their efforts, in particular, National everyone to consider writing something administrator rights to the Facebook Registrar Peter Schar and Financial for the inclusion in the Journal. It does page so that divisions can do their own Officer David Mack who transitioned not have to be war and peace, even posting. I would like to thank John for into these roles from our past Registrar just a photo with a couple of sentences his efforts, frustrating as they are at Bob Maul, who retired after many about something of interest is sufficient. times, and also those of his son who years of valuable service to the Tell your colleagues in your respective spends quite a bit of time administering organisation in that role. organisations as well. Anyone can the website. John can be contacted via Under Peter and David’s leadership, put articles in the journal. Ron and [email protected] new financial management processes Kristi can be contacted by emailing The Constitution and Rules also allow have been introduced at both national [email protected] for the appointment of non-voting and divisional levels that have Directors to the Board. I am pleased streamlined the Institute’s financial Since the new Constitution to advise that Associate Professor reporting and which have provided Brett Aimers has been appointed to transparency of finances across and Rules were approved the Board as an Independent Director. the organisation. in Sydney at the AGM Brett is presently a General Manager This has also made auditing the in the Emergency Management Institute’s financial records much last year, there have been Division of the Victorian Department simpler, as the National Registrar of Economic Development, Jobs, now arranges this and completes many governance-related Transport and Resources. for national and divisions all at once. issues that the Board has In conjunction with the 2016 AGM, Thus, there are fewer costs incurred National Board members took part in by the Institute as a whole. There is been required to progress. a two-day Strategic Planning Workshop still more to be achieved in this area to scope out some future directions despite the great progress. The AIES also has a Facebook page for the Institute. There was some Rod Young attended the AGM as that is managed by AIES Director for very interesting discussion during the newly elected President of the Membership John Rice. Like the Journal the workshop, which was facilitated Victorian Division. Rod replaces retiring though, John struggles to find enough by Brett, who will be drafting a Victorian Division present Alan Marshall information to post. Any time something comprehensive report for the Board who is a long-serving AIES member of interest happens, or is planned, let in due course.

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 3

Following the AGM, members attended the annual dinner in the RECENT AIES EVENTS University House dining hall. Australian • Two AIES Queensland Division representatives attended Leadership Training

Capital Territory Division President Scott for Emergency Management Volunteers workshops conducted in Brisbane PRESIDENT’S REPORT Milne filled in as the guest speaker due by the Australian Emergency Management Volunteers Forum (AEMVF). to scheduled speaker cancelling at the The delegates were Mr Keith Williams from the Volunteer Marine Rescue eleventh hour to respond to a serious Association (Qld) as the senior delegate, and Ms Tia Rowley, a State family health matter. A Senior Response Emergency Services (SES) volunteer in Cairns as the Youth (Junior) delegate. Manager with the Australian Maritime • Ms Rowley is also AIES’s 2016 nominee for the Young Endeavour voyage. Ms Safety Authority, Scott provided a very Rowley was nominated by Queensland and was the only member from that state interesting overview of the search eligible for consideration. No nominations were received from any other state. for Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 • Ms Lisette Reinke, an SES and CFA volunteer from South , attended including response operations, the a three-day Volunteers Leadership Program conducted by the Red Cross on Australian political, and international geo- behalf of the AEMVF in Melbourne. political issues, and their impact on the • On behalf of AIES, I was invited by the Australian Radio Communications search operation. Scott’s presentation Industry Association (ARCIA) to be an award presenter at its 2016 Gala was extremely well received by Dinner, held in Melbourne, as part of the CommsConnect 2015 Conference those present. and Exhibition on 2 December 2015. Victorian President Alan Marshall and In my next report I hope to be able I attended the dinner, and I presented the award. to provide a precis of the outcomes • AIES again participated in the Australia and New Zealand Disaster Management from the Board’s strategic planning Conference (ANZDMC) and the Search and Rescue Conference, which workshop. Until then, stay safe, and was held at Jupiters on the Gold Coast from 30 May to 1 June 2016. please consider submitting an article The conference attracted over 500 delegates. for the NER Journal. l

NEW MEMBERS The Australian Institute of Emergency Services is pleased to announce the following emergency services people joined the AIES between April and May 2016. NAME ORGANISATION DIVISION Adrian Brown SES (SA) SA/WA/NT Matthew Bouzaid Covertex Ltd NSW Victor Cork Rural Fire Service NSW Jack Daniel SES (Vic)/ADF VIC Nicholas de Rozario DEWNR (SA) SA/WA/NT Peter Dubiez Enviro Frontier Pty Ltd NSW James Gegg SES (Qld) QLD Brett Henderson NSW Police NSW Rebecca Hunt SES (SA) SA/WA/NT David Johnson Emergency Management (Vic) VIC James Middleton AVCG (SA) SA/WA/NT Louise Murphy St John Ambulance (NSW) NSW Tony Pearce SES (NSW) NSW Daniel Rickard St John Ambulance (Vic) VIC Nicholas Roberts Ambulance Victoria VIC

LEGEND: ADF: Australian Defence Force; AVCG: Australian Volunteer Coast Guard; DEWNR: Dept Environment, Water & Natural Resources; SES: State Emergency Service

http://au.linkedin.com/groups/Australian-Institute-Emergency-Services-3844281 or log in at au.linkedin.com and search for ‘Australian Institute of Emergency Services’ under ‘Companies’.

www.facebook.com/aies.online

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 4 VICTORIA ON THE MOVE Emergency Management Team and a member of the St John Ambulance Association (Vic). Rod has worked at Telstra since 1985. He commenced as a Trainee Technical Officer and worked in various exchange maintenance technical roles that included the responsibility of Emergency Services Liaison Officers (ESLO) throughout metropolitan Melbourne. In 2011 he was promoted to the position of National Emergency Response New President: Rod Young. Manager. This role encompasses the Past President: Alan Marshall. responsibilities of being the Telstra od Young MStJ, MAIES, has been National ESLO which is also responsible As Rod takes the helm in Victoria, Alan appointed as President of the for approximately 50 ESLOs that represent Marshall, CStJ, AIMM, LFAIES, moves to a RVictorian Division of the AIES as Telstra across the nation at state and committee role, providing support to Rod. former President Alan Marshall CStJ, regional level to ensure that it is actively Alan has been involved in emergency AIMM, LFAIES, moves to a committee role. engaged with emergency services and management for more than 35 Rod has more than 30 years’ experience critical infrastructure providers for disaster years. He believes that emergency as a member of St John Ambulance planning, response and recovery activities. management officers must continue Australia (Vic) and held many positions up Rod is a recipient of the St John to inform, educate, mitigate and build to the rank of Regional Superintendent. Ambulance Service Medal and a resilience into Australian communities He is a currently a member of the Member of the Order of St John. and that it is the responsibility of the Victorian State Emergency Response In 2013, he completed his degree in AIES to pass on knowledge gained from Planning Committee (Communications), Emergency Management and received involvement in major operations so it is North/West Metropolitan Regional an MBA (Consulting) in 2016. not lost or buried. l

VICTORIAN DIVISION. • President/Director – Rod Young, MStJ, MBA, field and brings to the committee his direct involvement BEmergMgt, MAIES in community activities over many years as a team player. • Vice President – Grant Coultman-Smith, VA, BJ, JP, He is oriented to detail and diligent in his continuing MEmergMgt, BSocSc, DipBus, FBIA, MAIES support to the Australian Institute of Emergency Services. • Registrar/Treasurer – Richard Lodder FFS, FAIPOL, Alan was awarded the AIES National Award of MCSFS, MAIES Excellence in 2014 in recognition of excellent and Committee Members outstanding service rendered to the Institute and its • Alan Marshall CStJ, AIMM, LFAIES (immediate past members over many years. President/Director) • Ian Munro AFSM, M.I. FireE, MAIES • Associate Professor Brett Aimers CStJ, RN, FACN, MAIES Historical Advisor • Alan Alder OAM, LFAIES NEW HISTORICAL POSITION A new position of Historical Advisor has been added to support the Divisional Management Committee of the Victorian Division. Alan Alder OAM, LFAIES, is moving from Divisional Registrar to this new position of Historical Advisor. Alan has been the Institute’s Registrar in Victoria for over 35 years, as well as a past National President and National Board member. Alan’s expertise and experience will help Victoria retain the knowledge base and detail workings of the Institute. (L-R): Past Victorian President/Director Alan Marshall CStJ, AIMM, LFAIES, and Alan Alder OAM, LFAIES, receiving the National Award of Excellence in 2014. He is a person who gives trusted advice in his particular

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There was a time when the Cold War threatened the Western World. That was one-and-a-half generations ago and not long after atomic bombs were dropped on Japan to help end their engagement in World War II. The nuclear age began. It was a new and devastating weapon of mass destruction. Des Lambley

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 7

ll countries had every right to In August 1972 the first legislation, be a little concerned. Most the State Emergency Services and A countries had counter plans Civil Defence Act 1972 (Act No.11, in place for preparedness, response 1972) was proclaimed to regularise the OPINION and recovery should a major city be organisation and it became known as bombed. That concern preceded a the State Emergency Service of New later concern about accidents from South Wales (the SES). The change the ‘peaceful’ use of nuclear reactors. of emphasis from civil defence to In Australia the general community state emergency resulted from the was not really made aware of realisation that the possibility of a government planning because of the nuclear holocaust was diminishing. belief that it would cause widespread Under the new legislation, civil defence panic (and political repercussions). became simply part of the many Today, except for a few rogue states different types of emergencies to and their impeding leaders, some be dealt with. 162 countries are signatories I had been trained by the military in to a United Nations sponsored the 1960s about the nature and effects convention on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, and how, as a of nuclear weapons. soldier confronting these killer weapons, In Australia during the Cold War one might minimise the risk. period the military services were These days most people know that planning for and preparing their a nuclear blast has multiple effects. operational responses should nuclear, It causes an electromagnetic pulse biological and chemical (NBC) that can destroy electronic equipment, weapons be used against us. it has a blast with intense light and Governments also initiated and heat that incinerates and sets fires, funded arrangements to ensure civil it has a pressure wave that destroys defence organisations and plans were structures and it causes a widespread in place for a suitable response for fall-out of radioactive material that can the general community. These plans contaminate everything for kilometres included the education of certain around ground zero for great periods people about the effects of a nuclear of time. detonation and the subsequent Roentgens were the units of needs of a society to rebuild its life. measurement for radiation doses. Among the priorities to be considered: Wilhelm Conrad Rontgen had governments needed to secure their discovered x-rays in 1908. Wikipedia ability to govern, to ensure that a means tells us that although roentgens of communication and transport was describe radiation, their relation to possible, to secure energy sources and the absorbed dose (which is usually safe water and food stocks, to protect or important for human safety) is not reassemble factories and to re-establish straightforward. The impact depends order promptly. on the different absorption rates of Intrinsic to government is the the radiated alpha, beta, gamma or responsibility to protect the life and neutron particles upon different kinds property of its peoples. The mechanisms of living tissue but an exposure of 500 and linkages of a modern society roentgens in five hours is regarded are complex and any one defective as lethal for human beings. component cascades upon others While employed at the state necessary for life and limb. Planning headquarters during the early 1970s for the nuclear threat in Australia fell I often wondered who the visiting to each of the states’ emergency strangers were. ‘They are the NBC services and civil defence organisations. advisers and you didn’t see them’, The New South Wales Government was the answer. Their work was secret. established a Civil Defence Organisation A limited number of selected SES in 1955. staff were involved with this planning. 8

When leaving on promotion for a nuclear explosion. Little windows in the position in another public service top disk show a scale for quantifying department, my SES friends gave me required detail. For example, the as a memento an unwanted piece Weapon Power (from 10KT to 20MT), of civil defence era equipment – whether it was a Ground Burst or an a computer. In fact, it was a Nuclear Air Burst at a given altitude, and the Weapon Effects Computer No.1. maximum fireball radius (from 400 to 6665-99-949-1 47 manufactured by 12,000 feet). From the various aligned Blundell Rules Limited of Weymouth, scales an indication of a theoretical England, c.1960. A collector’s damage impact to buildings from ground piece nowadays. zero out to a ‘glass and tiles’ range Academic historians and museum in miles can be read off. It calculates archivists understand well that heirlooms an estimate of the percentages of link and strengthen the fibre of a people likely to be killed, trapped Nuclear Weapon Effects Computer No.1 society down through the generations. or seriously injured at the various distances. On its rear it has a compass OPINION When leaving on promotion for a position in rose and a ready-reckoner for the fires likely to be caused at various weapon another public service department, my SES powers, for air and ground bursts, at friends gave me as a memento an unwanted various distances. It is thought that this crude, simple, piece of civil defence era equipment – a cheap computer was merely a training tool rather than an operational one. computer. In fact, it was a Nuclear Weapon Otherwise, it beggars belief that any Effects Computer No.1. 6665-99-949-1 47 person would stand and watch a nuclear explosion. Anyone within manufactured by Blundell Rules Limited of viewing distance would be a bit goggle Weymouth, England, c.1960. A collector’s eyed anyway when witnessing such an explosion and if still alive and sane, piece nowadays. would still have to guess the detail needed in order to be able to compute They prompt us to reflect upon the The computer consists of two an estimate of the damage. I shall socio-economic and geo-political rotatable plastic disks, the outer five never give away this wonderful exhibit. contexts that dictated the lives of inches (12.7 cm) and an inner disk It reminds me of a different time when people living in a previous age, and four-and-a-half inches (10.8cm) in our existence was threatened by the remain precious objects significant diameter, and a rectangular cursor Cold War; but my blood still curdles to our history. to line up known detail about the each time I look at it. l JOIN THE AIES IN 2016 Simply go to the website and apply online Membership is open to all members of the Australia and New Zealand emergency services, and affiliated organisations. Membership cost: $60 yearly subscription plus $30 initial joining fee*. Student, Associate and Retired Memberships are also available. Chapters of the Institute are established in most States in Australia, and membership of the Institute carries a professional post nominal. *Both of these fees are tax deductible for people employed in an emergency management or counter disaster capacity. Find out more about AIES Visit www.aies.net.au to join, or to find out more. membership on page 26.

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 9 BE A CONTRIBUTOR to National Emergency Response

NATIONAL NATIONAL

RESPONSE VOLUME 28 NO. 2 AUTUMN 2015 VOLUME 28PRINT NO. POST 3 PUBLICATION WINTER NO.2015 PP100018976 NATIONAL PRINT POST PUBLICATION NO. PP100018976 RESPONSE NATIONAL RESPONSE SUMMER RAIN

RELIEF FOR SA RESPONSE VOLUME 27 NO. 4 SPRING 2014 PRINT POST PUBLICATION NO. PP100018976

VOLUME 29 NO. 1 SUMMER 2015/2016

PRINT POST PUBLICATION NO. PP100018976

Don’t miss the AIES Conference 22 May 2015 See page 6 & 7 PLANNED UNDERBURNS FIRE

Submissions now open for the Winter edition of National Emergency Response. We are looking for: • Stories or articles • Peer reviewed papers • Photographs

Send your submission to [email protected] by Friday 5 August, 2016. The best submission, as voted by the AIES National Council, receives a gold pen award at each year’s Annual General Meeting.

Congratulations Doug Caulfield MAIES, winner of the 2016 NER Gold Pen Award for his article on Council collaboration in the Spring 2015 edition.

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 10 GIVING THE FARMERS A HAND FEATURE STORY

Since it started in 2009, BlazeAid has volunteered $25 million worth of work for farmers and farming communities affected by natural disaster. Mary Howarth BlazeAid Inc Photos by Peter Boer, Flickr, All Creative Commons, QLD, 2013

he volunteering origination band of willing volunteers eager to Most of our camps last for up to three founded by Victorian couple Kevin help. Every year we have had camps months or more depending on the T and Rhonda Butler after the Black assisting with fire, flood, cyclone, severity of the disaster and the need for Saturday fires of 2009, has cleared and and since drought was declared us to be there. built thousands of kilometres of fences a natural disaster three years ago, The drought camps work differently. for in-need farmers. we have had four drought relief The coordinator sets up in town at During the Black Saturday fires, the camps operating with another three an oval for volunteers to stay for Butlers lost over 5kms of fences. Having opening in outback Queensland a few days before they are placed to retain their stock and needing help, next month at Muttaburra, Winton on properties. they placed an ad in the newspaper and and Julia Creek. We usually send two couples who were inundated with volunteers from all After a disaster, BlazeAid is invited are self contained to act as support over Australia and overseas. into affected areas by the Council. for one another and not a burden on The camp ran for 10 months rebuilding We usually set up a camp either the farmer, who only needs to provide fences for many more farmers, and at a sports or recreation grounds bathroom facilities. so it is said BlazeAid was ‘Born out of where there are good facilities for the We also try to match up volunteers the Ashes’. volunteers. Our volunteers usually with a skill that may be needed on a Today, BlazeAid is stronger than ever, have their own accommodation in property. Some farms may need small with volunteers helping our Aussie a motorhome, caravan, tent or swag. electrical or plumbing work done or farmers not only with fencing but We don’t always have power or water where possible if children are doing rebuilding stock yards, farm sheds and for our vans but the common areas School of the Air, we might have a machinery and much more. in the club houses are well set up teacher that can give a mother some Wherever there is a natural disaster with a kitchen, dining area for meals, time off. in Australia, BlazeAid is there with a showers and toilets. In past years we have painted

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 11 FEATURE STORY FEATURE

THE STATS 2009-2016 Properties worked on: 3,520 Fences cleared: 6,533kms Fences built: 4,849kms Volunteers: 13,032 Volunteer days: 107,622

inside homes, done bore runs, fed stock, helped fence or farm sit while some have taken a holiday and much more. Outback farmers are doing it tough so we try to lighten the load for them or just be there when they need someone to talk to. The volunteers will often stay a week or more when at a camp, as they are not only building fences, they are helping to rebuild farmers’ lives. BlazeAid is a total volunteering organisation that relies on generous donations from companies, farmers and individuals. All money donated goes towards buying new trailers, tools and equipment to help farmers in future disasters. All photos in this article were taken by Peter Boer and published from Flickr under a creative commons licence. Figures show the true worth of our wonderful volunteers and without them For further information on BlazeAid or current camps go to blazeaid.com donating their time, BlazeAid would not Or contact Mary Howarth via [email protected] or 0429 367 538. be where it is today. l

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response

14

2.24pm Looking west towards the eastern flank of the Pinery bushfire (over 15 kilometres away) and about 2 hours and 20 minutes after its commencement. The township of Hamley Bridge is in the foreground. The head fire is over 10 kilometres to the left/south of the photograph. © Mark Dowson COVER STORY

EXAMINING PINERY Improving public information warnings with the use of forecast bushfire path maps The 2015 Pinery (lower mid-north) bushfire joins the 1983 in the south-east and the 2005 Wangary (lower Eyre Peninsula) bushfires as exceptionally fast moving and destructive bushfires in agricultural lands that significantly impacted upon their respective communities.

iraculously, the Pinery fire Data for this paper came from resulted in only two deaths as interviewing eight people impacted compared to the 28 and nine by the Pinery bushfire and reviewing M 1 deaths respectively for the other fires . information available in the public Was this sheer luck or is it testament domain. It included examining the to the considerable investments made websites of CFS and the Bureau of over years by the Country Fire Services Meteorology, various internet posts, TV (CFS) and their supporting agencies and radio commentary and newspapers. to improve public warning systems Whilst there were limitations in the and educating the community about data collection, two particular themes bushfires and their associated risks? emerged. The research focused on the Rather than ponder that question, first five hours of the bushfire as this the important one is – can bushfire was considered the period when public warnings be improved to support safety was critically at risk. community safety? It is the focus of The two themes that impacted upon Peter Schar, FAIES this paper, and the approach is based public safety were: on best business practice principle of • difficulty for people visualising the National Registrar seeking continuous improvement. bushfire’s location and areas under

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 15 COVER STORY COVER

2.47pm Shortly after the arrival of the cold front and sudden change in wind direction from the north/west to the south/west. The former eastern flank fire significantly increased its intensity and now became the new fire front with a chain of fires linking up to create the new fire front. © Mark Dowson

threat from the official bushfire safety In addition, the extensive road network damage impact to the town. Just over messages and therefore not sure of had scrub/tree roadside vegetation on an hour later the small township the level of threat to their situation both sides of the road of a few metres of Wasley experienced the threat • implications of the major wind in width. of being confronted by a fire front. change were not understood by the Also stubble was no longer burnt The fire had now travelled about 35 people within the bushfire potential towards the end of autumn but allowed kilometres and was quickly heading impact area. to decompose to provide an important towards South Australia’s famous In discussing these themes and mulch layer that built up over the years. . providing possible solutions the It meant there was considerable amount About 2.45pm, the fire front had author has drawn upon his bushfire of continuous tinder dry fuel. It was the reached the at the investigation and emergency ‘perfect storm’ for a disaster. All that was northern fringe of the Barossa Valley. management experience. needed was a fire source. It had travelled about 47 kilometres At about 12.05pm, a grass fire was and its front was about 3-5 kilometres THE BUSHFIRE2 reported occurring in a paddock adjacent wide. The fire could be described as Wednesday 25 November 2015 to Traeger Road, Pinery. The cause of the having a long banana shape bending was declared by the CFS as a day of fire has not been announced but arson towards the east. Photographs posted ‘catastrophic fire danger’. By late morning has been ruled out. Fanned by near onto the internet suggest that the flanks the Lower Mid-North was experiencing gale force winds it very quickly became of the fire were burning freely and were temperatures in the mid 30s, relative an uncontrollable bushfire. Water slowly widening perpendicular to the humidity below 7 per cent and very bombers and CFS appliances had no mean wind direction. strong north-westerly winds of 55 to opportunity to control the fire in its initial This meant that the fire front had 75km/h. A cool change was expected in build‑up stage. travelled at an average fire speed of the afternoon with the arrival of a strong Within 30 minutes, the CFS was about 17km/h – an exceptionally fast cold front from the south-west. issuing emergency warnings and moving and high intensity bushfire. Although it was late spring, South advising the fire was out of control and Fast moving bushfires, although Australia had experienced two months heading in a south-easterly direction infrequent, are not rare. Similar average of record-breaking temperatures and under the influence of a strong fire speeds were recorded in the South little rainfall. In recent decades land use north‑westerly wind. East during the 1983 Ash Wednesday in the relatively flat lower mid-north had By 1pm, the fire had travelled over bushfires, the 2005 Wangary bushfire changed from mixed farming to broad 16 kilometres and was on the outskirts and the 2015 Cascades bushfire in acre or continuous grain cropping and it of Mallala when a slight wind shift Western Australia3. The majority of was the middle of the harvest season. to the west occurred, reducing the bushfires that occur each summer

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 16 COVER STORY

in South Australia do not exceed an About 2.45pm, a strong cold to display the same characteristic of the average fire speed of 2km/h. Luke and front from the south-west reached first major wind change of the 2005 McArthur (1978) suggest there is a the fire ground and caused a 90 Wangary bushfire. direct relation between fire speed and degree shift in the mean wind On that occasion the average speed its intensity – double the speed and direction to the north‑east – saving of the fire front before the wind fire intensity increases fourfold. Dealing the Barossa Valley. The Bureau of change was about 9km/h. Upon the with a bushfire at eight times the speed Meteorology had accurately forecasted wind change from the north-west to significantly impacts on the ability its arrival. The eastern fire flank the west, the fire intensity increased of fire services and their supporting that had been slowly expanding dramatically and the average fire front agencies to coordinate and organise along its 47 kilometres length now speed was estimated by the bushfire response activities as their lead-time became a ferocious fire front. The behaviour expert who examined is greatly reduced. clashing of the two wind systems this event, for the coronial inquest, The media frequently reports often results in an increase in wind as averaging about 32km/h for the people observing fire speeds of 40, speeds, particularly in the early first 15 minutes – travelling about 50 and even 60+ km/h. Donald stages. Also, heat generated from eight kilometres. The fire then slowed Douglas4, a bushfire behaviour expert, the new wall of flame contributes to down and after another 50 minutes ran explained that this would be true additional localised extreme weather into the sea north of Port Lincoln having for isolated locations and situations conditions that increase the fire travelled about 20 kilometres since the but these fire speeds occur in short intensity and the potential impacts wind change. bursts and are not maintained over of what was already an extremely By 5pm, the arrival of the cool change the long term. Also, fire fronts do not dangerous situation. had a significant impact upon the fire. move at constant speed or in straight The average speed of the new fire Its intensity and rate of fire spread lines. They speed up, slow down, front after the major wind change was had reduced considerably. It still had break-up and come together based difficult to estimate from information active and dangerous fire edges and on a number of variables relating contained in the public domain and houses, trees and other structures to weather, topography and fuel from interviewees. within the fire perimeter were burning. attributes. However, if these variables However, photographs posted onto It still remained a dangerous situation, are relatively constant then the the internet indicate it was an extreme however the fire situation was now average fire speed over an extend event producing large flames and more manageable. It would be nearly period of time (ie hourly periods) massive rolling black smoke plumes a week before the CFS declared this is generally constant. across the entire new front. It appeared fire controlled.

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 17 COVER STORY COVER

2.49 pm 2.50 pm The intensity increases. © Mark Dowson The smoke filled the whole western sky. © Mark Dowson

2.52 pm Huge wall of smoke and flames dwarfs a shed. © Mark Dowson

VISUALISING THE BUSHFIRE • Inability to visualise the location and provide a bushfire forecast map service THREAT FROM OFFICIAL FIRE path of the fire as part of their public safety messaging SAFETY MESSAGES • No indication of the speed or ferocity arrangements. The National Review Three of the people interviewed for this of the fire of Warning and Information report paper were in the path of the bushfire • Lack of advice of the anticipated major prepared by Emergency Management prior to the major wind change and the wind change and its potential impacts. Victoria indicated that the various fire other five were on the eastern side of the initial fire run and were impacted Three of the people interviewed for this paper were in upon the major wind change. All were aware of the fire for at least an the path of the bushfire prior to the major wind change hour prior to being directly impacted. and the other five were on the eastern side of the initial Their main sources of fire information were mobile phone conversations with fire run and were impacted upon the major wind change. friends and relatives, radio and the CFS websites/information feeds. There was an expectation that the bushfire services prepare fire maps for internal They were all taken by surprise by safety messages should be accompanied purposes but are awaiting a sophisticated the speed and intensity of the bushfire. with a bushfire forecast map displaying solution based on accurate computer None had previously experienced a the current fire location and likely future modeling capabilities to prepared forecast bushfire of such magnitude. They were fire path. The CFS website did carry a map maps for public use. Whilst there is all aware of one or more of the Country that showed the location of the point of considerable research occurring in this Fire Services’ bushfire safety messages – fire origin but it was some hours before area and discussions as to common Bushfire Watch and Act or Bushfire a fire map was available. By that time presentation standards, it may still be Emergency Warning5. The interviewees the fire risks had substantially reduced. some time before the agencies deem a particularly commented on issues relating All of the people interviewed said a suitable product and capability is available. to the content of safety messages. simple supporting map would be of great The author suggests that bushfire The issues they identified included: benefit in visualising and understanding forecast maps for public use do not • The use of uncommon place names the future potential risks. It is likely to need to be highly accurate to support to describe the location of the bushfire make them respond more quickly and the community in their decision- and the areas under fire threat more appropriately to the threat. making. They only need to show • Interpreting the compass bearing There has been reluctance from the a representation of the current fire directions CFS and other Australian fire agencies to situation and the likely areas under

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 18

2.53pm Car after car flees from the progressing fire to take refuge in Hamley Bridge. © Mark Dowson COVER STORY

threat in the next one, two or further This model comprised the following recalculated to ascertain if the fire is hours ahead together with warnings of steps: moving slower, faster or the same as pending major wind changes, if known. • Marking on a map the approximate the previous forecasted and an updated An indicative map of an approximation point of origin of the fire and time of forecast map prepared and distributed. of what is likely to happen will allow the commencement For significant fires the appointment of public to react early enough to prepare • Drawing an arrow away from the point dedicated field information/intelligence for the impending threat. of origin at the bearing of the mean officer(s) is recommended to ensure Fire service members have expressed wind direction field information is forthcoming. concerns about providing inaccurate • At regular intervals (ie 30 minutes An issue with the bushfire forecast bushfire forecast maps to the public. or hourly) obtain a location from the maps prepared during the 1983 Ash The BoM provides weather forecasts field of the approximate position of Wednesday bushfires was the lack of every day and some of these under or the head of the fire and mark it on the communication technology to distribute over estimate the eventual weather. map together with the time and share this critical intelligence. Thus While some people may complain about • Calculate the average fire speed and the full value of these maps could not the inaccuracies, there is a general make a forecast of where the fire be realised. Modern day social media understanding it is only a forecast and front would be in one, two or further and other communication tools have subject to error. People prefer to have time periods ahead and place a line/ overcome that issue. Indeed they weather forecasts rather than attempt band perpendicular to the mean have created a far greater demand to make decisions without them. wind direction arrow together with for information. The solution is to regularly review forecasts the time interval indicating where the During the 2005 Wangary fire the and provide revised information. fire front would likely be for different incident management team did not Some firefighters created quick and time periods have access to computerised bushfire simple bushfire forecast maps during • Check the weather report as to the mapping capability. However, they the 1983 Ash Wednesday bushfires for timing and direction of any forecast received and recorded on a large map, intervals up to four hours ahead and major wind changes constant information as to the position they proved to be reasonably accurate. • Make the assumption that upon a of the head of the various breakout They used a methodology that could major wind change the entire active fires as they progressed, together with be called the ‘mean wind direction’ flank becomes the new head fire until the changes in mean wind directions. model. It was based on the premise that information to the contrary is obtained. However, no one in the team had for bushfires occurring during periods The use of this methodology requires the skills to convert this information of high winds, the major influence discipline to ensure information is into forecast as to the likely future fire on the direction, shape and speed of regularly received from the field as to path and approximate times of impact the fire was the mean wind direction. the new position of the head fire, any upon the various communities. It also It significantly over-ruled the influences changes in the mean wind direction impacted the quality of the bushfire of other bushfire variables such as and attributes of the smoke column. safety messages provided on that day. changes in fuel and topography. At regular intervals the forecast is The skills of using the mean wind

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 19

2.56 pm The plume of smoke was quickly billowing towards me (photographer Mark Dowson) as I was leaving Hamley Bridge. © Mark Dowson COVER STORY COVER

direction methodology to prepare caught many people on the eastern many of these were within minutes manual bushfire forecast maps appear side of the fire unaware. Public domain of the change. However, the timing to have been lost during the preceding commentary described numerous and potential impact of a major wind two decades. people undertaking late evacuations. change on a bushfire does not appear The author has used this methodology The layout of the road network appeared to be sufficiently highlighted in public over many years for various bushfires to allow most people to escape ahead safety messages. as a ‘stop-gap’ whilst awaiting official of the arrival of the black dense smoke. mapping products from the CFS, if Unfortunately, Janet Hughes of Hamley CONCLUSION available. The bushfire forecast maps Bridge was not able to escape and The was an prepared were found to be relatively tragically died6. extremely fast moving and destructive accurate and were effective in Only one of the eight people fire particularly in its initial five hours. supporting various activities in advance interviewed stated they understood the Fires of this magnitude are no longer of the path of the fire. implications of a major wind change uncommon. Change in farming practices together with more frequent 25 of the 28 deaths in1983 Ash Wednesday bushfires and extreme hot weather events brought about by climate changes is likely to eight of the nine deaths in the 2005 Wangary bushfire lead to more frequent devastating occurred within an hour of a major wind change and bushfires. In these circumstances people have limited time to make many of these were within minutes of the change decisions and act. The issuing of public safety messages, IMPLICATIONS OF THE and the need to plan for its arrival. for example, Bushfire Watch and MAJOR WIND CHANGE That person had undertaken basic bushfire Act or Bushfire Emergency Warning While all eight people interviewed were training as part of their employment. by fire services is a critical element aware that a cool change was expected Blanchi, Leonard and others (2012) of protecting the community from during the afternoon, none were stated in their report relating to bushfires. Currently these warnings forewarned of the timing of the actual understanding the loss of life in are wholly textual in nature. The change, although it was broadcast on bushfires –there is a prominence of life people interviewed as part of the ABC radio. They all became aware of loss around the time of a wind change research for this paper had difficulty the wind change by observing its effects during a fire event. This is particular the in converting the textual messages upon the bushfire. The BoM accurately case in South Australia. into a visual or mental picture for predicted the arrival of the cold front and For example, 25 of the 28 deaths their situation. They believed bushfire provided wind change warnings. in1983 Ash Wednesday bushfires and forecast maps should be part of the The transformation of the eastern eight of the nine deaths in the 2005 safety message distribution. fire flank into a powerful and extremely Wangary bushfire occurred within an Although fire services are working dangerous fire front appears to have hour of a major wind change and with researchers to development an

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 20

3.03 pm The huge unleashing of energy had formed a wall from north to south over 5km high with the main fire smoke rising into the upper troposphere. The dots on the horizon are trees that are about to be consumed. © Mark Dowson COVER STORY

accurate computer-modelling program to prepare timely bushfire forecast ABOUT THE AUTHOR maps for public use, they have had mix Peter Schar recently retired from the South Australia Police after 43 years. success to date and it may be sometime The majority of his career was spent as a detective or working in the before a suitable detailed product emergency and incident management policy development and training is available. fields. He was part of the investigation team for many emergencies including The author has suggested an interim the 1983 Ash Wednesday and 2005 Wangary bushfires and has consulted solution based on the ‘mean wind for various fire investigations. With the police he has been involved in the direction’ methodology used and found response to numerous bushfires and other emergencies including as the to be relatively accurate during the 1983 Operations Manager in South Australia’s State Emergency Centre. Ash Wednesday bushfires in South Australia and for various fires since. The computerisation of this methodology BIBLIOGRAPHY may be the solution to meet the needs AEMC National Bushfire Warnings Taskforce (2009)Australia’s revised arrangements for bushfire advice and alerts, Australia Emergency Management Council and expectations of the public. Blanchi, Raphaele; Leonard, Justin and others (2012) Life and house loss database The major wind change nearly three description and analysis: Final report, CSIRO, Australian Government hours after the Pinery fire commenced Department of Fire and Emergency Services (2016) Major Incident Review of the Esperance significantly changed the dynamics district fires, Western Australia Government, Nous Group of this bushfire by causing the entire Emergency Management Victoria (2014) National Review of Warnings and Information: eastern flank to become the new head Final Report, Victorian Government, Melbourne, Cube Group fire. It caught many people by surprise. Inquest into the deaths of Star Ellen Borlase, Jack Morley Borlase, Helen Kald Castle, Judith Maud Griffith, Jody Maria Kay, Graham Joseph Russell, Zoe Russell-Kay, Trent Alan Murnane and It is suggested that bushfire safety Neil George Richardson (2005 Wangary bushfire), 2007, South Australia State Coroner’s Office messages need to be more explicit in Luke RH and McArthur AG (1978) , Australian Government Publishing Service advising the timing and implications Report of the State Coroner on the inquest into the fires and deaths in the South East on Ash of forecasted major wind changes. l Wednesday, 16th February 1983 South Australia, 1983, South Australia, State Coroner’s Office.

NOTES 1 Details of the 1983 Ash Wednesday and 2005 Wangary bushfires used throughout this paper were sourced from the respective coroner’s inquest reports and investigation documents. 2 The description of the bushfire and weather conditions were gleaned from a variety of public domain sources and the people interviewed for this paper. 3 Refer to the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, 2016, Major Incident Review of the Esperance district fires. 4 Donald Douglas was the bushfire behaviour expert for three of the coronial inquests and a criminal trial for the 1983 Ash Wednesday bushfires in South Australia. 5 The CFS website advises these messages are prepared in accordance with the AEMC’s protocols – National framework for scaled advice and warnings to the community. 6 The Advertiser, 27 November 2015.

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 21 EMERGENCY SIGN OF THE MONTH This sign was spotted in the National Museum, Canberra by NER sub-Editor and AIES (Tas) Life Member Ron Jones. Have you seen a safety or emergency sign that is just a little bit different? Please, take a photo and send it to [email protected] l

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Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 22 AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES YOUNG VOLUNTEER AWARD THE AWARD The award committee’s decision of the winner of the AIES The AIES Young Volunteer’s Award, proudly supported by Young Volunteer’s Award is final and no correspondence will the Emergency Response Division of the Australian Maritime be entered into. Safety Authority, aims to reward one young person for their outstanding and ongoing contributions and commitment to PRESENTATION their chosen emergency service. Within three months of completion of the voyage, the awardee The award winner will receive a fully sponsored voyage in the will be required to provide a written report on their voyage and sail training ship Young Endeavour where he or she can develop make a presentation at an AIES Division meeting. The written their skills in teamwork, leadership and communication. report will be published in the Institute’s journal National Runners up will receive a certificate of commendation from Emergency Response and by the award sponsor the Australian the AIES. Maritime Safety Authority. NOMINATIONS NOMINATIONS A member of the public, the young volunteer’s supervisor, Nominations should be marked CONFIDENTIAL and sent to the manager or another emergency service member, can make Registrar of the Division of the AIES in which the nominees resides. nominations. At least two referees who have known the Details can be found on our website at www.aies.net.au nominee for a minimum of 12 months and who can attest to Nominations must be received by 4pm 1st February the nominee’s volunteer service must second all nominations. each year. NOMINATION CRITERIA TERMS AND CONDITIONS The nominee will be assess on his or her: This award is subject to the terms and conditions as detailed • commitment to the emergency services including continuity on the AIES website. and length of service • demonstrated willingness to learn and progress within the MORE INFORMATION emergency service More information on the award can be found on our website, • current or future leadership potential www.aies.net.au The nominee must: a. be a volunteer member of an emergency service organisation for a period of at least two years b. be aged between 18 and 33 years of age c. be available to undertake the voyage on the date nominated in the award In addition, nominees must meet all of Young Endeavour’s mandatory selection criteria including: • be an Australian citizen or permanent resident • be able to swim 50 metres and be in good health • weigh less than 120kg • complete a medical examination to the required standard • not having completed a voyage in Young Endeavour previously SELECTION The award committee will select the winner by assessing each nomination against the selection criteria. The authenticity of all claims in the winning submission will be verified. Congratulations to Tia Rowley, winner of the 2016 Young Endeavour Volunteer award. Tia has been an active member of the Holloways Proudly supported by Beach Group of the Queensland State Emergency Service since 2012 and participated in a number of emergency management events. She will set sail on the Young Endeavour later this year. www.youngendeavour.gov.au

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 23 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING & CONFERENCE Canberra, 21-22 April

Setting the strategic direction for the next 12 months. Rose in good hands at Parliament House, Canberra.

After the work was done, it was time for some extra curricula activities. (L-R) Joanne Thomson, Wayne Coutts, Search and Rescue Chief AMSA Craig (L-R) AIES member Brian Holecek receives his Fellow Condon and Ron and Rose Jones. Memorial for our detection dogs. certificate from President Steve Jenkins.

(L-R) Steve Jenkins presents Scott Milne with his ‘Thank you for Giving Your Organisation a Plug Award’ for filling in as guest speaker at the last minute. AIES Board and members during the 2016 Annual General Meeting in Canberra.

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 24 NATIONAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE: WINTER FLASHBACK FEATURE STORY

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response

FEATURE STORY 25

• National Response Emergency Winter 2016 26 MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION Membership forms are available online at www.aies.net.au

NATIONAL COUNCIL QUEENSLAND National Registrar The Registrar – QLD Division of Australian Institute of Australian Institute of Emergency Services (General Council) Emergency Services. PO Box 590 Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006 Post Office Box 10530, Business Centre, SA 5000 Email: [email protected] Ph: (08) 8347 2126 ML 0401 996 432 Email: [email protected] SOUTH AUSTRALIA, WESTERN AUSTRALIA National Web Site: www.aies.net.au AND NORTHERN TERRITORY The Registrar – SA Division of Australian Institute of Emergency AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY Services. PO Box 10530 Adelaide Business Centre, SA 5000 The Registrar – ACT Division of Australian Institute of Email: [email protected], Emergency Services. PO Box 504, Civic Square ACT 2601 Email: [email protected] TASMANIA NEW SOUTH WALES AND NEW ZEALAND The Registrar – TAS Division of Australian Institute of Emergency Services. PO Box 1 Lindisfarne, TAS 7015 The Registrar – NSW Division of Australian Institute of Email: [email protected] Emergency Services. PO Box 695, Haberfield NSW 2045 Email: [email protected] VICTORIA The Registrar – VIC Division of Australian Institute of Emergency Services. PO Box 37, Essendon, VIC 3040 Email: [email protected]

THE INSTITUTE’S AIMS • The opportunity to use the initials of the particular membership To provide a professional body for the study of the roles and status after your name. functions of Emergency Services and Emergency Management • Corporate members receive a bronze plaque free of charge and Organisations throughout Australia, and the promotion and can advertise on the AIES website, as well as provide articles for advancement of professional standards in these and associated inclusion in the Institute’s journal. services. MEMBERSHIP THE INSTITUTE’S OBJECTIVES Costs • To raise the status and advance the interests of the profession Nomination Fee: $30.00 of emergency management and counter disaster services Annual Subscription: $60.00 administration. Fellows: $80.00 • To represent generally the views and interests of the profession Corporate Subscription: $500.00 and to promote a high standard of integrity and efficiency in the Note: Institute Fees may be tax deductible. skills of emergency and counter disaster administration. Classes • To provide opportunities for association among members and There are four classes of membership: students to promote and protect their mutual interest. • Members • Fellows • Life Fellows • Corporate • To facilitate full interchange of concepts and techniques There are five categories of affiliation with the Institute that amongst members. may be offered to persons who do not meet the requirements • To bring to the notice of the public such matters that are for membership: deemed to be important for safety and protection of the • Associate • Student Member • Retired Member community and to promote research and development of • Honorary Member • Honorary Fellow emergency services generally. • To establish a national organisation to foster international ELIGIBILITY • co-operation in counter-disaster services administration. Applications for membership will be considered from persons who are at least eighteen years of age and who: THE INSTITUTE OFFERS • Are members of a permanent emergency service or • An opportunity to be part of a progressive Australia-wide associated service, or Institute dedicated to the progression and recognition of the • Are volunteer members of emergency or associated services. Emergency Service role in the community. Admission as a member may be granted if in the opinion of • An independent forum where you can be heard and your the General Council the applicant meets all other conditions of opinions shared with other emergency service members. membership and passes such examinations and/or other tests • A journal with information from institutes and other sources as may be required by General Council. around the world in addition to the interchange of views between Divisions in Australia, as well as access to the MEMBERS Institute website. Our members come from • Reduced fees for members at Institute Seminars and • Ambulance Service • Community Services • Emergency Conferences and an information service supplied by Equipment Industry • Emergency Management Organisations professional experienced officers. • Fire Services • Health, Medical and Nursing Services • Mines • A Certificate of Membership. Rescue • Police Service • Safety Officers • SES • Transport Services • Volunteer Marine Rescue • Volunteer Rescue Associations

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 27 AIES CONTACTS GENERAL ENQUIRIES Email: [email protected] National Registrar PO Box 10530 ADELAIDE BUSINESS CENTRE SA 5000

NATIONAL COUNCIL President Email: [email protected] CONTACTS Steve Jenkins MAIES Phone: 0412 753 790 Vice President Email: [email protected] Scott Milne FAIES Phone: 0400 332 780 National Registrar Email: [email protected] Peter Schar FAIES Phone: 0401 996 432 Financial Officer Email: [email protected] David Mack MAIES Phone: 0407 816 885 National Membership Registrar/Webmaster Email: [email protected] John Rice LFAIES Phone 0488 204 043

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY DIVISION President Email: [email protected] Scott Milne ESM FAIES Phone: 0427 688 856 Registrar Email: [email protected] PO Box 504 Phil Gaden MAIES Phone: 0413 137 761 CIVIC SQUARE ACT 2601

NEW SOUTH WALES/NEW ZEALAND President Email: [email protected] Anthony Macvean MAIES Phone: 0408 000 197 Registrar Email: [email protected] PO Box 695 Anthony Macvean MAIES Phone: 0408 000 197 HABERFIELD NSW 2045

QUEENSLAND President Email: [email protected] Wayne Coutts MAIES Phone: 0458 410 998 Treasurer/Registrar Email: [email protected] PO Box 590 Jenny Crump MAIES Phone: 0418 726 224 FORTITUDE VALLEY QLD 4006

SOUTH AUSTRALIA/WESTERN AUSTRALIA/NORTHERN TERRITORY President Email: [email protected] Brian Mattner, MAIES Phone: 0421 618 773 Registrar Email: [email protected] PO Box 10530 Peter Bos MAIES Phone: 0401 426 812 ADELAIDE BUSINESS CENTRE SA 5000

TASMANIA President Email: [email protected] Ron Jones LFAIES Phone: 0427 008 705 Registrar Email: [email protected] PO Box 1 Neil Wright MAIES 0418 569 925 LINDISFARNE TAS 7015

VICTORIA President Email: [email protected] Rod Young, MAIES Phone: 0407 045 832 Registrar Email: [email protected] PO Box 37 Richard Lodder, MAIES Phone: 0406 393 650 ESSENDON VIC 3040

NATIONAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE JOURNAL Editor Email: [email protected] Kristi High Phone: 0407 366 466

Winter 2016 • National Emergency Response 28 A STAIR-CLIMBING EVENT OF EPIC PROPORTIONS AT STADIUM STOMP ADELAIDE OVAL

articipants climbed up, down and around the bays of Adelaide Oval via 6,000 Pstairs on a course set to music. The exercise took between 40 and 90 minutes to complete depending on individual fitness levels. This event supports charity partner Little Heroes Foundation. l

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