WINTER 202020

EDITION 11

WOW DAY 2020

VOLUNTEERVOLUNTEER YOUNG ACHIEVERS VICSES’ junior members rising up the ranks

Responding during COVID-19

Neighbour Day 2020 CONTENTS Highlights from the winter edition What’s happening across our regions: CENTRAL 14 Communicating with our volunteers during COVID-19 EAST 16 New Regional Headquarters for East Region pg. 04 Wear Orange Wednesday: 18 MID WEST Celebrating our incredible volunteers Mid West Regions annual General Rescue training weekend 2020 NORTH EAST Responding 20 Volunteer spotlight: Lisa Wise during NORTH WEST COVID-19 22 Neighbour Day 2020 during COVID-19 SOUTH WEST pg. 08 24 Heywood Unit National pg. 10 Volunteer Award YOUNG ACHIEVERS: VICSES’ JUNIOR MEMBERS Neighbour Day Front Cover: Sunbury Unit junior members RISING UP THE RANKS 2020 pg. 12 Rachael White and

Phoebe Hall WINTER 20202020

EDITION 1111 Celebrating Interested in

WOW the women DAY 2020

contributing? VOLUNTEERVOLUNTEER YOUNG of VICSES ACHIEVERS Submit your article here: VICSES’ junior members rising up the ranks

Responding [email protected] during pg. 13 COVID-19 Neighbour Day 2020

VICSES would like to respectfully Authorised and published by This magazine is printed on ecoStar 100% recycled, acknowledge the traditional Victoria State Emergency Service, an environmentally responsible paper made carbon custodians of the land throughout 168 Sturt Street, Southbank, neutral. It has been independently certified by the Forest Victoria and acknowledge their Victoria. © State of Victoria, Stewardship Council® (FSC ®). ecoStar is manufactured from ancestors and elders, both past Victoria State Emergency Service, 100% post consumer recycled paper in a Process Chlorine and present. June 2020. Free environment under the ISO 14001 environmental management system. MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER FOR POLICE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

Welcome to the second edition of Community Matters for 2020.

The year is evolving in a way that none With these efforts in mind, it was of us could have ever predicted. In fantastic to see the well-deserved the face of bushfires and now the support VICSES received from coronavirus pandemic, VICSES units communities to mark Wear Orange have continued to provide outstanding Wednesday on 20 May. service to the community, right across the state. WOW Day is an annual celebration marking the outstanding work of Volunteers have been out in force thousands of our volunteers. responding to natural disasters, Welcome including significant events during Landmarks across Melbourne and April and May. VICSES units regional centres were again flooded Hello everyone, and welcome responded to over 4,000 requests in orange in a show of thanks, and for assistance during this busy time, Victorians were encouraged to show to the winter edition of including 391 flooding events, their support by dressing in orange 2448 trees down, and 560 cases of and posting messages to social media Community Matters. building damage. using the hashtags #ThankYouSES and #WOWDay. On Wednesday 20 May we celebrated Wear Orange This followed wild storms in January, Wednesday, an opportunity to say thank you for the hard work Many aspects of life in Victoria have when units responded to a huge and dedication of our incredible volunteers. Although we changed in 2020 as the coronavirus 3,300 requests for assistance in a weren’t able to celebrate in our usual way due to COVID-19, pandemic transforms how we live. single week. it was fantastic to see so many people still get involved right Despite this, VICSES has continued across the state. You can read more on page 4. Our VICSES volunteers also did an to provide outstanding service, incredible job searching tirelessly for supporting communities across the It has been challenging times during the recent pandemic missing teenager William Callaghan in state 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, environment, and I want to acknowledge each and every freezing and difficult terrain. 365 days a year. one of our members who have continued to work through and adapt to COVID-19 restrictions. This has included William became separated from his Leading by example, volunteers have staff working remotely and from home, and all of our units family on Mt Disappointment over the followed the Chief Health Officer’s maintaining physical distancing and hygienic cleaning during Queen’s Birthday weekend and thanks restrictions and guidelines when training and when responding to the community. I have also to the efforts of our volunteers, along responding to call-outs and supported been involved in weekly meetings with our unit management with others, he was reunited with them the ‘stay at home’ message on teams via Webex, which has been a fantastic tool in keeping safe and well after two nights missing. social media. our organisation connected. As always, we have continued I speak for all Victorians when I say we to deliver our services to the highest standard, demonstrating are so grateful for the work you did to Looking out for one another will help our vision: Safer Communities – Together. More information ensure this amazing outcome. ensure we can continue to create stronger and safer communities about our response during COVID-19 is located on page 8. So far this year, units have responded through this difficult period, and the In exciting news, a construction firm has now been appointed to almost 35,000 requests for dedication our VICSES volunteers for the new build of the Wangaratta Unit, and building has assistance. have shown so far this year is a perfect now commenced. I look forward to keeping you updated on example of that community spirit. this project as it progresses. I want to extend my sincere thanks As always, thank you all for your contributions in making this to all volunteers for your outstanding another fantastic edition of Community Matters. work, helping Victorians endure one of the most challenging years in Kind regards, living memory. With your continued service and dedication, I know we will Stephen Griffin overcome these challenges together. CEO Victoria State Emergency Service

Hon Lisa Neville MP Minister for Police and Emergency Services 03 FEATURES Wear Orange Wednesday 2020 By Gabi Barkmeyer, Corporate Communications Officer, VHO

On Wednesday 20 May we came together to celebrate Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day), an annual event to say thank you to our thousands of volunteers for their incredible contributions.

04 VOLUNTEER

Wear

Orange ue to COVID-19 and physical Victoria The Hon. Daniel Andrews, distancing things looked a Australian actor Shane Jacobson, and D little a different this year. But Meteorologist and Channel 7 weather that didn’t stop the community and our presenter Jane Bunn. Chelsea Unit were members rallying together to thank our even able to get well-known Australian Wednesday volunteers for one of VICSES’ busiest singer Dannii Minogue on board! years yet. Landmarks in Melbourne were lit up Community members were encouraged in orange to help recognise WOW to support WOW Day by dressing in Day, including the Melbourne Cricket 2020 orange, holding an orange themed event Ground, AAMI Park, Bolte Bridge and at home or online, or sending a message the State Theatre. Across regional By Gabi Barkmeyer, Corporate Communications Officer, VHO of thanks via social media to their Victoria we had more landmarks lit in local VICSES unit for their hard work. orange than ever before, including the Facebook users were able to change Giant Koala in Dadswell Bridge, the their profile picture to include a WOW Catenary Lights in Geelong, water towers Day frame, and people participating in in Mooroopna, Wodonga and Swan Hill, online meetings could use an orange and the McCrae Lighthouse. themed WOW Day background. Thank you to everyone that participated Special thank you videos were also in celebrating our amazing volunteers. shared on social media, including Until next year! n messages from the Premier of

05 FEATURES

WOW Day photo competition OWEN STEVENS In celebration of Wear Orange Wednesday, an internal photo competition was held for our volunteers to find the best dressed pet in orange. With over 50 entrants, choosing a winner not an easy task!

Congratulations to the following volunteers, who each ST won one of five $100 Coles Express petrol vouchers, Š courtesy of our Principle Community Partner AAMI.

A big thank you to everyone that entered this competition. Here’s a look at some of our other fantastic entrants:

06 DAYNA WALLIKER

SHANLEIGH MELDRUM

GOLDIE PERGL

BRUCE HUMPHRIES

07 COVID‘19 Responding during COVID-19 As an integral part of Victoria’s emergency services, VICSES has continued to provide high quality assistance to communities across the state during COVID-19.

ur continued impact and consequences Although this pandemic response throughout of VICSES’ ability to safely environment has been unfamiliar Statement of Intent – COVID19

this time has deliver services to communities and presented many significant This intent is designed to complement the information available via the single source of VICSES information and advice on the VICSES Hub: https://hub.ses.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19- O The health, safety and well-being of all our members and their families is the absolute priority at this Safety drives our prioritised the health and safety across Victoria. impacts, VICSES has remained decisions time. It underpins all of our decisions and actions. Everyone has a responsibility to act in accordance with VICSES advice and doctrine and that of the Government and relevant health authorities. of Our People, demonstrating fully committed to providing We must prioritise and maintain our personal health, safety and wellbeing. All members should stay informed and take steps to protect themselves through enhanced hygiene practices and social distancing. Increase cleaning of shared equipment including: radios, phones, A statement of intent was computers and vehicles. our key Value, ‘Safety drives emergency assistance and We are part of our VICSES is committed to providing emergency assistance to minimise the impact of emergencies and community strengthen the community’s capacity to plan, respond and recover when they occur – 365 days a year, 7 also established to align with days a week, 24 hours a day. Our focus is to maintain all operational service delivery. our decisions’. strengthening the community’s Each member is responsible to make appropriate decisions about the protection of their own health. Members who are returning from overseas, or feeling unwell must not respond to emergencies or attend VICSES facilities. These members should contact their Unit Controller, Line Manager or Regional Duty our organisational Values, capacity to plan, respond, and Officer (RDO) for advice. We pride ourselves on our credibility VICSES Emergency Response activities will continue. On 2 March 2020, VICSES developed by VICSES Chief VICSES will provide information to members based on the most up-to-date advice from the State and recover when emergencies Federal Governments and relevant health authorities. All members attending VICSES facilities for turn out should be actively briefed and managed in enacted a COVID-19 Pandemic Executive Officer Stephen Griffin occur – 24 hours a day, 7 days a accordance with the control measures implemented for that location. Together we are All face-to-face training, exercises, awards ceremonies and non-essential travel are to be suspended VICSES Plan as an appendix to the and Chief Officer Operations and/or postponed until further notice. week, 365 days a year. Utilise VICSES WebEx or teleconferencing as an alternative to conducting face-to-face meetings, keeping in touch and staying connected with one another. VICSES Business Continuity Plan. Tim Wiebusch. This statement Assets and Fleet will continue to provide routine and essential maintenance of vehicles and equipment along with resupply of consumables.

Focused and provides the current position Our values have held us in good stead over difficult times and all VICSES members are encouraged to adaptable anchor their actions back to our values as listed on the le• hand column of this statement. The plan has provided our To support operational service delivery, we must be Focussed and Adaptable. We should adapt our practices so that VICSES response can continue as well as how we support each other and the for VICSES on how we will communities we serve. Leaders are responsible for maintaining current awareness of the location and movements of their organisation with a strategic operate together and across the respective team members. approach to reducing the Authorised by: Stephen Griffin (Chief Executive Officer) and Tim Wiebusch (Chief Officer Operations) Date: 25 March 2020 organisation during COVID-19. VICSES Statement of Intent – COVID 19 – Version 2.0, 25 March 2020

Some major events that our members have responded to during this time include:

DATE 01 Nov 2019 07 Feb 2020 14 Feb 2020 20 Feb 2020 COMMENCED 31 Mar 2020 12 Feb 2020 17 Feb 2020 23 Feb 2020 DATE CLOSED 19 Jan 2020 07 Feb 2020 18 Feb 2020 04 Mar 2020 07 Feb 2020 12 Feb 2020 21 Feb 2020 06 Apr 2020

Severe Rainfall event in Severe storms Heavy rainfall OPERATION weather East Gippsland TYPE Central, East and North East and Central REGION Statewide East Region South West Region Regions Summer season Interstate deployment Severe Wallan rail incident thunderstorm Statewide Central, South West and North East Region North East Region Statewide

08 Thank you! Thank you to all of our members for your continued support, dedication, and adaptability throughout these challenging times.

VICSES would like to further acknowledge the contributions of the following specialist volunteers, in supporting the development of the VICSES COVID-19 Pandemic Plan and related arrangements:

ANTHONY WHITE JAMIE ROWE MEGAN VEERING Sunbury Unit Controller Terang Unit Wodonga Unit Deputy Controller Protecting VICSES BEN PENROSE JOHN BATES Bendigo Unit Essendon Unit MIKE BAGNELL information when Controller Gisborne Unit BRENDAN Controller working remotely MACKINNON JOSHUA DEERAIN By Ross Elford, Manager Information Security South Barwon Unit Northcote Unit NICOLE GUILES‘ ACKAOUI & Governance, VHO DANIELLE JUDITH GLEDHILL Rochester Unit Pakenham Unit s if COVID-19 hasn’t presented enough EYSSENS Controller Glen Eira Unit Controller of its’ own problems, there seems to be Controller JUSTIN NAVAS NICOLE TERRIL A no shortage of people out there who Bacchus Marsh Unit are looking to take advantage of the situation by DANNIELLE Essendon Unit SHAUN attempting to disrupt the systems we use, and even LICCIARDO MARC RABONE CAULFIELD access our information inappropriately. Torquay Unit Kaniva Unit Controller Lilydale Unit Controller To better equip Victorian government agencies ELIZABETH MATT SAARIO TONY STILL in their working from home arrangements, the ENGLISH Leongatha Unit Controller South West Regional Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner Terang Unit Support Office has published some helpful tips on managing GEOFF BELL Controller information securely whilst at home. This includes Geelong Unit Controller the security of accessing information remotely, secured WIFI networks, phishing scams and more. GIORGIO PALMERI Warrnambool Unit More information You can view the full list at ovic.vic.gov.au, or Controller For the latest up-to-date information on COVID-19 contact Ross Elford, Manager Information Security JACKIE ASHMAN for all VICSES members, please visit the Hub > My and Governance at [email protected] Yackandandah Unit State > Health and Wellbeing > Coronavirus for further assistance. n Controller (COVID-19).

12 Mar 2020 03 Apr 2020 14 Apr 2020 07 May 2020 08 June 2020 Current 04 Apr 2020 04 June 2020 08 May 2020 10 June 2020

28 Mar 2020 11 Apr 2020 29 Apr 2020 20 May 2020 31 Mar 2020 11 Apr 2020 03 May 2020 21 May 2020

Missing Wind event Heavy rainfall Severe persons Thunderstorm East Region Central, East Missing East and North and North East South West persons COVID-19 East Regions Severe weather Missing Region Region Class 2 persons Wind event Central & North East and North East Statewide North West Regions East Region Statewide Regions

09 GENERAL NEWS

VICSES Sunbury Unit Rescue Squad Young achievers: VICSES’ junior members rising up the ranks

By Gabi Barkmeyer, Corporate Communications Officer, VHO i Rachael and What are some of the roles Phoebe, great to that you undertake as a junior The VICSES Sunbury Unit Rescue H chat with you both. member to support your Can you start off by telling us community? Squad was established in 2017, and how you got involved with VICSES and the Sunbury Unit Phoebe: As a junior member we Rescue Squad? can do pretty much everything has a dedicated youth development the senior unit does once we program for 15 to 18 year-olds. We sit Phoebe: I joined the squad have completed the essential a«er years of watching my mum training and are qualified for some down with the unit’s junior members help the community as a VICSES specific jobs. We can attend all volunteer. It was so amazing to storm and flood jobs, searches, Rachael White and Phoebe Hall, who see her so dedicated to helping and assist other agencies. Before other people, and how much she we have completed our essential joined the squad last year to find out really enjoyed the training and the training, we can attend community positive atmosphere it provided. engagement events and help out more about their VICSES journey so far! at unit level. Rachael: As my dad has volunteered at Sunbury Unit for 12 Rachael: Specifically, during years, I have been involved for 8 COVID-19, I have been getting years and formally joined the squad together with small numbers of program at the start of 2019. My senior members to produce some sister Vanessa White was one of practical training videos that we the founding members of the first present to the wider membership Sunbury squad group, so I knew each week in our online training. what was involved and I joined as soon as I became eligible. RACHAEL WHITE PHOEBE HALL

10 You have both also have so many practical Finally, who or what almost completed skills and knowledge that inspires you the most? your General Rescue have really helped me in training qualification other areas of my life, such as Phoebe: My mum definitely which is very exciting! school, getting my first job, inspires me the most. She What has been the and socially. is my strongest supporter most challenging part and is always there to drive Stepping of the training? What are you most me to and from training, looking forward to in and encourages me to try Phoebe: The hardest, but the future as a VICSES new things - even if it would definitely most rewarding volunteer? normally be out of my back in part of the training so far, is comfort zone. Mum really stepping outside my comfort Phoebe: The thing I am is my idol, and I aspire to zone and trying things I most looking forward to is have her sense of courage time… thought I never would have becoming qualified in Road and willingness to take on been doing, with people Crash Rescue. I watch my new things. I didn’t know very well to sister and dad turning out to begin with. Throughout the Road Crash Rescue and assist Rachael: Something that training it has been great to agency incidents, and I can has always inspired me is get to know everyone better, tell how much of a difference the thought that people and connect through our they make to individuals and are always in need. If I joined goal of becoming families in these situations. help them, I feel like I have I would really like to make accomplished something, qualified. rankston Unit members pose in front that much of a difference to and it makes me feel like of their brand new Cheverlot C20 Rachael: I think the most someone one day. a better person. I think in 1984. The vehicle was specially challenging part for me was the world needs a bit of F designed for the unit to assist with road rescue, jacking, as it has so many Rachael: I’m really looking brightening up, and joining storm and flood response. Equipment carried on safety precautions to it. You forward to attending jobs VICSES makes me feel like and making a difference in board included the jaws of life, an electric winch not only have to pack your I can do that. n and chainsaws. n side, but also communicate the community once I’ve to team members and keep finished my training, as well in mind things to be cautious as forming strong bonds with of, such as not positioning the people I work with. As your arm under the object. well as learning more skills from highly experienced Would you recommend members and other people other people your age in the junior squad, the join VICSES, and why? most rewarding part would be interacting with the Phoebe: I would definitely community through different recommend the Junior jobs and local events. VICSES squad to other people my age. It's a Outside of VICSES, what great way to get out of do you both like to do in your comfort zone, meet your spare time? new people, assist the community, commit yourself Phoebe: Outside of to situations you would VICSES, I work at McDonalds have never experienced 3-4 days a week. I also like to otherwise and gives you an go walking or running when opportunity to move up into I have spare time, and spend the senior section of the unit time with family and friends. in the future. Rachael: My hobbies Share with us Rachael: The skills and include basketball, rugby, experiences I have gained cooking and camping. I Do you have a photo that you’d like to as a result of my involvement also enjoy exploring with share as part of our ‘Stepping back in with VICSES are unique. I am my family and friends in the time’ feature? Email your submission perhaps more comfortable outdoors, and having new along with a caption to publications@ around my adult peers than experiences. ses.vic.gov.au a lot of people my age. I

11 CAMPAIGNS & EVENTS

Neighbour Day 2020 Social connection moreSunday 29 March 2020 important than ever before

By Hannah MacDougall, Senior Advisor Community Programs & Campaigns, VHO Neighbour Day is an annual celebration held on the last Sunday of March. Coordinated by Relationships What do we do Australia, the objective of campaign is to strengthen with all the tea social connections. This is the second year VICSES bags we hear you asking? have participated in the campaign. Well, please hold on to them for when we are able to ‘connect over a cup of riginally, the media, phone calls, instant featuring VICSES Chelsea communitea’ again. The Community VICSES campaign messaging, video chats, or Unit connecting with their Connections team will be in touch O encouraged popping your head over community in support of when we can enjoy this well-deserved members to ‘connect over the fence. Neighbour Day. The unit also cup of tea and celebrate how tearrific a cup of communitea’ and helped to organise a video you all are! have a cup of a tea with a A special ‘calling card’ was featuring Alan Fletcher, aka Dr neighbour. However, due also developed so neighbours Karl Kennedy from the TV show to COVID-19 and physical could exchange details and Neighbours, encouraging distancing restrictions, we offer help with household people to get involved in the applied flexibility and adapted staples and necessities, as well campaign via non-face-to-face the campaign to encourage as develop friendly interactions communication. connection using digital - particularly for those most platforms and non-face-to-face vulnerable during COVID-19 Thank you to everyone who approaches. such as the elderly. supported this campaign through various online New engaging social This new approach was well sessions, working with media collateral and online received by the community, different stakeholders, and messaging was created, reaching over 5.4 million encouraging the community encouraging people to people across radio, print to connect with each other. check-in with one another and online news, and TV. It truly was a very successful A particular highlight was and maintain relationships campaign. n with neighbours via social Channel Seven News

12 VICSES Mallacoota Celebrating Unit volunteers fly the women of to Melbourne for AFL Bushfire Appeal State VICSES of Origin By Gabi Barkmeyer, Corporate Communications Officer, VHO By Kath Jessop, Media Officer, VHO On Friday 28 February, a crew of 10 VICSES Mallacoota Unit volunteers were flown out from far east Victoria to be a part of the contingent at this year’s AFL Bushfire Appeal State of Origin double-header at Marvel Stadium.

he unit’s volunteers of other VICSES volunteers and were recognised emergency services personnel, T for this special who were also recognised event based on their bravery for their contributions in in supporting their isolated supporting the bushfires on the In celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) community during the night. A Guard of Honour was devastating bushfires that held prior to the first bounce, on Sunday 8 March, VICSES was proudly involved in occurred during December led by VICSES Mallacoota several events that highlighted the amazing work of 2019 and January 2020. Unit Controller Leo Op Den Brouw. VICSES volunteer’s women across the emergency services sector. All proceeds from the event children alongside Country went towards re-building Fire Authority families were ictoria’s Emergency celebrate your achievements grassroots football clubs also invited on the ground Services Foundation every day. that were affected by fires to participate in the Auskick (ESF) held a very across Australia. The AFL V game at half-time and VICSES special International Women’s Day commissioned a special vehicles were on display forum, giving away free tickets ‘VICSES orange’ Sherrin outside on the Marvel stadium to VICSES female members. The football with the names of concourse. event focused on gender and the affected football clubs wellbeing, and included special to remind the players on Thank you to everyone who Growing up, I guest speakers Governor of the night why the event was was involved in helping to Victoria The Hon. Linda Dessau never really saw so important. facilitate this great event. n AC, and television presenter females active Alongside VICSES Mallacoota Johanna Griggs. Unit volunteers were hundreds in leadership The event also coincided with the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup positions in Final with a pre-game performance by singer Katy Perry, which was a the emergency fantastic event that was enjoyed service sector. by many of our members to celebrate IWD.VICSES Whittlesea It’s great to see Unit member Donna Fenech proudly represented VICSES the change.” in ESF’s online IWD campaign, uniting women from across the DONNA FENECH emergency services sector to join in this year’s theme: Each for equal. VICSES Whittlesea Unit volunteer We thank each and every one of our female members, and

13 CENTRAL

Communicating with 1 January – 31 March 2020 our volunteers during COVID-19

Priscilla Grimme, Volunteer Support Officer, Central Region

uring the initial stages of the • Mobile Command Vehicle and Field COVID-19 pandemic, volunteers Command Vehicle familiarisation. requested guidance on D • Command and control sessions. implementing COVID-19 safe practices at their units so that they could seamlessly continue • Operational communications. on with business as usual. 2,018 The feedback we received from volunteers Volunteers To assist in better communicating with was fantastic, and the sessions provided a volunteers during COVID-19, we decided great opportunity for volunteer’s questions to to implement live streaming. This refers be answered in real-time. to recording and broadcasting online media in real time. Central Region had During our sessions we also presented a new already utilised live streaming over the busy VICSES promotional video that was created summer season to contact potential new in late 2019, which came in handy for our 7,276 members, after receiving more than 200 new member sessions and demonstrated the Requests for assistance members inquiries. great work that our volunteers achieve. Some great short promo videos were also presented The new live streaming project took the form showcasing individuals profiles, which of a panel, with a range of different presenters. could be used on units Facebook pages The sessions were also recorded, so people for recruitment. who missed the session could watch at a later % Building Utilising livestreaming was a great opportunity 43 37% damage time. Topics that were presented included: Tree down to keep in contact with everyone whilst • Volunteer Support Officer updates, which still maintaining physical distancing at the included truck build updates, resupply of Mulgrave office, and is something that we Support other consumables, business plans, and other would like to continue doing in the future. 3% agencies relevant current information. 3% 4% Last but not least, a massive thank you to Fuzzy 10% • Trainers updates, which included how Rescue Media who helped us put these great live to make the best of online training, and streaming events together. n Other Flood some great examples of unit-made training videos to keep volunteers engaged.

14 Whittlesea Unit celebrates Sebastian LaSpina’s leadership in Peer Support

Donna Fenech, Whittlesea Unit, Central Region

In March, Whittlesea Unit Officer Sebastian LaSpina was awarded the 2019 Peter Rabone Memorial Shield for his honourable leadership and contributions to the VICSES Peer Support Program.

he Peter Rabone His kind nature and warming “I am humbled by the award and deserve any support that Peer Shield is dedicated to personality has been part of his did not expect it,” said Sebastian. Support can provide them.” the memory of Peter success in being able to provide T “It has always been an honour to On behalf of the entire Whittlesea Rabone - a leader, peer, trainer, support to VICSES members companion, friend and inspiration during traumatic periods. support my VICSES colleagues, Unit, we congratulate Sebastian on to many during his 29 years who o«en find themselves in this incredible achievement! n at VICSES. Following the death of two Port difficult physical and emotional Campbell members in 2019, circumstances due to their Sebastian joined Peer Support in Sebastian provided support to dedication and role in keeping 2016. Since then, Sebastian has unit members a«er the event and their communities safe. Many been an integral member of the during the funeral, demonstrating of them are unsung heroes, team, advancing to become the that distance would not get in the even though they would never Regional Leader for the South West way of supporting his peers. see themselves that way. Our and Central Western Regions. volunteers and their families

New staff driving results

John Chaplain, Manager – Regional Emergency Management, Sarah Stephen Central Region

Alan Barnard, Central Region Regional Officer - Emergency Management and the Community Resilience team recently took on four new staff Peter Duncombe members to assist with key targets and outcomes.

en Langan and Peter Peter was also instrumental in the Hotspot Strategy, which will set Duncombe both development of a Level 3 flood the direction of our community B backfilled Operational exercise to test our processes. engagement. Officer roles, whilst Jess Law and As more staff and volunteers Sarah has also been lending her Sarah Stephen took on new roles will be working remotely from Ben Langan supporting Melbourne Water key Incident Control Centre’s due expertise to the Melbourne Water performance targets. to COVID-19, this exercise was Hotspot Strategy. Although it particularly important ahead of became more complex due to Ben and Peter not only created what is predicted to be a high social distancing, Sarah harnessed positive connections with agency rainfall period. the tools of virtual engagement to partners in their nominated areas, help keep work progressing. but were also instrumental in Jess was hard at work to finalise Central Region’s response during a number of local flood guides. Finally, thank you to Community COVID-19. With a background in public Resilience Coordinator Malvina health, Jess also lent her expertise Tsecoutanis, who has been Ben was instrumental in creating to the region's response during managing Sarah and Jess through a regional project tasking tool to COVID-19, which assisted in these projects and the recent capture key projects and monitor pandemic environment. achieving key outcomes. Jess Jess Law tasking and outcomes, which may also worked with Ross Butler end up as a state-wide tool. Well done by all! n on the next Melbourne Water 15 East Region units embrace technology during COVID-19

Jane Fontana, Community Resilience Coordinator, East Region EAST We have all needed to think outside the square during COVID-19; especially how we keep connected and engaged with things we would normally do face-to- face. This has included connecting via social media, video conferencing, and other online platforms.

1 January – 31 March 2020 egionally, the with new hydraulic gear, physical training method or training team has knots revision, and a landslide skill, and presented it back to R been providing awareness session. They also the unit over Webex. A Safe more online learning options, hosted a remembrance event Working at Heights System including landslide awareness via WebEx for the anniversary kit session was also hosted, sessions and micro-learns on of valued member Brian where members could storm and flood. The team has Rintoule, who passed away discuss the kits tools. The also assisted units with WebEx last year. unit’s training team have used training and getting members Google Docs to create their set up on portable devices so The Moe Unit have complete unit training plan they can stay connected to dramatically increased their for 2020/21, where a live unit activity. use of WebEx, including document can be viewed by setting up an iPad for one several participants and live Around the region, Phillip Island of their senior members, changes made. 694 Unit moved their members out Ted, through the region's Volunteers of their comfort zone and into iPad cache. Ted had never These are just some of the training via WebEx. The unit’s used an iPad in his life, and fantastic examples of how members had already been is now happily attending our units have overcome accessing the Hub for online meetings and training online! a challenging situation by courses, so the leap to WebEx Members have also broken embracing new technology. was the next logical step. Alan into teams to demonstrate a Well done to everyone! n 1,287 O’Connor, the units interim Unit Requests for assistance Controller during COVID-19, has been busy on his iPad joining in on the majority of region and state based teleconferences. Building 11% damage Over at the Leongatha Unit, % members have also been 42 Support using WebEx to catch up on a Tree down other weekly basis. They have had % 22 agencies a great uptake from the crew, averaging 15 members weekly. The unit has also run a series of 11% 8% 6% Rescue online sessions, including an online quiz via Kahoot!, map Other Flood and navigation revision and challenges, a radio refresher, a real-time show-and-tell session

16 New Regional Headquarters for East Region

By Merryn Henderson, Community Resilience Coordinator, East Region

On the Monday 4 May, East Region staff operating from Bairnsdale opened the doors Morwell to their new office for the first time. Emergency

«er months of floor plan, having previously Services AFL searching for operated as a retail building. Match A the right venue, Brainstorming began with 231-233 Main Street in ideas around how to combine Bairnsdale was decided all the office requirements By Jane Fontana, Community on for the new East Region into the one space, including This has been Resilience Coordinator, East Region Headquarters. The location a communications room, 12 months in ICSES Morwell Unit and was decided on upon key tea room, administration Paddy Platypus attended factors, including the building area, meeting rooms, toilets, the making, the Emergency Services AFL being situated in the heart desks, and everything else V and it couldn’t practise match between Hawthorn and St of the Bairnsdale CBD, and in between. Kilda on Friday 28 February at the Morwell plenty of available parking. have been Recreation Reserve. The functionality of the This was a massive project achieved that Russell Wilmott, Manager building includes a sizeable The match formed part of Hawthorn’s Regional Operational without warehouse out the back, response to the recent bushfire crisis, and Emergency Management which has allowed the region everyone’s help provided a fantastic opportunity to thank and Joan Robinson, Regional to combine the Logistics local emergency services personnel for Administration Officer devoted along the way.” Store in the same location. their efforts. extraordinary hours towards. This saves on rental costs, While the Bairnsdale Office Drawing a huge crowd, the match received and improves productivity by On Friday 1 May, Bairnsdale postal address has NOT a great response - especially for those having everything under the Office members finally changed, please remember footy fans that were able to watch their one roof. completed the move, with the for anyone visiting, that the favourite team play without having to trek to long wait for the new building Bairnsdale office it is now Once the building was Melbourne. located at 231 – 233 Main secured, the design and officially over. Street Bairnsdale, directly construction work became I just want to say a big thank opposite McDonalds. A great time was the priority. The building was you to the team for achieving had by all! n a blank canvas with an open this,” said Russell. With only a few items le« on the ‘to-do’ list, a new chapter for the Bairnsdale Office team has well and truly begun.

East Region would like to thank the VICSES Board, Chief Executive Officer Stephen Griffin, Chief Officer Operations Tim Wiebusch, Victorian Head Office business units, for their support towards this project. n

17 Mid West Regions Annual General Rescue Training Weekend 2020

By Jarrod McLean, Regional Officer – Training, Mid West Region MID WEST

1 January – 31 March 2020

Mid West Region held their annual General Rescue training weekend on 14 and 15 March at the Magdala Motor Lodge and Leisure centre in Stawell. The weekend was well supported by Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat, Hepburn Shire, Horsham, Dimboola, 412 Edenhope and Hamilton Units. Volunteers ith 19 volunteers involved in the delivery of training. Congratulations to in General Rescue and Hepburn Shire Unit volunteer Matt Viola, who W Fundamentals training, we was this year’s recipient due to his hard work, were able to conduct 16 assessments for passion and dedication. these volunteers. This was due to the support of members from Hepburn, Warracknabeal, Well done to everyone who assisted, and who Ballarat and Stawell to assist in assessments were able to become qualified in General 476 as Crew Leaders, Trainer Assessors and Rescue over this great weekend. n Requests for assistance Safety Officers. Two members were also able to fully complete their General Rescue and Fundamentals training.

Another highlight was the presentation of the Building Ian Mayberry Award, which is awarded each % % 19 damage year to a member who demonstrates excellence 57 Support Tree down other Keeping 7% agencies connected 9% Rescue during COVID-19 4% % 4 By Jane Patton, Community Resilience Other Flood Coordinator, Mid West Region

18 Wimmera Machinery Field Days 2020

By Jane Patton, Community Resilience Coordinator, Mid West Region

Over three days from the 3rd to 5th of March, the Wimmera Mallee region hosted the 58th Annual Wimmera Machinery Field Days at the Wimmera Events Centre in Longerenong. Mid West flooding within the Wimmera Road Rescue River district. The event also Workshop provided an opportunity to engage our ‘Join Us’ recruitment campaign, and to By Jarrod McLean, Regional Officer promote other key flood and – Training, Mid West Region storm safety messages. n Saturday 14 December, A big thank you to VICSES Mid West Region conducted Horsham Unit volunteer Kieran a Road Rescue Workshop at O Loughran, Warracknabeal Stawell Unit. mongst the activities, engaging with Unit volunteers Valarie Taylor 11 volunteers participated representing fragrance of diesel visitors at the static display in and Trish Wilde, Ararat Unit five VICSES units. The workshop and fresh cut hay the Moore Exhibition Centre volunteers William Maddern A and Warren Pitt, Ballarat involved four stands that were rotated in the air, the event gave with other emergency service through, including glass management farming industry colleagues, agencies and community Unit volunteer Robyn Read, and stabilisation, practical cutting friends, and family the chance organisations. Our members and Mid West Region staff techniques, cross ramming, and the to catch up over a cup of tea, engaged with local residents Clare Mintern and Belinda crash recovery system. delicious baked goods or a and visitors about being Marchant for helping to make light beverage or two. The prepared before, during, this community engagement Mid West Region were well supported event also gave an opportunity and after the impacts of opportunity such a success. n by VICSES Operations Officer, Gerry for the farming industry, local Sheridan and Rod Wells from PT Rescue community groups, schools, on the day. The Holmatro Battery services and sport clubs to Rescue Tools featured in the cross come together to explore ramming strand were also integral to innovative ideas, music, the workshop. entertainment, participate in The feedback received from this event regional competitions such as was so positive that members are the tractor pull, and more. already waiting for the next workshop! VICSES Mid West Region Thank you to everyone involved. n members undertook community engagement

During COVID-19, units updated with the latest COVID-19 The Mid West training team has and the upcoming Supplementary updates, which has increased adapted to physical distancing by Alerting System. in the Mid West Region morale, positive relationships setting up online skill maintenance have kept connected and wellbeing. training for all Mid West Region As restrictions ease in Victoria, members on Wednesday nights. units have organised training teams on a weekly basis In addition to this, all units have This has been facilitated by for face-to-face skill maintenance via Webex. been allocated a regional staff volunteers sharing their own training at local headquarters on a member for contact and support knowledge and expertise on fortnightly rotating roster. Although during COVID-19. This has involved it has been a challenging few upport response roles topics such as incident approach maintaining personal protective and positioning of vehicles, months, our units have continued and operational roles have clothing and equipment, as to support their communities and retained communication incident management, road crash S well as administrational duties systems, building construction and each other every day. n by sharing stories and keeping and requests. collapse, Map and Navigation,

19 NORTH OPERATIONAL EAST REVIEW: Tallangatta Unit volunteer Carly on-stage with Katy Perry. Not so quiet in the 1 January – 31 March 2020 North East

Liz Frazer, Community Resilience Coordinator, North East Region The statistics tell us this is shaping up to be one of VICSES’ busiest years yet, which is already well underway in North East Region.

«er a long and high intensity fire Unit responding in Jamieson to help a wayward 711 season involving every single VICSES wanderer John, his dog, and his five camels, Volunteers A unit in the north east, summer a«er slipping from the track on a 6,000km camel ended with damaging storms across central trek. You can follow John’s unique and thought and southern parts of the region. Members in provoking journey at www.johnelliott. fire affected areas have seen regular landslides, com.au and via Instagram instagram.com/ particularly in the Upper Murray where rainfall johnartelliott/. n has washed ashy debris over roads and 1,663 farmland. In some cases parts of main roads have Requests for assistance washed away, and at one point Corryong Unit responded to four landslides in a week. Staying connected

Alpine Search and Survival members joined a as a unit: Being missing person’s search in the Wonnongatta, Building a survivor of 9% damage utilising alpine tent accommodation to maintain social distancing - really thinking outside Support technology % other the bunkhouse. 68 11% agencies Tree down We also received a visit from performer Katy Jess Zuber, Chiltern Unit, Perry in picturesque Bright. VICSES members North East Region 5% Rescue who volunteered in fire affected areas enjoyed s unit leaders, we have been faced 4% % the show, including Carly from Tallangatta Unit 3 with many challenges during the who joined Katy on stage alongside other local COVID-19 pandemic. One of the emergency service personnel. A Other Flood biggest changes was moving from face-to-face Finally, we’ve seen our fair share of technical collaboration, to an online environment that had rescues too. Unless you’ve been under a rock, to include training, new procedures, modified you’d have seen the news coverage of Mansfield 20 ‘Double agent’ recruitment Volunteer spotlight: opportunity: Dual VICSES and CFA LISA WISE Liz Frazer, Community Resilience Coordinator, membership North East Region

Georgie Cardillo, acting Community isa Wise first joined VICSES Wangaratta Resilience Coordinator and Sue Unit in 1988 a«er finishing high school, Sheldrick, Community Resilience L and moved to Wodonga Unit in 1994. Coordinator, North East Region Currently, Lisa is positioned as Deputy Controller – Administration at Wodonga Unit, as well as OVID-19 has had a disruptive campaign posters featured images of undertaking the role of Peer Support Team Leader in and devastating impact on our current dual VICSES/CFA members in North East Region. C community. But one of its silver North East Region. Back in the 80’s when Lisa and her best mate joined linings has been creating time to share Wangaratta Unit (where both her parents had a unique recruitment opportunity that In many small regional and remote units, this dual membership arrangement is been active members), things were very different. promotes dual VICSES and Country Fire There were hand-me-down uniforms, ill-fitting Authority (CFA) memberships. almost by necessity, with some VICSES members also being certified ambulance boots, and shared personal protective clothing. Although the launch of this campaign and Red Cross volunteers as well. At Training was not the nationally accredited package has been put on hold due to COVID-19 VICSES Corryong Unit, 50% of their it is now, and they were part of the first handful of and the cancellation of the CFA State members have a dual membership with women to become rescue operators in the unit. Lisa Championships, it’s still a fantastic local CFA brigades. How amazing are remembers taking part in the notable Hume Freeway opportunity that we look forward to volunteers! rescues, including ‘the bus crash’ near Wangaratta in driving in the future. the early 1990s - a complex event still remembered We share many common skills and in the district. So, what’s unique about it? passions with our CFA colleagues, so why not combine what both worlds can offer Another memory from her time with VICSES was a Never one to waste an opportunity to storm job that was accidentally captured on dash to better support our communities. n attract new members, this North East cam. Lisa and her crew had completed a tricky Region approach is targeted at ‘sharing’ stabilisation using rope and chainsaw work to members with our CFA colleagues. remove a pesky tree from a house, car, and fence without it causing further damage. Little did they This particular recruitment drive was know that their celebratory jumping, back slapping focused on attracting current CFA and air punching a«er completing the job was members to join VICSES as well. The caught on camera! The footage has since been used as an interesting case study for other responders at the unit - the rope work, not the jumping for joy!

turn-out protocols and engagement for Today, Lisa is an early adopter of technology. She all members. has led Wodonga Unit into the future by mastering the new online cashflow management system, and At Chiltern Unit, we harnessed the use of has spent many hours using WebEx for VICSES WebEx, emails and the Hub, and were meetings. Lisa has also harnessed COVID-19 to able to cover training, information and coordinate a unit phone-tree, giving unit leaders other updates online. What we were and members an avenue to connect and engage still missing out on however was the together in a way they haven’t previously. interaction and fun of seeing our whole unit socially. How could we change this? tying, baby competition, and not so “Lisa is a clear example of the VICSES Values in real educational videos. life,” says North East Regional Trainer Dan Walton. Firstly our unit had some fun online by creating a closed Facebook group This initiative was a great way to support “She demonstrates credibility and connection to for members to compete in weekly the health and wellbeing of our unit community, the ability to work effectively in a multi- challenges. These included the bin members during this challenging time, agency response in tough circumstances, local isolation challenge, 25 push-up providing the opportunity to bond and knowledge and real skills, and maintains a focus on challenge, ANZAC Day pics, knot learn so much more about each other. n well-being and safety.” n 21 Joint working group for new rescue trucks NORTH Lynette Connor, Manager Assets, State Logistics Centre WEST

1 JanJanuary – 31 May– 31 March2018 2020

Bendigo Regional Office recently hosted a one-day joint working group, combining the Fleet Working Group and Road Crash Rescue - General Rescue 672665 Working Group. Volunteers volunteers and staff met to progress the outcomes by Šž participants who attended the Rescue Truck Workshop held in August last year, and the great work that the Fleet Working Group has done to date in determining the 1,476905 requirement of the new rescue trucks. RequestRequests for for assistance assistance The group collectively discussed and reviewed the equipment stowage, future capability requirements including new technology, and explored options for improving the current Building 12% damage designs. % Support The group also reviewed the current contents 62 other of the domestic rescue kit, personal protective Tree down 8% agencies clothing, equipment and biohazard kit, and the hand hydraulics kits, with the aim 7% Rescue of modernising, enhancing and reducing 7% Flood 4% duplication of kit contents. Based on the outcomes of these reviews and discussions, Other Flood the Road Crash Rescue - General Rescue Working Group will now go on to make recommendations to State Operations. n 22 Neighbour Day during COVID-19

Gavin Quinn, Community Resilience Coordinator, North West Region This year’s Neighbour Day took an unexpected twist as COVID-19 and lockdown swept across Victoria.

orth West Region had many people were staying In response to this event, 15 initially been planning connected via their computers community members joined N a Neighbour Day and smart phones by jumping the conference call – all the event at Atkinson Park in on social media and video way from Gisbourne, through Kerang, where many community conferencing platforms. to Rochester, and then up to groups such as VICSES, Lions Robinvale. Participants included Club, Country Fire Authority, We decided to harness one a mixture of VICSES volunteers Ambulance Victoria, and local of these platforms to host an and Neighbourhood House council would all connect via a online Neighbour Day event members joining together to cup of ‘communitea’ by having a quick conversation celebrate the event. over cup of ‘communitea’, and So with communities in to chat about alternative ways Thank you to everyone who lockdown and physical to connect with the community joined our virtual Neighbour Day distancing restrictions in place, during COVID-19. celebration. n

teve is a dual volunteer for Marc has always lived by the Heathcote Unit VICSES and Country Fire VICSES Value ‘Safety drives our S Authority, and also runs decisions’, and encourages these welcomes new Unit his own consultancy business. Values at every opportunity. North West Regional Controller Controller Mark Cattell and outgoing Unit Controller Marc Pitt presented Sandra Koole, Heathcote Unit, North West Region Steve with his new epaulettes. Marc was also presented with a In March, Heathcote Unit welcomed a thank you plaque on the night for VICSES is his time as Unit Controller. my second new Unit Controller, Steve Kern. Marc served as Unit Controller for family. Here the past six years, and has worked tirelessly to increase the unit’s we look after membership to over 20 volunteers. one another and share our knowledge,” said Marc. Heathcote Unit would like to thank Marc for his dedication during his time as Unit Controller, and look forward to having Steve on board! n

23 Heywood Unit National Volunteer Award

SOUTH WEST

1 JanJanuary – 31 May– 31 March2018 2020 Bess Krause, Community Resilience “It was great to work closely with regional staff Coordinator, South West Region and the CFA on the campaign, and it’s the teamwork that made it a success”.

In early 2020, Heywood Unit The new members are now General Rescue joined forces with regional qualified, and are moving into specialist training such as Road Crash Rescue. Heywood Unit staff and the local Country Fire Controller Charlie Debono praised their hard Authority (CFA) Brigade to run a work and the whole unit. joint recruitment campaign. The “They’re doing really well and have been unit had previously had as little as contributing to the running of the unit,” 673717 said Charlie. eight members, and throughout Volunteers “The whole unit is doing well, and we are this very successful recruitment, getting some really good feedback on our were able to almost double their members from the other emergency service membership numbers! workers who have worked with our team”. n 989686 n addition to this wonderful outcome, the RequestRequests for for assistance assistance campaign also strengthened the working I relationship between Heywood Unit and the Balmoral CFA Brigade.

Building In recognition of the unit’s hard work and 16% damage their success in rallying the community to Support support their membership, Heywood Unit % other was the recipient of a National Volunteer 53 8% agencies Tree down Award, presented by The Hon. Dan Tehan MP to Unit Controller Charlie Debono and 11% Rescue Deputy Controller Stephen Collins. Assistant Chief Officer/Regional Manager Cain Trist and 7% Flood 5% Volunteer Support Officer Bruce Humphries were also in attendance. Other “We were absolutely chuffed,” said Heywood Unit Controller Charlie Debono on the win.

24 The blended VICSES Corio Unit world of training! Michael Boerner, Regional Trainer, South Controller presented with West Region he blended world of training is Fred Grove Memorial Award here – combining face-to-face and T online training. It's great to see Melanie Gill, Community Resilience Coordinator, South West Region that VICSES volunteers have willingly taken up the challenge of this newly introduced way he and his team provide a high level of of training, which commenced as a result of emergency response. COVID-19 restrictions. “It was an honour to receive this award in Fred Online training has provided a platform to Grove’s name. In speaking to our fellow CFA deliver the theory sessions of some of our volunteers and a range of community members, courses in a different fashion, while ensuring it was really clear the significant contributions we are still able to have discussion and learn. and impact that Fred made and had on his It has lent itself well to the current pandemic community,” said Brendan. environment, and I believe we can utilise this form of training for other areas as we Brendan is a driven, well respected leader move forward. ongratulations to Corio Unit and role-model within Corio Unit. Joining the unit in 2016, he developed himself and his We have received some great feedback from Controller Brendan Marretta, who skills quickly, gaining an extensive range of some of our volunteers about this blended C was the VICSES recipient of the Fred specialist skills and competencies. He joined learning approach, including the General Grove Memorial Award in March. the management team as a Deputy Controller Rescue Group from VICSES Port Campbell Celebrations were held at the Rotary Club of in 2018, before becoming the Unit Controller Unit, who are finalising their studies prior Lara District, where one recipient from VICSES, in 2019. to their assessment, and the Camperdown Ambulance Victoria, Country Fire Authority Cluster Group, who have done all of their (CFA) and Victoria Police were each awarded Brendan has consistently made himself available course work online! for their dedication and commitment to to respond to requests for assistance, attending almost 200 requests in 2019 alone. His skills Online training should not replace face- their community. and experience in road rescue led him to to-face training. However, it can certainly The award is in memory of Fred Grove, who represent VICES in the Australasian Road Rescue become a component by enhancing the was a much-loved and highly regarded member Organisation (ARRO) competition in 2018, and overall training experience. By delivering of Lara’s emergency services and broader he shares his knowledge with members as a some components online our members will community. Fred was a CFA volunteer for 52 road rescue trainer. have less travel time, giving us more time to years, served with Victoria Police for over 40 focus on the practical parts of training. years, and was an active Rotarian for more than Brendan’s unwavering passion for his community and in ensuring Corio Unit can support them I look forward to doing more in the blended 25 years. in emergencies is the reason that Brendan very space of training, and also sharing resources Brendan was recognised for his dedication much deserved to be awarded the Fred Grove and learnings within our network. n and passion for supporting the community, Memorial Award. n and the sacrifices he has made in ensuring

Geelong Unit Proud to participate in Pako Festa 2020!

Melanie Gill, Community Resilience and multicultural communities in Geelong and the opportunity to sample a wide range of Coordinator, South West Region across Australia. delicious foods!

n Saturday 27 February, members Usually the signature VICSES orange is Geelong Unit acknowledged that it is of the Geelong Unit participated a stand out – but not at Pako Festa! The extremely important that everyone in the O in Pako Festa, which is Victoria’s parade was a wonderful vibrant stream of community is aware of not only VICSES, but all biggest free celebration of cultural diversity. colours, accompanied by music, dance and local emergency and other support services Members attended the day in support of the performance. The stages were constantly full available. The unit was extremely proud to diversity of the community that they live and of life, showcasing the wonderful diversity our participate in the festival, as the values of volunteer in, and were fortunate enough to community has to offer. diversity, acceptance and harmony really ring show their truck in the parade. true for them. VICSES members had a chance to participate Pako Festa was first held in 1983, and in the parade, and also walk around the festival Geelong Unit and surrounding units look celebrates and highlights the extraordinary and chat to a number of the stallholders, festival forward to an ongoing association with this contribution of individuals, cultural groups participants, and spectators. They also got great event. n 25 OPERATIONAL UPDATES

IMT volunteer deployments

By Natalie Stanway, IMT Capability Officer, VHO During January and February 2020, 15 volunteers who are on agreed Incident Management Team (IMT) development pathways were deployed into a range of IMT roles, some with multiple deployments.

he roles they filled included Operations Officer, Management T Support Officer, Mapping Officer, Logistics Officer and Information and Warnings I was very impressed capture and report Officer, among other roles. Deployment durations ranged from one to seven days, with their ability to information regarding with the majority of these at Incident Control quickly adapt to the fire extent and Centres in the fire-ravaged Gippsland and North East Regions. fast moving situation, behaviour, strategies to quickly acquaint and tactics, operational These 15 volunteers clocked up 62 days of deployment between them, once again themselves with our response, progress proving their worth beyond any doubt. The agency-specific systems, of impact assessment feedback provided on their contributions and performance was overwhelmingly positive. to quickly develop and and community This is a perfect illustration of demonstrating maintain appropriate relief activities.” our Values, in particular ‘We pride ourselves on situational awareness, our credibility’. Following their deployment during this time, and to build a rapport six of these volunteers went on to become The following is a great example of this positive accredited at a Level 2 panel in May, which is the feedback received, provided by a fire agency on with other IMT first time in the panel's history! one of our volunteers who worked in extremely team members. large and complex fire IMT: Well done to each of these deployed The quality of their volunteers who executed their duties with professionalism. We certainly are proud of situation reporting the way you represented VICSES in such was excellent, and they challenging circumstances. n were able to effectively

26 Replacement EAS pagers & network upgrades Josh Gamble, Operations Manager – REQUESTS FOR Operational Communications, VHO

ICSES, alongside our partner agencies, were recently part of ASSISTANCE V an enhanced pager trial following feedback provided by members on the current Emergency Alerting System (EAS) alpha pager.

VICSES was represented by 50 members, 1 January – 31 March 2020 both volunteers and staff, from a mix of units across the state who had previously reported Observation Reports for coverage deficiencies. The new enhancements that were trialled on the Total enhanced EAS pager included:

• Enhanced volume of the pager • LED flashing light for page notification and unread pagers 12,324 • Engineering improvements to reduce the number of corrupted messages with increased sensitivity Breakdown • User selectable capcodes

The overwhelming feedback from participants was that the trial pagers met mission critical operational requirements, and are looking forward to receiving the new enhanced pagers as soon as possible. % These enhancements to the EAS Pager, coupled 27 with additional transmitter sites being built Building damage through the project, will see additional coverage in the following towns, which are due to be completed within the next 10 months: % • Berwick • Maryknoll (completed) • Drysdale 49 • Beechworth % Support • Ocean Grove Tree down 7 other • Patchewollock • Coleraine agencies • Officer • Frankston % • Eskdale 5 Rescue The pagers will not be ready for distribution until late this year, and will see a rollout commence % early in 2021. 8 % Flood Further information will be released in 4 Operations Updates as the project progresses. Other Should you have any comments or enquiries, please contact the team at [email protected]. gov.au. n 27 PROJECTS š WHAT’S NEW Flood Observer App

By Jo Kegg, Emergency Management Planning & Risk Officer, VHO

VICSES teamed up with Snap Send Solve in 2019 to pilot a community flood observer app. A working group of both internal and external stakeholders gathered to work through the risks, issues and considerations to support the app use and implementation.

he app and Management Common supporting Operating Picture (EM- T resources COP). This provides were trialled during incident management several simulated flood personnel with easy exercises in the South access to the incoming West Region earlier this local intelligence during year. All feedback was flood events. collated and changes were made where possible It is intended that the to the app, resources, use of this app will and operationalisation improve access to local processes. knowledge, and will assist in maximising The app has since public information been released to communications and flood regional champions response efforts. who are supporting the implementation of its With reports from the use to selected trusted Bureau of Meteorology flood observers. suggesting Victoria will receive high levels of VICSES also teamed rainfall this winter, the up with Emergency release is perfect timing to Management Victoria to now test the app during a integrate the observations flood event. n received with Emergency

28 Windows Refresh Project

By Jo Taylor, Project Manager, VHO

If working remotely and at home during COVID-19 has taught us nothing else, it is the importance of computer hardware and so«ware to allow us to continue to do our jobs and serve the community.

With the support of the VICSES The Windows Refresh project It’s a mammoth task, but the on a rollout schedule can then Board, new laptops, tablets and will also update our so«ware to project team is being ably commence. desktops will be rolled out to all Windows 10 and Office 2016. This assisted by volunteers and staff volunteer units, Incident Control is to accommodate members who from across Victoria who have Stay tuned for additional updates Centres, Divisional Command are using devices that are eight recently completed the trialling as the project continues! n Points, the State Control Centre, years old, and the so«ware running of devices from the two vendor vehicles, and most staff this year. on them has been outdated by finalists. A preferred supplier improved versions. will be chosen soon, and work Businesses to prepare for floods!

By Jo Kegg, Emergency mitigate potential flooding to his VICSES and NCCMA staff enjoyed and a«er a flood event. Management Planning & Risk business. a day of filming the property and Officer, VHO discussing the excellent flood Our Business Flood Planning Phil’s business ethos is simple - mitigation work that the business Toolkit has been developed astlemaine business rather than rely on emergency has undertaken, as well as their to support local businesses to ‘The Mill’ and the services for help when they are Business Flood Plan that helps take action to improve their C surrounding area is in great demand during a flood to prepare for before, during flood risk. n no stranger to flooding. The event, he would prefer that his business is located next to Barkers business and staff are prepared Creek, which is subject to flash to help themselves, allowing flooding during extreme rainfall emergency services to assist other Business Flood Planning Toolkit events. Because of this, The community members in need. New resources are now available on the VICSES website to Mill’s owner Phil McConachy support local businesses to take actions to improve their flood contacted VICSES and the North VICSES was so impressed by the flood preparation undertaken risk. This includes a Business Flood Plan, planning checklist, video Central Catchment Management case-study of The Mill, and how Suncorp is assisting this initiative. Authority (NCCMA) to learn about by The Mill that we decided the flood risks. Flood studies and to produce a short video to You can view all of this content at www.ses.vic.gov.au, and local knowledge helped Phil to encourage other business owners head to Get Ready > At Work – Preparing Your Business. develop measures to prepare and to prepare for flooding. The Mill,

29 WELLBEING, HEALTH & SAFETY

Donating blood during COVID-19

By Alison Wright, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator, VHO Lifeblood is preparing for the annual cold and flu season. This year, with the emergence of COVID-19, the nation’s blood supply could come under pressure if existing donors become unavailable and regular donations become disrupted.

ifeblood have Facts and figures implemented thorough L precautions across 29,000 1 in 3 Calling all blood donation centres Australia- blood donations are people will receive blood wide to ensure their donors are VICSES needed every week. during their life. well looked a«er, including a strict screening process, wellness members checks upon arrival (non-contact Every donation has the The 2020 Red Cross Emergency Services temperature taken and questions 1 in 30 potential to save Lifeblood Challenge is running from 1 June asked about your wellbeing, Australian’s to 31 August. So if you’re eligible to donate travel and other factors), stringent donate blood. THREE LIVES. blood, start rolling up your sleeve and please hygiene, and the implementation If you are concerned about your safety when giving blood, get involved. We’d love to beat our impressive of social distancing across please check out the information on the Red Cross Lifeblood 2019 VICSES tally of 287 donations. all centres. Corona Virus Update page at www.donateblood.com.au.

Workplace inspections Injuries

July 2018 – July 2019 – April July 2018 – July 2019 – April 2019 2020 April 2019 June 2020 174 156 77 94 30 Healthwatch @ Home

By Alison Wright, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator, VHO

With Healthwatch visits put on hold due to Covid-19, the Healthwatch team decided to come to you by developing our own space for health and wellbeing support via WebEx.

ur first Healthwatch healthy to suit each kind of our Healthwatch visits resume, @ Home exercise lifestyle. and have been designing spaces were some brand new programs O Physical activity is important launched in April, and to get things started again. provided weekly workouts, because makes us feel better! In the meantime, we’ll see exercise tips, competitions Those feel good endorphins you in our WebEx spaces and and nutrition ideas. Over 100 help to boost our mood on our Health & Wellbeing and feelings of wellbeing, in VICSES members signed up Facebook page. n to get moving, with most addition to offsetting stress and anxiety. And the best part How to get involved: participants battling the balance between working is that it doesn’t take much to • Book your appointment to donate by calling from home, kids at home, and reap the rewards. 13 14 95, or visit www.donateblood. staying fit and healthy. Our com.au. We are looking forward to trainers designed creative seeing you all in person once • When at the donor centre, tell your nurse ways for people to keep fit and that you wish to join the ‘SES Victoria Lifeblood Team’. • Information can be accessed via the Hub > My State > Health and Wellbeing > More information Events > Blood Challenge. n You can contact us at [email protected].

YEAR AT A GLANCE 2019 2020 May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr Hazards 6 10 7 11 1 11 4 9 5 5 15 3

Incidents 24 20 18 25 20 24 22 37 29 26 19 8

31 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Social Media Community Consultation for Local Flood Guides

By Jane Fontana, Community Resilience Coordinator, East Region

Recent restrictions due to COVID-19 have meant that we have had to cease face-to-face community consultation on projects for now. But in the East Region, this hasn’t held up the production of priority local flood guides (LFG) for high risk locations, trialling consultations though Facebook instead.

ra« guides for to be viewed from, with the Analytics on Facebook allow Traralgon and added bonus of people being you to track the number of D Trafalgar were taken to the website and the engagements and people loaded as posts on the East possibility of them spending reached for each post. By Region Facebook page, more time on the site as a result. the end of the first week, the accessible via a link to Google Traralgon LFG had reached over Drive. Further conversations Some research was also 2,500 people and received 611 undertaken on local community Traralgon due to being a smaller regarding this have been post engagements. regional location. supportive of locating dra« groups and agencies that are guides on the VICSES website. on Facebook, and they were Some community groups These analytics provide qualitative This is so we have a secure and tagged in the original post. and agencies tagged in the and quantitative data, and take familiar platform for dra« guides original post also shared advantage of the increased usage of it, including the Traralgon social media and other technology Community Development during COVID-19. Paying to ‘boost’ Association, Traralgon Chamber a post on Facebook to reach more of Commerce, Traralgon people and certain demographics is Community Noticeboard, also something to be considered in Latrobe City Councillor Kellie the future. O’Callaghan, VICSES Morwell Unit, and more. This type of consultation is only in its early stages, but with further Trafalgar also received great exploration could prove to be coverage, but less than very effective. n

32 Community Resilience Strategy Renewal

By Kate White, Director Community Resilience and Communications, VHO VICSES is proud to release the Community Resilience Strategy Renewal, celebrating our ongoing commitment to achieving community resilience, and extending the approach introduced in the 2016-19 Strategy for a further three years.

he Strategy Renewal connections. The work of • How we will ensure we are These are publicly available as builds on the key our Community Engagement accountable to deliver on Yearly Outcomes Reports on our T achievements and Facilitators will help us achieve our corporate imperatives. website at www.ses.vic.gov.au lessons learnt during the initial these strategic objectives and and under the tab Who We Are > • How we will join and term, and provides a road map increase community resilience. Resilience. connect with communities. for the design and development of community resilience activities, Background • How we will develop Each Outcomes Report presents and delivery and evaluation positive partnerships. key highlights, activities and outcomes from the 2016-19 of programs and resources On 29 July 2016, the Minister for • How we will meet our Strategy’s implementation, throughout the next three years. Emergency Services, Hon. James traditional and emerging including our achievements Merlino MP, launched the 2016-19 It reaffirms our commitment to accountabilities as an against the strategic objectives and Strategy; an important enabling better understanding community emergency service reports on the Key Performance element of VICSES’ vision to create attitudes, key drivers and organisation. Indicators (KPIs). Safer Communities – Together. barriers, and details how we • How we will provide and share The Strategy Renewal extends the will continue to join with our For VICSES, the 2016-19 Strategy timely, effective reporting that approach introduced in the 2016- communities before, during and was a landmark piece of work that is meaningful. 19 Strategy for a further three years. a«er emergency events, develop helped to cement our evolution positive partnerships and provide from an emergency response- We collated annual findings and You can view the Community timely, effective reporting to the centric organisation to one with results throughout the duration of Resilience Strategy Renewal by Victorian Government. a broader focus that included the 2016-19 Strategy to support visiting the Hub > My State > our efforts to build community continuous improvements of The Strategy Renewal strategic Community > Community resilience before, during and programs and initiatives during objectives remain the same Resilience Strategy. n a«er emergencies. The 2016- its lifetime. - to build capacity, increase 19 Strategy detailed our plan for: collaboration, and foster

33 January to MEDIA March 2020 Social media highlights:

Media releases: Campaigns FACEBOOK and events: • Mallacoota heroes flying to Melbourne Reach: for AFL State of Origin game • Neighbour Day 198,035 • We work as one in ACT state of • Cricket – Bushfire Bash Post clicks: emergency • AFL State of Origin Bushfire 26,299 • High tech sonar - a string in the bow of Support game Mallee VICSES units Reactions, comments and shares: • International Women’s Day 2020 • VICSES volunteers still powering 3,022 through a«er huge storms • AFL pre-season opener – Coin Toss • Amazing! Over 80% of VICSES units Neighbour Day – encouraging the community to stay assist during Victoria’s fire crisis connected during COVID-19 138 Television 185 TWITTER Radio Mentions of Impressions: VICSES in the 9,971 news: 473 Media engagements: Online and Print 527 Total engagements: New VICSES Image 647 Thanking our volunteers for their response during the and Photography guide bushfires.

By Gabi Barkmeyer, Corporate Communications Officer, VHO INSTAGRAM ICSES has launched a new The guide also includes helpful Comments, Image and Photography tips and resources to help you get Impressions: Reach: likes and saves: V Guide. the best out of your photography, 3,143 1,820 214 including: The VICSES Image and Photography Guide is designed to help our • Instructions for using and Task Force Alpha story volunteers and staff to take and select contributing to the VICSES featured in the latest issue of Community Matters. photographs that: Image Library of approved and endorsed images • Are consistent with the VICSES brand and style • Advice for planning your own photoshoot • Portray correct personal protective clothing and equipment (PPC&E) • A range of tips for capturing visibly appealing photos at all times LINKEDIN • Depict safe work practices and You can view the Image and Impressions: Clicks: accurate procedures Photography Guide via the • Receive proper talent consent Hub > My State > Media 4,448 596 and Communications > Reactions, comments • Are compliant with Victorian Child Image Library. Safe Standards and shares: For further information on anything • Meet the minimum resolution within the guide, please contact the 126 requirements VICSES Media and Communications team at [email protected]. n International Women's Day. 34 MEET THE INFORMATION IS TEAM: SERVICES (IS) TOM UPDATE WRIGHT i Tom! Congratulations on Is it June already? your new role as Manager H Support Services within the IS team. Can you tell us a bit about Yes, yes it is. I don’t know about you all, but I feel the role? like it was only last week we were seeing an ease Thank you very much. The role is a new one within the organisation - it was recognised as in the bushfires and pondering some relief and a gap in the IS team, and I thought my efforts and experience over the past four years lent a return to ‘norm’. me well to the job. The role coordinates the day-to-day ith the onset home arrangements. The to define what you are trying operations of the IS team – from the Service of COVID-19 supply chain has been greatly to achieve. We have saved Desk, to our field visits, to working closely W after the affected, so we have had money and time for quite a with our vendors and partners to ensure bushfires and everyone to make some decisions few units that have sought successful service delivery for all things IS. having to make so many on priority. But I think that our advice on what to do, adjustments, time has flown getting support from you all in and others have been given What are you most looking forward by. And here we are, coming understanding this has been assistance because they to in your new role, and are there into what is going to be one a great help - so we thank you missed out on training or any challenges? of, if not the wettest season. for your patience. didn’t quite understand how to participate, particularly The biggest challenge for me is going to And what an amazing One of the most pleasing using their mobile phones. be stepping away from technical work. My organisation of people things that people have whole career I’ve been a technical resource, we are. The resilience and increased and taken If you are a unit that has a so going into management is certainly going strength that I see across our advantage of is the new number of members that to be a big change for me, but one I already staff and volunteers increases video and teleconferencing missed out on training or you love. I’m fortunate enough to work in a great my pride for our organisation system Webex. In fact, we have a lot of new members, team with fantastic knowledge, and just every day. are now starting to get a few then you might want to get generally brilliant to work with. So that, along units deciding to ramp up some training organised. with their support, is definitely making the I know that it has been quite a their facilities to incorporate Raise a service request by transition smooth. challenging year for everyone, it a lot more for training and emailing ictservice@ses. What are some of the memorable and hopefully our IS team other purposes. I can’t stress vic.gov.au or by phoning changes that you’ve seen in the IS field has been making life a little enough how important it 1300 737 101, and we in VICSES? easier for you all. Certainly is for all units that want to will help you get the right the team have been working strengthen their conferencing assistance. I’ve really enjoyed the constant progression of hard to ensure the smoothest capability, to read the Unified transition possible for people Silvia Silverii our department - our processes and business Communications page on practices have improved greatly over the last to be accommodated with the Hub, and then consult Chief Information Officer their different working from VICSES couple of years, and the technology we’ve with our service desk team implemented, such as WebEx, has been really well thought-out and is fit for purpose. COVID-19 has really highlighted that! Updated or New VICSES Policies Outside of work, how do you like to unwind? By Ross Elford, Manager Information Security & Governance, VHO Football! The proper football I mean, which VICSES is constantly reviewing and assessing its policy framework to ensure the guidance it I definitely don’t call soccer. I play for North provides is relevant and up-to-date. To this end, a number of VICSES policies have recently Melbourne Athletic, although I’m not too far been developed or reviewed, amended and updated. You can view these policies by off calling it a day as the post-game soreness visiting the Hub > Library > Policies and Standing Orders. n nearly lasts a week these days! n 35 VOLUNTEER