Official magazine of the Fire & Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia Issue 3, 2010 2 24seven For inthis publication, permissionto usematerial pleasecontacttheEditoron(08) 93239570. welcome –pleasemarkwithname and addressifreturnisrequired. possible resolutionsettingtoensure acceptablequalityforprinting. prints arealso Photographic possible. thehighest cameraat arerequiredtobetakenona4+megapixel Digitalphotographs wherever images Stories shouldbeupto450wordsin lengthandsubmittedwithaccompanying Affairs, GPOBOX P1174, Perth WA 6844or email: [email protected] articlesMagazine arewelcome–pleasesendto: Editor–24seven, FESAMediaandPublic Contents CEO’s message Youth Awards &Recognition Bushfire Season Training, Resources &Equipment General News Operational Incidents its driest winter on record throughout many areasofthe its driestwinteronrecordthroughoutmany and bushfireseasonexpected. WA hasjustexperienced personnelwithabusycyclone our emergencyservices timefor beachallenging The nextfewmonthswillagain of West Australians. thelives avitalroleinsaving 2003 andcontinuestoplay in beganoperating that theservice a majormilestonefor 2,000th missionoftheRACRescuehelicopter. This was Another significantachievementwecanreflectonisthe normalexpectations. andbeyond gone above youprovideandacknowledgethosewhohave vital service the for wecanshowourappreciation This isjustoneway beenheldrecently. ceremonieshave A numberofaward tothecause.continued commitmentanddedication personnel, your andIwouldliketothankyoufor suchskilledanddevotedemergencyservices to have andsupporttothoseinneed.comfort We arefortunate respond toalloftheseemergenciesheadon, andprovide to beenable wehave that I amproudoftheway it. will allenjoyreadingabout acrucialroleintherescueandIamsureyou played highlights thewonderfulworkofSESvolunteerswho headlines aroundtheworld. This editionof24seven Sunderland involvingourownSESvolunteersmade The searchandrescueofyoungsolosailor Abby responded toinbetween. 50 years. Then therearethecountlessincidentswehave the worstearthquaketoimpactKalgoorlie-Boulderin 5cyclone,category thedestructiveMarchhailstormand the devastating Toodyay bushfires, andBadgingarra a including some ofthetoughestchallengesimaginable beenfacedwith Over thepasttwelvemonthswehave together in2010. reached reflect onalloftheachievementswehave As anotheryearcomestoanenditisagoodtime 56 46 40 23 13 3 Design andProduction: key2design Darren O’Malley, ChrisLawson Deanna Foster, Allen Gale, Aleisha Orr, Lyn Bryant, Contributors: JessicaReid, Raeley Nind, Editor: KrisSmith Managing Editor:MichelleHarris Linda Leadbetter. Hall, LieslSimons, JeanJensen, Alex Stevensand SES MountedSectionriders(l-r): LizzieIles, Sharleen Chief ExecutiveOfficer Jo Harrison-Ward overthelastyear. yourcontinuedefforts for breakandthankyouall asafeandhappy wish everyone As wemovetowardstheChristmasperiodIwouldliketo beenfarworse. outcome couldhave and volunteersinvolvedinthisincident–withoutyouthe commended. Onceagain, toallthestaff congratulations wastobe theresponsefromemergencyservices found ities tolearnandfurtherenhanceouroperations, italso didthe Not only Toodyay reviewprovideuswithopportun- of recommendation. into the Toodyay bushfirewhichincluded13areas Commission findingsandtheMajorIncidentReview last yearasaresultofthe Victorian BushfireRoyal overthe inbushfiremanagement significant reforms Additionally, FESAhashadtheopportunitytoundertake as StateAlert. andwarningssystemssuch community information taking controlofmajorfires, Total FireBansandimproved last bushfireseason. regarding Theseincludenewlaws following anumberofchangesmadepriortothe bushfires isalsobetterplacedtorespondmajor The state in frontline services WA years. overthenextfour commitment toinvestingmorethan$128 millionin enhanced in the recent Budget with the State Government’s FESA’s beenconsiderably have responsecapabilities hands. capable the peopleof Western safeand Australia areinvery respond tothetoughestdisastersandIamconfident wecaneffectively over thepasttwelvemonthsthat This willnodoubttestourservices, proven butwehave of previousyears. state, whichhasputthebushfireseasonsixweeksahead

OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS Chopper meets the challenge

After seven years of saving the lives of West Australians, the RAC Rescue helicopter Horse rider thankful to RAC Rescue reached its 2,000th mission in “Extraordinary” is the word six ribs, one of which had punctured September. Fiona Adolph used to describe a lung. For this milestone the crew flew to the job performed by the RAC While laying on the ground, unable to Wickepin where they attended to a 17 Rescue helicopter when a fun move and having difficulty breathing, Fiona thought she may not make it. year old male driver who had crashed Saturday afternoon turned into his car into a tree before it rolled. “At some level you know something a life or death situation. Local emergency service crews worked catastrophic has happened, and I had quickly to free the man from the car Fiona and her 11 year old niece Clara a sense I might die,” she said. and he was then taken by the rescue Lipscombe were enjoying a two But Fiona’s 11 year old niece proved helicopter to Royal Perth Hospital hour trail ride in bushland between to be a huge comfort to her aunt. where he was treated for non-life Joondalup and Yanchep when the The pair was off the main riding track, threatening injuries. horse Fiona was on became startled. a long distance from the stables and Since its first mission RAC Rescue has Fiona then lost her balance in the any roads. They had not brought a helped thousands of people, flown saddle and tipped to one side. As the mobile phone with them because more than 503,000 kilometres and been horse ran towards a tree, Fiona’s body on a previous occasion there was airborne for 3,200 hours. crashed into it at speed and she fell to no reception. the ground. The majority of missions are in response Fiona recalled Clara repeating “look at to serious road crashes, but the She was later told the impact was me Fiona, remember to breathe.” helicopter and its crew have also been equivalent to a high speed car crash. She said Clara kept promising her involved in searches for missing people, Fiona did not know what the damage she would not leave and that by the aircraft, vessels and the emergency was at the time, but she had broken end of the day she would be safe in a transfer of critically ill patients. her clavicle in five places as well as hospital bed.

RAC Rescue helicopter and St John Ambulance crews at the scene of Fiona Adolph’s horse riding accident.

24seven 3 OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS

“Honestly, without that constant support I would not have gotten through,” Fiona said. “Although I felt nauseous, I just tried to stay with it.” “As soon After about two hours the pair heard as I was in some more horse riders coming along the track. Clara told the young women what their hands I had happened and used their mobile knew I would phone to call triple zero. The riders then stayed with Clara and be okay. What Fiona and waited for the ambulance to they do is arrive, but it was taking quite a while. “I started to think there was no ambul­ extraordinary.” ance coming,” Fiona said. “I told Clara I needed a helicopter to bring help or I might not make it.” What Fiona and the others with her did Fiona Adolph and her niece Clara Lipscombe. not know, was that the ambulance had become bogged as it tried to access the As she received medical attention, more Major Trauma Unit who would be trying to bushland spot. people arrived in the form of paramedics figure out what her injuries were. Clara called triple zero once more to say from the bogged ambulance. They had “I was really glad he explained that,” the ambulance had not arrived. managed to flag down a 4WD and Fiona said. convince the driver to lend them their After spending eight weeks out of work After being on the ground in the middle of while recovering, Fiona is now feeling the bush for more than three hours, Clara vehicle. much better. told her aunt she could hear a helicopter. To allow the helicopter to land a short distance away they had to use “I am grateful to the crew of the RAC “I thought she was fibbing to keep my Rescue helicopter who came to my aid,” chainsaws to bring down trees. spirits up,” Fiona said. she said. There was not enough clear space for Fiona was ferried in the borrowed “They were very capable and as soon as I the chopper to land, so the RAC Rescue 4WD to the spot where the helicopter was in their hands I knew I would be okay. helicopter’s critical care paramedic was had landed. “What they do is extraordinary - words are winched down to the ground. While in the chopper she was told by inadequate to describe it. “That was when I experienced a feeling the paramedic to be prepared for lots “The rescue helicopter is something we of absolute relief,” Fiona said. of attention from several people in the cannot do without.”

Quad bike adventure ends with chopper ride

Dalyellup man Gavin Farmer believes he might not be alive if the RAC Rescue helicopter had not assisted him earlier this year.

Gavin and his mates used to go out on “I remember I hit the bullbar, my head the helicopter transported him to their quad bikes about once a week. went forward and I bounced off the Royal Perth Hospital. bonnet,” he said. He and his friends Gordon Kidd and He spent six days in the Intensive Care Unit, then two weeks in the Chris Iannello had spent the morning As Gavin lay on the ground in pain, one of his friends called triple zero and asked Major Trauma Unit before being riding through bushland near Wickepin able to go home. for an ambulance. before stopping for a lunch break. Gavin said he has not been on a He was told the RAC Rescue helicopter They had not been back on their motorbike since the accident. might be a better option because of the “It was the end of my off roading quad bikes long when they came terrain they were in. across a sharp turn on the track they career, and I think the other guys’ “There are very steep hills, it’s off road bikes are all up for sale,” he said. were following. and difficult to get to, and you usually Gavin was grateful the RAC Rescue Gavin was leading the group and need a fairly modified four wheel drive,” helicopter and its crew were able to heading into the turn when a 4WD Gavin said. help him. came from the opposite direction. When the helicopter arrived the para- “They are very special people, who He hit the vehicle head on. medic put Gavin on the stretcher and do a very special job,” he said.

4 24seven Sea rescuers team up to save sinking boat

Commander of Bunbury Sea of the stricken vessel by finding out the A fire had started in one of the boat Rescue Group Albert Fullarton coordinates of the boat. pumps so they turned the motor off. gives an account of how a Naturaliste Sea Rescue Group was also Water then entered the boat which slowly began to sink. successful sea rescue came despatched as they had a large pump We reached the Komiza in the early down to a great team effort by to help remove sea water from the vessel, so we made our way there to afternoon and when Naturaliste Sea four sea rescue groups. support them. Rescue members had done the best they could, the pump was switched Sunday 18 July started off no On our journey out to the sinking vessel differently to any other Sunday off and we tried to restart the engine. named the Komiza, the swell began to morning for the Bunbury Sea Luckily, we got it going. increase and we had to reduce speed. Rescue Group. At one point into the journey a black We tried to zigzag into the waves as the Our members usually train that day plume of smoke unexpectedly came vessel was directly upwind and into the and we were just about to start a out of the stricken vessel’s chimney. typical exercise when we received swell. Every few seconds most of the The crew on board the Komiza went a call from our fellow volunteers at hull was lifted out of the water, and came below deck and checked things Albany Sea Rescue Group. down with a big bang. At one stage we over. All appeared okay, but it was were completely airborne. They had been alerted about a boat later established that the smoke was that was drifting off the Bunbury By this point Naturaliste volunteers had caused by a faulty injector. This was coastline. The size of both the reached the Komiza and were working preventing the vessel from travelling boat and crew on board were not as hard as they could to pump water out and they had to stop a few times to known. Its position was also unclear, of the sinking boat. but it was reported to be close to restart the pump again. Naturaliste Reef, approximately 30 The support of all sea groups involved The rescue was a great example of nautical miles offshore. ensured the two men on board were teamwork at its best, with four sea We set off in a westerly direction with remarkably calm, safe in the knowledge rescue groups working together and a crew of four people, including two that help had arrived. achieving a great result. members who had never undertaken We later learned that the crew of the We escorted the Komiza back to a rescue before. Komiza had just sold their boat and Bunbury and when safely back on Busselton Sea Rescue Group was were setting off to transport it to the new shore, the crew and owner said they able to pinpoint the exact location owner when they encountered trouble. were immensely grateful for our efforts.

Four sea rescue groups had a hand in assisting the crew of stricken vessel Komiza after a fire in a boat pump led to the craft taking on sea water.

24seven 5 OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS HAZMAT incident challenges firefighters

A chemical fire at a Neerabup manufacturing company tested “There was toxic gas being produced and several the efforts of 36 firefighters and small fires within the unit.” became an extended incident lasting 14 hours. Incident Controller Allan Riley said when firefighters arrived they were confronted with thick smoke and fumes coming from the industrial factory where chemicals had overheated in a hopper. “Firefighters gathered information from employees at the manufacturing facility and found that the thermostat in a heating unit processing PVC chemicals had failed,” he said. “There was toxic gas being produced and several small fires within the unit. Due to concern about the fumes, Police assisted in evacuating surrounding businesses as a precaution.” Allan said that because of the chemicals involved, normal firefighting methods could not be used. “It was a complex chemical fire and if we had attempted to extinguish it by the usual methods, it may have resulted in the fire escaping from the hopper, growing larger and producing more fumes,” he said.

The HAZMAT Emergency Advisory This PVC production kiln overheated, sparking the chemical fire emergency. Team (HEAT) played a vital role in gathering information on the chemical substances involved to determine “Firefighters dressed in fully encap- neighbouring occupants were not the best strategies to bring the fire sulated gas suits placed sodium harmed by the gases being produced,” under control. bicarbonate into the unit through a he said. small opening between the hopper ChemCentre and the Department of “Because of the techniques employed and the heating unit. Environment and Conservation’s (DEC) we managed to effectively contain the Pollution Response Unit conducted air “The unit was then monitored to fire within the heating unit, as well as monitoring and analysis to ensure levels determine if the heat was reducing and manage the fumes.” were within acceptable limits. no more chlorine gas was present. Firefighters from Belmont, Butler, Allan said initial reports indicated that “Crews were able to bring the fire under Duncraig, Joondalup, Osborne Park and chlorine and hydrochloric gas was being control by applying water streams into Wangara stations attended the incident. produced. the heating unit for around 12 hours.” “Due to the highly toxic nature of Allan said careful management of the They were supported by ChemCentre, chlorine, extreme caution was used,” incident meant the factory was able to DEC’s Pollution Response Unit and he said. be saved. WA Police. “Specialist advice indicated that sodium “The actions of the first arriving The company’s managers also provided bicarbonate should be applied to inhibit crews from Joondalup and Butler specialist advice on processes and the production of chlorine. Fire and Rescue Service ensured that chemical reactions.

6 24seven SES aids hundreds through storm season

This Rockingham house was ripped open in one of the season’s ferocious storms. Photo courtesy Community Newspaper Group.

It may have been an usually “Time after time volunteers devote precious personal cold and dry storm season this year, but FESA’s State time to helping those affected by emergencies.” Emergency Service (SES) volunteers remained busy “SES volunteers worked tirelessly to when more wild weather struck the helping hundreds of people attend to fallen trees that smashed into metropolitan area and South West. affected by severe storms. homes and cars, and helped people with “SES volunteers attended to more than leaking and damaged roofs,” he said. 50 calls for help in the metropolitan area, Assistant Chief Operations Officer Gary “The most significant event occurred including one to a three storey block of Gifford said from May to September between 8 and 9 July, with the passage units after the roof peeled back,” he said. volunteers attended to more than 540 of a cold front. Gary thanked the hundreds of volunteers calls for help and volunteered more than “Around 60 SES volunteers answered and career staff for their hard work 3,000 hours. throughout the season. more than 130 calls for help throughout “There were 39 storm incidents this the metropolitan area and a further 14 “The commitment and dedication of season compared to 140 the previous calls for assistance in Geraldton. everyone involved in the SES to helping year,” Gary said. their local communities is second to “A tornado left a path of destruction “Despite this, the Bureau of Meteorology none,” Gary said. in Parkwood and brought a large tree advise that the number of severe “Time after time volunteers devote down on a house, pinning a man in storm incidents was similar, with seven precious personal time to helping those his bedroom. occurring this season compared to nine affected by emergencies. in 2009.” “The following day another tornado “I would also like to thank the many Gary said some areas experienced caused a trail of damage in Dudley Park families, friends and employers who significant damage and bore the and Coodanup in Mandurah.” provide such staunch support to our brunt of tornadoes including Harvey, Gary said SES volunteers were back volunteers, making it easier for them to Rockingham, Parkwood and Mandurah. lending a helping hand three days later perform their important role.”

24seven 7 OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS Helicopter crew rescues plane crash survivors

RAC Rescue pilot Mick Perren and air crewman Chris Peacock prepare to load the second patient. Photo courtesy RAC Rescue.

Luck was on the side of two men whose single engine plane plummeted to the ground and skidded about 100 metres along salt lakes near Norseman in mid July.

RAC Rescue helicopter pilot Mick “The engine was ripped off and lying 10 “On our second attempt St John Critical Perren, who rescued the two men along metres away from the wreckage and there Care Paramedic Paul Davies was with his experienced crew, said they was a trail of debris 100 metres long. winched on to the wing of the plane were extremely lucky to have survived “I thought to myself these guys were because they were unsure how deep the not only the crash but the freezing really lucky to have landed in a clear water was. conditions in such an isolated area. salt lake, because if they had crashed “Paul assessed both patients to see if “We received a call from the Australian anywhere else I don’t think they would they were conscious, then tested the Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) at have survived.” surface of the lake and realised it was 3.55pm and were told that a Cessna The isolated conditions hampered only a few inches deep, so we knew we 210 fixed wing aircraft had crashed efforts to reach the survivors by could land. into Lake Cowan, around 60 kilometres Kalgoorlie Fire and Rescue Service “The next 50 minutes were spent on the north, north east of Norseman,” Mick firefighters and Norseman State ground treating the 67 year old pilot and said. Emergency Service volunteers. his 52 year old male passenger. “Quite a lot of details were given about The darkness and remote location also “Both men were conscious but in pain the incident, including the latitude and made it difficult for the RAC Rescue and very cold. The first thing the pilot longitude of the site, because the pilot crew to land, forcing them to make two asked for was an extra blanket.” called AMSA from his satellite phone.” approaches. The pair were treated for full spinal Mick said the crash scene looked “On the first approach we could see the precautions and given IV fluid, pain relief severe when the rescue crew arrived lake was glassy and my initial thought and oxygen. around 7.30pm. was to get down low and crawl in closer Mick has 20 years experience as a “The first thing we saw was the to the crash site,” Mick said. pilot, including seven as a rescue pilot, aircraft upside down, with the pilot “We couldn’t hover though, because and despite the severity of the incident, and passenger lying on each of the you can’t get a good definition over he said he’d seen worse injuries from wings,” he said. water at night. car crashes.

8 24seven “The engine was ripped Householders avoid off and lying 10 metres away from the wreckage and there was a trail of frightening crash debris 100 metres long.” When an out of control car smashed through the lower level of a two storey house in Beaconsfield it was a lucky escape for the homeowners who were out at the time. “The only difference is that this was an aeroplane crash and it was so Firefighters from Fremantle Fire and “There was significant structural isolated,” he said. Rescue Service attended the Annie damage and State Emergency “It was a really good lesson on crew Street scene in the early evening. Service volunteers and firefighters coordination. On the way there we Fremantle Station Officer Darryl worked together to stabilise discussed what we would do if we Hoad said it appeared that the the house. couldn’t land. We went through five or vehicle had hit a kerb, ploughed “Thankfully a neighbour was a six scenarios due to initial information through a fence, fallen down a builder so he was able to quickly that the water in the lake was knee 1.2 metre drop and then struck provide acro props that were used deep.” the house. to shore up the home.” The two men were transferred to “The owner arrived back at his home Kalgoorlie Hospital because foggy The 46 year old female driver while we were present,” Darryl said. conditions grounded outbound flights, and a male passenger were requiring the RAC Rescue Helicopter “He hadn’t been living there long treated at the scene by St John crew to spend the night in town before and naturally was a bit devastated Ambulance officers before being returning to their base at Jandakot the by what had happened. taken to hospital. next day. The patients were transferred to Royal Perth Hospital by the Royal Flying Doctor for further treatment in the days that followed. Mick praised AMSA for its coordination of the rescue. “On the way to the crash site we spoke to Rescue 461, a Dornier turbo jet fixed wing aircraft that AMSA sent from Perth,” he said. “It reached the scene first and circled overhead with its infrared camera, relaying information back to us on our way there. “We knew the patients weren’t trapped and that they were conscious. “When we arrived, Rescue 461 did an orbit at 4,000 feet and acted as the messenger between us, AMSA and Kalgoorlie Hospital. “AMSA also organised the ground crews and Police helicopter to be dispatched with rescue equipment in case they were trapped.” Mick also spoke highly of the rescue crew’s efforts over the 18 hour mission and in particular air crewman Chris Peacock and critical care paramedic Paul Davies. “It was a long job, but everyone performed admirably,” he said. “It was great that we had the capability to do the rescue across the other side This Beaconsfield house was significantly damaged when an out of control car ploughed into it. of the state.”

24seven 9 OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS SES respond to international SOS

The world was watching as FESA’s State Emergency Service (SES) played a key role in a rescue involving young round the world solo sailor Abby Sunderland. Abby was on board her yacht Wild Eyes when early one morning she lost communication in heavy weather. She had been speaking with her parents on a satellite phone at the time and was unable to re-establish contact. That same morning in Perth, SES Metro North District Manager Grant Pipe was woken by a phone call just before 2am. He had not heard of Abby Sunderland, but what happened in the following 48 hours meant the name would remain in his head for a long time to come. The search party of SES Air Observers and WA Police with Qantas staff on their return to Perth after Realising she was in trouble, Abby locating Abby Sunderland and her stranded yacht. SES Air Observer Michael Wood is pictured front had activated two Electronic Position second from right and A/District Manager SES Metro North Will Blackshaw back row fourth from right. Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) to help authorities pinpoint her position. “Contact 11 o’clock 1,800 metres,” was at sea. At the same time we were relieved She was in the Southern Ocean the call Michael repeated when he first that she had been found. approximately 2,000 nautical miles spotted Abby. “While we didn’t know Abby personally, south, south west of Perth, close to the “I was at the front of the airbus and just we all felt an affinity knowing her plight Australian area of responsibility. happened to catch sight of Abby’s yacht and everyone was hoping for a good While the Australian Maritime Safety when it first came into my field of view,” outcome.” Michael said. Authority (AMSA) was in charge of the Acting District Manager SES Metro North rescue effort, they had asked the SES to “To have positive contact so soon into Will Blackshaw said that the observers help out. the search was really exciting and the remained focused so they did not lose adrenalin kicked in. Grant’s phone call told him there was sight of Abby, but all let out a rousing a 15 year old girl alone at sea who “As SES air observer volunteers, this cheer when her yacht first came into view. was exactly the kind of emergency we needed assistance. “At the time of sighting there was a real train and prepare for, and now we were Within an hour he had rallied together 11 sense of satisfaction and elation among experiencing the real thing.” those on board the airbus,” Will said. SES volunteers and one staff member to Michael said he saw what appeared to “The plane was maintaining a constant go on a search flight. be a very small kayak shaped object no height of 1,500 feet and with rain squalls Due to the distance from Perth, a Qantas more than about a centimetre long in the and large whitecaps out on the ocean, distance among a myriad of white caps. A330 Airbus was chartered, one of only Wild Eyes looked very small indeed. a few aircraft up to the task. “The first contact signalled that the “In fact the ocean was so rough at the search was on in earnest and we then With passports in hand the group time there was even salt spray on the had to establish if Abby was in fact on assembled at the international airport aircraft windscreen. around dawn, not sure if they would be the boat, whether it was upright, its condition, and her status and welfare,” “Every contact sighted by an air observer back in Perth that night or if they would he said. was plotted on GPS by the pilot over the have to fly on to South Africa. “We didn’t know at this stage if we were next two hours. It took about five hours for the plane to searching for an additional life raft, Abby “WA Police made every effort to achieve reach the search area and fortunately the in a survival suit, flares, or any other item radio contact with Abby. When this yacht was sighted on the first pass over, that might be adrift. happened and it was confirmed she was after just 10 minutes of searching. “Our observers were aware that Abby still on the yacht and alive and well, that SES volunteer Michael Wood from the in her disabled yacht, alone and 1,600 was the best possible news. Northshore unit was the first to see nautical miles from land, would probably “It was an eye opening experience and the yacht. need to spend at least another 24 hours one I will never forget.”

10 24seven Will added that the group was met by a large media contingent at Perth airport on their return and quizzed on what had happened to date. Meanwhile, Abby had been reassured by radio that she should sit tight, conserve battery power on her EPIRBs, and a French fishing vessel would reach her within 24 hours. While all this was happening Grant was back in the office keeping people updated on the progress of the mission. Next day, accompanied by three volunteers, he boarded a privately owned Globalstar Challenger aircraft to help in the final stages of Abby’s rescue. “After reaching Abby and Wild Eyes, the plane tacked back and forth between her vessel and the fishing boat,” Grant said. Top: Abby Sunderland’s yacht appeared as a tiny speck on the ocean to observers on board the “Those of us in the air provided updated search plane. Above: Map showing the location of Abby Sunderland’s yacht Wild Eyes, 2,000 nautical information about the mission and the miles from Perth (provided courtesy of Australian Maritime Safety Authority). locations of all involved. “Communicating on a hand held radio our volunteers were only able to talk to Abby for short bursts of about a minute The SES has provided trained Air observers may be required to as we flew directly over her yacht. Airborne Observers and Observer work in any type of aircraft with both “We had to speak very clearly because Leaders for AMSA for more than fixed or rotary wing configurations she found it difficult to understand 15 years. Training is done on and varying sizes while searching for our Aussie accents and asked us to an annual basis with funding targets over land and water. talk slower. provided by AMSA. Recent activations include: “It was terrific to confirm that she was As part of the role the SES • A search for an ultralight aircraft okay and we kept her updated on maintains approximately 100 south of Bunbury which was found the progress of the vessel heading to trained observers and observer after it crashed into a field near her aid.” leaders in the metropolitan area, Augusta after running out of fuel. Grant and the volunteers witnessed the and approximately 130 covering the • A search for an aircraft which successful transfer of Abby to the French rest of the state. was reported missing between fishing vessel. This allows coverage for a significant Jandakot and Northam, found By this time they had just enough fuel left incident, taking into account the after it crashed into bushland east on the aircraft to fly them back to Perth. availability of volunteers. of Perth. “Seeing Abby through the window of the The role of an airborne observer is a • A search for persons in the water aeroplane made us realise how big a feat very important and often difficult one after a vessel capsized and sank she had been attempting,” he said. undertaken in adverse conditions. near the Cocos Islands. “It’s a big wide ocean out there!”

24seven 11 OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS Big rescue for small town crew

The sight of Hopetoun Sea fairly traumatised so we called a doctor “The skipper said he opened the Rescue members coming to and ambulance to standby, and attached engine hatch and flames rushed out. their aid raised the spirits of their life boat to our vessel. “When they realised they couldn’t three fishermen stranded at “There was a lot of black smoke from extinguish the fire, they took to their the burning fuel and fishnets that had life raft. sea on a life boat. been on board, so before heading back “Luckily no one was injured in the to shore we watched the boat until Volunteers Rusty Lee, Dave Moloney incident.” and Mick Boothey had set out on the it sank just to ensure it didn’t pose a Hopetoun group’s Naiad craft Mary Ann maritime hazard.” Rusty said this was one of the group’s most significant rescues so one morning after receiving a call to say Rusty said the trio had been making their a boat was on fire and three men had way from Albany to Esperance when far this year. taken to a life raft. their boat caught fire. “The response and outcomes were An EPIRB signal put the men about 13 “They seemed to have no idea what good, and our fellow volunteers back nautical miles south of Hopetoun. started the fire and indicated they had on shore did a great job handling radio “We located a vessel in the late stages of been busy recovering nets put out operations,” he said. burning and three people in a life boat,” earlier,” he said. Initial police investigations indicated Rusty said. “Before they got the marker floats in, one the cause of the fire was most likely “The men were quickly taken on board of the fishermen saw smoke coming out a mechanical fault in the engine and their health assessed. One guy was of the engine bay. compartment.

“Before heading back to shore we watched the boat until it sank just to ensure it didn’t pose a maritime hazard.”

Hopetoun Sea Rescue volunteers reached this burning boat to find the three survivors had managed to board their life raft.

12 24seven general news Week long SES celebration

People from around the state showed their appreciation for the hard work and dedication of WA’s 1,900 FESA State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers during National SES Week in November. CEO Jo Harrison-Ward said the week provided the perfect opportunity for people to acknowledge the recent efforts of volunteers to keep their local communities safe. “National SES Week was celebrated with great enthusiasm in Western Australia,” Jo said. “In a novel first, giant thank you cards were placed in various businesses around the state to give people an opportunity to write personal messages to SES volunteers for their wonderful contribution to the community. There was also a terrific response from people sending in messages of support through the FESA website.” On Wear Orange Wednesday or WOW Day (10 November), television and sports stars joined SES volunteers and FESA staff in an abseil from the iconic Bell Tower. Among those who took part were Western Force rugby union footballers Kieran Longbottom and Mark Swanepoel, karate champion Jessica Bratich, Commonwealth Games gymnastics gold medallist Janine Murray, Channel Nine newsreader Dixie Marshall, and Beauty and the Geek stars Tim Young and Linette Goder.

Cyclone tour targets preparedness

The traditional cyclone types of activities and responsibilities information and if you decide to leave awareness tour undertaken by each of the stakeholders, including before the cyclone hits, give yourself the community, would be expected FESA Community Engagement plenty of time to get to a safer place.” to undertake. and Bureau of Meteorology staff Assistant Chief Operations Officer Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park ahead of the official season was Natural Hazard Planning and Response owner Colin Lewis and Wallal Station Gary Gifford said new and seasoned launched in Port Hedland on Manager Gary Schubert, who both residents were encouraged to attend 18 October. survived category 5 Cyclone Laurence the community meetings and were last season, made themselves provided with comprehensive cyclone It took in a number of towns across available for media interviews to the Pilbara and Kimberley, including safety information. highlight the need to be prepared and the remote Indigenous communi- stay safe. “Residents had the opportunity to hear ties of Beagle Bay and Bidyadanga. the Bureau’s tropical cyclone season Another tour visited Christmas and Colin said buildings were demolished, forecast firsthand, as well as learning Cocos Islands. windows were blown out and trees snapped off. from FESA about how to prepare their With predictions of an early and busier home and family, and what actions than normal cyclone season, the tour “I can’t begin to describe the sound to take during and after a cyclone,” was timely. It involved a series of and you couldn’t see two metres in sessions designed for the community. front of you because of the sand and Gary said. A cyclone scenario hosted by the horizontal rain being blown around,” “Importantly they were also able to pick ABC involved a range of stakeholders he said. up a copy of FESA’s Cyclone Smart Kit demonstrating how a cyclone could “I urge everyone in a cyclone prone which provides a guide on what to do affect the region. It highlighted the area to keep up to date with the latest at each stage of a cyclone.”

24seven 13 general news Another dimension to natural hazards

Fun, animated characters are The safety messages are funded by Children can also log on to the Li’l Safety helping children learn about the Australasian Fire and Emergency Club website which features educational Services Authorities Council (AFAC), interactive games and activities, stories, natural hazards through a series which entered into a four year license a safety quiz and information. of national advertisements with Ettamogah Entertainment, to use its You will find a link to the club on the currently being run on television. Li’l Larikkins characters. FESA website www.fesa.wa.gov.au Children aged between six and 12 and Support material, aligned to the national their families can follow the adventures school curriculum, has also been of the Li’l Larikkins gang, including State developed and will be provided to Emergency Service (SES) characters primary schools across Australia at the Trev and his dog Bob, as they discover beginning of next year. It will complement storms, cyclones, floods and tsunamis. the existing education programs already being delivered by SES volunteers. Each of the characters have been dressed in jackets to represent different SES units are being encouraged to Australian fire and emergency services support the project by visiting schools agency personnel, but the SES and taking part in interactive classroom characters take centre stage. based activities. The advertisements have been designed An SES kit has been developed and will to deliver age appropriate actions that be sent to all units before school starts children and their families can take to next year. It consists of a poster, letter survive natural hazards, such as not to the principal, media release template jumping into flooded rivers and streams, and an audio copy of the television or going inside when a storm is coming. advertisements.

Survey findings help drive intuitive and efficient user website redevelopment experience including improved search, accessibility and site map facilities. A revamped FESA website Knowledge Manager Elizabeth Hides • Elimination of unnecessary and is currently being developed said an integral part of the process was an online survey held earlier this year. redundant content areas. to provide improved alerts, • Inclusion, where possible, of key “The anonymous survey aimed to warnings and related safety emerging technologies such as gather the views of staff and the mapping tools, video streaming, information. community,” she said. mobile compliance and social “It focused on information architecture, networking opportunities. including the structure and organisation • Adherence to World Wide Web of content and navigation systems, as Consortium and Public Sector well as design and usability of the Commission standards. existing website. • Implementation of a new menu “Questions were optional and system reflecting the above. respondents were encouraged to The new website will offer improved provide as much detail as possible.” Total Fire Ban information, with a Recommendations from the survey redeveloped online tool that will be include: ready for the formal commencement • Increased prominence and of the bushfire season on 1 December. visibility of FESA’s critical Fire Danger Ratings and media and emergency information. releases will remain, together with • Inclusion of areas for FESA information about emergency to promote seasonal and services, safety and risk topical campaigns. management, volunteers and • Synchronisation and services supported by FESA, career interlinking of web content firefighters, funding, jobs and areas to create a more recruitment.

14 24seven Computer game teaches what to do in emergency

Kindergarten and primary school children will learn how to respond to emergency situations through a new interactive computer game.

Manager Operational Coordination "Children learn about escape plans, “Already the game has enjoyed Trevor Wigg was FESA’s representative crawling under smoke and staying calm. great success, reaching more on the national emergency communi- “They help Kate dial triple zero, tell the than 100,000 visitors since it was cations working group that developed operator if they need Fire, Police or launched,” he said. the Triple Zero Kids Challenge. Ambulance and give detailed informa- FESA contributed to funding for the Trevor said the game aims to teach tion regarding their address and project and had input on messages telephone number." children how to get help and raise and scenarios used in the game. Through active involvement children can awareness of the triple zero number The Triple Zero Kids Challenge and when to use it. progress to the next stage of the game and are rewarded with a certificate at has been nominated for the 2010 “The game actively engages children the end of each scenario. Australian Safer Communities Awards in a range of realistic situations and interest has been shown by other Trevor said it was important to teach where they help animated characters children how to respond to different countries wanting to use the game. Kate and Pete respond to different emergencies. Visit www.triplezero.gov.au to take emergencies,” Trevor said. “Children who have been taught how to on the challenge. There are clear “During one scenario characters need dial triple zero in an emergency and give instructions on how to use the game to safely get out of a house which is the operator information have saved lives and it is available in English and six on fire. of family members and friends,” he said. other languages.

“Already the game has enjoyed great success, reaching more than 100,000 visitors since it was launched.”

Three quirky characters represent aspects of triple zero in the new computer game.

24seven 15 general news

Telstra expertise helps improve Risk review FESA communications to bring An upgrade is about to get under way at the FESA Metropolitan improvements Region Operations Centre in Belmont, where Telstra is providing A key component of WA’s the equivalent of $100,000 in equipment and technical assistance Emergency Services Levy towards improving communications. assessment system, known as Telstra State Corporate Affairs Manager Resource to Risk (R2R), has Trevor Robb said the company was undergone a comprehensive proud to be able to assist emergency review. services communications in such a Principal Planning Manager John practical way. MacDonald said a considered approach “We are thrilled to be able to support was used to work out what resources FESA,” he said. were needed to reduce risks and “The upgrade to communications understand just how vulnerable an area is. at Belmont will help to ensure vital communications are maintained inside “We took into account the diverse the building during times of emergency characteristics of our vast state, as as well as routine operations. well as recent advances in electronic mapping, and improvements in risk “FESA staff and volunteers do a analysis and bushfire management,” fantastic job, sometimes at enormous John said. personal risk, helping to keep the “The main focus has been on improving people of our state safe. Executive Director Corporate Services the decision making process, enhancing “Telstra is keen to positively support Frank Pasquale and Telstra Design Team usability and reducing paperwork. our community as we move into what Technology Specialist Silvio Toracchio discuss “The project was supported by our is likely to be a severe bushfire and the communications upgrade at FESA’s GIS branch which produced electronic cyclone season.” Metropolitan Region Operations Centre. maps covering the whole state. These show the travel time and range for each volunteer unit or brigade. “In addition, Manager Bush Fire and Woodside sponsors Environmental Protection Ralph Smith used the latest technology to provide a system for mapping the bushfire threat fire signs in each region. A generous $50,000 donation “The Analysis and Reporting team also provided crucial up to date information by Woodside has been used to on all incidents involving FESA services.” help design, produce and install John added that a revised Facilities more than 100 new look fire Fit for Purpose process was giving an danger rating (FDR) road signs. insight into the review. “The need for improvements and altera­ The signs are part of FESA’s program to Woodside Executive Vice President tions to operational facilities across the replace 160 old signs around the state, Health Safety and Security Eve Howell regions has been incorporated into the and include the new ratings of severe said half of the total raised went to the review,” he said. and catastrophic. They will be placed Toodyay Bush Fire Appeal, while the “The results and experiences of in high visibility areas along roads other $50,000 was donated to FESA volunteers, local government and FESA throughout Western Australia. for the purpose of producing the new managers will then be used to finalise Design and production of the signs FDR signs. the tools and processes before the were finalised following the release of “While staff were collecting for the package is implemented statewide. findings from the Victorian Bushfires Toodyay appeal, other fires were “Emergency services across Australia Royal Commission and subsequent also happening throughout Western are keen to share the knowledge gained amendments to WA’s bushfire legislation. Australia and our staff were telling through WA’s review, development and Woodside staff had donated more us about the efforts of their local fire regional trials.” than $40,000 to the Salvation Army’s brigades,” Ms Howell said. The new package is expected to be Toodyay Bush Fire Appeal. Due to this “It really brought home to us the launched and fully operational in the first overwhelming response, Woodside great work our fire and emergency quarter of 2011. Chief Executive Officer Don Voelte services people do across the state, Any queries regarding the new R2R arranged for the company to round and we wanted to recognise this by can be directed to Manager Service that amount up to $100,000. giving back.” Delivery Planning branch Mark Rose on 9323 9300.

16 24seven Have cow, will travel

A unique State Emergency Service (SES) character spent a few months ‘mooving’ across the Margaret River region earlier this year.

mooSES, a fibreglass cow kitted out “While the 80 life size cows and four in SES garb, was one of five ‘mini other mini moos were fixed in place moos’ which were part of the Cow at set locations throughout Margaret Parade public art exhibition. River, mooSES was given permission to roam. The quirky pieces were taken on an ‘extraordinary taxi ride’, as well “Our local SES members helped as visiting school assemblies and out with moving her from location to community events highlighting local location, even using the exercise to practice some communication and tourism, promoting the SES and problem solving skills. generally spreading cheer. “mooSES was eventually snapped up Augusta Margaret River SES by a local businessman at the Cow Unit Manager Linda Birch said Parade art auction and happily for mooSES was donated by the local the unit, he is willing to lend it back Tourist Centre. to the SES any time it’s needed for “The bright orange livery of mooSES publicity purposes.” was painted by the wife of one of The $4,000 raised from this innovative our volunteers who is an artist,” venture was donated to the Augusta Linda said. Margaret River SES.

The colourful mooSES covered a lot of territory in and around Margaret River on her extraordinary taxi ride.

24seven 17 general news Career firefighters take on white water classic

This year’s gruelling Avon Descent tested the will of the 40 strong Fire and Rescue Service team, with the toughest conditions ever and lowest water levels on record. Members of the Act Belong Commit Finn Kayaks WA Fire and Rescue Service Team line up for the start of the 2010 Avon Descent.

Fire and Rescue Service team kayakers with supporters. Back row (l-r): Russel Jones, Mark Strickland, Jeffery Casson, Chester McKean, Brad Miles, Andrew Lightbody, Jason Bresanelo, Daniel Richmond and Micheal Watson. Front row (l-r): Brendon Kelly, Wade Ranson, Ashley Gasmier, Farrell Maxwell and Garth Civil.

The annual two day time trial event which “Our preparation for the traditionally “The general feeling from the team and has a special place in WA’s paddling and fierce competition included regular particularly those who didn't finish, is power boat calendar, attracted a total of personal training in the lead up, as that they would love to have another go. 900 local and international entrants. well as mandatory Avon Descent “Let’s just hope for more rain and higher competency training. All competitors had to battle hard, with water levels in 2011.” three of the 51 power boats and 250 of “It was heartening to see the team score Garth added that a driving force behind notable performances across the field. the 553 paddlers completing the course. the team’s entry in the unique sporting “Special congratulations must go to event was their desire to help promote Despite giving it their all, the challenging Jane Humphrys for her exceptional effort the importance of mental health. conditions saw only 21 firefighters from resulting in a first in the female single “Training and competing in the Avon the Act Belong Commit Finn Kayaks WA plastic long category.” Fire and Rescue Service team complete Descent is a great way to stay active and Garth said he really felt for those who healthy, belong to a team and commit the 134 kilometre course. missed out. to participating in a community based Team organiser Garth Civil said that “It was hard to see team members miss event,” Garth said. overall the race had been a great the cut off times, especially towards the “Mental health is just as important as experience. end of the race,” he said. staying physically and socially healthy “We were fully committed to the “I also sympathise with those who had and as Mentally Healthy WA says, it’s as challenge right from the start,” he said. breakages, but there’s always next year! easy as ABC - to Act Belong Commit.”

18 24seven ‘Mac’nificent men and Changes to their fire machines Total Fire Bans

Changes to Total Fire Ban (TFB) legislation will mean farmers can still harvest if conditions are right in the area. Regional Director Midwest Gascoyne Russell Hayes said last year was the first where Western Australia had TFBs in place. “Harvesting and movement of vehicles in paddocks was one of the conditions of a TFB, which was based on forecast weather and not actual conditions in areas,” Russell said. “This caused frustration for farmers who were in areas where the forecast John MacMahon with the restored Dennis Ace Fire Engine. weather indicated a need for a TFB, but the actual weather conditions The MacMahon family heritage stems A group of dedicated men would have been appropriate regularly assemble at the FESA from Ireland and Macca’s great, great, great grandfather was a commander in for harvesting.” Training Centre in Forrestfield Nelson’s fleet. Russell said after extensive consult- to indulge their passion of They emigrated to Ballarat in Victoria, ation with local governments in the restoring fire appliances from looking for gold. affected areas, FESA came up with a bygone eras. Macca’s father was born there and number of changes to the TFB system. travelled to Perth during the First World “Under the new regulations the These mainly retired firefighters from the War to expedite the Army draft, and automatic ban on harvest activities Vintage Restoration Team have seen went on to fight at Gallipoli. and vehicle movements has been many changes in the evolution of the But the young Macca’s fate was to removed,” he said. fire engine over the years. fight fires. Driving this team of knowledgeable Although missing the introduction of “Local governments will now be able enthusiasts is 84 year old John the first T model Ford fire engine in to determine when to implement MacMahon, former WA Fire Brigades Perth in 1922, his inauguration to the harvest and vehicle movement bans. Chief Officer, and a man with a brigade coincided with the operation of “This places the responsibility back remarkable history. the Dennis Ace fire engine. on local governments but still enables “Engine repairing or grinding is done “It was only a four cylinder engine, but FESA to place TFBs to restrict other off site as we don’t have that kind of it was very manoeuvrable even with a unnecessary activities that could 750 gallon a minute pump at the rear,” machinery here,” John said. cause fires in the open. he recalled. “We do however, have the people “Once the Grassland Fire Danger and the knowledge to disassemble, One of the major changes in the Index (FDI) in an area reaches the restore and reassemble, then test evolution of the modern day fire engine predetermined very high level of the machinery.” was the open back to enclosed cab design, where everything is contained, 35, local governments must then John or Macca as he is affectionately including both gear and crew. implement harvest and vehicle known, joined the fire brigade on 30 “Back then even if it was pouring with movement bans, but they may also October 1942 at the ripe old age of 16. rain you went out and got saturated choose to implement them at an “I lived next door to a mechanical maybe two or three times a night,” earlier stage.” engineer and he asked me when I Macca said. TFB information will be broadcast on was 11 if I’d like to join the fire brigade “And if you were the officer in charge, boys gymnasium,” he said. you had to be very strong in the arm, ABC radio and is available from the “I replied I’d love to, so he got me because it was your job to ring the FESA website at www.fesa.wa.gov.au in there.” bell – and that was a good work out!” and information line on 1300 657 209.

24seven 19 general news Long run for an important reason

Despite taking part in a group He described the physical high point He said firefighters in the USA are run across the United States of the event as the run down the Las revered. Vegas Strip. of America, Osborne Park “If you join the job over there, you stand “They blocked off three northbound a realistic risk of dying – it’s a completely Firefighter Bradley Hosking lanes of the strip and we ran down the different context.” said he felt pretty insignificant middle of the roads the whole way,” The Tour of Duty participants had when standing side by side with Brad said. many memorable experiences while American firefighters who had The grand finale was New York, and the stopping in at fire houses across the been on duty in New York on emotional highlight of the trip, according US where firefighters gave the group warm welcomes. September 11, 2001. to Brad. Following the group’s run into the city, “For us to come over here, doing what we were doing, it just blew them away Brad said the 7,500 kilometre run, which they took part in a night time memorial was in memory of those who lost their that a bunch of Aussies would travel ceremony at Ground Zero on the evening lives in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, was a so far,” Brad said. of September 11. great experience and he felt honoured to “There was such warmth and friendship be involved. Brad and the rest of the Tour of Duty extended to us from one side of the runners stood side by side at the event Along with 14 other Australian firefighters country to the other. with firefighters and other emergency and 21 US emergency service personnel, “The fire houses opened their doors to services personnel who were on duty he took part in the Tour of Duty run us like we were family. during the terrorist attacks. from Los Angeles to New York, which “They let us stay, shower, wash our stuff They watched on as the two beams of aimed to raise awareness of emergency and have a feed, some with advance services personnel. light representing the fallen towers were notice and others with just half an The marathon effort took the group switched on. hour’s warning.” 31 days including 26 running and five Brad remembers seeing the 9/11 While raising awareness of the role of rest days. terrorist attacks play out live on television emergency services personnel and They were split into three teams of 12 while on duty, but some of the American paying tribute to those who lost their which rotated through running shifts of firefighters who were running with him lives in 9/11, each of the Australian six hours. had even more vivid memories. runners also raised money for a charity Brad, who was the only West Australian “One guy who celebrated his 20th of their choice. participant, had plenty of running experi- anniversary with the service while taking Brad took the opportunity to raise ence having been a keen triathlete for part in the tour, lost almost his whole $10,000 for Princess Margaret Hospital the past five years. crew (during the attacks).” for Children Burns Unit.

Firefighter Brad Hosking on the Brooklyn Bridge (right) with renowned Australian poet Rupert McCall who was invited to read his poem Firefighters Dream at Ground Zero New York on 9/11, the last day of the Tour of Duty run.

20 24seven Job seekers get a taste Online of life in the service recruiting Ask any group of children or Those who stopped at the FESA the way even young adults what they stand were able to get hands on with want to pursue as a career and firefighting tools on display, including the jaws of life. you are bound to get several to go who want to be firefighters. It A/Recruitment Coordinator Dwayne Watkins said the potential new recruits is no surprise then, that FESA’s he spoke to were impressed with what Applying for a position booth at this year’s National firefighting had to offer as a career, as with FESA is set to be Careers and Employment Expo well as the possibility of volunteering. streamlined, making the was very popular. “We were kept busy at the booth process easier than ever for Sixty five exhibitors were represented at throughout the two days and left the expo which covered a wide range confident that we would see some both the applicant and Human of areas including media, advertising, new applicants as a result,” he said. Resources staff. health and fitness, hospitality, tourism “After the event I was contacted and education. A/Recruitment Coordinator Dwayne by several people interested in the Watkins said the Candidate Human Resources staff were joined opportunities offered by FESA. Management System (CMS) online by career firefighters at FESA’s display where the focus was on firefighting, “A representative from TAFE also called software program had been used general recruitment, community safety to ask us to talk to their students about with pleasing results. messages and volunteering. careers with FESA.” “The CMS software was utilised at More than 12,000 people visited the Following this year’s positive experience, the beginning of the year for the expo, including high school groups and FESA has already booked to take part in career firefighter recruitment pool,” the general public. next year’s expo. Dwayne said. “Noting its success with Firefighter Training Schools 67 and 68, we adopted the system as a pilot for general recruitment in July. “We are in the final stages of trialling this component and once that is complete CMS will be implemented for recruitment across FESA.” Dwayne said the system was an excellent option as it saved time and increased efficiency. “We can communicate updates and outcomes with applicants by email rather than traditional mail, making the whole process much quicker and reducing the use of paper,” he said. “The system is flexible and allows us to track each stage of the process. “The feedback is that applicants find it easy to use and prefer electronic communication.” Dwayne added that interview panels would be offered training and ongoing support by People and Organisational Development staff.

Firefighter Clement Chan staffs the FESA booth at the Perth National Careers and Employment Expo.

24seven 21 general news Important messages delivered with a smile

A smile can be captivating, and that is what FESA was aiming for by using a photograph of a little girl with a bright, happy face on the cover of its new Fire safety in your home brochure.

Aimed at relaying fire safety messages to Indigenous designs and photographs of an Aboriginal audience, the publication Aboriginal people were used as a way was created and distributed as part of to get people to pick the brochure up NAIDOC Week. and take a closer look. Sections of an “It’s a great way It covers subjects such as smoke alarms, artwork created specifically for FESA by to highlight the heater safety and the dangers of lit Perth based Aboriginal artist Deborah cigarettes and candles. Newnaham were also incorporated into importance of getting the brochure’s design. Chief Executive Officer Jo Harrison-Ward the entire family said FESA was committed to protecting Moya said the brochure had been well and educating Western Australians about received by Aboriginal families and it was involved in looking fire safety. planned to distribute it to more areas at what can cause across the state. “FESA and the Jacaranda Community a fire in and around Centre have worked together to develop Fire safety in your home was compiled the Fire safety in your home booklet,” in consultation with the Jacaranda the home.” Jo said. Community Centre in Belmont and involved two Nyoongar families from “Over the years our partnership with that area. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people has grown stronger and together we are working towards our vision of a safer community. “This informative booklet is a large step towards achieving our goal.” Manager Indigenous Strategy and Policy Moya Newman said the fire safety messages in the brochure were vital. “A few years ago, two young children sadly lost their lives to fire in the Pilbara Aboriginal community of Wakathuni near Tom Price,” she said. “We don’t want to see that happen again. “This booklet contains easy to under- stand information and beautiful photographs of Aboriginal families. It’s a great way to highlight the importance of getting the entire family involved in looking at what can cause a fire in and around the home. “Family members are urged to talk to each other about what to do if their home catches fire and to plan ahead by looking for more than one way to get out of each room in their house. “Something that is targeted like this will help Aboriginal people feel more comfortable and they will relate better to the messages about keeping their families safe.”

Images of Aboriginal families are a feature of the new targeted Fire safety in your home brochure.

22 24seven training, resources & Equipment Swell reception for Shark Bay’s new rescue vessel

“This particular vessel was chosen because it’s large, sturdy and suits the choppy conditions of the Shark Bay coastline.”

Shark Bay Volunteer Marine Rescue Group President Greg Ridgley with Tamala Rose. Photo courtesy The West Australian.

Tamala Rose, Shark Bay’s latest “This particular vessel was chosen “The new vessel has been specifically lady of the sea, was welcomed because it’s large, sturdy and suits chosen for its ability to handle local conditions and will significantly assist to the strains of the didgeridoo the choppy conditions of the Shark Bay coastline.” Shark Bay marine rescue volunteers when marine rescue volunteers, in sea searches and rescue missions,” locals and visitors gathered for Greg said the members had worked Mr Johnson said. extremely hard to get the project off her official launch. “I have the greatest admiration for the ground. their dedication and the role they play Group President Greg Ridgley described “They raised $50,000 which is a in keeping Western Australians and the new vessel as very impressive magnificent amount, making all that visitors safe.” and said it would boost the ability of hard work well worth the effort. volunteers to protect the Shark Bay The $439,000 acquisition was made community. “We are very grateful for the support possible thanks to contributions from of everyone involved and already the the Gascoyne Regional Grants Scheme, “We’re a busy group and the Tamala Gascoyne Development Commission, Rose will be a great benefit to us,” Tamala Rose has proven her worth during incidents and training exercises.” FESA Volunteer Marine Rescue Service Greg said. Capital Grant funding and LotteryWest, in “When we first trialled the vessel we Emergency Services Minister Rob addition to sponsorship, proceeds from found her strength and capability Johnson, who was in Shark Bay for the sale of Shark Bay’s former vessel and amazing. the celebrations, said the vessel would volunteer community fundraising. “She is a 9.3 metre Air Rider hull fitted help the group cover its 13,000 square The name Tamala Rose comes from with two 300 horsepower motors and kilometre patch and enhance their a wildflower local to Shark Bay that is the latest in electronic navigation and ability to provide assistance to people appropriately found in sands or limestone communication equipment. stranded at sea. outcrops close to the coast.

24seven 23 training, resources & Equipment

No horsing around for SES Mounted Section

Angela Stokovic on Charlie takes the lead. Reading a map while sitting on the back of a horse is not the easiest of tasks, but the members of FESA’s State Emergency Service (SES) Mounted Section can manage this and many other challenges as well. Sheena Ryan and Lizzie Isles both joined the section after spending their childhoods around horses. Sheena has been a member of the Mounted Section for 15 years and says she was heavily involved in anything and everything horse related from her early days. “When I was a kid I was around trotters Lizzie Isles and Sheena Ryan are both keen members of the SES Mounted Section. and gallopers, and as I grew up plenty of my friends had race horses,” Sheena said. Since responding to that advertisement “I work in aged care now and it makes She even worked as a strapper at Sheena has had some memorable me think more about that particular the races but it was a newspaper experiences and recalls one of the first search.” advertisement that got her involved in the searches she was involved in. Sheena helped with the search on two SES’s Mounted Section. “The Mounted Section was part of the of the three days, but unfortunately the “There was an ad for new recruits, I had response looking for an elderly woman search operation failed to locate the a horse and wasn’t doing competitions who had wandered from her home missing woman. or any events, so I thought it sounded near Gingin into surrounding bushland,” “You do all the training, but you never perfect for me.” she said. want people to go missing,” Sheena said.

24 24seven SES Mounted Section Manager Stuart Jones and Margaret Jones assist at a training exercise.

Capability • Horses are capable of travelling four times faster than a foot team, can cover difficult terrain, and search for longer than searchers on foot. • Horses give the mounted searcher a higher line of vision. • Riders learn the same skills as foot searchers but also have to make sure they check the area in front where the horse’s neck and head block the line of sight. Riders prepare to set off on a training search (l-r): Jean Jensen, Alex Stevens and Linda Leadbetter. • Horses have to be taught extra skills. They must be able to be led and lead other horses, cross Sheena has been aided by two horses Lizzie spent many weekends as water, load into floats in the dark, during her time with the Mounted a youngster at Mounted Section carry equipment, and deal with Section, a chestnut stallion O’Rego-Man training events. radio noise. who she said is now in the big race track She sat and watched as her • Riders are always alert to the in the sky, and her current horse, a grey grandmother, Helen Isles who was signals from the horses as each thoroughbred mare named Zona. training manager of the section for mount provides another set of eyes and ears to the search. A highlight of her involvement with much of the past 22 years, kept the the SES has been building a lot of members motivated and challenged. • Regular training is important, and the section maintains its skills friendships. Lizzie said she enjoyed being around by meeting twice a month, once “I enjoy the camaraderie of being part the horses and riders. during the week and again on of the section and have fond memories “I spent a lot of time on the sidelines a Saturday. of long weekend training courses,” at training events and that got me • The section also provides trained Sheena said. interested in becoming part of it all,” operations personnel during “It’s a lot of hard work and a lot of fun. she said. storms, with many members working through the night across “After a long day everyone pitches in to “I just wanted to help the community the region. and search for people.” help set up camp and then sits around • There are currently 26 members, the fire to enjoy the night and reflect on At age 15, she and her horse Shadow consisting of 18 riders and eight how it went.” joined the section. ground support, and the section is After 15 years Sheena’s favourite thing They are yet to be involved in any managed by Stuart Jones. about being involved in the section is searches, but Lizzie has enjoyed • The horses, which range from 14.2 the ability to help and do her bit for the picking up new skills. hands upwards, are all privately community. owned and maintained by section She said being the youngest member members at their own expense. This is something she has in common means there is a wealth of knowledge • FESA meets operational costs with Lizzie, who has been a member for from the other members that she can and provides personal protective just a year. tap into and learn from. equipment.

24seven 25 training, resources & Equipment Aboriginal staff close the gap

Diversity is the key when Cameron Fordham, Applied it comes to the careers of Training Assistant Aboriginal employees at Employed at the FESA Training Centre FESA, whether it is firefighting, in Forrestfield as an Applied Training training, supporting remote Assistant, Cameron said study had communities, managing been an important part of his time with the organisation. emergencies, or working in “Since joining as a trainee five years customer service or payroll. ago I’ve gained qualifications in NAIDOC Week 2010 with its theme business, as well as engineering Unsung Heroes – Closing the Gap welding and fabrication,” he said. by Leading Their Way, was an ideal “My job as Ignitions Officer and Safety opportunity to recognise the hard work Control Tower operator is diverse, and of the organisation’s Aboriginal staff, there’s really no average day. What several of whom are highlighted below. also makes it special is that I get to work with a great bunch of people.” Moya Newman, Manager Cameron said he was usually Indigenous Strategy and Policy allocated to a training group where Supporting and including Aboriginal he was responsible for setting up and Australians in emergency management running a variety of scenarios. is a key part of Moya Newman’s job “One day it might be a hot fire course as Manager Indigenous Strategy and where I operate the water and fuel Policy. She has burnt up the kilometres systems so that recruit firefighters can on land and in the air to fulfil her role gain experience in putting fires out,” Manager Indigenous Strategy and Policy of liaising with members of Indigenous he said. Moya Newman and Applied Training Assistant Cameron Fordham. communities around the state. “I also set up simulated traffic Moya’s career with FESA began in accidents for road crash rescue 1999 with her appointment as senior training. This allows participants to “My role involves liaising with SES community liaison officer for the Pilbara gain first hand practice and improve volunteers on mitigation and recovery and Kimberley regions. After serving their skills using hydraulic cutting and from a range of natural disasters like three years in this role Moya transferred rescue equipment. cyclones, floods and bushfires,” he said. to Perth where she was instrumental in “The training instructors often ask for “Another important aspect is managing progressing the development of targeted a new prop that will serve a specific rescues in the spectacular Karijini and culturally appropriate educational purpose and I really enjoy designing National Park. programs and messages specifically for something from scratch and watching “I travel from Port Hedland to Exmouth Indigenous communities. it work.” and inland to Newman and Tom Moya was appointed to her present In his spare time Cameron heads Price, and also go out as far as the managerial role in 2002. bush for some four wheel driving, Northern Territory border visiting remote “I’ve had many challenges and camping and fishing. On weekends communities for cyclone and wet season rewarding moments during my time at he volunteers at Kanyana Wildlife education. I’ve even delivered training to FESA,” she said. Rehabilitation Centre in Lesmurdie, FESA units in the Cocos Islands.” “A highlight was playing a key role in looking after sick, endangered and Peter said he gained a lot of satisfaction Western Australia’s contribution to the orphaned native animals. from helping people in their time of need. development of a national emergency “Many of the emergency incidents we management strategy for remote Peter Cameron, District face in the Pilbara have the potential Indigenous communities. Manager West Pilbara for injury or loss of life, so it’s vital that “I like breaking down barriers and find Peter Cameron knows the Pilbara education and preparedness programs it very gratifying to see people of all region like the back of his hand, having are delivered to the community,” he said. different cultures working together on been raised and educated in Port “When disaster strikes we need to be important projects such as this. Hedland, where he is still based. He ready to work quickly and effectively to “I think if you care about what you do joined the State Emergency Service get things back to normal for those who and are persistent, there’s no limit to (SES) in 1996 and has worked his way are affected.” what you can achieve.” up to District Manager level. When not at work Peter enjoys his Moya enjoys reading, hanging out with Peter said his job was varied and hobbies which include playing guitar, art family and friends, and being an armchair operating in such a vast region it and photography. He also likes to go coach to her granddaughter when she required a lot of travel, particularly camping, fishing and exploring the bush plays basketball. when responding to incidents. with his family.

26 24seven “Fire safety education is something else we get involved in. It’s rewarding to engage with the community and know that the information you’re passing on could help to prevent a fire or maybe even save a life.” An aspect of life on station that Robert really enjoys is the camaraderie between his fellow firefighters. “We work together as a team and for each other,” he said. Robert is a father of five and finds working on a roster offers the flexibility to spend regular quality time with his family. Peter Cameron is kept busy working across his patch of the Pilbara region. He also likes getting out into the bush, travelling, motorbike riding and hunting. Robert Hansen, Senior situations and protecting and saving In addition Robert is ambassador for lives,” he said. Clontarf Football Academy, plays footy Firefighter “I’ve attended house and bushfires, for the local Mines Rovers Club and A Senior Firefighter at Kalgoorlie Fire hazardous material incidents and a has satisfied his passion for basketball Station in the Goldfields, Robert Hansen plane crash, as well as the Ora Banda through involvement in the Goldfields can lay claim to more than ten years explosions in 2000. Basketball Development Program. firefighting experience with the Fire and “A key aspect of the role is rescue Somehow he manages to find time in Rescue Service. operations and in particular road crash his incredibly busy life to give community “My job is multi-faceted and mainly rescue, where we help remove people talks at primary and high schools, with involves responding to emergency trapped in vehicles. the target group being Aboriginal youth.

Kalgoorlie Senior Firefighter Robert Hansen actively helps the local Indigenous community and is passionate about basketball and footy.

24seven 27 training, resources & Equipment Graduating firefighters raring to go

The pride and satisfaction of We’ve come a long way since that first teaching them a thing or two along graduating as the State’s newest day when we all stood around in our the way. career firefighters was clearly freshly washed and ironed red overalls, It is now our responsibility to our and were told to line up in height order instructors to make them proud of evident on the faces of 23 from shortest to tallest. us by becoming hardworking and recruits who recently joined the That was coupled with our first comical dedicated firefighters, as passionate Fire and Rescue Service. attempts at marching, finding turning left as they are, and willing to continue to learn. Members of Firefighter School 67 and right a challenge and square-gating took the opportunity to reflect on like a robot! We thank our partners, families and close friends who supported us over the highlights and challenges they Our instructors must have wondered the past three months. experienced during their fast paced what they had let themselves in for. training program, and this is what they To those who have lived through had to say at their graduation ceremony. We had the opportunity to learn from the school as we have, we extend a some incredibly knowledgeable, We came together as a group of indi- heartfelt thank you. passionate and loud instructors, and to viduals from a variety of backgrounds, For the dinners and lunches, the all who helped us along the way in the with one common purpose. washing and cleaning, and for putting various rotations, we thank you greatly Before this school we would have up with our absentmindedness, the for your advice and support. walked past one another on the street, forgetting of important dates and but now without a second thought, we It is clear that the firefighters who moustaches, we owe you so much. would put ourselves on the line to help commit to instructing are dedicated Apparently we learn how to be our mates. professionals in their field, intent domesticated while on station, so Strong bonds were formed over 14 on getting the best out of the next there will be plenty of opportunity to intense weeks of training, theory classes generation of firefighters. pay you all back. and Friday afternoon study sessions at As students, it’s nice to think that we We just hope you didn’t record the the Kewdale Library. have given back to our instructors by hours!

CEO Jo Harrison-Ward (first row centre) flanked by (l-r): Instructors - Senior Firefighter John Pratt, Senior Firefighter Chris O’Keefe and Station Officer Shaun Menner, A/Chief Operations Officer Gary Gifford, Manager Training and Development David Evenis, Manager Career Training Rob Forster and Instructors - Station Officers Craig Goodhill and Paul Hughes. Back (l-r): Firefighter School 67 graduates: Firefighters Brendan Dunstan, Eli Stops, Lincoln Franceschi, Jeremy Nugent, Anthony Ingram, Tim Auty, Paul Mason, Simon Pearce, Gene Hyde, John Henry and Stuart Johnston. Middle (l-r): Philip Hall, Brendan Ash, Kaine Dimanlig, James Hislop, Chris Wilson, Justin Clayforth, James O’Connell, Jarred Vennus, Ryan Buchan, Paul Middleton, Martine Pearman and Samantha Pilton.

28 24seven “I love the work I do for the brigade and get a real sense of achievement…”

Fiona shines as first female brigade captain

When speaking to Fiona Tosh it Fiona originally joined Kalamunda Fiona said one of the most challenging is hard to believe the 31 year old BFB when she was just 16 and has but rewarding incidents she has attended supported it for the last 15 years. was the bushfire that threatened the can fit so much into her life. “I’ve had a lot of fun over the years and Perth hills in the summer of 2005. Recently selected as the first female met most of my closest friends in the “More than 50 brigades banded together captain of Kalamunda Bush Fire Brigade brigade,” she said. to control the fire which burnt through (BFB), one of the largest brigades in “Although we have a diverse range of 30,000 hectares,” she said. Western Australia in terms of active people in a large group, we’re also very “There was a great sense of camaraderie members, Fiona leads more than 100 close knit.” and achievement when the fire was volunteers in a team of mostly men. Fiona said working with committed brought under control. When she is not volunteering with the people was the reason the brigade “Later when I was driving home there brigade, Fiona works as an accountant had so many members and was so were all these people outside their and often puts in long hours on the job. successful. homes holding up huge banners to say If this was not enough to keep her busy, “We undertake a wide range of activities thank you for our efforts. in her spare time she is a member of a throughout the entire year,” she said. “It was a great feeling to see just swimming club and also enjoys cycling, “Training sessions are held once a week how much we had helped the local training for triathlons and running. where we drill, test and develop skills community.” Fiona laughed when asked how she fits such as area familiarisation, hose work, Fiona said one of the biggest highlights everything in. mapping, radio communication and of brigade membership was meeting and “I guess you need to be well organised first aid. marrying her husband Sean Winter who is also a volunteer. and a master of time management,” “In addition we attend numerous she said. incidents including bush, car and Former captain and active member of “I love the work I do for the brigade and structural fires, as well as providing the brigade Jamie O’Neill said Fiona was get a real sense of achievement knowing assistance to other emergency groups a motivating person to work alongside. that my contribution is having a positive when required. “She has excellent leadership qualities effect on the community. “Visiting schools and attending and is highly organised and efficient,” “When you are completely passionate community events helps us educate he said. about what you do, it doesn’t really tire people about the importance of fire “The brigade is definitely in good hands you as much as people might think.” safety which is also very satisfying.” with Fiona.”

Pictured above: Kalamunda Bush Fire Brigade Captain Fiona Tosh enjoys her role leading the brigade and serving the community.

24seven 29 training, resources & Equipment Dunsborough volunteers relish rescue challenge

Dunsborough volunteer firefighters were so keen to pit their road crash rescue ability against the best in Australasia that they trained, sought sponsors and fundraised for months to take part in iRescue. In total 15 competitors from Australia, New Zealand and Asia competed at this year’s Australasian Rescue Challenge held in Melbourne. It is the second time Dunsborough Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) has taken part in the challenge, the first being on the Gold Coast in 2008. Team Coordinator Paul Roocke said there was a symposium and workshop in addition to the challenge program. “The whole event was an excellent learning environment,” he said. “One of the key benefits was the ability to work on current model vehicles that are usually only accessible during a live incident. “After our last challenge we saw an immediate benefit with the pre-event training and the competition experience helping us to refine our rescue skills.” iRescue featured timed scenarios of real life road crashes with teams judged on their techniques for rescuing people from severely damaged cars. There were three challenges - a controlled event with multiple casualties, an entrapped event with the casualty fully trapped in the vehicle and an immediate event with a critical casualty requiring rapid extraction. Following each challenge the teams were debriefed by the assessors and key learning areas identified. The Dunsborough team put in a strong showing, scoring a third place in the immediate event category. They were also assessed as being the fifth ranked team for technical competency. A total of 60 vehicles were crushed during the challenge, and both participants and spectators had the chance to see for themselves just how much precision is involved in carrying out road crash rescue. The 2011 Australasian Challenge will be held in Christchurch, New Zealand and members of the Top: A Dunsborough VFRS team member uses the jaws of life rescue equipment during Dunsborough VRFS have already marked the competition. Above: Dunsborough VFRS team members Andy Thompson, Paul Roocke, dates in their diary. John Tognini, Jon Glasspool, Mark Flynn and Garth Simpson with their award.

30 24seven Brand new fire stations for Perth and Ellenbrook

Career firefighters from Perth of maps at the fire station showing the the rear Moore Street. Access within the and Ellenbrook will be able to location of the incident, as well as fire site is via stairs and a vehicular ramp. hydrants, schools and hospitals.” meet the increasing needs of The location provides quick access to Wayne said a computer controlled the Graham Farmer Freeway as well their local communities with appliance featuring the latest technology, as both sides of the railway line and brand new fire stations. plus one light tanker, were also housed freeway ramps. at the new facility. Four engine bays facing Wellington Ellenbrook Fire Station “The pump includes heavy rescue Street accommodate three firefighting Ellenbrook Fire Station is strategically equipment which will help firefighters pumps plus the high rise Combined Ladder Platform appliance. placed in the north east metropolitan respond to the increasing number of area and Station Officer Wayne Brown incidents on the surrounding Great The station is equipped with a large said this would reduce response times. Northern and Brand Highways,” he said. kitchen for firefighters, sleeping quarters with ensuite bathrooms and locker “The $2.7 million facility has state of the Perth Fire Station rooms, and a gymnasium on the art equipment including a new incident first floor. tracking system that provides crews Perth Fire and Rescue Service moved There are two training rooms which can with a detailed route map rather than the into their new $11.6 million fire station be opened up to form one large space, usual street directory,” he said. in May. and two separate private courtyards on “This extra information will be very helpful The building houses 17 firefighters, five either side of the rooms. when travelling to incidents, and save Station Officers and a District Manager. The facility has secure undercover precious time. Situated on a split level site, the station parking and equipment storage areas for “The system includes GPS tracking of has two street frontages with the main Urban Search and Rescue, all located at the fire appliance’s progress, displays elevation facing Wellington Street and the lower level on Moore Street.

Celebrating the opening of Ellenbrook Fire Station (front l-r): Member for West Swan Rita Saffioti MLA, Emergency Services Minister Rob Johnson and Chief Operations Officer Craig Hynes with (back): Station Officer Len Hull and Firefighters Carey Schmidt, Glen Stubberfield and Lee Blackwell.

24seven 31 training, resources & Equipment Kimberley collocations boost community safety

The opening of state of the art facilities worth more than $6 million has boosted emergency services in Kununurra, Derby and Fitzroy Crossing in time for the bushfire and cyclone seasons. Emergency Services Minister Rob Johnson went on a whistle stop tour of the three North West towns to inspect and open the new buildings. “Over the last year Kimberley emergency services volunteers battled bushfires that burned for weeks, in addition This new collocated facility now houses the Kununurra Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and State to responding to flash flooding and Emergency Service. a category 5 cyclone that left many in need of emergency assistance,” “There are separate VFRS and SES centralising our equipment has also Mr Johnson said. administrative rooms and equipment helped us to be better organised,” “These volunteers are the backbone of storage areas including a mezzanine, Vivienne said. emergency services in rural towns. as well as change rooms for each of The Derby facility has five appliance bays the housed service entities. “We recognise the incredible job they to house vehicles from both services, do and how important it is for FESA’s “The shared outdoor training and including a new 3.4 urban tanker, light frontline emergency services personnel entertaining area is excellent, and tanker and rescue trailer for the VFRS. the new functional kitchen has made to be well resourced to protect Western SES vehicles include a personnel carrier, catering very easy. Australian communities. land cruiser, quad bike, catering trailer, “The foresight and effort of everyone who “Input by volunteers from both flood boat and general rescue trailer. services has ensured that the facility has contributed to these new buildings at Both the VFRS and SES each have their has been designed to the highest Kununurra, Derby and Fitzroy Crossing is own administrative and change room, possible standard. to be commended.” equipment storage area and mezzanine. “Our new premises facilitates a more The new centre has been designed to Kununurra coordinated emergency response and we can already see benefits from fit in with the Kimberley landscape, with A purpose built $2.89 million facility in improved efficiency.” iconic Boab trees left undisturbed at Kununurra houses the Volunteer Fire the front and rear of the new building to and Rescue Service (VFRS) and State Derby enhance its appearance. Emergency Service (SES). It is based on the FESA footprint designs for A $2.7 million building right in the heart accommodating different combinations of town is now the new home of VFRS of FESA supported services in and SES volunteers in Derby and similar collocated buildings. to the facility in Kununurra, it is based on the FESA footprint design. Kununurra is notable for being one of the first emergency facilities in the region This building is one of the first in FESA “These volunteers to have a cyclone warning LED (light to incorporate heavy cladding within the emitting diodes) light system and warning tilt panel concrete walls and a reinforced are the backbone of siren installed on the roof to alert the roofing structure to provide additional emergency services community. impact protection during cyclones. SES District Manager Matthew Reimer Also like Kununurra, the Derby in rural towns.” said the new building had combined collocation boasts a cyclone warning operations, communications, training and LED rooftop light system. meeting rooms, plus five appliance bays. Derby SES Local Manager Vivienne “It is fantastic to now have a fully Welch said the former base was located functional building with plenty of room 10 kilometres out of town at the airport. in the bays for vehicles and equipment,” “We’ve found it much more convenient Matt said. to be in the middle of town, and

32 24seven Fitzroy Crossing Fitzroy Crossing Volunteer Emergency SW emergency services Service members took a practical interest in extensions to their building which now features improved new kitchen and enhanced ahead of bathroom facilities, as well as a breathing apparatus room. District Manager West Kimberley Kim bushfire season Maldon said the contribution and hard work of the volunteers led to significant Frontline emergency services in the South West have been savings on the project. bolstered in time for the bushfire season, with the creation of “Fitzroy Crossing volunteers were a new regional office in Manjimup. involved right from the start, taking part in planning and assisting in all phases of Regional Operations Coordinator construction, from laying the foundations and project manager Mal Cronstedt to sheeting the walls,” Kim said. said FESA’s South West region was “Inaugural Officer in Charge Andrew split in half to enhance resources and Twaddle, who is a registered builder, provide better emergency services to oversaw coordination of construction the region. and also committed the resources of his company to the project. “With significant population growth in the South West and major bushfires “The extensions took a little over two years to complete, with FESA in the last twelve months, it’s been contributing the amount of $99,000. recognised that more resources need “As a result of the hard work and to be committed to the area,” he said. commitment of the volunteers, an extra The new regional office will service $400,000 in value was added to the asset. the needs of Augusta-Margaret “Thanks to their efforts, the local River, Boyup Brook, Bridgetown- community now has a facility that greatly Greenbushes, Busselton, Regional Director Lower South West John Tillman is based at the new FESA enhances the unit’s capacity to respond Donnybrook, Manjimup and Nannup Manjimup office. and train well into the future.” local government areas. The Bunbury regional office will service the remaining areas. John Tillman, formerly of the “This is all about Department of Environment and increasing our Conservation (DEC), was appointed capacity to support Regional Director of the Lower South West region in August. local government and “John spent 24 years at DEC, emergency services including 18 years in fire manage­ volunteers in the area.” ment,” Mal said. “He had a good working relationship with FESA through his role and has operated in the regions of Swan, offices to help coordinate training Warren and the South West.” across all hazards. John said that outside the metro­ A further seven positions have been politan area the South West was the created for the new region including most populated part of the state, an Area Manager, State Emergency with a large number of communities Service District Manager (DM), two Fire to cover. Service DM’s, a support officer and “This is all about increasing our two Bush Fire Unallocated Crown Land capacity to support local government Coordinators, who will support Local and emergency services volunteers in Government to develop community fire the area,” he said. protection and prevention plans. The additional region also meant the The office at Giblett Street, Manjimup creation of new roles including two is now open for business and all staff dedicated personnel at each of the should be in place by early new year.

24seven 33 training, resources & Equipment Expanding StateAlert capabilities

Enhancements to StateAlert to reach those people who are travelling are continuing, with the latest through or just visiting an area,” he said advance being progression to “The system will also help overseas a location based emergency travellers visiting and exploring remote locations with no one knowing their warning system. whereabouts.” State Hazard Operations Officer Mike The location based message is a national Klenner said StateAlert was an important initiative which is being developed by public information tool, but the system committees comprising representatives was currently unable to target people from all states and territories in Australia. passing through or visiting an area. “It is in a trial stage at the moment,” “StateAlert relies on an operator to Mike said. create geographical coordinates so contact numbers of those living within “FESA has conducted testing to the area can be retrieved,” Mike said. evaluate the ability of telecommuni- “The system however, has no facility to cations carriers to locate a number of transmit warnings to people who do not mobile telephones in metropolitan and normally live there.” regional control areas. “The ability to send out Mike said developing a location based “The initiative will definitely increase our an alert in this manner is ability to get emergency warnings out, system would help travellers, such as invaluable, as it has the campers in national parks, where it especially in regional areas.” could take the park staff hours to The system is expected to undergo ability to reach those people locate and warn them. further development and testing, and who are travelling through “The ability to send out an alert in this should be up and running by the middle or just visiting an area.” manner is invaluable, as it has the ability of 2011.

New look for VFRS

Fire and Rescue Service volunteers will be sporting a new uniform this summer. Chief Operations Officer Craig Hynes said the clothing was selected after an extensive consultation process. “A working group was established to determine what features were required for the new uniform,” Craig said. “It was decided it had to be functional, whilst reflecting the group’s identity. “As a result the volunteers now have apparel that offers them the latest in style, protection and comfort.” Craig said the uniform was trialled in a variety of conditions by firefighters from across the state including brigades from Armadale, Brookton, Busselton, Norseman, Northam and South Hedland. “The uniform comprises a work hat or cap, polo shirt, jacket with epaulettes to identify volunteer rank, dress trousers and cargo pants,” he said. “All regions have received the new gear and it Brookton Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service firefighters in the new uniform (l-r): will be put to use this bushfire season.” Captain Rick Freebody, Firefighter Shane Freebody and Lieutenant William Wilkinson.

34 24seven FESA goes ‘Dutch’

Internationally renowned speaker Herman B. ‘Dutch’ Leonard from Harvard University treated guests to a number of thought provoking and entertaining presentations at two FESA events.

Having undertaken extensive research into the emergency management procedures used during major crises from around the world, Professor “Response and Leonard was an inspired choice to recovery after the address the large crowd of emergency management professionals at the re- event are immediate, launch of FESA’s Sunrise Seminar Series. obvious and Titled Rethinking Response, Preparation unavoidable, and and Recovery, Professor Leonard’s presentation touched on major trends, therefore probably social welfare in the event of a disaster, over represented.” and risk management. He also looked at the need to examine the level and mix of investment across what he has identified as the five comprehensive risk management framework domains. “Response and recovery after the event are immediate, obvious and centralised command for landscape Indepth analysis of three case unavoidable, and therefore probably over scale disasters, but coordination, not studies followed, with Dutch’s affable represented,” Professor Leonard said. centralisation is the key to managing style, wide ranging knowledge and “In general, the current mix of spending these incidents more effectively.” experience ensuring the crowd is likely to be biased, with an under The presentation challenged the 140 was not only entertained but also investment in advanced recovery.” strong crowd with alternate views on challenged by looking at differing These observations prompted thought emergency management and provided ways incidents around the world have and discussion among guests from an interesting starting point for the been managed. FESA and a range of agencies including networking opportunity that followed Day two started with a stimulating the Departments of Agriculture and the event. discussion led by Dutch on the merits Food, Child Protection, Education and Sunrise Seminars are offered as of private sector involvement in Health, WA Police, Water Corporation, professional development activities disaster response. emergency service volunteer associa­ for people interested and working in The next session began with a tions and the Western Australian Local emergency management. Government Association. study of the behaviour of schools Further events will be offered throughout of fish and flocks of birds, and the The second half of the presentation the year. audience could have been forgiven for focused on the structure of emergency thinking Dutch had brought along the response and used the example of Double ‘Dutch’ wrong presentation. Hurricane Katrina as a study of a landscape scale disaster. Following the Sunrise Seminar more But the relevance was soon evident than 80 FESA senior staff members Professor Leonard offered ‘fast and as the concept of ‘the wisdom light’ as an alternative to a centralised stayed on for a two day program entitled of crowds’ was introduced and a command and control hierarchy, and Cultivating Organisational Leadership, case study involving emergency noted that Australia was well advanced which was also presented by Dutch. management discussed. in this regard. Those in attendance had obviously Having spent two days exposed “Australia has traditionally adopted a done the required pre-reading as plenty to alternative ways of operating highly decentralised response as a result of lively discussion and opinions were and thinking about emergency of its widespread population,” he said. put forward. management practices, FESA’s “The advent of technology, combined Professor Leonard started the program leadership group will no doubt be keen with pressure from critics, means there by looking at what defines true crisis as to explore the possibility of utilising is huge pressure to revert back to opposed to a routine emergency. some of these techniques in the future.

24seven 35 training, resources & Equipment Three generations linked to communications

Terry, Robert and Steven Crawford are not only related as family, but also share similar interests, with all three having a current or past association as State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers in the communications area. Below the trio tell their stories.

We took over the old railway station in We had two real emergency situations Boulder and made our own antennas, while I was in Kalgoorlie. bolting them on the roof. One was an out of town flood where One of the exercises we ran was at the cars, caravans and people were local high school. trapped in the Lakes area. It included explosions in the labora­ The other occurred just before tories and we had help from the Christmas during my last year in local Citizen’s Military Force (now the Kalgoorlie. Army Reserve) who provided pink We had a great deal of rain and there smoke bombs. was grass waist high for approximately Buses lined up to take people away in a 50 kilometres which caught fire. simulated evacuation and the ‘injured’ For four days and four nights we high school students received first aid. were busy working to help bring it under control. It was my first big exercise and we Terry organised it with the Police. I was operating the communications at the time and one of our radios My introduction to the SES was in When we were carrying out the debrief broke down, so we appealed to a local Kalgoorlie back in 1965 when I worked four very large policemen walked amateur radio operator who detuned at the local TAFE College. in and said sternly that we hadn’t his radio so that we could get back I heard there was a SES unit in town contacted them. on air. and approached the controller who I was perplexed and said that we had After I left Kalgoorlie I returned to Perth was the shire president. He was the jointly organised the exercise. in 1970 and spent the next 19 years only member at that time. One of the quartet said he knew that, with what was then the Staff Officer I joined up and then formed the but he had been waiting on a phone Reserve – Communications (later it communications team which finished call to alert them to the ‘emergency’ so became State Communications). at about 17 people. they could respond. I left the SES in 1989.

In those days there was a real fear Quite a number of them had worked for of atomic bomb attacks, so the Telstra, or the Post Master General’s Civil Defence role was foremost in Department as it was previously known. people’s minds. Moving through the ranks I became They held all kinds of exercises, Training Manager for approximately sending lots of reports on radioactivity and hazards. eight years and twice took on the Unit Manager position. Some of the simulated effects were smoke bombs and flares. My current position is Project Officer On one occasion I remember where I work on the development of they used carrier pigeons to send various initiatives. messages, which was unique. I have seen the unit grow from being In 1978 the unit was called the the Staff Officer Reserve to the State Communications Section and Communications and eventually being the members were called Staff gazetted as the Communications Officer Reserve. Robert Support Unit in 2006. It was in support of the staff officers, I officially joined the SES in 1978, but of course we were reservists I am immensely proud of having my although I used to attend with my father to them. family and particularly my children in Kalgoorlie when we lived there. My role initially was as a volunteer involved in volunteering, and it is I can remember some of the exercises learning from old hands and great to have Steven alongside me in up there that my Dad had organised. experienced people. the SES.

36 24seven Firefighters push PPE to limits

Extreme heat, humidity and rigorous exercise were just some of the conditions used to test the next generation of personal protective clothing being considered for career and volunteer firefighters.

Manager Physical Resources Mike “Firefighters entered a heat chamber Duyckers said eight career firefighters set to 30 degrees with 40 percent Steven participated in the trial conducted humidity to determine which clothing by UWA’s School of Sports Science, was most effective in maximum I really joined the SES 23 years Exercise and Health. temperatures,” he said. ago because my mother was a “They also completed a series of shift worker and dad couldn’t find “Firefighters of different ages, genders, exercises including box stepping, a babysitter, so he would take me body types and fitness levels were walking on a treadmill, dragging a along on call outs and training. carefully selected to take part in the dummy, and carrying a 60 millimetre trial,” he said. I have been a member in my hose and fully charged extinguisher. “They tested two prototype Level 2 own right for seven years and “All this was done while wearing tunics and overtrousers, with and find it very interesting as you see breathing apparatus to replicate without moisture barriers. different facets of other people’s what they would normally wear when lives and get the chance to work “Also trialled were firefighting boots, attending incidents. with a range of people. gloves and flash hoods worn with a “Throughout the exercise participants My interest has been in radios for variety of undergarments.” were monitored for external and core a very long time, mainly due to my Mike said comprehensive testing was body temperature, as well as perceived father’s involvement. carried out over a six week period. discomfort and exertion levels.” I’ve been brought up with comm- unications and by the time I was 18 I believe I knew how to use all the radios in the SES. With my grandfather also having been an SES volunteer, it has become a family tradition and I have learned some things from him and a great deal more from my father. In the time I’ve been in the Communications Support Unit I have taken on the role of Operations and Logistics Manager, which means that I am responsible for getting teams together for call outs and also the stores and equipment. I have been training recently to become a team leader so I can take a team into the field. I have told myself I am going to outlast my father in the SES and as he has now reached his 30 years of service, I will be here for Canning Vale Station Officer Kevin Field is put through his paces at UWA, under the watchful eye of Exercise Physiologist Bonnie Furzer who monitors core and skin temperatures. quite some time.

24seven 37 training, resources & Equipment Local course hones major incident management skills

Incident Controllers and those with responsibility for managing large scale emergencies can increase their skills at a high level training course that targets their needs. The Major Incident Management course for Incident Controllers (MIMIC) developed by FESA addresses the key issues of strategic leadership, and operational and tactical management. Regional Director Central Metropolitan Bruce Jones said the challenges of managing emergencies in the urban and rural environments have become more significant and complex. “Incident Controllers have great expectations placed upon them,” Bruce said. and recovery, as well as control activities year utilising facilitators from WAPOL, that are vital during major emergencies. “Incident management includes the Department of Environment and informing the community, analysis and “While the course primarily concentrates Conservation (DEC) and Victorian management of risks, engaging support on incident control, it is also just as emergency management agencies. agencies, working with the media, relevant to any person undertaking a Typical attendees include staff from leadership role during an emergency.” and maintaining both operational and FESA, Police (state, federal and strategic focus on the emergency and its Throughout the four day course interstate), DEC, Airport Fire Services actual and potential consequences. participants are presented with a range and St John Ambulance, as well as of dynamic, challenging and complex “Leadership during an emergency is interstate Fire Services and State situations which they are required to more intense, requires faster decisions, Emergency Service. work on together. and the weight of responsibility is far Others who attend are from agencies heavier. In addition to large group and syndicate work, there are also sessions where wishing to increase their operational “Incident Controllers must also be participants are presented with management expertise, such as local able to manage their own stress, complex scenarios in compressed government, defence and immigration whilst responding appropriately to the timeframes, requiring rapid analysis and detention centres. stress and potentially fear, of those decision making. around them.” The course is also suitable for people Bruce said the program had been in high level emergency management Bruce said the course was based modified to cater for agency and positions like recovery managers, on Australian Interagency Incident jurisdictional differences. Management System (AIIMS) principles. health commanders and state “The course is based on common incident managers. “The course has been designed emergency management terminology Bruce added that MIMIC had been to develop the capability of major and defined functional areas and roles,” emergency commanders who control he said. successfully run by FESA in other states, incidents at the senior operational level,” with the Victorian State Government “The various structures allow operational he said. and support organisations to work having requested four MIMIC Control “These situations are increasing in effectively together. Multi-agency Emergency Situations courses be conducted in 2009 and 2010. complexity and frequency. Often they “They are equally appropriate for require a multi-agency response and emergency and non-emergency “Written feedback from a range of impact on both the community and the agencies with diverse jurisdictional participants indicates that the courses government. powers and priorities.” are worthwhile and skills gained provide “MIMIC provides the systems or FESA, in conjunction with WA Police a practical framework for use by their framework to cover planning, response (WAPOL), conducts four courses a agencies,” Bruce said.

38 24seven Exercise a big hit with volunteers and cadets

FESA State Emergency Services (SES) volunteers and Emergency Services Cadets from the Pilbara were put through their paces at this year’s regional training exercise in Marble Bar. Held near the Coongan River, the two day event aptly titled Operation Iron Clad, provided valuable learning opportunities for 40 volunteers from Marble Bar, Port Hedland, Karratha, Newman and Tom Price, plus 20 cadets from Tom Price. Pilbara District Manager Jim Cahill said participants were split up into teams for the exercise which involved a bus versus car scenario, followed by a search for people missing from the accident scene. “In the first part of the exercise volun- teers rescued 10 Tom Price cadets posing as casualties at the accident scene,” Jim said. “Volunteers then searched for the remaining cadets over difficult terrain by foot, vehicle and air, led by Pilbara District Manager Peter Cameron. “It was a great test of physical endur- ance, problem solving skills, use of equipment and teamwork.” Jim said there were many positive learning outcomes for everyone involved in the training. “Communication issues on the first day were quickly resolved after a revamp of the plan and relocation of antenna masts and repeaters,” he said. “Volunteers also developed and tested their skills in planning, logistics, operations and four wheel driving. Top: Pilbara District Manager Peter Cameron briefs SES volunteers about an exercise activity. “The exercises focused on fun and Above: Karratha SES Volunteer Penny Squibb applies special effects to an Emergency Services Cadet practical problem solving for team to make his role as casualty more realistic. building purposes rather than for competition or challenge. “The cadets enjoyed finding clues to and some were interviewed by local “Everyone involved went away happy help locate the missing people and radio stations about their experiences.” and we are already looking forward to were able to see the SES in action, Jim added that the exercise would not next year’s exercise.” something they normally don’t get to have been possible without the support Tom Price Cadet Unit Leader Nicole see,” Nicole said. of local Police, the Shire of East Pilbara, Kelly said it was the first time cadets “Several cadets received commenda­ Marble Bar Race Course Committee and had been involved. tions from the SES for participating, the Department of Education.

24seven 39 Bushfire season Bushfire Action Week takes off in WA

Western Australia’s Bushfire Action Week was held in mid October with the aim of raising community awareness and encouraging bushfire preparation.

Executive Director Community confronted with the reality of an actual Development David Caporn said the emer­gency, they quickly discovered how community based initiative provided an much more they could have done. opportunity for people in bushfire risk They told their story in the hope it would areas to prepare themselves and their help motivate others to plan and prepare properties before the onset of seasonal before it was too late. hot weather. “This year we’ve started early, trimming “During Bushfire Action Week FESA back branches, making sure our fire engaged with the community to enable breaks are up to standard, and reducing people to understand and learn how to other fire hazards around our property,” manage risk and be better prepared in a Claire said. bushfire,” David said. “We’ve tightened up arrangements with “The impact of disasters on the our neighbours too, so if a fire starts our community are significantly influenced whole street is well prepared. by how prepared its members are, “I also joined a Bushfire Ready Group and related activities help to build their after the fire. People in our street Steve and Claire Garwin of Baskerville shared resilience to bushfire. are taking a proactive approach and their experience of the January Brigadoon blaze “This happens because the capacity we’ve already had our first meeting during Bushfire Action Week. of people to withstand, recover from, this season.” and respond to a bushfire is enhanced Bushfire season outlook “October is the ideal month for prep­ by knowledge gained through a variety aration to begin as the weather is cool of mediums like public information With the majority of the southern part of enough to start cleaning up around forums, bushfire brigade open days, the state experiencing the driest winter properties,” he said street meets, door knocks, displays and on record, already tinder dry bush and “It’s not just people in high bushfire risk information stalls, as well as Bushfire grass are ready and waiting to be burnt areas who can be threatened – those Ready meetings.” in the next bushfire. living near a park or bushland reserve in The week commenced with a media With very little to no rain forecast the metropolitan area are also at risk. launch on Sunday 10 October at the between now and Christmas, the “A well prepared house is more likely to home of Baskerville property owners predictions and the current conditions survive a bushfire and provide shelter Clare and Steve Garwin, who had been all lean towards Western Australian impacted by the 3 January Brigadoon firefighters experiencing a very busy than an unprepared one. bushfire. They were not home at the time bushfire season. “Reducing the amount of vegetation and although their house was saved, fire Chief Operations Officer Craig Hynes around homes can slow a fire down and ravaged 90 percent of bushland on their was at the launch of Bushfire Action help firefighters to put it out. 13 acre property. Week to emphasise how ripe the con­ “Many people intend to prepare for The couple initially believed their ditions are for bushfires and the need bushfires but don’t get around to it, preparation was adequate, but when for people to prepare in advance. and then there are those who do the right thing but are not actually as well prepared as we would like them to be. “It’s not just “These are the people we are targeting. The key message is that the season is people in high ahead by six weeks, so you need to bushfire risk bring your preparations forward.” areas who can Residents and absentee landlords be threatened – in high risk areas were among those encouraged to prepare their properties those living near a in advance of the hot weather. park or bushland FESA Community Engagement, Media reserve in the and Public Affairs, career and volunteer Fire and Rescue Service firefighters, metropolitan area Bushfire Ready Groups and Local are also at risk.” Governments all supported the event throughout the week with targeted activities in their local communities.

40 24seven Toodyay bushfire review to enhance FESA operations

“Without this dedication and commitment to ensuring community safety, the outcome could have been very different.”

An independent review into the the fire, however we are looking to learn Government Association, DEC and Toodyay bushfire, one of the from what went well and what can be FESA.” done to improve the way we operate. most damaging in the state’s Craig added that the Toodyay MIR also raised the matter of boosting WA’s history, has found that the “We will determine the changes that can be made to further enhance urban interface firefighting capability, response by emergency services operational effectiveness and boost as well as the need for further clarity was to be commended. community safety.” of command following the recent legislative amendments to the Bushfires As is standard practice following any Craig said the MIR included 13 Amendment Act. significant emergency, FESA has recommendations in the areas of conducted a Major Incident Review (MIR) prevention, preparedness, response “Both issues are an important focus, into the 29 December 2009 bushfire. and organisational issues. as is the information flow to and from a variety of levels within the incident “FESA has placed a high priority on The actions of Toodyay Shire, Bush Fire management structure, including the achieving the identified improvements,” Brigade volunteers, volunteer and career Incident Management Team, Regional he said. Fire and Rescue Service firefighters, Operations Centres, State Operations FESA and Department of Environment “We are now working to address these Centre and FESA Media,” he said. and Conservation (DEC), contributed to recommendations, in consultation “Information flows are acknowledged as no lives being lost. FESA’s preparation with key stakeholders, to help improve a universal issue amongst fire agencies activities, operational effectiveness and processes and systems for the future. across Australia, and this is an aspect recovery efforts were also highly praised “All recommendations are also being we are determined to improve in the in the report. reviewed in conjunction with those of the coming months. Chief Operations Officer Craig Hynes Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission “The creation of pre-formed interagency said despite the significant loss of homes released earlier this year. incident management teams on days of and property, everyone involved including “A dedicated project team has been bad fire weather will also be a feature of the broader community, responded established to develop proposals and new arrangements in this state. exceptionally well. actions that can be incorporated prior “The project team continues to develop “Without this dedication and commit­ to the southern fire season, as well systems and processes that we ment to community safety, the outcome as those systems and processes that will believe can be achieved regionally by could have been very different,” he said. need further work in the longer term. Local Government, FESA and DEC Craig added that it was imperative “The Interagency Bushfire Management operational personnel. lessons were learnt from every incident Committee (IBMC), established by “While work continues on the as this would enhance the emergency the Emergency Services Minister, will recommendations, it must be service provided to all Western oversee and implement the work of recognised that the emergency Australians. the project team through its various response to the bushfire by the local “It was the review team’s opinion that sub committees. The IBMC includes shire, volunteer firefighters and FESA there was nothing further FESA could membership of the Bush Fire Service staff, was remarkable given the have done to change the outcome of Consultative Committee, WA Local catastrophic weather conditions.”

24seven 41 Bushfire season

“A considerable amount of work was done by FESA prior to the 2009–10 bushfire season and the changes have impacted all areas of the agency, not just operations.”

Bushfire outcomes facilitate continued learning

Black Saturday wrote itself The recommendations broadly covered “Since the final Royal Commission report into the record books with the following issues: a number of issues have been resolved unprecedented weather • improved state based warning and amendments are currently being made to Westplan Bushfire.” conditions and fires which tested systems • evacuation Jo said major inclusions to Westplan communities and firefighters • stay or go policy Bushfire include DEC and Local alike. It was a natural disaster • identifying bushfire risk and provision Government being required to keep that will be etched on the minds of refuges FESA informed of bushfires, particularly of Australians for years to come. • incident management those that may escalate. • emergency management planning “It requires that one resource database In the wake of this catastrophic event and coordination be developed across all fire agencies and there has been intense interest in • emergency call services establishment of multi-agency incident the level of preparedness in bushfire Jo said that WA’s fire management management teams,” she said. risk areas. agencies had already adopted national “This is in addition to the integration Chief Executive Officer Jo Harrison‑Ward recommendations which flowed from and standardisation of resource support said that less than two years on, the the Commission’s interim report, and arrangements and systems to ensure the events of the Victorian bushfires of undertaken significant reforms. management function across agencies is February 2009 and subsequent Royal Commission, have provided a platform “The State Government amended the seamless during major fires.” for FESA to reassess its natural disaster Bush Fires Act 1954 to allow FESA to Significant changes made in response arrangements. take control of large or complex fires, in to the findings included WA’s fire addition to Department of Environment “In Western Australia we are committed management agencies adopting the new to making changes that will further and Conservation (DEC) and Local national Fire Danger Rating (FDR) system enhance operational effectiveness and Government being able to hand control and issuing advice to at risk communities community safety,” Jo said. of a fire to each other or FESA,” she said. when catastrophic, extreme and severe fire weather was forecast. “The Commission’s interim report “The Act was also amended to provide delivered in August 2009 contained 51 the necessary powers to direct people to In addition, emergency management recommendations, of which 46 had be evacuated during a major bushfire. plans were developed for catastrophic relevance to WA. “Westplan Bushfire was rewritten last fire danger days across a range of “A considerable amount of work was year to include major changes made as government services including health done by FESA prior to the 2009 –10 a result of the recommendations and and education. bushfire season and the changes have was endorsed by the State Emergency StateAlert, an automated system impacted all areas of the agency, not Management Committee last November that uses web technology to deliver just operations.” as a working draft. emergency warnings to landline phones

42 24seven or mobiles, was implemented and awareness and engagement activities in “FESA is currently consulting with used on eight occasions to send more high risk bushfire areas. relevant Government agencies, than 14,000 emergency warnings July 2010 saw the release of the stakeholders and AFAC before for bushfires. final report of the Victorian Bushfires submitting its recommendations and FESA’s public information system Royal Commission with a further 67 strategies to State Government,” was further enhanced with the recommendations. she said. implementation of the bushfire These additional recommendations “We will be able to address a number of emergency warning system. covered nine key areas: recommendations quickly, while others The public information tools developed • bushfire safety policy (Stay or Go such as land use planning and those of by FESA have been provided to all versus Prepare. Act. Survive.) national interest will take considerably agencies for use during a bushfire to • emergency and incident management more time. ensure consistent safety messages. • fireground response “Work will also continue at a national • electricity caused fires FESA also increased the capacity and level to ensure we are all moving • deliberately lit fires capability of its website to provide in a consistent direction to assess • planning and building national priorities.” information on all major bushfires in WA, • land and fuel management regardless of land tenure, to ensure there • organisational structure Jo added that the FDR roadside was one point of information. • research and evaluation boards would be finalised and the old ones replaced for this season. The new national bushfire community Jo said that while a number of awareness campaign Prepare. Act. the recommendations focused on An audit of current FDR signage has Survive. was adopted by WA and more Victoria, FESA was looking at how fire been undertaken and new signs will than 40,000 kits were distributed and management and response in Western be allocated to make the best use of supported by comprehensive education, Australia can be further enhanced. sponsorship provided by Woodside.

Bushfire Forum brings firefighting personnel together

Around 200 bushfire and local government personnel got together at FESA’s annual forum to communicate and exchange information before the start of the next bushfire season.

The event also provided an ideal “The importance of leadership was opportunity to promote the latest highlighted, with three speakers technological advances in rural fire providing insight into how good protection and discuss other areas of leadership can make even the toughest interest that could impact volunteers. scenarios workable. Bushfire Forum Coordinator Merv Austic “Each speaker gave examples from their said there was a large emphasis on own experience where leadership had proven effective, as well as incidents the significant Toodyay and Midwest that had provided valuable learning bushfires that occurred late last year. opportunities.” “These fires have provided us with Speaker Brett Dowsing from the Royal learning opportunities and areas we can Australian Navy (RAN) discussed improve on in the future,” Merv said. how the crash of the Navy Sea King “The recovery process after significant helicopter at Nias Island provided fires of this scale was also of particular lessons in effective leadership. interest to local governments who play Charlie Wroth, Recovery Coordinator for a crucial role in helping to put the pieces the Toodyay bushfire, spoke about how back together in their communities. critical it was to have recovery processes in place well before a bushfire happens “The forum was aptly titled Keeping up and the importance of looking after the with Change and had a strong focus on community when a disaster occurs. the responsibility of agencies in adapting to environmental and community change. Former Australian Cricket captain Kim Hughes concluded the forum with an “As emergency management agencies, insight into how being an effective leader it’s essential to be able to respond is not as difficult as people may think, and adapt to change in order to move with the key being a good work ethic, forward, and this was a key message positive outlook and a willingness to echoed throughout the forum. work to maximum capacity.

24seven 43 Bushfire season Footy star seeks help from Kimberley kids

Recently retired Fremantle “People here are very lucky to live in deliver FESA’s Good Fire Bad Fire Dockers star Des Headland one of the most beautiful environments education program. reckons the Kimberley is the in the world,” he said. The program has been produced by FESA’s Community Engagement team. best place on earth and went “With all of its natural features there is no place I like to visit more than “There are good fires such as a cooking there to encourage local school the Kimberley. fire that is supervised by adults,” Des children to keep it that way. “Children in the Kimberley can do their told students. The 29 year old AFL forward was in bit to preserve the unique environment “Then there are bad fires like those Broome earlier in the year as a guest of and keep friends and family safe by that are deliberately lit or caused by FESA to launch and raise awareness of not playing with lighters, matches, carelessness. the Kimberley bushfire season. sparklers, candles or fuel that could start “These fires can get out of control and In previous seasons as much as 13 a bushfire.” destroy the environment and wildlife, million hectares of the region has been The popular footballer personally burn down your house and endanger destroyed by bushfires. took his message to more than 650 people’s lives.” Des said one of his favourite holiday school children during a visit to Cable Des spoke to school assemblies and memories was crabbing with locals in the Beach Primary School and St Mary’s visited classrooms to follow up on pristine Dampier Peninsula. Primary School where he helped to promoting key bushfire messages.

Former Fremantle Dockers AFL player Des Headland proved a popular drawcard when he visited Broome schools to promote FESA’s education program Good Fire Bad Fire.

44 24seven “These fires can get out Aerial controlled burning of control and destroy the environment and wildlife, a success in Kimberley burn down your house and endanger people’s lives.” Pastoralists in the Kimberley “We use the latest incendiary equipment are taking advantage of FESA’s featuring technology that directly annual aerial burning program downloads flight paths on to maps and links with a management plan. to reduce the impact of volatile He allowed students to ask him “Working at around 80 knots, a large questions about sport and spent bushfires that occur late in the back burn can be implemented in a time outdoors playing football dry season. short space of time. This provides the with them. West Kimberley District Manager Kim opportunity to burn later in the evening, Des later visited Broome Camp Maldon said undertaking strategic cold reducing the intensity of the fire and School where high school students burns assisted with land management. subsequent damage to the land. from Halls Creek, Fitzroy Crossing “The fire breaks that are created lessen “The choppers work really well and are and Derby were based while in the impact of any bushfires on Kimberley preferred by pastoralists who utilise Broome for the Kimberley Cup communities, infrastructure, flora and the service.” school sports week. fauna,” he said. Kim added that FESA worked closely One of the highlights of the trip “Aerial controlled burning reduces fuel with local shires and participating captured by local television news loads and provides buffers to prevent pastoral stations when planning and was of Des playing football with the spread of fire. It also provides a implementing the program. remote Aboriginal students on Cable suitable area from which to fight an “The program has been running for many Beach at sunset. uncontrolled fire.” years and is constantly under review and Kimberley Regional Director Kim said there had been a recent move improvement,” he said. Rob Cox said the visit was a huge to the use of helicopters rather than fixed success and tapped directly into the “On average around 30 pastoral stations wing aircraft. key target audience for bushfires. participate annually.” “Helicopters offer greater flexibility “The aim of the promotion among For the first time this year details of with delivery as there is no need for an school children was to reduce the the controlled burns were posted on airstrip,” he said. number of bushfires starting this the FESA website to keep residents season,” he said. “They are also more accurate when it and travellers in the area informed and comes to placing incendiaries. up to date. “Last year a raging bushfire threatened lives and property in Coconut Wells near Broome.” Rob added that people in the Kimberley should expect a long and potentially dangerous bushfire season this year due to unseasonal weather. “In some places we saw the wettest May in 61 years and this has prevented us implementing some of our annual controlled burning programs,” he said. “There is a higher risk of bushfires starting late in the season when it is hotter and more fuel is available to burn. “This will make it harder for firefighters to put the fires out.” Rob also urged people living or travelling through the Kimberley to be vigilant and to do their best not to start bushfires. Aerial controlled burning in the Kimberley reduces the impact of bushfires.

24seven 45 awards & recognition VERP Awards include dedicated business owners

Husband and wife business Control Officer for the local shire, Murray “It is a pleasure to bring such flexible owners Murray and Tracy said anyone would have done the same. and understanding employers into McBride’s holiday last December “Many of our contractors often have to the spotlight and thank them by way of a FESA Volunteer Employer was cut short when the Toodyay delay work because they are also Fire and Rescue Service volunteers,” he said. Recognition Program.” bushfire broke out. “We just stop and deal with a fire when The 2010 VERP Awards included 19 Although they were in Walpole when needed - when something has to be Gold award recipients, 49 in the Silver the call came in, the couple had no done, we do it.” category and 11 in the Bronze. A list hesitation in packing up and driving the The couple’s company McBride of the winners can be found on the eight hours back to Toodyay, arriving Contracting was among 79 employers Volunteer Extranet. home at midnight. throughout the state who this year After a short sleep they started their first received Volunteer Employer Recognition shift at 5.30am, Murray as operations Program (VERP) Awards from FESA manager and Tracy as his scribe. for the efforts they go to in supporting “We ran the incident control for 10 days,” emergency services volunteers and Murray said. contributing to community safety. “There was no way we could not have Chief Executive Officer Jo Harrison‑Ward come back to Toodyay after being told said many hundreds of employers from about the fire. It’s a bit hard to sit down around Western Australia regularly allow there on holidays when you know all the their emergency services volunteer brigades are home slogging it out.” employees to take time off from work to Murray said that while not being at work help their local communities. meant the business got behind and “These volunteers stop what they are returning from holiday involved cutting doing and leave paid employment into personal time, he did not regard it as so they can respond instantly when a big deal. the community needs them, in spite A member of the Toodyay Volunteer Fire of the disruption to workplaces and FESA Volunteer Employer Recognition Program Silver Award Winner Murray McBride with and Rescue Service and Chief Bush Fire customers,” Jo said. CEO Jo Harrison-Ward.

VERP 2010 winners gather at the presentation ceremony in Perth Government House Ballroom with (front centre) FESA Board Chairman Allan Skinner and CEO Jo Harrison-Ward.

46 24seven Outstanding firefighters celebrated

The 2010 Firefighting Awards highlighting the achievements and efforts of firefighters from around the state were announced at a ceremony in October. Chief Executive Officer Jo Harrison-Ward said it was fitting to pay tribute to the dedication of both career and volunteer firefighters on the eve of an early start to the bushfire season. “The role of firefighter can be challenging and demanding and the Firefighting Awards publicly demonstrate appreciation to our personnel who provide such a vital emergency service for the community,” Jo said. “They are for those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty, and we are very fortunate to have such devoted, capable and enterprising firefighters here in Western Australia.”

AWARD WINNERS Youth Achievement Award Winner Sean Rose, Career FRS Award Winner Les Holden, Murray Lang Bush Fire Service of WA Award Winner Brian May and Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Award Career Fire and Rescue Service Winner Jeffery Drage enjoy a moment after the presentation ceremony. Award Les Holden – Project Officer Special Risks Branch “The Firefighting Awards publicly demonstrate In his voluntary role as Chairman of the Occupational Safety and Health appreciation to our personnel who provide such a Committee for the Fire and Rescue vital emergency service for the community.” Service, Les has been instrumental in promoting and improving firefighter safety. His commitment extends to often compassion for people whose homes The blaze seriously threatened many carrying out duties in his own personal have been destroyed or damaged by properties including his own near time. He has also utilised his knowledge fire was evidenced when he developed Torndirrup. When returning home after as an electrician to good advantage in a community welfare fund within mopping up operations, he found the the Special Risks Branch, particularly the brigade. Funds raised help with fire had seriously damaged fences and for projects relating to mitigation of emergency food, accommodation and pasture. risks posed to firefighters by potential other essentials for those who have Youth Achievement Award electrical hazards such as solar and been disadvantaged. alternate energy systems. Sean Rose - Carnarvon Volunteer Murray Lang Bush Fire Service Award Fire and Rescue Service Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Sean joined the Carnarvon brigade as a Award Brian May - South Coast Bush Fire Brigade volunteer firefighter at age 17 and during Jeffery Drage - Mount Barker the past five years has fulfilled several Brian has been a dedicated Bush Fire Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service roles including that of Lieutenant and Jeff has held a number of roles in the Brigade volunteer for more than 30 Secretary. Recently he has taken on the brigade throughout his 20 years as a years, serving in many roles including responsibility of Captain, displaying drive, volunteer firefighter, including a short that of Captain. He mentors new enthusiasm and high level leadership stint as Captain and also Secretary for members and has a wealth of experience and management skills. Sean has been 13 years. He is committed to educating and local knowledge. His steadfast deployed on several extended incidents children about fire safety and regularly dedication to firefighting was evident well outside the fire district and is volunteers a week of his own time to during a large bushfire in March 2010 at strongly committed to volunteering and run school visits at the station. His Little Grove near Albany. giving back to the community.

24seven 47 awards & recognition Dedication of marine rescue volunteers recognised

Volunteers from around the “We are very fortunate to have more state and as far away as the than 1,300 active marine rescue volunteers protecting locals and visitors Cocos Islands converged on in our aquatic environment.” Perth for the 2010 Volunteer The awards took place during the Marine Rescue WA (VMRWA) annual three day VMRWA conference, Shane Adams receives his award from FESA Awards and Conference. which included a Commanders Forum Board Chairman Allan Skinner. on day one. FESA Board Chairman Allan Skinner FESA Volunteer Marine Rescue Services Award for Youth presented the awards and said VMRS Regional Manager Paul Kimber Achievement: Adam Riley, dedicated and committed volunteers said the conference was an opportunity Christmas Island Volunteer Marine to exchange ideas and learn from were helping to build a safer Rescue Group Cadet Team community in WA on the water. presentations by key stakeholders Adam has demonstrated outstanding “Last year marine rescue volunteers including the West Australian Water commitment, leadership qualities and responded to 630 search and rescue Police and St John Ambulance. community participation throughout 2010. calls and devoted more than 14,000 “High on the conference agenda was He is a great role model for young people volunteer hours to prepare for and discussion about future strategic throughout Western Australia. respond to incidents,” Mr Skinner said. directions for marine rescue,” Paul “In addition they also put in thousands said. “There was a great turnout by of hours monitoring the movement of volunteers from all over WA and it was recreational vessels and training. a very successful event.”

2010 VMRS Awards winners

Paul Kimber Award for Excellence in seamanship and courage. Members Volunteer Marine Rescue Services: have provided an exceptional service Winner Adam Riley was represented by his Bremer Bay Volunteer Marine during times of extreme hardship. grandfather Mr Riley senior (centre), shown here Rescue Group with CEO Jo Harrison-Ward and FESA Board The group was recognised for Chairman Allan Skinner. its achievements in outstanding Department of Transport Award group management, leadership and for Excellence in Marine Safety: development during 2010. Albany Sea Rescue Squad Albany Sea Rescue Squad members have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the training of recreational mariners. Through their efforts safety on the water has been significantly enhanced. Deputy Commander George Barnes receives the award on behalf of Esperance Sea Search and Rescue Group. FESA Volunteer Marine Rescue Services Award for an Outstanding Corrine Hobbs (second left) and Michael Member: Shane Adams, Christmas Batchelor (far right) are congratulated by FESA Island Volunteer Marine Rescue CEO Jo Harrison-Ward (left) and FESA Board Group Chairman Allan Skinner (second from right). Shane has demonstrated outstanding leadership, reliability, dependability and VMRWA Award for Excellence in effort contributing to the success, growth Volunteer Marine Rescue Services and development of the Christmas Island Chris Johns accepts the award on behalf of the Group Operations: Esperance Sea Volunteer Marine Rescue Group. He has Albany Sea Rescue Squad. Search and Rescue Group been involved in many projects including Thirteen Volunteer Marine Rescue The group continues to provide an marine education, training, fundraising members and four companies also outstanding marine rescue service in and membership retention initiatives. received FESA Meritorious Service the Great Southern region exemplifying Shane’s leadership and enthusiasm has Awards recognising their commitment excellence in group operations, been inspirational. to the service.

48 24seven SES Awards power on

The SES Awards acknowledge the extraordinary commitment made by State Emergency Service volunteers to their community. This year’s outstanding recipients were recently announced at a celebration dinner in Burswood’s Astral Ballroom.

Emergency Services Minister Rob Johnson (second row, third from left) and CEO Jo Harrison-Ward (fourth from right), with Awards finalists and winners.

Peter Keillor Award Youth Achievement Award Conference draws the net wide Winner: Trevor Patton, Winner: Phillip Hale, The annual SES Conference with its Karratha SES Unit Bayswater SES Unit theme of We Serve Safely took place on Trevor joined Karratha SES 25 years Phillip has been a SES member for more 12 and 13 November at Perth’s Mercure ago and has held the roles of Deputy than a year and since joining has willingly Hotel. It covered a wide variety of topics Rescue Officer, Rescue Officer and for participated in all duties assigned to and featured guest speaker, former West the past five years, Local Manager. He him. He is at the forefront of every unit Coast Eagles player Glenn Jakovich. has worked across the spectrum of operation and is quick to suggest a A representative from the Australian SES operations including a number of course of action when needed. Phillip Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) also major cyclone callouts, searches and cliff is highly skilled and has the ability to presented, along with a volunteer from rescues. Trevor regularly leaves work to efficiently organise a group to carry out the Victorian SES and FESA staff. attend emergencies and so far this year tasks. He provides assistance during Local SES volunteers from each WA has devoted more than 1,000 hours to training and is always ready to help region also got the opportunity to update training, operations and planning. He has others, displaying a level of confidence delegates on what was happening in a passion for achieving excellence and beyond his 20 years. their patch. his dedication to the SES is impressive. Team Achievement Award Winner: Mandurah SES Unit Training Section Mandurah SES has developed an enthusiastic and highly skilled team of qualified trainers and assessors over the last few years. They have achieved outstanding results in developing volunteer competencies and are willing to put in extraordinary hours, over and above the norm, to deliver quality training. The team has also taken on responsibility for providing valuable 2010 SES Awards winners (l-r): Team Achievement Award - Mandurah SES represented by training support to other SES units Ross Jones, Will Norris and Kylee-Anne Grubb; Peter Keillor Award - Trevor Patton of Karratha including those in the South West. SES; and Youth Achievement Award - Phillip Hale of Bayswater SES.

24seven 49 awards & recognition Volunteer Emergency Service and Fire Service Awards

Western Australia has more than 500 dedicated Volunteer Emergency Service (VES) and 350 Volunteer Fire Service (VFS) personnel, all of whom play an important role in protecting the community. The annual awards are an opportunity to recognise the valuable support that these volunteers provide to emergency services.

Outstanding Volunteer Unit Award The success of a VES unit or VFS brigade is a direct result of cohesive and enthusiastic teamwork. This is crucial Back row (l-r): Bede Gilbert - Halls Creek VES, Cameron Lindley - Halls Creek VES, Harry Louw - to ensuring volunteer members can Bremer Bay VES, Lynette Varris - Morawa VFS, John Iffla - Bremer Bay VES, Gavin Stevens - Halls meet their commitments in regard to Creek VES Front: Mike Quinlan - Ballidu VFS,Trevor Mauger - Northhampton VFS, Albert Jacob JP, MLA - prevention, preparedness, response and Member for Ocean Reef, Michael McKinlay - Wyndham VES and Bryan Trezona - Tambellup VES. recovery in their own communities. The award recognises a unit or brigade that Winner: Cameron Lindley, Halls attending call outs in all kinds of weather, demonstrates these important qualities. Creek Volunteer Emergency Service day or night, she ensures that unit Cameron has been a member of Halls appliances and equipment are kept in Winner: Bremer Bay Volunteer Creek VES since 2007 and took on excellent order. Lynette is also committed Emergency Service the role of Officer in Charge (OIC) the to promoting safety messages to the This VES unit was instrumental in next year at age 22. After six months community and schools. Thanks to developing a local fire prevention working away he returned to the unit her coordination, public displays and strategy in consultation with Point Henry and now holds the position of Training activities are always a success. residents and Albany FESA Regional Officer, supporting the development of office staff. The local shire council the current OIC. Cameron is a strong, FESA Award for Excellence unanimously supported the proposals. committed and dedicated volunteer who This is the most prestigious award. Unlike In addition, Bremer Bay VES involved has led the reform of the unit and has the Outstanding VES and VFS Member volunteers and FESA staff in a risk the respect of all members and FESA Awards, this category is not restricted management plan of proposed walk district staff. Highly skilled and trained, to activities related specifically to a VES trails in Fitzgerald National Park and later he attends call outs, organises training unit or VFS brigade and may encompass met with stakeholders to submit their drills and burn offs, and also encourages other emergency services roles. and develops new members. ideas. The plan aims to help provide a Winner: Bryan Trezona, Tambellup safer and more manageable environment Outstanding Volunteer Member Volunteer Emergency Service for volunteers and trail users. Award Bryan’s commitment and dedication to Youth Achievement Award This award is for VES and VFS members emergency services goes back prior who continually go above and beyond This award recognises the dedication to the unit’s establishment in 2001. At what is expected of them. It recognises and contribution of young emergency the time he was on a local committee those who have made an outstanding services members who are tomorrow’s raising funds to acquire much needed contribution to their unit or service and leaders and senior emergency rescue equipment and a storage trailer. unit operations over the past year. personnel. It is an important award He worked closely with the shire and this that encourages and fosters younger Winner: Lynette Varris, Morawa liaison eventually led to formation of the members and their commitment to Volunteer Fire Service Tambellup VES in 2005. Bryan was the their local communities. Nominees Lynette is an outstanding and highly founding Officer in Charge, a role he still need to be 25 years or younger to be valued volunteer who fulfils the role of holds today. He has worked tirelessly recognised in this category and have Administration Officer with the service. to recruit and provide support to all demonstrated a strong commitment to She can be relied upon to go the extra members, as well as securing funding to emergency services. mile to get things done and in addition to extend the unit premises.

50 24seven Honours flow for emergency services personnel

This year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours List for Western Australia has produced four worthy recipients. The medals presented recognise the distinguished service of members of the Australian Fire Service and emergency services, including people involved in emergency management, training or education.

AUSTRALIAN FIRE SERVICE MEDAL Robert Henry STONER AFSM Bassendean Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Robert (Bob) Stoner has devoted more than 50 years of service to the Bassendean Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service as a firefighter and office bearer. Bob has also coached a number of junior and senior State Championship teams. He is a regular competition judge and remarkably has not missed a championship event since 1952. Bob has received numerous service awards over the years for his exceptional dedication and commitment to the brigade and community. Governor of Western Australia Ken Michael (right) presents the Queen’s Birthday medals to recipients.

EMERGENCY SERVICES MEDAL Alfred George BAIRSTOW ESM Colin James BAIRSTOW ESM Gary GIFFORD ESM Albany Sea Rescue Squad Albany Sea Rescue Squad FESA Alfred (Fred) Bairstow played a leading Colin Bairstow joined the Albany Sea Assistant Chief Operations Officer role in establishing the Albany Sea Rescue Squad as a volunteer at age 14, Natural Hazard Planning and Response Rescue Squad in 1974. His dedication when the group was founded in 1974. He Gary Gifford was nominated in and commitment to the community for has been involved in countless maritime recognition of his dedication to duty more than 35 years has been evident search and rescue operations and and outstanding leadership during through his efforts to expand and currently holds the position of Engineer many of the state’s most significant improve group facilities, equipment and Senior Skipper. Colin was actively natural disasters. Gary has been and training. Fred has performed the involved in raising funds for the purchase instrumental in improving FESA’s role of skipper, trainer and mentor. He of rescue vessels and equipment, and operational preparedness and response has been involved in countless rescues was instrumental in refurbishment of the capabilities through his work in natural in the Great Southern Ocean, often in club’s first headquarters and relocation to hazard planning for earthquake, treacherous conditions. new premises at Emu Point Marina. cyclone, tsunami, flood and storm.

The following personnel passed away this year. Deepest sympathy and sincere condolences are extended to their families, friends and work colleagues.

Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Fire and Rescue Service Senior Volunteer Fire and Rescue Raymond Beales (retired) – Firefighter (retired) Gary Brookes – Service Ken Turner – Guildford VFRS (previously Captain, Fremantle FRS Bridgetown VFRS (previously Secretary and Foreman) Fire and Rescue Service Station Officer Captain and Secretary) Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (retired) Peter Cramp – Daglish FRS FESA Rural Operations Officer Bruce Bonner – Newman VFRS State Emergency Service Volunteer – Bushfire Service (retired) (previously Captain and Secretary) Henry Edwards – Communications Roger Weston Support Unit, Belmont

24seven 51 awards & recognition Awards highlight community safety initiatives

Eight Western Australian projects have attracted awards in the state category of the annual Australian Safer Communities Awards. Emergency Services Minister Rob Johnson said the awards highlighted best practice and innovation in projects that are helping to keep our communities safe. “People throughout the state face a range of emergencies on a daily basis from bushfires, storms, floods and cyclones to health crises, crimes and traffic crashes,” Mr Johnson said. “Our award nominees are among many WA award winners (l-r): FESA StateAlert Project Coordinator Mike Klenner, FESA Education and West Australians constantly working to Heritage Centre Coordinator Su Ferreira, Emergency Services Minister Rob Johnson and Jacqui make sure communities are prepared for Gollner and Tim Hartland from City of Mandurah. these emergencies so that we fare better and recover faster. The project is a joint collaboration format. Layered PDF mapping also “The quality of nominations received in between FESA and WA Police, and is provides rapid filtering of relevant this year’s awards underlines the valuable intended for use by hazard management spatial information. Other WA local work that is being done to help keep agencies needing to deliver urgent governments have expressed interest in us safe. information to communities and adapting the model prior to the 2010/11 “It is pleasing to see a diversity of projects individuals facing an imminent threat or bushfire season. risk. As an additional delivery system, addressing different situations and FESA – Kimberley Highway it is designed to complement existing providing solutions to reduce the risk.” Prescribed Buffer Burning communications. The 2010 State winners, who automat- FESA’s Bush Fire and Environmental ically become finalists in the National FESA – Education and Heritage Centre Protection Branch and Kimberley Awards, are: This project involves the redevelopment regional staff, Main Roads WA, local City of Mandurah – ‘My Train’ project of the old Perth Fire Station into the first government and the Pastoralists and multi-hazard community education facility This project addresses community safety Graziers Association have undertaken in Australia. The aim was to create a and crime prevention, both of which prescribed burning of Kimberley road venue focused on increasing community were identified as major concerns for the reserves. This prevents destructive understanding of natural hazards and Mandurah community in two separate late dry season bushfires which often disasters using interactive learning. The surveys. A range of strategies have break out in road reserves. They can design outcome was a dedicated all been developed to provide a safe and then spread to neighbouring pastoral enjoyable experience for people travelling hazards education gallery using four properties, posing a threat to remote within Mandurah’s transit precinct. This thematic areas of earth, wind, fire and Indigenous communities, pastoralists includes the use of the foreshore shuttle, water. Education programs were also and road users. The process involved the train and public bus systems, and developed including curriculum linked identifying and protecting culturally footpaths and roadways within a 1.6 programs for schools and targeted sensitive sites, declared and priority kilometre radius of the Mandurah train groups including people with disabilities, flora and fauna, developing burning station. The project has established Indigenous communities and seniors. prescriptions, conducting the burning and networks and formalised processes that The ‘Highly Commended’ projects are: analysing the fire behaviour. The result has been significantly reduced unplanned will continue to monitor and progress City of Armadale – Bushfire bushfire impact and the project has community safety initiatives in Mandurah. Management Arrangements reaped multiple benefits including FESA – StateAlert Emergency The City of Armadale in conjunction with less environmental harm, increased Warning System FESA developed an interactive guide to community protection, better pastoral StateAlert is an emergency management assist bushfire management. The booklet production and enhanced tourism appeal. tool that utilises mapping technology and provides links to key documentation telephone data to geographically target supporting local, regional and state Child and Adolescent Health Service and deliver critical public information to arrangements. It is supported with a – Project Code Red landlines and registered mobile phones. CD that allows operational personnel A comprehensive review was carried Messages can also be sent via email and to access quick link information that out at Princess Margaret (PMH) and RSS feed. otherwise would be kept in hard copy King Edward Memorial Hospitals

52 24seven (KEMH) to improve response to a Code Red (fire) emergency. It focused on staff preparedness, Volunteers dedicate resources and education. The risk assessment identified that staff did not have the required training and 725 years to community resources to prevent or respond to emergency events. Since the project’s implementation more staff have been Thirty one Western Australian emergency services volunteers trained at a higher level and a range of from the State Emergency Service, Volunteer Fire and Rescue resources updated. This has resulted Service (VFRS) and Bush Fire Service have been honoured for in increased safety and resilience at a local level and additional support during their contribution to the community. an emergency. The improvement was noted during a fire at KEMH earlier this Emergency Services Minister Rob VFRS, both of whom are receiving year where the process was exemplary. Johnson said that by their nature their third clasps for 45 years of KEMH and PMH are also the first health volunteers were very giving people. service,” he said. care facilities in Western Australia to “It is an extraordinary effort to “Congratulations also go to Stanley incorporate a laser fire extinguisher dedicate 15 years or more of your Tait from Albany VFRS who is system into their training programs. life to helping other people in need,” receiving his fourth clasp for an City of Bayswater – Business he said. amazing 55 years of service.” Continuity Plan “This has been highlighted a number The National Medal is awarded for The rapid increase of 2009 human of times in the last year when our 15 years of diligent service, while first swine (H1N1) flu cases in Australia state experienced some of the worst clasps are for 25 years and second prompted the City to assess its natural disasters in recent history.” preparedness for a pandemic. clasps 35 years of service. Both the A Business Continuity Plan (BCP) Mr Johnson highlighted the contri- medal and clasp are prestigious was developed to identify how the bution of three volunteers who honours, approved by the Australian council’s essential internal and external have served the community for an Governor-General. Recipients must services would function during extreme exceptional amount of time. be part of an organisation that helps staff absenteeism due to illness. “Special mention must be made of the community during times of crisis, Departments within the City were Kenneth Seath from Merredin VFRS protecting life and property at some consulted to identify functions and and Norman Whitburn from York personal risk. priorities, provide information about the potential impact of an outage due to loss of staff, as well as assign staff responsible for BCP activation and development of a recovery plan. This data will be vital in the development of solutions and actions to ensure continuity of critical City services during a pandemic. City of Geraldton-Greenough – Operation Torch Exercise ‘Operation Torch’ took place at the Geraldton Port and revolved around a crash between a truck carrying hazardous chemicals and a bus with passengers which had impacted a train. It required a multi-agency skilled response from the City of Geraldton- Greenough and a range of emergency service stakeholders. A local production company was engaged by the City to produce a DVD documentary of the operation. The DVD not only assisted at the exercise debrief, but has also improved stakeholder relationships and contributed to increased Volunteers honoured at the 2010 National Medal presentation. Front (l-r): Peter Cunningham, Ian community resilience to disasters. Hammond, Jacob Teraci, Emergency Services Minister Rob Johnson, Christopher Barrington and As a result the local community has Norman Whitburn. Back (l-r): Peter Liddle, Colin Malcolm, Phillip Russell, Leslie Woodcock, David gained a better understanding of the De Vries, Craig Bowers, William De Vries, David Spice, Carol Korb and Peter Blows. skills and preparation required for emergency management.

24seven 53 awards & recognition

The large contingent of career Fire and Rescue Service firefighters and FESA staff at the medal presentation ceremony. Emergency Services Minister Rob Johnson is pictured second row, sixth from left. Career and staff medals acknowledge service In a departure from tradition, acknowledged had dedicated more than Included in the National Medals the contribution of firefighters, 1,600 years of combined service to the was Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) officers and staff was recently Western Australian community. Firefighter Colin Burgess. recognised at a combined “Each person receiving a National “Today marks an important milestone Medal, Service Clasp or Diligent Services in Firefighter Burgess’ career as he has National Medal and Emergency Medal has shown a strong belief in and served the community for 40 years,” Services Diligent Service Medal commitment to the safety of our state,” (ESDSM) ceremony. Mr Johnson said. Minister Johnson said. Emergency Services Minister Rob “The collective experience to be found “This deserves special recognition Johnson said the Fire and Rescue Service within this group is invaluable and all are and I congratulate him on his fantastic firefighters, officers and FESA staff being worthy medal recipients.” achievement.”

Promoted Station Officers fired up for duty Fifteen Fire and Rescue Service Firefighters promoted to the rank of Station Officer were officially recognised at a recent presentation ceremony. The occasion was also an opportunity to award National and Emergency Service Distinguished Service medals.

Assistant Chief Operations Officer “Four firefighters had previous “All the firefighters undertook an Metropolitan Lloyd Bailey said a few of competencies recognised, while others induction program delivered by FESA the firefighters had followed different completed the eight week Incident staff to ensure they were ready to hit paths to achieve their promotion. Command Course,” he said. the road running as the Fire and Rescue Service’s newest station officers. “Congratulations go to Station Officer (SO) David Young who produced an outstanding effort to be selected as Dux of the course.” The Western Australian Emergency Service Diligent Service Medal for those who have served 15 years in the field, was presented to SOs Kim Van Aalen, Warren Male, Cliff Williams and David Young. SOs Aaron Cuthbert, Cliff Williams and David Young received the Back (l-r): Clint Kuchel, Drew Graham, Jason Merritt, Warren Male, Rob Lim, Bernie Kinney, Earle Richardson, National Medal recognising 15 years Pat Dowling, Antony Wood, Cliff Williams, Aaron Cuthbert and John Blackledge. Front: Mel Cooper, Andrew Hinton, of diligent service. CEO Jo Harrison-Ward, Chief Operations Officer Craig Hynes, Dave Young and Julian Diletti.

54 24seven Business award celebrates FESA Beaumont BFB quiet achievers Chief Executive Officer Jo Harrison-Ward is the proud recognised award winner of the Western The hard work and 255 years of Australian White Pages service of Beaumont Bush Fire Community and Government Brigade (BFB) members was Award in the annual 2010 Telstra celebrated recently at a local Business Women’s Awards. firefighters ball. The awards recognise, reward Esperance Chief Bushfire Control Officer Tom Brown was presented with and celebrate the achievements of a National Medal and two clasps for 35 inspirational business women. years of dedicated service. Jo said although the award was a great There were also medals and clasps personal achievement, it also highlighted awarded to Beaumont BFB Captain the excellent work of FESA’s staff Peter Harkess, founding Beaumont BFB and volunteers. member Mark Biven and Rod Norwood, “The award is strong recognition, not who were all recognised for 25 years of service. just for me, but for the work of FESA, CEO Jo Harrison-Ward with National Sales our 1,400 staff and 32,000 volunteers Director Government and Premium White Another seven Beaumont BFB members Pages Neil Edgar. that we support,” she said. were recognised for five years of service and a further 11 for ten years of service. “I love FESA and what we stand Jo said she thought it was important for Chief Executive Officer Jo Harrison-Ward for. Everyone in our organisation is women in the workplace to have strong said it was an outstanding achievement committed to helping the community role models. for the brigade. prevent, prepare for, respond to or “Women are the quiet achievers of our “It was a privilege to be there to present recover from emergencies - these society and around this state they are the medals and recognise the efforts of are the people that keep Western doing some amazing work in a lot of the brigade,” Jo said. Australians safe.” non traditional fields,” she said. Jo said the award win was the second “At FESA we can now boast some of best highlight of her career. the most talented and dedicated female “The first was the day I had the privilege managers and directors that I have ever of being appointed the first female CEO had the pleasure of working with. of FESA,” she said. “Fire and emergency services is not a “I was taught very early in life to never traditional industry for women, but it is shy away from a challenge if it is one where women are starting to make something you truly believe in, and I a big difference, and I am really proud CEO Jo Harrison-Ward (centre) with medal passionately believe in FESA.” to be leading that change.” recipients (l-r): Tom Brown, Peter Harkness, Mark Biven and Rod Norwood. New cadet boat a real PEACH Mandurah Water Rescue’s Cadet Program Coordinator Wayne Cadet program has been Nock said the new boat would be put to good use and the group was grateful for strengthened following the the donation. donation of a new boat “I feel really confident putting cadets out courtesy of Alcoa employees. on the water in this boat,” he said. The boat was purchased with money “Some cadets haven’t even touched a from a program known as PEACH boat before they join us, so to have that - Personnel Employed at Alcoa confidence in the craft is reassuring.” Charity Help. Alcoa employee and PEACH administrator John Lawrence said it was great to know PEACH is a group of employees from Mandurah Water Rescue Cadet Zoe Sutton in the Alcoa’s Waroona operations who the cadets would benefit from the gift. new boat, with Alcoa representatives (l-r): John designate a portion of their salary to “It is very satisfying to know our Lawrence, Mark Russell and Scott Hansen. a trust fund, which is then given to donation will help the cadets with their community groups. development and training,” he said.

24seven 55 Youth Quiet Lion Tour life changing for cadet

Travelling along the infamous Burma-Thai Railway proved eye opening for one cadet who has a new appreciation and understanding for what prisoners of war (POWs) went through.

Senior Emergency Services Cadet “I now have a different point of view on James Karsakis from Kingsway what is important and appreciate how Christian College was part of the annual blessed we are to live in this country.” pilgrimage to Thailand to learn about the James kept a diary of his trip and construction of the railway. recounts some of his experiences below: James said the Quiet Lion tour was the 19 April experience of a lifetime and he found it Today we went to the Thai Burma really moving. Railway Centre. One thing that really “It made me realise that you can’t struck me was some text that explained fully comprehend the extent of what why there were pegs in a sleeper. It said Australian POWs went through from just “for every peg, 500 people died”. As you reading text books,” James said. looked up at this huge sleeper towering “By touring the railway, including Hellfire overhead it was amazing to see how Pass where many lost their lives, I began many pegs there were. I didn’t want to to better understand and respect what count them. these people did to protect our country.” 23 April Senior Emergency Services Cadet James Karsakis and ex-POW Snow Fairclough. James said one of the high points of Tonight after dinner all the students the trip was meeting ex-POW Milton either sang a song or read a poem to Fairclough, known to most as Snow. the POWs. At the end of the night I the ball in when it went out of play. It was so much fun and the game went on for “I can’t imagine what ordeals Snow was presented with a gift from Snow Fairclough which was totally unexpected. most of the day. must have gone through over there, He wrote me a thank you letter because but he has remained incredibly 27 April I had watched out for him and looked positive,” James said. As I walked through the airport I after him on the tour. He also gave me remembered all of the fantastic times “He is a strong and truly inspirational a full copy of his entire life story that that I had in Thailand and the remarkable person, and someone I will remember explained what he had gone through things I experienced. I learnt so much all my life.” during his time of capture. That night I about the culture as well as the history read one of the five books. It was sad James said the trip had given him a of Thailand. Thanks to experiences such but also amazing. sense of perspective on life and after as the Quiet Lion Tour I know that the returning he has looked at things 24 April people who once fought for us, for me, differently. It was time for the annual ANZAC Cup will never be forgotten. “When I complain about having to do Football Match where the POWs were The tour is an annual event sponsored school work and then think about what guests of honour. Three other boys and by FESA and serves as an opportunity some people have gone through, my I were chosen to be boundary umpires for one lucky cadet to learn some of the worries seem insignificant,” he said. and I got to use the whistle and throw history of Australians in World War Two.

Skills put to the test in leadership course

Forty Emergency Service Zoe Sutton from Mandurah Water Cadets and Juniors recently Rescue Cadets won the Achievement Award on the course. The T Group took part in a four day Challenge Award went to K9 Group leadership and instructional which included cadets Aiden skills workshop at Point Ditewig (John Septimus Roe ESCC), Peron. Participants had fun Emma Cook (Mandurah Water Rescue undertaking character building Cadet Group), Taylor Maselli (Hamilton ESCC), Alix Lincoln (Tom Price ESCC), exercises that tested their Rowan Fitch (Scotch College ESCC), leadership, team work and Alsa Padayachee (Melville ESCC) and problem solving skills. Daniel Sandwell (Cecil Andrews ESCC). Award winning cadet Zoe Sutton.

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