EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT IN SUMMER 2007-08 ISSUE 21

AGEING POPULATION A PRIORITY

THE AGEING OF THE POPULATION NOT ONLY DEMANDS ACTION NOW BUT ALSO DEMANDS PARTNERSHIPS THAT ARE STRATEGIC, SUSTAINABLE AND PRO-ACTIVE.

MFB Firefighters working closely with older people. OLDER PEOPLE aged 65 years and over are one services are commonly referred to as IN THIS ISSUE: of the highest fire risk groups in the community. community care and can include: homecare; In , people in this category currently personal care; assistance with shopping; comprise about 13% of the population, yet transport assistance to appointments and From the Desk 2 represent nearly 23% of fire fatalities. This high socialisation; access to home maintenance; fire risk continues to grow each year as they home modifications; equipment and aids; in State Government age, almost doubling by the age of 80. home and residential respite; day activity Announcements 9 Over the coming decades, the number of people groups; and allied health services. in this age group will rise to unprecedented For fire services, these changes will translate levels and they will increasingly opt for into the growth of the highest fire risk group, community ‘in home’ care, over that provided in who will remain living in the community with Climate Change 6 facility-based care. The convergence of these higher levels of disability than ever before. This two trends will have significant implications for situation presents a clear imperative for fire fire services in every developed nation. services to act.

CURRENT AND FUTURE TRENDS SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES Major changes are projected for the The community education department of the Training 10 composition of Australian society. By 2031, Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Services Board people age 65 years and over will represent (MFB) identified that the way to reach older nearly a quarter of the population. people most at risk was through the people who As people age, they are more likely to suffer provide care to them. from illness and disability, and require support The Commonwealth Department of Health and Awards & Events 14 and assistance to maintain their independence. Ageing advises that there are in excess of 5,000 By 2016, the single largest cause of disability in separate agencies providing community care older people in Australia will be dementia. services in Australia, with 1,000 in the state of Regardless of what disability is experienced by Victoria alone. They include local, state and older people, those requiring support – including federal governments, religious, community, not- EM Projects 13 people with advanced dementia – are choosing for-profit and private agencies. EM Movements 16 to remain in their own homes, rather than accept facility-based care. These ‘in home’ Continued on page 8 1 FROM THE DESK

This year we must continue to engage with There is no one answer to this question, no communities and redouble our efforts to one right approach. Many organisations and ensure the community hears and understands agencies have fantastic programs to reach the message of personal responsibility, that communities whether they are aged or they too have a role in their own safety. culturally and linguistically diverse. It is my hope that we will be able to learn from each It is well recognised by emergency service other and lead the way in community agencies, that no longer do we work for the engagement. community – we work with the community. The challenge for the sector now is how do we For emergency sector agencies, personal engage the disengaged – the disinterested? responsibility is the new safety frontline. Empowered communities and engaged Many of our rural communities are a fantastic individuals are the only way the sector is going example of resilient Victorians who understand to be able to cope with the demands of the personal responsibility message, who modern emergency management. protect their homes from bushfire, and who don’t expect a fire truck at every house. More I look forward to working with you this year, as A new year is always a chance to pause and than 31,000 people attended bushfire we seek to rise to the challenges and reflect on the year that was and of course on preparedness meetings last year to find out opportunities 2008 will bring. the year ahead. Much was achieved in 2007, what they had to do to play their part. as a sector we faced our share of emergencies and approached the challenges and The engagement and the willingness of rural opportunities with a sense of determination and regional communities and individuals to and enthusiasm. help themselves and each other, and to partner with the emergency service organisations I see 2008 as the ‘year of the community’. should be an inspiration for all Victorians. This Bruce Esplin The communities that as an emergency sector same spirit of personal responsibility should Emergency Services Commissioner we seek to serve who also represent our apply to all, city, or regional, no matter what greatest challenge and therefore our greatest age or creed and should extend to all opportunity. emergencies including house fires and drownings; and not just bushfires.

RED CROSS VOLUNTEER SAVES A LIFE

‘Around the Bay in a Day’ is a cycling event that took place in October have to do my job, I have to do everything in my power to make sure he 2007 and attracts thousands of participants each year. Red Cross survives,” said Mohamed. provides all the first aid for the event, and in October 2007, a Red Cross The patient was taken to the Alfred Hospital where he underwent first aid volunteer Mohamed Alam and Red Cross staff member Brett triple–bypass surgery, walking out of the hospital five days later. Fraser provided life saving first aid to a participant. Mohamed said that being a first aid volunteer gave him opportunities to Red Cross First Aid volunteers attend major events all around Victoria help when individuals and communities faced trouble. and Australia every year, and ‘Around the Bay in a Day’ was no different. Thirty Red Cross First Aid volunteers manned eight static posts along the “I wish this didn’t happen, but I’m glad I can help out. I’m a Red Cross route, with further support from mobile first aid crews on bikes and in volunteer because I like its Fundamental Principle of Humanity; it’s vehicles. Several volunteers started the day at 4.30 am; others stayed amazing what Red Cross gives me the opportunity to do,” he said. onto until 6pm to ensure that every last rider and event support personnel had first aid available to them. Mohamed and Brett had been assigned to the finish line first aid post in the Alexandra Gardens. In the mid-afternoon a man presented at the first aid post complaining of chest pains after completing the 250km ride. Although he received appropriate treatment for his symptoms he suddenly went into cardiac arrest. “I began CPR compressions while Brett used the defibrillator,” said Mohamed. “The man came to after CPR but he had gone into shock and was panicking at all the people who were surrounded him. I was trying to keep him calm when the paramedics arrived. It was a very tense environment.” As a trained paramedic, Brett was able to administer drug treatment but it was the cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) initiated by Mohamed, and the use of a defibrillator (which shocks the heart back into a normal First aid volunteer Mohamed Alam (centre), in action at the Gippsland bushfires rhythm) that successfully saved the man’s life. “I just kept thinking that I last summer.

2 CANADIAN FIREFIGHTERS ON THE SCENE IN EAST GIPPSLAND

East Gippsland is already benefiting from the Andrew commented that the conditions are a value of overseas firefighting experience as lot drier in Australia than in their homeland. two Canadian firefighters left winter behind “There is so much water at home. It rains to join crews in the Cann River and Bendoc every third day, so we can dig a shallow hole fire districts. right at the edge of a fire and pump from that Logan Truman and Andrew MacPherson from to the fire,” he said. Alberta saw the Project Fire Fighter positions Andrew works with 14 other Project Fire advertised online and have brought their vast Fighters covering an enormous area in the experience to regional Victoria and the high country around Bendoc, preparing roads Department of Sustainability and and tracks for the season and controlling any Environment. outbreaks of fire. “The vegetation is totally Logan said they work as seasonal Helitac different, but the terrain is very similar to firefighters in Alberta. “It is a similar job to the home,” he said. hover exit crews here. We can jump out of a Logan has been to Australia twice before and helicopter into waist deep water.” We use a worked in the outback. “I knew what I was lot more water in Canada. The majority of the getting into when I came to Cann River. It’s time we are guaranteed a helicopter to use as nice around here. There’s lots of tall timber a tool, and we don’t often fight fires at night. and as I studied at Forest-Tech back home I We use the rakehoe a lot more here to create enjoy being out in the bush here.” On the left, Mr Andrew MacPherson and on the right, Mr Logan Truman. hand lines.

CAMPFIRE SAFETY ON THE FLOOD MANAGEMENT PLANNING FRAMEWORK AGENDA AGAIN THIS FIRE PROJECT

SEASON The Office of the Emergency Services Commissioner will undertake a project to develop a The Department of Sustainability and structured flood management planning framework along similar lines to the Integrated Fire Environment and Parks Victoria commenced Management Planning Framework a Campfire Safety Campaign in 2006 which The project has two key objectives is continuing this bushfire season. 1. the development and advocacy of a planning framework which brings together the Campfires are part of the Australian relevant agencies/bodies and allows for community input to develop flood management outdoor experience but can easily escape plans at the State, regional and municipal levels. and start a bushfire. As the summer starts 2. the development of flood management planning guidelines to promote appropriate to heat up and more people are visiting consistent content in regional and municipal flood management plans. Victoria’s parks and forests it is important to educate campers and visitors and A project steering committee will be established with representation from key stakeholders communicate the risks associated with and the project will include wide-ranging consultation with stakeholders and the conduct lighting campfires and BBQs. of pilot projects. The committee will report and make recommendations on the appropriate framework for flood management planning to the State Flood Policy Committee. The This safety campaign has a number of project has an expected completion date of July 2008. components intended to remind campers and visitors to be vigilant when enjoying For further information contact the Office of the Emergency Services Commissioner the natural environment over the summer at [email protected] months, as well as other times of the year. Signage and posters are being distributed to all regions to be placed in frequently EMERGENCY MANUAL READERS ENCOURAGED TO DOWNLOAD visited parks and reserves. Radio The online version of the Emergency Management Manual Victoria has a new home. advertisements have been running over the Christmas and New Year periods in It’s now located on the OESC website at www.oesc.vic.gov.au/emergency manual. metropolitan and regional Remember that you can register to be notified by email when an update to the manual has been Victoria. placed on the website. Simply go to the above link and select the menu item ‘Subscribe to the Brochures in English and other languages Update Service’. have been distributed to Information Centres across the state. Updated information about campfires is available at www.dse.vic.gov.au or www.parks.vic.gov.au

3 em WATER

PLAY IT SAFE BY THE WATER

It has been a busy but tragic summer for lifesavers. Despite the fact that there are more lifesavers than ever patrolling Victoria’s beaches, a spate of drownings mean that too many Victorian families will remember this summer for all the wrong reasons. Emergency Services Commissioner Bruce Esplin said it is imperative that as a community we take active measures to reduce these preventable deaths. “Every Victorian must take greater care and responsibility in and around water.” “Lifesavers can’t be everywhere; water safety is an individual responsibility. I encourage Victorians to develop their water safety skills, and never take their eyes off children around water.” The launch of the new 2007/08 Play it Safe by Play it Safe by the Water campaign with new key messages. the Water advertising campaign encourages Victorians to take responsibility for staying • NEVER swim alone – It is essential people 100,000 Water Safety Guides were distributed safe in and around water. The campaign never swim alone, at any time of the year to mark the start of Water Safety Week which continues to target two at-risk groups – • LOOK before you leap – Always check its ran from 24 November to 2 December 2007. namely parents and caretakers of toddlers, and okay to swim before entering the water This guide was produced to help all Victorians young males. play their part to ensure, no matter where they Culturally and Linguistically Diverse are, they can always play it safe by the water. This year’s campaign carries four new messages: Communities radio has been included in the To get a copy of the Water Safety Guide, visit media mix targeting the following 19 • ALWAYS watch them around water – www.watersafety.vic.gov.au Ensure toddlers are always supervised when communities – African, Amharic, Arabic, near water in the home Assyrian, Bosnian, Burmese, Chinese The Play it Safe by the Water campaign is a joint partnership between Life Saving Victoria, • NEVER turn your back – Never take your (Cantonese & Mandarin), Croatian, Dari, Greek, Aquatics and Recreation Victoria, Surfing eyes off toddlers and children at the pool, Italian, Khmer, Macedonian, Serbian, Somali, Victoria, Swimming Victoria, Marine Safety the beach or inland waterways Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese. Victoria, and OESC.

FLOOD CONFERENCE ADDRESSES CLIMATE CHANGE

While flood management issues have had a Other speakers pointed out need for change in low profile during many years of drought, the a range of society’s systems in order to adapt June Gippsland floods and recent reviews of better to a changing environment with an flood management in Victoria have led to a increased risk of flood. These include the resurgence of interest in addressing one of the State’s land-use planning system, the models most severe emergency risks to Victoria’s engineers use to estimate rainfall and runoff, as communities and regional economies. There is well as our flood intelligence and community much to be done to improve the State’s warning systems. capacity to manage flood. The conference ended on an optimistic note. ‘Life on the Edge: Dealing with risk and Climate change was one of the key themes of Erwin Weinmann of Monash University in uncertainty’ was the theme of October’s the conference, with keynote speaker, summing up, noted that not only do we have fifth Victorian Flood Management Conference Australian of the Year, Dr Tim Flannery calling improved knowledge and understanding of held in Warrnambool. Jointly hosted by the for politicians who will govern for the long flood, there is a strong desire to collaborate Glenelg-Hopkins Catchment Management term. Climate forecasts presented by Dr Penny across the various sectors, improved structures Authority and the Warrnambool City Council Whetton of CSIRO projected increased rainfall for joint decision making, and an urgency to the conference attracted delegates from all and flood risk for Victoria. move forwards spurred by the reality of sectors of the ‘flood community’, many were climate change. also from interstate. Conference MC, environmental advocate and television presenter Rob Gell encouraged delegates to move from talk into influencing governments and others to take action on climate change. 4 VICSES INTRODUCES ITS COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAMS: FLOODSMART & STORMSMART

advice to residents. Such stickers and advice are anticipated to become part of the house and therefore stay in place when residents move; • a downloadable business continuity guide for businesses and residents to refer to and download to assist in preparation for storm and flood risk; • a flood signage strategy designed to improve residents awareness of flood activity in the Rural City of Benalla; • a schools program to provide ongoing early engagement and awareness; and • an 8 week intensive grass roots campaign involving the local SES unit(s), municipality and community groups aimed at involving the communities on a one on one basis - providing localised specific preparation, response and recovery advice. The range of community events involved in conveying the StormSmart and FloodSmart messages included launch day events at community markets, community street Community BBQ and launch in Benalla. barbeques, static street displays, door knocks to ‘at risk’ households and school visits. Other community groups offering help included Rotary Club, Lions and Neighbourhood Watch, which helped in providing an exceptional Floods and storms are recognised as the most strategies that best suit the needs of each community reception surpassing expectations. costly natural disasters in Australia ahead of individual community. It was driven by the local Volunteers have demonstrated a high level of other severe weather events, including cyclones SES units, who designed the program in commitment to the program and a desire to and bushfires. On average, floods in Victoria consultation with several stakeholders that maintain the engagement beyond the cause $38.5 million of damage per annum, included council, Bureau of Meteorology, conclusion of funding, showing ownership and although considered to be a conservative Catchments Management Authorities, OESC, therefore empowering their own communities figure by Melbourne Water. With such figures, local units, regional SES headquarters and with their show of enthusiasm. Victoria State Emergency Service has asked the education specialists from SES State question – “Are our communities adequately headquarters. During the next year VICSES will be facilitating prepared to deal with floods and storms and the program in four other municipals: The program was modelled on aspects of FloodSmart for Wangaratta and Alpine shires; what can we do to minimize the impact of NSWSES FloodSafe and StormSafe programs these emergencies?” and StormSmart for Maroondah. Wodonga has with elements being drawn from fire service also been successful in obtaining further During the past year, two communities, Benalla community engagement programs, as well as funding to complement the program already in and Wodonga have been involved in a new other community flood engagement programs place. VICSES was also recently pleased to initiative by VICSES. In partnership with local internationally. For StormSmart and FloodSmart announce a working partnership with councils, VICSES developed an education a range of publications and engagement tools Melbourne Water. This partnership will enable program to raise awareness and build have been developed and implemented the program to be carried out within the community resilience against flood and storm which include: Melbourne metropolitan over the coming years. events. The two programs, ‘FloodSmart’ in • localised household action kit for Benalla and ‘StormSmart’in Wodonga have It’s a timely reminder that while Victoria is distribution to high risk households; been developed using a community currently anticipating a long, hot and dry participation approach. • action guides to provide specific advice to summer, VICSES will be asking Victorians, residents before, during and after events; especially those who live in flood and storm Utilising the Local Grants Scheme funded by • meter box stickers that identify flood risk prone areas, to prepare an all hazards the Federal Attorney General’s Department, relative to flood height and provide emergency plan for their property. Extreme Benalla Rural City and the City of Wodonga weather is unpredictable and it’s often successfully launched the proactive community practical advice to mitigate household risk. Such stickers and advice are anticipated to impossible to predict when and where a flood engagement programs during an eight week or severe storm may occur. VICSES believes event schedule in September and October, become part of the house and therefore stay in place when residents move; survival and disaster mitigation relies on good aiming at preparing ‘at risk’ communities for planning and communication customised for • meter box stickers for storm risk which flood and storm events. Both programs are communities at risk. designed to be highly specific in identifying provide important contact information and

5 em CLIMATE CHANGE

THE HEAT IS ON: CLIMATE CHANGE AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SEMINAR

In recognition of the fact that the emergency experts, Dr Harvey Stern, Australian Bureau of change impact. Mr Jackson’s presentation services sector does not have the luxury of Meteorology; Mr Erwin Jackson, The Climate emphasised that while some impacts are set disputing the reality or the cause of climate Institute; and Dr Amanda Lynch, Monash – adaptation is vital, and the worst projected change, the Office of the Emergency Services University. impacts could be mitigated by action now. Commissioner organised a seminar to facilitate The three speakers offered innovative and Dr Lynch’s presentation focussed on the links a better understanding of the impact climate distinctly different views on the future impacts between fire and flood events; and using the change will have on the emergency services. of climate change, in a broad sense and within Alpine Shire Council as a model for an adaptive The seminar held on 23 November 2007, the context of emergency services. governance approach: what communities can attracted over 100 representatives from various do; the link between science and local Dr Stern presented data specifically on knowledge; and democratic participation. state government departments, the emergency Victoria’s climate, and Australia in general. Mr services and associated agencies. Hosted by the Jackson focussed on research around climate A copy of the presentations can be found on Emergency Services Commissioner Bruce Esplin, change and the interaction of cyclical climate the Office of the Emergency Services attendees listened to presentations from three factors – in this case, drought and the climate Commissioner’s website: www.oesc.vic.gov.au

CLIMATE CHANGE MEANS MORE EMERGENCIES IN VICTORIA

An issues paper that includes discussion on the likelihood Drawing together over 200 diverse delegates at the of increasing emergency situations in Victoria as a result conference has since resulted in new partnerships around of climate change is now available online. work such as heat wave preparation. Climate change and health: An exploration of challenges Conference presenters included Emergency Services to public health in Victoria explores the impact of Commissioner, Mr Bruce Esplin, who delivered a emergency situations such as heatwaves, floods and presentation entitled Climate Change — A Challenge for extreme weather events on Victorians in the recent past how we Plan, Prepare and Respond to Emergencies. and provides an excellent background in climate change Conference proceedings, the issues paper and evidence and projections for the future in the presentations can be viewed online at the DHS Victorian context. Environmental Health website. http://www.health.vic.gov. The paper was released at the Climate Change and au/environment/climate/index.htm Human Health Conference – the first of its kind in For further information contact Brian Kirkby by Australia - held in Victoria in October 2007. e-mail at [email protected]

DEVELOPING EMERGENCY TRANSITION ARRANGEMENTS

Recent experiences from emergency campaign communication strategies and the increased • Identification and notification of the hazard or events such as the 2006/07 bushfires and the presence of response agencies at community threat and OH&S issues for recovery interests; Gippsland Floods have demonstrated the need recovery meetings and assisting with clean • Development of a communication strategy for a standard approach to the transition from up activities. and media briefing, notifying key stakeholders response to recovery. This should ensure a The Department of Human Services in of the coordination changes for the ongoing seamless transition from conjunction with Victoria Police has developed a management of the incident. response coordination, to the Department of standard template to assist emergency • Ongoing management of relief centres and Human Services as the recovery coordination management agencies achieve a seamless establishment of recovery coordination agency, with local government continuing to transition from response to recovery. centres with key contact information. manage recovery activities at the municipal level. Some of the activities and tasks that require The template importantly identifies transition attention include: activities and tasks that need to be undertaken It is imperative that effective notification of to ensure continuity of essential individual/ • Identification of resources for transfer from changed coordination arrangements occurs. This community support requirements and response to recovery for continuity of services, is important for the response agencies stand establishment of effective recovery coordination including logistics and supply contracts; down arrangements and agencies with ongoing arrangements. community support and recovery roles • Implementation of initial outreach programs associated with the incident. to enable more accurate assessments of loss For further information contact Shane Thomas and damage impacts. by e-mail at [email protected] Transition arrangements implemented over recent events have resulted in significantly • Development of a model for ongoing recovery improved cooperation between response and coordination operations, including recovery agencies. This has included health and identification of additional agencies required recovery messages within community for service delivery; 6 WORKSHOP ON FIRE, RISK COMMUNICATION AND PRECAUTIONARY ADVOCACY

defining the strategy’s Goals, Audiences, Appeals & Barriers, Media & Messengers, and Messages. The participants on the first day of the workshop worked through Dr Sandman’s GAAMM model to produce a variety of community/ stakeholder models for fire prevention and preparedness communication. One such model is illustrated below: Example: Community/Stakeholder Fire Prevention & Preparednes

GOALS Participants at the two-day workshop focussing on precautionary advocacy. • Create a safer community + healthy Victoria is experiencing more frequent and audience that is at risk, and in this case, to environment larger wildfires as a major symptom of take action about fire. The second is • Involve community in making decisions climate change. The fire seasons of the last communication needed during the fire event, & accept responsibility two years (and scientific research about fire known as ‘Crisis Communication’, when there • Encouraging communities to be well danger) indicate that future fire seasons will is high risk and high outrage or concern. The prepared to fight fire start earlier and finish later, and be more goal here is to reduce fear by sharing intense and complex to manage. The scale of Ð AUDIENCE Ð dilemmas, acknowledging uncertainty, being Rural property owners the environmental, social and economic empathetic and providing people with things City residents/property owners impacts that follow from increasingly large they can do. The third aspect of risk Industry (health, wine, tourism) and intense bushfires mean that more communication is ‘Outrage Management’, School kids and teachers proactive engagement must be undertaken which may be needed after a fire event when with the community and stakeholders about there is high outrage but the risk is low. Its Urban environmentalists how to prepare for and respond to this aim is to reduce community outrage by General public growing threat. listening, sharing control and apologising for Ð APPEALS & BARRIERS Ð The challenge for Victoria’s fire agencies is mistakes. Dr Sandman worked through each Prescribed burns as an indigenous practice how to get people involved in preparing for of these with participants, outlining some of Security & safety and responding to bushfire, given there is a the communication methods that can Financial bottom line be useful. low likelihood they will be directly affected. Control This key dilemma encouraged Victoria’s The focus of the workshop was Precaution Environmental , aesthetic & iconic Department of Sustainability and Advocacy. Dr Sandman outlined three main Kids – romance of a fire-fighter; “fight fire Environment to invite international risk tools used to create precautionary advocacy with fire” communication expert Dr Peter Sandman to communication. These were: work through this increasingly important Ð MEDIA & MESSENGERS Ð Technical Specifications: 20 fundamental issue with a range of government and non Email/web/radio/TV/signage guiding points to adhere to when undertaking government representatives. Community meeting/events & festivals precautionary advocacy activities. These Demonstration project + engagement A two day workshop was held in Geelong on included the need to keep messages short Advocates (respected spokespeople, experts, 25 and 26 October 2007. Dr Sandman began when dealing with apathetic audiences; make celebrities, singers) the first day by discussing his concept of risk, messages interesting; stay on message; appeal Bundle into policy initiatives (e.g. water which is understood as a function of both to needs; give people choices of things to do; restrictions) ‘hazard’ (the risk faced) and ‘outrage’ and express empathy for apathy. (community concern). Risk communication is Ð MESSAGES Ð Persuasion Model: This model recognises therefore the process of managing risk “Protect your family – fire management that to change attitudes and behaviours, through communication activities that starts at home” informing people and providing information is influence both the perceived hazard and “Has your tank run dry? Rethink your inadequate. What is required is to obtain outrage of stakeholders and communities. bushfire survival plan” small actions from people, which must be “Community safety, biodiversity and water – Risk communication can be understood as followed by further information that supports fire holds the balance” comprising three main elements. The first is their new behaviour. This will encourage new “Together let’s think about the need for ‘Precaution Advocacy’, which is the attitudes and reinforce the behaviour. communication that can be used before a fire plants and animals, and Messaging Framework: The GAAMM model help us plan burns” event to raise awareness and encourage is a Precaution Advocacy messaging appropriate action. Precaution Advocacy is “Your family, your home, your land, your life. framework that structures the development You can protect these high-hazard, low-outrage risk communication, of a precaution messaging strategy by from the impacts of fire” with the goal being to arouse an apathetic 7 Continued from page 7

The model provides clarity by encouraging good communication to • Stakeholders and the ‘audience’ acknowledged the difficulty of the be seen as the end result of a planned strategy. The model above fire agencies’ role in achieving engagement & support; illustrates that there are a relatively small number of key goals for • A closer examination of current approaches to engaging fire agencies when communicating with the public, but a wide communities using the tools of precautionary advocacy would be variety of audiences and associated appeals and barriers that can be beneficial for fire agencies; used. This will result in varied messages, ranging from personal safety • Bringing different stakeholders together creates a different and responsibility (protection of family), to broader appeals about dynamic and outcomes to ‘one-on-one’ conversations; community safety, biodiversity and water security (achieved through • Stakeholder groups noted there are opportunities for fire agencies actions including prescribed burning). to use existing communication mediums within those groups; and The messages and approaches developed in the workshop were later • A community engagement process designed to first inform and ‘tested’ with two groups of people. The first group comprised educate, and then elicit the views of a small cross-section of the stakeholders with varied interests and views about fire management, community, would be valuable in determining future policy while the second was an ‘audience’, or members of the public with directions for fire management agencies. no prior interest in fire management issues. Feedback after the The next step for Victoria’s fire agencies is to use this knowledge to discussion showed this to be a successful and rewarding exercise for improve communication and engagement with stakeholders and the all. Among the key lessons learnt were: wider community. For more information on Risk Communication and • The ‘audience’ said they are not hearing current messages, which Precautionary Advocacy, visit www.psandman.com may imply ineffective messaging by agencies;

Ageing population a priority…continued from page 1

To achieve the objective of reaching older the establishment of a sustainable fire safety client services are the senior workers within people with fire safety information, MFB information delivery method to this workforce the sector and include case managers, identified that specialist knowledge of the that could then flow onto clients. occupational therapists, social workers and community and aged care sector was required. The Community Services Training Packages are care coordinators. This led to the development of a specific managed by the Australian Community MFB is developing a one-day course aimed at position of an Ageing Well project manager. Services and Health Industry Skills Council and these senior workers. This will be on a pay-to- The result of this has been the development of contain over 50 of the nationally accredited participate basis and will provide a Ageing Well strategies that involve initiatives qualifications commonly used by the comprehensive range of information and with three distinct groups of care providers. community care sector. practical experience, including: Care initiative 1: Family care workers MFB identified that an initiative to reach paid • identifying high fire risk groups and There are an estimated 2.5 million family care workers and their clients would fit within household behaviours which contribute to carers in Australia who provide support to an already identified Australasian Fire fire risk partners, children, parents, siblings, other Authorities Council project between MFB and • all aspects of smoke alarms, including types, relatives, etc. Queensland Fire and Rescue Service, known as placement, maintenance and lifespan MFB has initiated a partnership with Carers Reaching the Hard to Reach. • the impact and outcomes of burn and smoke inhalation injuries on older people Australia and 11 fire services in Australia to Basic fire safety information has been included develop a basic home safety fire presentation. in over 40 of the 50 qualifications contained in • specially developed resources and This presentation provides general fire safety the draft of the reviewed packages. When this assessment tools for use during client information that addresses the specific information is successfully embedded in the assessments concerns of family carers, and improves their Community Services Training Packages, it will • experience in using fire blankets and fire safety and that of the person for whom equip care workers in every state with a good extinguishers they provide care. understanding of home fire safety issues and • practical exercises in smoke and fire The national focus of this project will ensure simple prevention. environments that basic fire safety information will be In addition, they will understand the A decade ago, it was not a priority for fire available consistently to family carers around importance of installing and maintaining services to develop relationships with care Australia. smoke alarms and referring fire safety issues to providers and the community care sector. Carer initiative 2: Community care workers their supervisors for follow up. Importantly, it However, the ageing of the population not only demands action now but also demands Every day, a virtual army of care workers will reach across a comprehensive range of that these partnerships be strategic, deliver services to people in their homes or in community care programmes and clients, sustainable and proactive. a community setting. The assistance available including those who are culturally and includes showering and personal care, home linguistically diverse and indigenous. Julie Harris is a Community Ageing cleaning, and transport assistance for shopping, Care initiative 3: Community care assessors Strategist with the Metropolitan Fire appointments or socialisation. In most cases, an initial needs assessment and Emergency Services Board Given the number of service providers in the must be undertaken before an ‘in home’ More information is available from community, MFB needed to identify an community-based service can commence. e-mail: [email protected] or intersection between them. This would ensure Community workers who assess and review web: www.mfb.vic.gov.au 8 STATE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS

16 November – The Victorian Government announced the first projects to be funded under the $1 million joint Commonwealth– State Community Recovery Fund to assist communities to recover from the effects of the 2007 Gippsland floods. 16 November – Minister for Roads and Ports Tim Pallas announced a $2.5 million contract for the construction of a new permanent bridge to replace Cheynes Bridge which was washed away in the June floods. 20 November – The Elvis Crane crew arrived in Melbourne for the 2007/08 fire season as Victoria experienced another day of fire activity. Environment Minister Gavin Jennings was at Essendon Airport to meet the crew and inspect the Erickson Air Crane, one of two Blazing sunset. skycranes in Victoria’s ranks for the summer.

17 September – Up to 500 new firefighters committed an initial $27 million for 23 November – Minister for Roads and were being recruited and Spring fuel– firefighting this summer, but stressed it was Ports, Tim Pallas announced a $248,409 reduction burns were underway in the lead up critical for all Victorians, no matter where grant for restoration to roads in the to Victoria’s fire season. Environment Minister they live, to prepare for the fire season now. Mansfield Shire that were damaged by bushfires earlier in 2007. Gavin Jennings and Emergency Services 26 October – A new report into the 16 Minister Bob Cameron visited the Fire January 2007, bushfire–caused electricity 29 November – More lifesavers than ever Equipment Development Centre, at Altona blackout found Victoria had ample energy would be patrolling Victoria’s beaches this North, to inspect new refuelling tankers for capacity to meet demand at the time of the summer, Minister for Emergency Services, Bob aircraft, set to be rolled out as part of the incident, the Minister for Energy and Cameron, announced. preparations. Resources, Peter Batchelor, said. Mr Batchelor 29 November – A new $3.7 million research 27 September – Gippsland will receive a said a Government report released into the facility using the latest climate change $400,000 funding boost designed to increase blackout also showed that vegetation technology will simulate future atmospheric visitation and lift the profile of the region, clearance under the power lines was not conditions and help predict the impact of Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Tim a factor in the incident, with independent climate change on plant crops, the Minister Holding, announced. audits finding the easement complied for Agriculture, Joe Helper, announced. with regulations. 27 September – Premier 2 December – The Minister for Emergency announced the State Government 2 November – Premier John Brumby opened Services, Bob Cameron, handed the Werribee would provide a further $1.16million to the new $12.5 million state–of–the–art police Fire Brigade the keys to a new $650,000 road help drought affected communities in and emergency services complex in the rescue unit. rural Victoria. State’s largest growth corridor. The Pakenham 2 December – A major operation to protect police and emergency services complex will 20 October – The Minister for Emergency Melbourne’s water catchments from bushfire house police, and Country Fire Authority and Services, Bob Cameron, officially opened the will be in place over summer, Water Minister State Emergency Service volunteers. 2007 National Firefighters Championship at said. Lakes Entrance. 9 November – Drivers will be given advance 5 December – Premier John Brumby warning of speed changes in Melbourne’s 24 October – Premier John Brumby announced the Victorian Parliament will sit in tunnels, with the installation of new variable announced a further $100 million in the Gippsland townships of Churchill and signage before the Burnley and Domain assistance to help rural communities battling Lakes Entrance in 2008. the worst drought on record. Mr Brumby said tunnel entrances, Minister for Roads and 7 December – Two government inquiries the package included water rebates for Ports, Tim Pallas announced. have begun into the Yallourn mine collapse in irrigators worth $55 million, a new $10 13 November – A new visitors’ guide and November, the Minister for Energy and million program to assist farmers to website showcasing the Alpine region’s many Resources, Peter Batchelor, announced. undertake drought proofing works and to tourism experiences was officially launched boost future productivity, and further support by the Minister for Tourism and Major Events, 10 December – The Minister for Emergency for mental health services. Tim Holding. Services, Bob Cameron, announced $2.55 million in grants for volunteer emergency 25 October – Premier John Brumby warned 16 November – Minister for Energy & services groups from this year’s Community Victorians that this summer’s bushfire threat Resources, Peter Batchelor, visited Yallourn to Safety Emergency Support Program (CSESP). extends across almost the entire state. Mr review the progress of works underway to Brumby said the Victorian Government had divert the Latrobe River, which was flowing into the open cut mine. 9 em TRAINING

MULTI AGENCY CBR TRAINING

A bulk decontamination tent.

Victorian multi agency Chemical, Biological Defence Force available to support a CBR and Radiological (CBR) Incident Management response. Dr Geoffrey Hogg, Medical Director courses were conducted in May and of the Microbiological Diagnostic Unit, September 2007. described the Public Health Laboratory Deputy Chief Fire Officer at the Metropolitan Network, and Dr Rosemary Lester, Assistant Fire Brigade, Shane Wright, who is also the Director Communicable Disease Control DHS, Chair of the State CBR Emergency Response informed participants of the nature of the Planning Committee, opened the course by biological threat. describing ‘The Nature of the Problem’ in The focus of the course was on the formation relation to CBR. of, and decision-making skills required by the Other subject matter experts presented on Emergency Management Team managing a topics such as CBR hazards, equipment, and Chemical, Biological or Radiological incident. procedures and facilitated workshops on Representatives from fire, ambulance, police, Emergency Management Teams and SES, DHS, Worksafe, EPA, and Airservices initial response. Australia participated, contributing their experience to scenarios designed to utilise Guest speakers included Lieutenant Colonel their newly acquired knowledge. Problem- Stephen Alexander, Commanding Officer of the solving strategies to address the initial hour Incident Response Regiment, who provided of a rapidly escalating, complex incident insights into the capabilities of the Australian were developed. 10 Instructors and participants of the CBR course.

The highlights of the course were the syndicate sessions involving the formation of PARTICIPANTS IDENTIFIED A RANGE OF CHALLENGES an Emergency Management Team to address the challenges of a chemical and a radiological INVOLVED IN RESPONDING EFFECTIVELY TO incident. Syndicates were required to identify CBR EMERGENCIES protective actions and manage resources, develop Incident Action Plans, and provide briefings in Situation, Mission, Execution, they dovetail with national arrangements. Administration, Command and • An understanding of the time and Communication (SMEACS) format. resources involved. Participants described these sessions as • Increasing understanding and equipping the invaluable. workplace effectively. A display of decontamination and detection Valuable networks were established during equipment emphasised aspects of the course, as participants gained greater interoperability and mutual support understanding of agencies and increased arrangements existing between agencies. awareness of others’ roles. Participants identified a range of challenges The course was a product of the State involved in responding effectively to CBR CBR Training Working Group, with the emergencies, including: support of the Office of Emergency • The relationship between CBR and counter Services Commissioner and Emergency terrorism arrangements in Victoria and how Management Australia. 11 TRAINING

BLAST INJURY SEMINAR A SUCCESS MULTICULTURAL BRIDGING PROGRAM

On 11 December 2007, Life Saving Victoria hosted the first in a series of From left to right: Debbie Martin DHS, Col John Crozier (Vascular Surgeon Liverpool Hospital), cross cultural information seminars for Dr Heather Cleland, Director Victorian Adult Burns Service, Brig Jeffrey Rosenfeld, Director Department of emergency service organisations, as Neurosurgery, Alfred Hospital, Dr Sandy Zalstein, Intensive Care Fellow Bendigo Hospital, Jenny Lumsden, CNC ICU Royal Melbourne Hospital, Lt Col Andrew Ellis, Orthopaedic Surgeon Royal North Shore Hospital. part of their Multicultural Bridging Program initiative under the Valuing Volunteers Program. The seminar was On 21 November 2007, the Department of The seminar was attended by 160 nursing, extremely well received, with strong Human Services, with support from the medical and paramedic staff from across representation from many National Counter Terrorism Committee Victoria as well as a number of defence organisations. hosted a seminar for Victorian trauma staff. Feedback from the activity has been services on the treatment of blast injuries. so positive that the department is already The seminar offered a brief insight into considering a program for next year’s event, the lives of people from Culturally and The Blast Injury Seminar was organised as Linguistically Diverse communities. part of a commitment to the continuous as well as a series of similar emergency management professional development Manar Chelebi discussed Islam and improvement of Victoria’s capability to Muslims in Australia, whilst Claudia respond to major health emergencies. The activities to be offered to Victorian health sector staff in 2008. Abakah and Nyadol Nyuon shared one-day program was designed to give their experiences from an African clinical staff an insight into the difficulties For further information contact perspective. Their presentations and specific treatment issues blast injury Debbie Martin by e-mail at: covered common misconceptions, may present both in a field environment [email protected] geography, religion, reasons for and within a hospital suffering a surge of relocation, challenges to living in casualties with multiple severe injuries. FEEDBACK FROM THE Australia, and experiences with The seminar brought together an impressive ACTIVITY HAS BEEN SO emergency services. faculty including some of Australia’s most POSITIVE THAT THE The Valuing Volunteers Program is a experienced and noteworthy clinicians in DEPARTMENT IS ALREADY Victoria Government initiative funded the field of mass casualty and blast injury through the Community Support Fund. management. Speakers, including a number CONSIDERING A PROGRAM of Defence Reserve medical staff, presented FOR NEXT YEAR’S EVENT For further information, contact lessons from their experience in military Julie McLean, Office of the deployments in Iraq, East Timor, Afghanistan Emergency Services Commissioner and Rwanda and from Australia’s domestic on (03) 86847916. response to the repatriation of Bali bombing casualties.

1212 PROJECTS

NATURAL HAZARDS IN AUSTRALIA

Knowledge about emergencies in Australia Natural Hazards in Australia is published in takes a step forward with the publication by response to recommendations made by the Geoscience Australia of Natural Hazards in 2002 report to Council of Australian Australia: Identifying Risk Analysis Governments, Natural Disasters in Australia Requirements. and has incorporated the knowledge and Covering a range of natural hazards including expertise of a wide range of scientists and flood, severe storm, bushfire, landslide, practitioners in government, academia and earthquake and tsunami, this compilation of industry. It will contribute to the National contemporary knowledge is presented in a Risk Assessment Framework recently endorsed way accessible to the non-specialist reader. by the Australian Emergency Management Committee, and developed by the National Information presented on each hazard Risk Assessment Advisory Group. The includes its nature and the scale of its impact, framework’s emphasis is on producing the potential influence of climate change, consistent information on risk and an issues involved in risk assessment such as improved evidence base for decision making information gaps and research needs, as well in mitigation of natural disasters. as the roles of various levels of government and other community participants in The book is available for download managing the risk each hazard poses. from Geoscience Australia’s website http://www.ga.gov.au/hazards/reports/nhiar/ or you can request a hard copy from Geoscience Australia.

NEW PRACTICE NOTE FOR MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY MANAGERS The Victorian policy and procedures for sourcing supplementary The Practice Note provides detailed information regarding all aspects emergency response resources have recently been clarified by a new of the relevant policy and procedures, including responsibilities for publication issued by Victoria’s Municipal Emergency Management payment of the supplementary resources used. The development of Enhancement Group (MEMEG). the Practice Note has led to refinement of the existing policy. In MEMEG determined there were inconsistencies in the way particular the concept of limits or constraints in the provision of supplementary emergency response resources were accessed by municipal resources has been recognised. emergency services from municipal councils around the State. All Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committees are Also, councils no longer own much of the equipment that was encouraged to consider the information in this Practice Note in the traditionally sourced by emergency response agencies for their review of their Municipal Emergency Management Plans. supplementary needs. The Practice Note is available through the MAV website With the assistance of the Office of the Emergency Services www.mav.asn.au Commissioner, MEMEG produced a Practice Note titled Sourcing Supplementary Emergency Response Resources from Municipal Councils for the information of municipal emergency management practitioners and emergency response agencies.

WORKING TOGETHER TO MANAGE EMERGENCIES – COMMONWEALTH GRANTS

Emergency Management Australia has Emergency Management Volunteer Forum Should you have any questions please advised that the Commonwealth for initiatives that would enhance the contact the Office of the Emergency Services Government’s Working Together To Manage recruitment, retention and training of Commissioner at [email protected] Emergencies grants program will be available volunteers. Emergency Management Australia has advised for 2008-2009. It is expected that the 2008- The closing date for applications will be that the Local Grants Scheme component will 2009 program information will be advertised 7 March 2008. not be available for 2008-2009. in the daily press in early January 2008. Further information is available on the Individual grants of up to $50,000 will be Emergency Management Australia website at available for the National Emergency www.ema.gov.au/communityengagement Volunteer Support Fund for 2008-2009. The fund is directed to agencies that have a defined role in State Response and Recovery Plans and member agencies of the Australian

13 em AWARDS AND EVENTS

AUSTRALIAN SAFER COMMUNITY AWARDS

Representatives from Latrobe City Council awarded for the ‘From the Ashes’ Digital Story Telling Project.

Representatives from Maribyrnong City Council and Cube Management Solutions receiving their award from Minister for Police and Emergency Services Bob Cameron.

The awards work on two levels. State and Territory winners are decided first and then become finalists for the National Awards hosted in Canberra

Representatives from Metropolitan Fire Brigade with a high commendation award for the ‘Fire Ed for Upper Primary’ program.

The Australian Safer Communities Awards is Maribyrnong City Council and Cube Metropolitan Fire Brigade for the Fire Ed for an annual event that recognises best practice Management Solutions for the Emergency Upper Primary. and innovation by organisations and Relief (Evacuation) Centre Guidelines for ABC Radio Gippsland for Emergency individuals that help to build safer Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Groups. Broadcasting Fire / Flood 2006/2007. communities across Victoria. Latrobe City Council for the From the Ashes Emergency Management Information The awards cover all aspects of emergency Digital Story Telling Project. Development Plan Working Group for the management – risk assessment, research, Department of Justice Strategic National Emergency Management Information education and training, information and Communications Branch for the Fire Season Development Plan. knowledge management, prevention, Recognition Package. preparedness, response and recovery. The judging panel was made up of four Sassafras-Ferny Creek Fire Brigade for the Victorian representatives with vast experience The awards work on two levels. State and Living Safely with Bushfire Booklet. in emergency management: Paul Gabriel, from Territory winners are decided first and then As winners of the Victorian component, the Office of the Emergency Services become finalists for the National Awards Commissioner, Jan Brown, from the hosted in Canberra. representatives from Maribyrnong City Council and Cube Management Solutions, Latrobe City Department of Human Services, Lex Ritchie, This year, a number of entries were received Council, Department of Justice, and Sassafras- from Maroondah City Council and Doug from a range of organisations, including State Ferny Creek Fire Brigade progress to the Hocking of the Victoria Police. Government agencies, local government, National Awards and attend a ceremony The Australian Safer Communities Awards are volunteer organisations and community hosted by the Federal Attorney-General’s an initiative of Emergency Management groups, private sector organisations, and Department in Canberra early 2008. Australia located within the Federal Attorney- research bodies. The Minister for Police and Emergency General’s Department. The Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Bob Cameron also announced the The Office of the Emergency Services Services, Bob Cameron hosted the Victorian following organisations who received a high Commissioner looks forward to the 2008 component of the awards at a ceremony in commendation in the awards: awards and another year of outstanding Melbourne in September 2007 and announced projects that demonstrate the State’s the following winners: pro-active attitude towards community safety.

14 SPATIAL EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR WILDFIRE PROJECT 44TH ANNUAL ELMORE FIELD DAYS emergency service organisations and local government. The project has built up The annual Elmore Field Days, one of the significant good will between the key premiere events in rural Victoria was held agencies responsible for wildfire over three days in early October 2007. management in Victoria. Organised by a dedicated voluntary Deputy Commissioner Brian Hine in committee, the event is recognised as one of accepting the award acknowledged the Australia’s leading agricultural Field Days and fundamental importance of the partnership makes a huge contribution to the social and with the Country Fire Authority, Department economic life of rural Victoria. of Sustainability and Environment, and This year, the event was specifically Municipal Association of Victoria. Brian structured to occur in October to coincide stated that the award reflects the success of with Community Safety Month as a the entire team and the collaborative registered event. Emergency Services relationship between key stakeholders. Commissioner Bruce Esplin officially opened From left to right, George Havakis, Victorian Chairman, Without the support and contribution of the Australia Spatial Information Business Association., the Field Days titled Partnerships in our Brian Hine, Deputy Commissioner, OESC, Stephen key partners, the development of the Wildfire Community Expo with the theme Safer Farrell, Director, Spatial Vision at the Spatial Project products would not have achieved Communities-Protecting You, Serving the Excellence Awards. this level of excellence. Nation. The objective of the Partnerships in On 18 September 2007, the Office of the The Wildfire Project was funded as an our Community Expo is the strengthening Emergency Services Commissioner (OESC) initiative of the 2002/2003 Victorian and enhancement of the relationships that Wildfire Asset Identification and Bushfire Inquiry. The products are currently exist between the emergency and armed Consequence Evaluation Project (Wildfire undergoing a trial period where field users services of the Australian and Victorian Project) won the 2007 Victorian Spatial will apply the methodology and spatial communities. Excellence Award in the ‘People and datasets in a number of areas throughout A new publication by CFA, ‘On the Land: Community’ category. Victoria. This will involve a range of agencies Agricultural Fire Management Guidelines’ and local government areas across Victoria. The Victorian Spatial Excellence Awards was also launched at the expo. The Feedback received will be used to enhance Guidelines were funded as a result of the celebrate the achievements of Victoria’s best the products prior to public release in 2008. spatial information enterprises and Victorian Bushfire Inquiry recommendations professionals and showcase the finest A software application to support the spatial and are designed to support rural projects from the Victorian Spatial Industry. information will also be developed during communities with fire management. The The People and Community Award recognises the trial period to provide users with the guidelines provide practical fire management those companies, products or programs that ability to interact with the products. This will advice for people living and working on make a collective difference to national and provide users with the flexibility to cropping, grazing, plantation timber and rural local issues, and communities, via ‘grass customise the products to a specific locality, lifestyle properties, particularly those who roots’ initiatives, educational programs, municipality or region. are undertaking property planning or are new to farming. services or tools that permit the widespread The Wildfire Project spatial products were adoption, use, understanding and access to used to support fire operations in the DSE Overall the 44th annual Elmore Field Days spatially derived products or services. Emergency Coordination Centre during the was a resounding success having again been In judging the Wildfire Project, the panel 2006 – 2007 fires. DSE has again been well supported by visitors, exhibitors and the commented, “the Wildfire Project invited to evaluate the application of the wider regional community. demonstrates coordination across key products during the forthcoming fire season.

‘DON’T TALK ABOUT THE DROUGHT… STORIES FROM THE LAND’

On a warm, still spring night on 30 November telling their story who where guided and hopes the stories will give all Victorians 2007, the township of Gapsted and the trained by the Australian Centre for the a better understanding of what it is like to surrounding communities gathered at the Moving Image (ACMI). live on the land, and just how strong the Gapsted Winery to view the premiere of the The making of these digital stories was resilience is of those who labour on it. grassroots film production ‘Don’t Talk About supported by the Department of Family and The stories are a snapshot of history and the Drought…Stories from the Land’. Community Services and Indigenous Affairs as will be a gift for generations to come, and The premiere was a free community event part of a federally funded drought recovery importantly a keepsake memory for the highlighting a digital storytelling project that project run through the Beechworth people telling their stories. The stories will has been run to elicit stories from farmers Neighbourhood Centre in north east Victoria. be displayed in museums and were shown in and rural communities about living on the Emergency Services Commissioner Bruce Federation Square at ACMI throughout land. All the stories involved in the project Esplin who launched the project says he December and January. were personally produced by the participants

15 em MOVEMENTS

NEW CHAIR AND MEMBERS OF THE STATE EMERGENCY MITIGATION COMMITTEE

Mr Andy Johnston, who is the General Manager Strategy that can be used by the State Government and its and Product, Victorian Managed Insurance Authority, has departments and agencies to establish priorities for been appointed as Chair of the State Emergency emergency mitigation effort. In 2008, SEMC will conduct Mitigation Committee. Andy has a background in the a further round of emergency risk assessments and report corporate sector and brings a wide range of experience to the results to the Victorian Emergency Management this position. Council. The State Emergency Mitigation Committee (SEMC) has Victoria is also represented on a National Risk Assessment also welcomed representatives from Victorian Managed Advisory Group that is developing a national emergency Insurance Authority and the Environment Protection risk assessment methodology based on the Australian and Authority. A key focus for SEMC has been the New Zealand Risk Management Standard AS/NZS Mr Andy Johnston, Chair development of the State Emergency Risk Assessment 4360:2004. of the State Emergency Methodology which is used to conduct emergency risk Mitigation Committee. For further information relating to SEMC contact the assessments in the State level context. The assessment of Committee Secretariat at [email protected] emergency risks using this method provides information

VICSES LAUNCHES THE MEDIA AND PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT

On Friday 7 December, Victoria State Emergency The Unit have hit the ground running, with Service (VICSES) launched a new Media and Public projects such as media training for volunteers, a Relations Unit. new style guide, Driver Reviver and the Led by Allan Briggs, Manager of Media and Public communications strategy for the Connect Relations, three new staff including Media Officer, IT project. Jilly Charlwood and two Public Relation Officers, Sophie Jackson and Jem Diolazo are recent additions to the unit. The new SES Media and Public Relations Unit led by Allan Briggs. MOVEMENTS IN EM

As always, there have been a number of comings and goings across the • The Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Bob Cameron, sector in key roles… announced new Board appointments for the emergency services. • Mr Dan O’Brien is the new Chief of Staff for Premier John Brumby. Adrian Nye has been appointed the new President of the Metropolitan Mr O’Brien was formerly the Chief Executive of Regional Development Fire and Emergency Services Board and Clair Higgins has been Victoria. Mr Justin Hanney has now been appointed to the position. appointed as the new Chair of the Board for the State Emergency Services and the Deputy Chair of the Country Fire Authority. • Mr Brian Hine has been appointed into the role of Deputy Commissioner, Performance and Review at OESC. The position became • Three new Deputy Chief Officers have been appointed at CFA: Mr vacant following Mr Dale Sullivan’s retirement. Steve Warrington, Mr Geoff Conway and Mr John Haynes. • Ms Sue Fitzpatrick has been appointed the Director Media and Corporate Communications at the Metropolitan Fire Brigade; she was previously acting this role.

CONTACT DETAILS em INFO VICTORIA’S EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT MAGAZINE For further information regarding this newsletter or any of the articles in this edition, and for the submission of articles or contributions, please contact: Office of the Emergency Services Commissioner Department of Justice, GPO Box 4356QQ, Melbourne VIC 3001 Phone: +61 3 8684 7900 Fax: +61 3 8684 7956 Email: [email protected] Web: www.justice.vic.gov.au/emergency 16