LIFT-OUT: SOUVENIR- OUR SERVICE’S HISTORY PART TWO BUSH FIREbulletinVOLUME 32 No.02 // 2010 THE JOURNAL OF THE NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE Our history A story worth telling

IN THIS ISSUE AFTER THE GEROGERY FIRES FIRES UP NORTH

ADDITIONAL STORIES: SOUTH COAST: FROM DROUGHT TO FLOODS UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL IN CALIFORNIA CREWing WITH THE COMMISSIONER VISIT FROM PRESIDENT OF BOTSWANA The 11th World Games 2010 21st~29th, August, 2010 (Nine days)

Place I Daegu (and nearby cities) Scale I 60 Countries 10,000 Participants Eligibility I Current, retired firefighters and their families Events I 75 events www.wfg2010.com Get your free information kit to Korea today! Email: [email protected] Website: www.visitkorea.or.kr For Info on package tour programs to the World Firefighters Games please contact: Allworld International Email: [email protected] Phone: 02) 4261 3600 or Tollfree: 1300 737 690 foreword

For many of you, climbing onto a truck, doing activities around the station, teaching new recruits or being on the end of a hose is a regular occurrence. For me, in my role as Commissioner, it’s not too often I get that opportunity and it is something I miss from my days as a volunteer.

Recently, I had the opportunity to spend a day with members of the Williamtown / Salt Ash Rural Fire Brigade near Newcastle, who ‘won’ the Crew with the Commissioner competition in the Bulletin. The Brigade, like many of our brigades, has been doing some great work with young people and it was a pleasure to work alongside these junior members (see page 42). I was pleasantly surprised by the number and quality of the applications in the Crew with the Commissioner competition. In fact I would like to see this competition continue and there is an invitation to get involved once again on page 36.

For some brigades, it’s been a busy few months dealing with storm damage. Our members were in action in the field on the far south coast dealing with storm cleanup and I know the communities in these areas are thankful for the efforts of all involved. I’m sure most of you have seen photos or footage of the ‘tornado’ which caused considerable damage to Lennox Head on the north coast. Our members were there just after the storm hit, working alongside our colleagues from the SES, NSW Fire Brigades and NSW Police Force. IN THE NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE Notwithstanding the wet weather experienced across many parts of the State, there has still been considerable progress made in the area of hazard WE VALUE reduction. This work will continue as conditions allow. One of the great success stories of recent times is the work of our mitigation crews. These crews have now prepared more than 1100 kilometres of fire community and environment trails, containment lines and Asset Protection Zones. Our AIDER (Assistance for Infirm, Disabled and Elderly Residents) program has also assisted well over 400 of our most vulnerable residents in the past year. This work will also support, friendship and camaraderie continue in the lead up to the next bush fire season, now only a matter of weeks away for some of us. knowledge and learning As you would be aware, the final recommendations of the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission were handed down on 31 July, 2010. In all, there were 67 integrity and trust recommendations, which are being reviewed by the NSW RFS. Implications will be communicated to members through channels such as MyRFS and I one team, many players and one purpose encourage you to be across the latest information before the start of the bush fire season, to ensure we are all delivering accurate advice to our community. adaptability and resourcefulness Finally, I would also like to thank members who have recently participated in the Service’s new Consultative Committees. These committees, made up mutual respect of both staff and volunteers, are an important avenue for ensuring the views of volunteers are heard and considered in the Service’s decision making processes on issues such as equipment, membership and strategic direction.

I hope you enjoy this edition of the Bush Fire Bulletin.

Shane Fitzsimmons, AFSM NSW RFS Commissioner BUSH FIREbulletin // FOREWORD 01 CONTENTS

06 16 22 42 48

01 FOREWORD 25 SOUVENIR LIFT OUT 25-28 Our Service’s story, Part Two 03-5 IN FOCUS 31 GENERAL NEWS cont’d 06 INCIDENTS 31 Bushfire CRC Research leads the way 06 Fires up north 31 High fire 08 Pinnacle Swamp fire 32 NSW RFS at the Police and Emergency Services Games 09 Brigades called in as freight train derails 33 Young farmers meet the challenge 10 After the dry, the floods 34 Planning the future of MyRFS 12 Quick action by Illaroo Road Brigade 13 Heritage building lost in fire 36-37 IN FOCUS VOLUNTEERS 38-39 We are going to the Zoo, Zoo, Zoo… 14-15 FEATURE 40 Brigade in Profile: Byron Bay After the Riverina fires, bringing the 42-43 Crewing with the Commissioner community together 44 Thumbs up from the Kadina Kids 45-47 BUSHFIRE CRC: FIRE NOTE 16 GENERAL NEWS Who is at home when the fire comes? 16-17 Fire Boat Exercise on the Hawkesbury 18 Testing a bush fire proof house design 48-51 WORLD FIRE 19 Dangerous trees Right on the spot at the Californian fires 20-21 Tenth Region North Exercise 22-23 A Ball of a time: C4K Ball

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You must also obtain permission from the NSW RFS if you wish to: The NSW RFS disclaims any liability (including but not limited to liability by reason of negligence) to the users of • charge others for access to the work (other than at cost); the material for any loss, damage, cost or expense whether direct, indirect, consequential or special, incurred by, or arising by reason of, any person using or relying on the material and whether caused by reason of, any error, omission • include all or part of the work in advertising or a product for sale, - or misrepresentation in the material or otherwise. Users of the Website will be responsible for making their own • modify the material; or assessment of the material and should verify all relevant representations, statements and information with their own • use any trade mark from this publication, including the NSW Rural Fire Service crest, MyRFS logo, or the professional advisers. All photos, unless otherwise stated, taken and owned by the NSW Rural Fire Service, Corporate Firewise logo. Communications. The views expressed in articles in the Bush Fire Bulletin do not necessarily reflect the views or the policies of the NSW Rural Fire Service. Bush firebulletin // CONTENTS infocus

Minister for Emergency Services, Steve Whan, presenting Cadet of The Year announced the Cadet of the Year award to Maddy Stoyles

A student from Braidwood, east of Canberra, has won the inaugural NSW Rural Fire Service Secondary School Cadet of the Year Award.

Minister for Emergency the program, commitment Mr Whan said the awards The NSW Rural Fire Service Services, Mr Steve Whan to and understanding of were open to students who Secondary School Cadet presented Maddy Stoyles with volunteering, the ability to be participated in the NSW RFS Program offers the opportunity the award at NSW Parliament a good representative of the and SES school cadet programs to follow the training and service House in in May. school and NSW RFS and the during 2009, to recognise the ideals of the NSW RFS. Year 9 degree of personal growth invaluable role of young people in and 10 students, cadets of other Maddy participated in the shown throughout the program. the NSW emergency services. organisations or individuals are Secondary School Cadet program All nominations were of an welcome to join the 10 week at Braidwood Central School extremely high standard. “Maddy is a committed member program that is held within the in 2009 and was nominated of her school cadets program school year. because of her achievements Cadets from both the NSW at Braidwood Central School,” during the course. RFS and State Emergency Mr Whan said, “She has shown For further information on the Nominations were judged on Service (SES) were presented great skill in a range of areas, program please contact Amy leadership, teamwork and with awards during National along with a real willingness to Blackwood, Youth Development initiative skills displayed during Volunteers Week. use her training to make a real Officer 02 8741 5161 or amy. difference to her community.” [email protected]

BUSH FIREbulletin // IN FOCUS 03 infocus President of Botswana backs work of NSW RFS

LEFT: President of Botswana, His Excellency, Seretse Khama Ian Khama, Botswana High Commissioner, His Excellency, Selepeng Molosiwa and Foreign Minister Phandu Skelemani met with the NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons, Russell Taylor, Supt Brian Graham and Group Officer Peter Evans in Sydney in March 2010.

Superintendent Brian Graham and Group Officer Peter Evans from Sutherland joined the President to discuss the expertise that the NSW RFS could provide to Botswana.

The NSW Rural Fire Service Further examples of the high We were initially given 30 minutes has embarked on a five year level of interest and support in His Excellency’s busy schedule. fire management program given to this program was the Such is his interest in the program, with the Republic of Botswana visit to of the Botswana however, he gave us an hour and supported by the State and Foreign Minister and the visit our a half! The discussions were wide Federal Governments. In the first Minister for Foreign Affairs and ranging, though all were centred year, 16 members of the Service Trade, Stephen Smith, made to on improving fire management. (14 of whom were volunteers) Botswana. travelled to Botswana to provide This meeting was significant training and other expertise. These high level representations, recognition of the dedication, the first of their kind, paved professionalism and expertise of NSW RFS. In addition we will The Government of Botswana the way for the President of our Service and its members. be developing Standards of Fire and the Australian Government Botswana, His Excellency Cover methodology, providing have agreed to increase funding Seretse Khama Ian Khama to In the coming year we will advice on national disaster/ for the program for the next visit Australia in March this year. be working with Republic of emergency policy and developing two years. This will provide the Botswana to train their trainers a legislative framework in which opportunity for more NSW RFS At His Excellency’s request a to offer the basic training a Botswana rural fire service members to experience the meeting was held in Sydney package. We will also begin crew could be established. different fire management issues between the President and the leader training and introduce in another part of the world. NSW RFS. The Commissioner, the concept of Incident Control By Russell Taylor, Group Manager, myself (Russell Taylor), Systems as practiced by the Executive Support

It’s time!

…to get ready for the 2010 NSW RFS State Championships

To be held in Dubbo over the This year the social activities will weekend of 24-26 September be ‘themed’ in character with the 2010, this year’s State Dubbo area. There will be plenty Championships look to be bigger to interest, amuse and engage. and better than ever. The Championships are open to all members of the Service and The Dubbo Showground the public. provides a wonderful all-weather venue for the Champs and So why not note the dates plenty of flexibility, space and and come and see the latest amenities. For the first time equipment and vehicles and all events will be able to be meet the people who provide staged in the one location. We them? are expecting each Region will field a full complement of senior Check MyRFS for all the latest in and cadet teams while some of news from the 2010 NSW RFS our sister Services from NSW State Championships. and interstate will take up our invitation to participate.

04 BUSH FIREbulletin // IN FOCUS A sign of things to come?

A sci-fi style vehicle inspired maker’), is a specialised, high- Although Liam’s family’s property along by the Black Saturday fires performance vehicle designed to was saved, it inspired the young with directional spotlights assists could be a sign of the future for offer a faster and safer response designer to work with the in ‘hotspot’ location to determine vehicles. in first line defence against bush Country Fire Authority (CFA) to the most effective direction of fires. It was inspired by the come up with the Amatoya. attack. The Amatoya Fire devastation of the Black Saturday Reconnaissance Vehicle and its bush fires in Victoria in 2009. The vehicle requires just two “Amatoya was a standout for all designer, Liam Ferguson were crew members to operate. The the judges; it took a problem and awarded the 2010 James Dyson Designer Liam Ferguson helped body is treated with anti-swelling applied innovation, design and Award which is the student defend his family’s home during and fire resistant materials technology to develop a solution. category of the Australian the fires. (thermo-ceramic in-tumescent Liam had done the research, International Design Awards in paints and advanced aerogel working with both the CFA and June 2010. “We were completely laminated insulation) to maximise automotive industry experts and surrounded by the flames within safety. In addition, Amatoya’s provided a comprehensive entry, Amatoya (named after a 17th seconds and had to defend unique design allows the vehicle including a knock-out model,” century American Cherokee ourselves,” says Liam. “There to carry 2,200 litres of water, said Ross Cameron, Managing Chief, Amatoya Moytoy, was a point when we thought positioned low and centrally Director of Dyson SEA and who was known as ‘The rain we wouldn’t make it.” to increase vehicle stability. A member of the judging panel.

VALE: Rose Johnson

The NSW RFS Manager Financial 10 years. until the end and her focus was Services, Rose Johnson, passed Her passing was a huge blow on her boys, Peter and Greg, away in early January 2010. for all who knew and worked family and friends and of course, with Rose, particularly those in her two dogs, Maddy and Banjo.” Rose had been a key member Finance. The team are a very of the NSW RFS for over 22 close unit and supported Rose Members of the NSW RFS spent years, having commenced right throughout her battle with time with Rose and her family duties in the Finance section in illness. Never one to give in, right throughout the difficult last August 1988. Before Christmas Rose ensured she made special weeks and continued to provide 2009, the Finance team and events such as the Financial the necessary support and care the Commissioner were able to Services team Christmas party after she passed on. catch up with Rose and present to celebrate with her friends. her with her NSW RFS 20 Throughout her battle with Year Long Service Medal - an Ron Anderson, Peter Hennessey illness, Rose repeatedly achievement she was most and the Commissioner visited expressed her love and gratitude proud of. She had also achieved Rose in hospital a few days for her ‘RFS family’ and how it her qualification as a Certified before she passed away. It was had played such an important Practicing Accountant (CPA) – a her 53rd birthday. Afterwards and meaningful role in her life. goal she had been working the Commissioner commented: towards for the past “Her spirits remained high right

BUSH FIREbulletin // IN FOCUS 05 A busy season for the State’s North By Konrad Sawczynski, Learning and Development Officer, Northern Tablelands. Photos by Deputy Captain Steve Blunt, Glen Innes Brigade

first of the new emergency On the evening of 5 December, From 8 December the Tenterfield warnings to be activated in however, numerous dry storms crews were teamed up with the area. Torrington Brigade rolled through Inverell and on QFRS strike teams to extinguish had completed several hazard the north side of Tenterfield. six fires that were burning reduction burns on the northern Hundreds of lightning strikes between Tenterfield and the edge of the village in August, over the area started numerous Queensland border. which stopped the spread of fires. A Section 44 Bush Fire the fire and undoubtedly saved Emergency was declared once New crews and houses and allowed crews to again on 7 December for the New England Remote Area focus on the head and northern Tenterfield, Glen Innes and Firefighting Teams (RAFT) flank of the fire. Inverell rural fire districts with worked with the ACT Rural It was in late November, after an New England Zone joining two Fire Service Strike Teams on already busy early fire season, that Strike Teams from Region North days later. numerous fires in the New the Northern Tablelands and New coastal areas and Region East England area, including Cathedral England experienced a Section travelled to assist local NSW The storms had started two more Rock, Maiden Creek and Reedy 44 Bush Fire Emergency in the RFS, National Parks and Wildlife large fires north west of Torrington Creek fires. Thunderbolts Way, Torrington and Service and State Forests crews. and Bark Hut to the south. By Rivertree Road areas. this time the local crews were Throughout the campaigns crews Although several containment exhausted, so a call was put were backed up with aviation The Thunderbolt Fire quickly lines were breached throughout out to source Strike Teams from support including aerial ignition burnt out around 17,500ha of the campaign across the Region North coastal brigades. As and aerial bombing. A regional bush land and several other firegrounds, crews were able to the month progressed crews from airbase was set up at the Glen fires started in the Torrington, get hold of the situation by early Regions East, South and West, Innes airport that supported New Flagstone and Tungsten areas. December and at 1700hrs on 5 the ACT Rural Fire Service and England, Northern Tablelands The Tungsten fire directly December the Section 44 Bush the Queensland Fire and Rescue and the Namoi Gwydir areas. threatened the village of Fire Emergency was revoked. Service (QFRS) joined the fray. Several refuelling points were Torrington resulting in the

06 BUSH FIREbulletin // INCIDENTS LEFT: Flames engulfing trees at the Rivertree Road fire where NSW RFS crews were assisted by Strike Teams from Queensland, 6 December 2009 TOP RIGHT: Glen Innes Cat 7 working on the Torrington fire line on the outskirts of the Torrington village, 6 December 2009 CENTRE RIGHT: Glen Innes Brigade Senior Deputy Jeff Smith (left) in tactical discussions with other crews at the Torrington fires, 12 December 2009 BELOW RIGHT: Control burning and mop up operations at the Rivertree Road fires, 12 December 2009

established over the district due incident. Due to the potential to the large distances covered by consequences of the aircraft. fatigue, a working party has been examining fatigue issues. While there were a number of properties under threat in the Group Manager, Response and Rivertree Road, Carpet Snake Coordination, Steve Yorke is chair Creek, Bark Hut Creek, Black of the Fatigue Management Creek, Hawthorn, Kangawalla Working Group which has been Thunderbolts Way, Diamond given a wide term of reference Swamp and Reedy Creek fires in order to generate the best and crew strength was stretched, possible practice for fatigue there was no loss of houses management. throughout the fire season. The incident is also a sober The Northern Tablelands reminder of the impact of Communications trailer was fatigue on driving skills and the deployed to Namoi Gwydir importance of taking personal on the 8 December to assist responsibility when tired. All with communications and drivers in the NSW RFS should Northern Rivers deployed their be familiar with the Safe Driving Communications bus to Northern Standard Operating Procedures Tablelands on 10 December. which is available on myrfs.com.au.

In total there were 128 fires In another incident a National burning across the New England Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and Northern Tablelands, on the Cat 9 was destroyed in a tree busiest day there were 43 large strike incident. The National Parks fires burning simultaneously. A crew was at the location to fell the total of 140,000ha were burnt tree which had been previously during November and December identified as dangerous. No one 2009. was injured in this incident. Over the November/December Early in the season period, average temperatures hovered around the low to mid Previously, from the end of 40°C and relative humidity was August through to November below 10 percent. The weather there was an increased patterns resulted in dry lightning number of fires due to the storms over areas that have not high temperatures and the seen fire in generations. extremely dry conditions. There were several Class 2 fires in the Local fire managers and other Tenterfield and Inverell areas locals noted that the fires from the 25 to the 28 August this season did not follow the 2009. These fires were handled traditional fire paths. A number of at the local level in partnership locals said they had never seen with the local NPWS utilising fires in some of the areas that three helicopters and three were affected this season. As a dozers. In this early part of the result, the fuel loading was high fire season, there were major and the fires were very intense. fires at seven locations: Long We believe this is because of the Gully Rd, Frazer’s Cutting, extended drought, fire regimes Duttons, Bruxner Hwy, Drake, and the location of the large Rover Park, Pindari Dam and amount of dry lightning strikes. Rockview. All of the Northern Tablelands crews did a fantastic Accidents job working long hours to get the fires under control. These fires During the season, a number of burnt approximately 20,000ha. accidents involving crews and vehicles occurred, highlighting Northern Tablelands and New the danger of working on England teams would like to firegrounds. One of these thank all of the local and out- included the crash of a Cat 1 of-area volunteers and staff tanker which hit a tree, with who came to assist us during its crew avoiding any serious this fire season. Your help and injury. A formal investigation professional attitude was very found fatigue was a factor in this much appreciated.

BUSH FIREbulletin // INCIDENTS 07 The Pinnacle Swamp Fire By Inspector Jayne Leary, Deputy Officer, Cudgegong District

A farm building saved by the firefighters near White Rock, Rylstone. Photo by Mathew Ross, Griffith Fire Control Centre

33kms south east of Mudgee in The fire burnt out 5,400ha of in the Incident Management the Central Tablelands of NSW. forest, scrub and grazing land. Team. Aviation and heavy plant While no homes or stock were were vital in containing the fire. With vegetation already dry lost, one hayshed and about The Salvation Army deployed a and temperatures of 41ºC on 155kms of fencing were burnt. A brand new catering truck and Saturday 21 November, the fire substantial amount of irrigation provided all meals for crews for made its run. Firefighters spent equipment in a hazelnut grove ten days. The NSW Volunteer Saturday and Sunday protecting was also destroyed. The damage Rescue Association (VRA) properties. All had stories of is estimated at $1.6 million. and State Emergency Service close calls to recount. All were (SES) delivered meals and successful. There were no Some farmers were 100 percent anything else that was needed. A storm through the Cudgegong homes lost. affected. Having lost all pasture The Department of Industry District on Thursday 19 and fences, they had to sell all and Investment replenished November 2009 resulted in For many days the towns of their stock. farm dams with water used numerous fires ignited by Rylstone and Kandos, as well by helicopters and provided lightning strikes. as the village of Clandulla, were The Pinnacle Swamp fire is emergency fodder supplies. on alert. Community meetings yet another example of team Local business offered their While the Department of were conducted and were well work by many agencies and services or their time for free. Environment, Climate Change received. organisations. The local NSW and Water (DECCW) dealt with RFS volunteers worked tirelessly The good news is that in 2010 many of the fires in remote A base camp was set up at the alongside Strike Teams from the district has received good National Park areas, the NSW Mudgee Small Farm Field Days Regions West, South and East rain over several months and Rural Fire Service concentrated site to accommodate the many and from NSW Fire Brigades. throughout Winter experienced on the Pinnacle Swamp Strike Teams that travelled to Staff from DECCW worked pasture growth and optimism. fire,10kms west of Rylstone and help. both on the fireground and

08 BUSH FIREbulletin // INCIDENTS Brigades called in AS freight train derails Story and photos by Inspector Steve Brown

Three days of coal shipments after followed by NSW RFS and have all trains stopped on ‘As the on-call officer worth an estimated $75 million Darlington and Whittingham the lines. The driver and co- for the Hunter Valley were lost when a train derailed in Brigades. driver of the train were taken to Team, I arrived first on the Hunter Valley in March 2010. hospital with minor injuries as a NSW Fire Brigades NSWFB result of the accident. the scene to find two The 28-carriage freight train was stations from Muswellbrook locomotives and eight travelling north when it derailed at HAZMAT and Newcastle Heavy Recovery involved lifting the wagons had derailed a set of points about 300 metres HAZMAT also responded. damaged locomotives and north of Range Road and 5km wagons off the tracks and then with one locomotive south of Singleton. NSW RFS Crews from NSW RFS set up repairing the damaged lines. upright and the other crews from Whittingham and initial attack hose lines while on a dangerous lean Darlington Rural Fire Brigades awaiting advice from NSWFB NSW RFS was involved for about leaking approximately responded to the derailment on HAZMAT crews on dealing with three hours on the Saturday Saturday 13 March. the large amount of fuel that was and was called back again 6,000 litres of diesel.’ leaking. the following day while the As the on-call officer for the locomotives where lifted clear of Hunter Valley Team, I arrived Australian Rail Track Corporation the diesel spill. first on the scene to find (ARTC) staff where already on two locomotives and eight scene when I arrived as they The derailment closed the wagons had derailed with one had been working nearby on the Hunter Valley rail line to all locomotive upright and the other Minimbah Third Rail Line Project. passenger and freight trains for on a dangerous lean leaking They treated the drivers and three days, effectively halting approximately 6,000 litres of contacted Triple Zero (000). They the supply of coal from Hunter diesel. NSW Fire Brigades also contacted the Rail Control Valley mines to the coal loader at (NSWFB) Singleton arrived soon room to advise of the accident Newcastle.

BUSH FIREbulletin // INCIDENTS 09 AFTER THE DRY, By Andrew Gray, Far South Coast Team

After a hot dry Summer, the THE FLOODS Far South Coast experienced dramatic flooding in February and rural fire brigades found themselves dealing with the impact of an excess of water.

Prior to February, the KBDI (soil dryness index) for Eurobodalla was around 120 and for Bega 150 which is very dry. Rain had been sparse and conditions seemed set for a bad fire season. The picture changed completely in February, however, when the area experienced three significant periods of rainfall. Local records were broken and the rain led to heavy flooding and damage to houses and roads. On the right are the official rainfall figures which show that rainfall for this period was around three times the average.

The majority of brigades within the Far South Coast Team assisted within the communities in the flood effort. They were moving furniture in flooded homes, assisting landholders to move stock, removing trees on local roads or around homes, Feb 1-6 Feb 13-14 Feb 15-16 Total for Feb Average checking roads for land slips and accessibility in their local area Batemans Bay 105.3mm 30.6mm 157.2mm 303.8mm 104mm and assisting other emergency agencies as required. Apart Moruya 101.2mm 56mm 222mm 385.2mm 106mm from this some brigades needed to attend to their own needs Narooma 177.8mm 79mm 313.4mm 580.4mm 83mm to clean out brigade stations Bega 166mm 29.8mm 185.2mm 383mm 78mm from flood damage and ensure readiness for response. Merimbula 110mm 50.2mm 197mm 358mm 99mm Figures courtesy of the Bureau of Meteorology 10 BUSH FIREbulletin // INCIDENTS THE FLOODS

Dalmeny/Kianga Brigade exactly how much rain fell. The and discrete, were open to the NSW RFS volunteers from station was one of the stations Punkella Creek went from 2m ocean. Mummuga Lake, near Moruya, Dalmeny/Kianga, flooded. Volunteers reported fish wide to an estimated 1km wide the Dalmeny/Kianga Brigade, Narooma and Central Tilba through the station and from a depth of 0.5m to was flowing into the ocean as brigades were most involved which is located approximately approximately 6-10m in some was Brou Lake, Kianga Lake, on 15 and 16 February, but all 10m to 15m from the edge of locations. Nungudga Lake and Corrunna members continued to assist Mummagga Lake. Lake. where and when they were An area known as Wild Horse needed. Members were salvaging Creek in the Gulaga National A newly completed walkway/ office equipment, firefighting Park, had to be cleared before bicycle way on Dalmeny Drive PAGE 10 equipment and PPE from the the road could be opened. After between Dalmeny and Kianga TOP: Top of the Murrah River rising flood waters when they the flood waters receded, we built by volunteers from the known as Dry River (but not in saw the Poddy Mullet swimming estimated 400 tonnes of sand community and Council support February 2010!). Photo by Greg Potts past. The crew left the fish to and gravel had been dumped on was unseated by the flowing fend for themselves and rushed the flats surrounding Wild Horse currents. Fortunately it was BELOW: Dalmeny/Kianga Brigade to gather floating PPE that had Creek. It took more than three repaired in time for the official station was one of the stations been washed out the roller doors days to clear Wild Horse Creek opening a couple of weeks later. flooded. Volunteers reported fish when they were opened. This Rd with a front-end loader. It swimming through the station. Photo by Jon Poyner was around the peak of the flood was reported that up to 8km of The Princes Highway was closed on Tuesday 16 February. fencing was lost and one shed due to the flood waters in three PAGE 11 had been washed away. locations on the afternoon of TOP LEFT: Wapengo Causeway, Central Tilba Brigade Captain 15 February. The Road Traffic East of Bega. Photo by Greg Potts Bruce Allen reported on the The involvement of the NSW Authority (RTA) allowed traffic TOP RIGHT: House on Mort floods further south, he wrote: RFS was mainly to assist with through the following day. Avenue, Dalmeny. “The first flood was 4, 5 and 6 clearing trees, moving stock and Debris removal and repairs to Photo by Jon Poyner February with a total rainfall of helping local landholders who the highway and bridges were up to 295mm being reported had been caught short by the conducted over the following LOWER LEFT: Cuttagee Lake exit to the sea, 9km south of Bermagui. by locals with a small flood and rising flood waters. The brigades month. The pressure waves at this point minor damage to fences, roads also assisted NSW Police Force were over one metre high. and structures. The second with the rescue of a person who On the Far South Coast, the Photo by Greg Potts flood was on 14 and 15 February was trapped in his car while Paddy Otton Bridge, across with a total rainfall reported of driving through flood waters.” Double Creek in Brogo, was LOWER RIGHT: Murrah River flats 600mm plus. Rain gauges in the swept away and over 20 bridges 1km from estuary mouth to ocean. This area is normally dry farming Punkella area could not handle During the heavy rains the were damaged. land. Photo by Greg Potts the volume of rainfall on Monday coastal lakes throughout the 15 February so we are not sure area, which are usually closed BUSH FIREbulletin // INCIDENTS 11 Story and photos by Tracy Griffiths, Secretary, Quick action by Illaroo ROAD Brigade Illaroo Road Brigade

They arrived on scene to see the Brigades (NSWFB) arrived to local surf shop and motorbike take control. shop ablaze. Flames were flowing from all sides of the Smoke from the building was building, local residents were toxic due to the hazardous standing around viewing the materials within the buildings. scene. Adding to hazard was the location of the fire right on the Illaroo Road Senior Deputy Princes Highway. Trafffic had to Captain Michael Evans, in charge diverted around the incident and of the day’s operations, radioed through the centre of town. FireCom who instructed the Illaroo Road Brigade to respond Extra Breathing Apparatus crews and investigate. were called to assist from Group Illaroo Road Rural Fire Brigade were heading home 1 and Group 2 area as well from a day of meetings and a clean up exercise in Illaroo Road Brigade 1 and 7 as NSWFB crews from Berry, crews quickly set up initial Kiama and Wollongong. Other March 2010, when they noticed a thick plume of 65mm and 38mm hose lines, emergency services were also smoke engulfing the town centre of Nowra. stand pipes for the extra water involved including NSW Police, resources and then launched into Ambulance Service of NSW, TOP: Nowra’s local surf shop and first attack on the eastern side of Integral Energy and the local motorbike shop well alight the building upwind and out of council. the hot zone (Illaroo Road is not CENTRE: Elected at the AGM held a Village 2 brigade and therefore The fire burned for three and a just before the incident took place were Illaroo Brigade Captain Vic does not have breathing half hours before crews could Judson, Snr Dep Capt Michael Evans, apparatus.) take a well-earned rest and Dep Peter Bye, Dep Mick Judson, gratefully eat the lunch kindly Equipment Officer Shannon Fryer and All crew members from our provided by the NSWFB. Illaroo Treasurer Ron Witz Cat 1 and 7 were fully engaged Road Brigade left the scene in in the incident for at least five the early evening. minutes before the NSW Fire

12 BUSH FIREbulletin // INCIDENTS HERITAGE BUILDING

By Inspector Konrad Sawczynski, Learning and Development Officer, Northern Tablelands LOST IN FIRE Photos by Senior Deputy Captain Ottley Irwin, Gilgai Brigade evacuated by NSW Police and NSWFB.

The fire occurred at around 0100hrs. The firefighting strategy started as offensive but very quickly turned to defensive. There were concerns about the possibility of the building collapsing and later firefighters suspected a gas leak inside A 109-year-old commercial and the burning building. The blaze residential building in Inverell was contained at approximately was destroyed in a 0530hrs. on 24 January 2010. The fire destroyed 10 shops on The joint effort between NSW the ground floor, 24 units on the Fire Brigades and NSW Rural Fire first floor and three cars parked Service crews was outstanding out the front of the building. and their combined efforts There were no injuries or deaths. resulted in the fire being contained to a relatively small area. Cooperation between the NSWFB and the NSW RFS was The NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) excellent as firefighters from were alerted with a Triple Zero both organisations worked (000) call very early on Sunday. shoulder to shoulder to stop the After the first units arrived on fire spreading to neighbouring scene and discovered the size premises. of the fire and its potential to spread to adjoining buildings, NSW RFS units on scene were: a call for assistance was made Inverell 1 and 2 to the NSW Rural Fire Service. Gilgai 1 and 7 NSW RFS units responded FCO 5 quickly. Also on the scene were NSWFB The building was erected in 1901 Inverell Pumper and Tanker, and was a two storey double NSWFB Glen Innes Tanker, brick and tin roof construction. NSW Police, NSW Ambulance, The building housed numerous Country Energy and The shops and residential units. Salvation Army. A number of occupants were

BUSH FIREbulletin // INCIDENTS 13 Community engagement officers in the Riverina were quick to follow up after the startling fires in December 2009. AFTER THE RIVERINA FIRES, BRINGING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER By Kelwyn White and Marg Wehner Community Safety Officers, Southern Border Team Photos by David Bent, Thurgoona Brigade and Kelwyn White

14 BUSH FIREbulletin // FEATURE ‘The intention was build community morale. Well over 200 community members from Gerogery and Walla- Walla attended.’

Community engagement is vital more about being prepared for Bush Fire Survival Plan for increasing awareness of bush fire. pamphlets were distributed bush fire risk and helping people and the opportunity was prepare for bush fires, however The public information meeting given to individuals after the engaging the community during was held on Monday 4 January meeting to speak to NSW RFS and after an incident can be just 2010 – two and half weeks representatives one on one. as important for the recovery after the fire and was hosted by effort. After the Walla-Walla the Southern Border Team and 1 February 2010: Gerogery Fire on and around Gerogery Brigade. Present at the 17 December 2009 the impact meeting were representatives Firefighters thanked on the community was of great from the Greater Hume Shire, A barbeque to thank the NSW concern to fire agencies and the NSW RFS Southern Border team RFS was held in Gerogery on local councils. Manager George Alexander (who Monday 1 February 2010. The was also Incident Controller barbeque was attended by 75 On Thursday 17 December 2009 during the fire), NSW RFS members from the brigades gale-force winds and 40-degree Community Safety Officer, Marg involved in the Walla-Walla temperatures had combined. Wehner and several Group Gerogery fire on 17 December The efforts from local brigades Captains. Once again about 200 2009. Also in attendance was were outstanding yet five homes people attended. Greater Hume Shire Council were destroyed in the flames. Mayor Denise Osborne, Greater One firefighter was injured and During the meeting community Hume Shire Council General another firefighter lost his home members had a lot of questions Manager Steven Pinnuck and in Gerogery. about how and why the fire NSW RFS staff from the Southern The Gerogery Brigade, Southern ignited, why some people were Border Team and members from Border Team and Greater evacuated and why access to the Critical Incident Support Hume Shire Council and the their homes during the fire was Services (CISS) Team. Greater Hume Shire Council restricted. They also wanted to Local Emergency Management know more about the strategies Nine new members of the Committee (LEMC) decided to employed by the NSW RFS in Gerogery Brigade were signed up! act and held several community the battle to contain the blaze. meetings and social events over the following months. Overall the meeting was a very 15 February 2010: Schools visits good opportunity for people to 23 December 2009 express these concerns, for The impact on children in the answers to be given and the area was also of concern and Gerogery School Principal Less than a week after community to be reassured. Stephen Broomfield and houses were lost to fire in Community Safety Officer the Gerogery township, the Equally so, it was an ideal Kelwyn White decided to offer Greater Hume Shire Council opportunity for NSW RFS to support there too. Kelwyn White Photo courtesy of The Border Mail LEMC Recovery Committee explain how an event of this visited both the Gerogery and got the ball rolling. They hosted nature unfolds. We impressed Walla Walla Public Schools on a community barbeque at the on the community the need Monday 15 February 2010. Gerogery Memorial Hall on the for people to stay aware of the Wednesday prior to Christmas. environment in which they live At each school Kelwyn allowed The intention was to build and to be prepared for bush time for parents to meet with her community morale. Well over fire. The meeting consisted of regarding the fire and prevention 200 members from Gerogery information about fire behaviour, measures. She then spent a and Walla-Walla attended. Apart public messaging information few hours with the students from the welcome food and and general education. discussing what they had felt good company, information was and experienced on the day and disseminated, updates given Community Safety Officer during the fire. The students and the community was briefed Marg Wehner presented were encouraged to express about all support networks information on how fires affect their feelings by drawing pictures available to them. properties and some of the reasons why houses catch alight of their experiences. She reviewed the way that 4 January 2010 information was disseminated They discussed the changes they on 17 December. She also gave could see in the environment Several weeks after the fires the a thorough guide on how to find and how they felt a couple of Captain of Gerogery Brigade, the best information during a fire months after the fire. Stuart Byrne, was aware of the and how to use the NSW RFS concern in the community and tools before the fire season even The Gerogery School was suggested a public information starts. presented with an aerial meeting be held. overview of the school Aerial photographs of the fires’ surrounded by blackened trees The meeting would be a place path were presented. Successful and scrub and scrub showing where community members strategies implemented by land them how close they came to could have their questions holders who had saved their a disaster if it had not been for answered about the fire on the properties were explained. the efforts of the local rural fire 17 December and also to learn brigades.

BUSH FIREbulletin // FEATURE 15 FIRE BOAT EXERCISE ON THE HAWKESBURY

By Daryl Johnson, Muogamarra Brigade I Photos by Filip Mincev, Westleigh Brigade

The Fifth Annual Combined Districts Fire Boat Exercise was held on the Hawkesbury River at Fishermans Point in March 2010.

The event was hosted by the navigation exercise which took Passage Hornsby/Ku-ring-gai District crews off the water to a grass Warringah / Pittwater: Scotland and involved 14 firefighting fire. Island, West Pittwater vessels and over 140 firefighters Cumberland: Regentville participating in mock scenarios. The NSW Rural Fire Service Gosford: Bar Point, Brisbane (NSW RFS), Marine Rescue Waters The Combined Districts Fire Boat NSW, Volunteer Rescue Manning Team: Forster/Tuncurry Exercise is designed to develop Association, NSW Police, and the firefighting skills, knowledge Maritime Authority all provided Brooklyn Boat was awarded top of incident management supporting crews and vessels for rank on the day, followed by the procedures and is an opportunity the exercise. In addition there Regentville Boat and Berowra for firefighters to experience were six private boats used for Waters Boat Alpha. multi-agency coordination. activities on the day. Special thanks go to the RFSA Simulated scenarios involved The NSW RFS brigades and for their sponsorship and support a fire and rescue on the local crews who participated on the along with the Berowra Waters charter ferry Emily Melvey, a day included: Brigade as the driving force marina boat fire, a power pole Hornsby / Ku-ring-gai: Berowra behind the event. fire, a LPG cylinder fire and a Waters, Brooklyn, Milsons

16 BUSH FIREbulletin // FIRE BOAT EXERCISE BUSH FIREbulletin // FIRE BOAT EXECRISE 17 TESTING A BUSH FIRE PROOF HOUSE 1 DESIGN

These photos show a steel-framed house at the height of a CSIRO flame test at the Eurobodalla Training Centre in April 2010.

Eurobodalla Training Centre is the only facility in the world with a bush fire flame front simulator that enables testing of different materials in the open under worst case bush fire conditions.

CSIRO scientists ‘flame-tested’ the steel-framed house to see how the structure would respond to ember attack, extreme levels of radiant heat and direct flame contact. 2 1234 1234 Fire researchers are testing the idea that a house constructed predominantly of steel should be able to survive in the flame zone of a real bush fire, assuming that windows or other external openings have not been breached. The concept is that the entire non-combustible building façade, insulation and frame acts to protect the habitable space.

The test involved exposing the steel structure to ember attack, escalating levels of radiant heat and flame immersion to simulate the bush fire attack that would be experienced by a house situated only a few metres from the bush. The test may help inform future building policies for bush fire prone areas.

Bush fire researchers from CSIRO 3 and the Bushfire CRC observed the house burn-over from a safety area where they can monitor live feeds of data from numerous sensors and heat measuring devices which were located internally and externally to the structure as well as within the house cavities.

Testing is being conducted in partnership with the construction industry body, the National Association of Steel-Framed Housing, the Bushfire CRC and with support from the NSW Rural Fire Service.

Photos courtesy of the CSIRO

18 BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS 4 DANGEROUS TREES Roman candles or chimneys are different terms for the same thing. They occur in hollow trunks or limbs with apertures at the lower end and open holes at a higher point. When fire enters at the lower hole, the funneling effect creates a roaring fire inside the hollow section with the consequence that lighted sparks and glowing embers ‘spew’ out of the top – creating the ‘roman candle’ effect. The sparks increase every time the wind blows and can easily start spot fires.

Very often the only solution is to keep watch, control any spot fires and wait for the tree to fall and then break it up. This becomes a more complicated issue with burning limbs, as after they have fallen the fire still burns in the remaining hollow limb. Once the limb has fallen, a risk assessment may conclude that it is safe for the tree to then be felled.

A South Coast photographer, Jonathan Poyner, took this photo in June 2004 during back burn near Narooma.

“The fire was along the side of the road on the Princess Highway, just outside of Narooma,” he said, “The fire actually crossed the road.”

“I took the photo with a four second exposure. The embers swirled around and made the image of a man.”

Roman candles, chimneys or fully involved tree trunks while spectacular, are always a matter for caution for firefighters.

Chief Superintendent Alan Brinkworth, AFSM Manager State Operations

BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS 19 TENTH REGION NORTH EXERCISE By Bryan Daly, Operations Manager, Region North Photos by Alex Chesser, Media Services and David Purdon, Diggings Brigade

The tenth Region North Exercise The first Region North Exercise On Friday afternoon 26 The crews were challenged was held over the weekend of saw 240 volunteers and staff March, the Showground was throughout the weekend by 12 26-28 March 2010 in Glenn Innes attend. This year saw twice that transformed into a NSW RFS scenarios that tested their skill and was another outstanding many involved. In total over staging area with 53 fire trucks level, team work and leadership. success, according to the people the ten years, 3,668 personnel and 430 volunteers and staff who attended. have attended a Region North making it their temporary home This year, the Exercise Exercise. All in all that’s a lot of for two days. Crews from across Committee was keen to look Region North held its first training hours. Region North made the long for more challenging ‘hands annual Exercise in 2001 in journey to Glen Innes, and were on’ scenarios to test the South Grafton. It was the first In 2003 the Region North joined by a crew from Gosford crews and sought to provide time NSW RFS volunteers Exercise was held at the Glenn and Communications Officers something special that would be and staff had gathered in this Innes Showgrounds where a and Strike Team Leaders from remembered for years to come. way for training. They proved comprehensive base camp was other Region East Districts. a popular and efficient way established to house the majority This year the scenarios that to develop skills and improve of participants. It has continued The volunteers from across challenged the 53 crews communications between to be held at the Glenn Innes the Region who make up the included a fire overrun scenario brigades throughout the region. Showgrounds ever since. The catering units started arriving at featuring a MFR Bedford Since that time, Regional Northern Tablelands Team staff Glen Innes on the Thursday to tanker from Canobolas; team Exercises have now become and volunteers go out of their prepare and cook the 3,000 odd challenge; leadership; water a regular part of the NSW RFS way to support and contribute to meals that were consumed over challenge involving SES flood calendar for all regions. the success of the annual event. the weekend. boats; vehicle fire; pumping;

20 BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS plane crash; structure fire and Also for the first time, some strong competition, the The effort required to run an basic skills. One of the highlights Queensland Fire and Rescue 2010 winners were the Grafton Exercise of this size requires was the running of the Fire (QFRS) crews took part in the City crew from Clarence Valley a considerable commitment Investigation scenario that led Exercise and from all accounts, while the Willow Tree team from from a lot of people. This year to the accreditation of 212 had a great time. Liverpool Range came in as Bert Brand and Jim Jameson volunteers in ‘Protect & Preserve runners up. from Northern Rivers Team and Incident Scene’. The social side of the weekend Pat Bradley from New England is an important part of the The Scenario Marshals voted for Team, were recognised. They Once again, the Exercise was Exercise and this year, thanks the Best Crew Leader and Strike have shown dedication over supported by the RFSA and to the sponsorship of the RFSA, Team Leaders they saw during many years, and their passion Country Energy. The ongoing well-known country singer the weekend. This year saw Aaron for encouraging and teaching success of this Exercise Darren Coggan entertained the Bayliss from Narara (Region East) volunteers has been outstanding relies on the support of these crews on Friday night. A great nominated as Best Crew Leader and much appreciated. organisations. Additionally, rock band, Fossil Rock provided and Jillian Guest from Namoi the SES provided two flood a great night’s entertainment on Gwydir Team nominated as Best Having successfully run the 2010 boats and crews for the water the Saturday night. Strike Team Leader. Both of these Exercise, attention now turns challenge scenario, which members displayed outstanding to 2011, and ensuring that the provided an opportunity for our The Basic Skills lane is used commitment and leadership to standard set over the past 10 crews to see how flood boats to select the best teams to their crews and ensured that their years is maintained, and where work and become familiar with represent the Region at the respective crews were well looked possible, improved. their operation. State Championships. Following after during the whole weekend.

BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS 21 By Carolyn Cuello, C4K Ball Coordinator A BALL OF A TIME! Photos by Adam Hollingworth, Hired Gun

Guests danced the night away

Guests were treated to a free Pandora gift bag C4K Team Member Peter Marshall shows off one of the many prizes auctioned on the night!

CEO of The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Dr Antonio Penna spoke about the work of hospital and benefits brought by C4K

22 BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS Masters of Ceremonies for the night, Phil Langdon and Matt Schroder

The Enormous Horns back by popular demand!

Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons laughing with special guest comedian Anh Do

The NSW RFS’s official charity and volunteers, agencies and “Anh Do made you laugh and cry was rewarding to see something raised more than $15,000 for kids the public give to the C4K – he was just amazing!” said one like this come together but urged at the annual Coffee4Kids Ball. Foundation. Sponsors this year inspired guest. us to remember the support for were DATS Environmental C4K all year round. Guests were treated to a free Pandora gift bag Guests from around the State Services Group and DATS Skip Guests were moved by stories supported the C4K Foundation and Bins and Martin & Luscombe from The Children’s Hospital at “From the brigades and Fire its major beneficiary, The Children’s Associates with donations from Westmead. CEO Dr Antonio Control Centres who continue to Hospital at Westmead, by Corporate Air and Dick Smith. Penna (pictured far left) and Staff fill C4K money tins and organise attending the 2010 Ball in March. Specialist Dr Jonathan Egan fundraisers to all those who visit NSW RFS volunteers had come from Intensive Care, provided HQ and Region East and support Building on the success of the from as far away as Wingello an insight into the impact the through the very successful inaugural event in 2009, the C4K with more than 220 people Foundation makes through its chocolate sales... It is the whole Ball ran without a hitch thanks to letting their hair down on the contributions. package that makes this so the sponsors and the support of bigger dance floor. The return special.” over 30 helpers and 45 prize donors of the very popular jazz/covers Commissioner Shane making it an even bigger Ball! band, The Enormous Horns and Fitzsimmons, C4K Ambassador, The C4K Team is already in the special guest comedian Anh and Mark Crosweller, C4K planning stages for the next The 2010 Ball was another Do (pictured above with the Founder, also thanked all signature event for 2011 with demonstration of the enormous Commissioner), were just some supporters. Ball Coordinator, details to be confirmed later in support the NSW RFS staff of the highlights. Carolyn Cuello, remarked that it the year.

LIKE TO SUPPORT C4K? Would you like to help promote the Coffee4Kids Foundation in your area? Or would you simply like to know more? If so, please contact the C4K team at [email protected] or call (02) 8741 5220 to speak to a C4K Advisory Committee Member today. To register your interest in the Foundation, please visit www.coffee4kids.org.au. Fire Fighting Pumps Foam Nozzle & Attachments

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> Fire Fighting Pumps > Area and Torch Lighting > Emergency Rescue Equipment > Lights and Sirens > Protective Clothing and Equipment > Forced Entry Tools > Fire Accessories > Nozzles

For more information, contact the NSW Manager Fred Brown on: p: 02 4256 5084 | m: 0408 424 994 | www.gaam.com.au Bush Fire Bulletin Souvenir Liftout 2010 part two Our Service’s story

Our Service’s Story is part of the NSW RFS History Project. Stories are being gathered from volunteers and staff, as well as State Library, State Records, local council records and committee minutes. Newspapers and journals are being pored over for the rich personal memories of significant fires, brigade formations and equipment developments.

The graphic in this second Bush Fire Bulletin Souvenir Liftout is a reproduction of the commemorative mural in the foyer of the NSW RFS Headquarters. The timeline accompanying the mural is an excerpt from the history Fire Fighting Pumps Foam Nozzle & Attachments boards which are also displayed.

Much of the NSW RFS history is captured in photos and in many cases the source, the detail and facts of the photo have faded into folklore. The photo featured on the front page of the Bush Fire Bulletin, and seen here, is a classic example of how the history of the NSW RFS is pieced together with memories, official records, hearsay, conjecture and good old fashioned story telling.

We asked NSW RFS members if anyone knew who had taken this photo. Luckily, it seems that the photo was familiar to many members…

The photo is reproduced courtesy of Fairfax Photos.

Piecing together the Declaration 1310 Monday This photo could have In Forty Flaming Years, a information sent in by 17th December, 1979; been taken just prior to the history of the Terrey Hills Emergency Rescue Equipment Area and Torch Lighting members, we discovered 14,200 hectares (142 sq overrun on the Larool trail. Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade that the photo was taken km); Losses: 15 homes, To test our theory Alan 1942-1982, author Robert on 17 December 1979 in outbuildings, motor vehicles Brinkworth revisited the path Charteris drew on the Fire the Terrey Hills district in & caravan; Injuries: one to see if he could recognise Control Officer’sDuffys reports Forest trail and Sydney’s northern beaches broken ankle; Section 41f the spot captured in the eye witness accounts. At by Sun photographer John terminated 1600 Wednesday photo. The growth of the about 1100hrs: O’Gready. It was first 19th December, 1979; All trees in the past 30 years published in the Bush Fire Units stood down 1930 made him unable to say for “Terrey Hills sped round the Emergency products you can rely on Bulletin in 1980. Friday 21st December, 1979. sure. corner and along the trail, joining Duffys Forest and The photo was probably Duffys Forest captain at the Dennis Joiner continued his other brigades. Minutes taken after a couple of days time was Dennis Joiner. observations: later the fire jumped the GAAM Emergency Products is a diversified company providing specialised equipment of heavy firefighting in the He recognised the photo trail. Members pressed Terrey Hills area, possibly on immediately. “The firefighter on the left themselves as close to the designed to meet the rigorous requirements of emergency services and other industries the Larool Trail. A Total Fire walking down the drive ground as they could as the Ban had been declared on “Possibly 1979, the rear looks very much like Col inferno passed only feet operating in demanding environments. We offer a wide range of products, including; Saturday 15 December 1979 vision mirrors on the Duffys Turnbull…sleeves up, long above them. and a Bush Fire Emergency AB160 are right for that boots, ex-Warringah , FCO was declared at 1300hrs on time. Probably not in Duffys Cessnock...now deceased, For the next two hours...all Monday 17 December. Forest, more likely in Terrey and very much missed…one brigades were on the move Hills. Duffys was working in of those old bushies that continuously as the fires > Fire Fighting Pumps > Area and Torch Lighting Manager State Operations, Myoora Rd / Amuna Rd area, knew fires backwards... surged in an uncontrollable Chief Superintendent Alan and on the Larool Rd Fire fashion. > Emergency Rescue Equipment > Lights and Sirens Brinkworth, also a long-time trail on the morning of the Most of the crew had been out all the previous About half past eleven the s member of the Terrey Hills 1979 fires.... > Protective Clothing and Equipment > Forced Entry Tool Brigade, provided us with his day ...The crew had been first home was lost...from > Fire Accessories > Nozzles personal notes taken at the In fact, they were overrun relieved about 2200hrs, and the city a huge pall of smoke time of the fire: on the Larool Rd trail before then had come back on at could be seen covering the being sent back to Duffys 0700hrs…By lunch time entire area.“ Warringah – Section 41f about 11am....where they got every available member was overrun again on Booralie back in Duffys....and all It is only one photo among Started East of Bobbin Head Rd. I think most agree that manner of chaos had broken thousands held in the NSW For more information, contact the NSW Manager Fred Brown on: Road near Cowan Creek the overrun on Larool Trail out ...” RFS archives, yet it turned at approx 1524 Sunday was about 1100hrs...” out to be a story worth 16th December, 1979; telling. p: 02 4256 5084 | m: 0408 424 994 | www.gaam.com.au BUSH FIREbulletin // our service’s story 25 Bush Fire Bulletin Souvenir Liftout 2010 part two The history of the Service 1960-2009

26 BUSH FIREbulletin // our service’s story The history of the Service 1960-2009

BUSH FIREbulletin // our service’s story 27 Bush Fire Bulletin Souvenir Liftout 2010 part two

Department of Bush Fire Services 1960-1980 In 1985 the Chairman of the Bush Fire Council became Executive Devastating fires in the 1960s Officer of the Bush Fires Branch. The position was held by Phil Koperberg. In the 1964-65 season, fires raged in the Snowy Mountains, Southern Tablelands and outer metropolitan areas of Sydney. The 1993-94 fire season saw the most protracted and largest The Chatsbury/Bungonia fire covered 250,000ha and destroyed firefighting effort in Australian history with 18,300 volunteer the village of Wingello. Three lives were lost. In March 1965, the firefighters deployed at over 800 fires throughout NSW. Four Tumut Valley fire burnt out 80,000ha. Three years later during lives and 206 houses were lost. The subsequent Coronial Inquiry the 1968-69 seasons, major fires in Wollongong destroyed 33 eventually resulted in the Government introducing legislation homes, five other buildings and devastated rainforest. During for a single Rural Fire Service in 1997 with a single chain of that same season, fires in the lower Blue Mountains were fanned command. Phil Koperberg as Commissioner was to head this by 100kph winds destroying 123 buildings. Three lives were lost. single Service. The end of the decade saw a savage fire in Roto, east of Ivanhoe which burnt 280,000ha over a three week period. The Rural Fires Act 1970: The Bush Fire Council and Coordinating Committee The Rural Fires Act 1997 No 65 was proclaimed 1 September 1997. The Act established rural fire districts, constituted around In 1970 amendments to the Bush Fires Act 1949 made local government boundaries, as well as the NSW Rural Fire further provisions with respect to the prevention, control and Service to be comprised of the Commissioner, other staff suppression of bush fires. The Act provided for the establishment and volunteer firefighters. The operating capabilities and of a Bush Fire Council of NSW and the appointment of a Chief organisational structure strengthened by the new Act, laid the Coordinator of Bush Fire Fighting. groundwork to simplify how the NSW RFS was to be run. That same year, the Bush Fires Branch was established within the Chief Secretarys Department to provide specialised administrative support to the Council. 2001-present day 1975: The Bush Fire Service A unified organisation In 1975 the Bush Fires Branch of the Chief Secretarys On 1 July 2001, Fire Control Officers became employees of the Department integrated with the State Emergency Services (SES). State Government. Service Level Agreements were developed It was renamed the Bush Fire Service and was responsible for to allow a Council to delegate any or all of its responsibilities, providing technical and general advisory service on bush fire as defined by the Rural Fires Act 1997, to the Commissioner of matters and acted as the administration arm of the Bush Fire the NSW RFS. Service-wide operating standards, procedures Council. Three years later the branch was subsequently separated and a raft of associated business improvement programs were from the SES and attached to the Department of Services. commenced under this change program.

Large fires in the east and west Legislation for the environment 1975 also saw the most severe fire season for perhaps 30 years In the following year in August, the Rural Fires and Environmental in the far west of the State with 3,755 million hectares burnt, Assessment Legislation Amendment Act 2002 amended both 50,000 stock lost and 10,170km of fencing destroyed. One the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and the and a half million hectares were burnt in the Cobar Shire and Rural Fires Act 1997 to provide a stronger and more streamlined 340,000ha in the Balranald Shire. At that time, the Moolah- system for building developments in bush fire prone areas. Corinya fire was the largest fire ever to be put out by firefighters. The perimeter was over 1,000km. Three people died in the fire, Legislative amendment in 2002 followed on from the Joint 100 were hurt and 40 homes were destroyed. Select Committee on Bushfires and the Report on the Inquiry into the 2001-2002 Bushfires. The amendments were specifically designed to strengthen the regulatory framework relating to In the late 1970s, the Blue Mountains endured two bad fire prevention and mitigation strategies to minimise the impact of seasons. In late 1976, 65,000ha were burnt. The following year, fire on the NSW community. 49 buildings were destroyed alongside of a further 54,000ha. Serious fires occurred in the Southern Highlands two years later in 1978-79. Major fires were widespread for the 1979-80 New Commissioner fire season burning over one million hectares in total across the In October 2007 Shane Fitzsimmons became the second State. Commissioner of the NSW RFS. In April that year Phil Koperberg had resigned to begin a career in politics. Comprehensive firefighter training The year also boasted a remarkable number of members The 1980s began with the transfer of the Bush Fires Branch to participating in a new online communication channel with 10,600 the Office of the Minister for Police and Emergency Services. members registered using the MyRFS volunteer website. Around this time comprehensive training programs were being developed by the Service. Basic training modules were The NSW RFS today introduced in 1983, which began the formalised State-wide The NSW RFS is the combat agency for bush, grass and training system a system that would be adopted later by other structure fires in rural fire districts. It is also the lead agency for bush fire services in Australia. coordination of bush firefighting and prevention throughout the State. 1980-1997 For the year ending June 2009, the NSW RFS recorded a membership of more than 2,065 rural fire brigades and 70,701 Fires in the 1980s volunteers who were equipped, supported, trained and The early 1980s saw some of the worst bush fire seasons since operational across the State out of 50 control centres. the 1950s. In the 1980-81 season, eight people tragically died and over 887,000ha were scorched. The following year, a pine That same year the Service reported 4,000 tankers, 72 catering plantation worth $12 million was destroyed in Southern NSW. vehicles, 41 communications vehicles, 55 bulk water carriers and This fire was so hot that it burnt 24,000ha in just two and a 2,000 qualified trainers delivering 314,680 local hours of training. half hours. Lightning strikes on Christmas Day in 1984 ignited Completed hazard reductions protected 118,021 properties more than 100 fires in the grassed areas in Western NSW. Half and 2,773 community education programs were conducted a million hectares were burnt as a result. That year 6,000 fires across the State. In partnership with community and through raged. Four people lost their lives and a total of $40 million of the professionalism of its members, the NSW RFS continues losses was recorded. The decade closed as it had begun, with to grow and to improve - while always promoting the ethos of major fires burning in the eastern part of the State. volunteering.

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All members are invited to submit a photo that expresses the Christmas spirit within the NSW RFS.

A panel of judges will choose a winner who captures the ‘NSW RFS Christmas spirit’ in a creative way. You can see the cards from 2008 and 2009 above/below pls adjust as required.

To enter, all you need to do is submit a completed entry form. The entry form outlines everything you need to know about the competition. They are available on MyRFS, the staff intranet or from your local Fire Control Centre or DTZ office.

The winning entry will be officially printed on the 2010 NSW RFS Christmas Card with full acknowledgements.

All entries must be received by COB Friday 24 September 2010. The winner will not be announced until the release of the Christmas card.

Good luck!

Please submit your entries via email to [email protected] or via post (CD ROM) to: 2010 Christmas Card Competition NSW RFS - Events & Promotions Section Locked Bag 17, Granville NSW 2142 Please note: Entries will not be returned after the competition, so please ensure you keep a copy.

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30 BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS By Caroline Ortel, Project Officer, Bushfire CRC research leads the way Corporate Research

Research prompted by the Victorian Black Saturday fires in 2009 will dominate the agenda for the Bushfire CRC for the next three years.

The Bushfire CRC recently presented its research projects to the partner organisations from around Australia at the NSW RFS Headquarters in Sydney. The NSW RFS was pleased to host the Research Advisory Forum as it was the first time the Bushfire CRC have held such a forum outside its own office in Melbourne.

Many of the topics presented for further study have been drawn from the Victorian Black Saturday fires in 2009.

The Research Advisory Forum was held on 6-7 May 2010 with representatives from 42 Australian fire and land management agencies, research partners and industry partners as Bushfire CRC partner agencies. The purpose of this particular forum was to present the agreed suite of research projects to the Bushfire CRC was funded for policy arenas, and the Council of a Research Advisory Forum partner organisations for the seven years and this period Assisting the Victorian Bushfire which will be an important first time. All project leaders ended on the 30 June 2010. Royal Commission. part of the establishment and gave presentations and provided The Commonwealth has now monitoring of the research details of the research activities provided approval and associated The critical areas of concern to projects for the Bushfire CRC they expect to pursue over the funding for an extension through the community and the broader Extension Program. These coming three years. to 30 June 2013. sector fall within three main Forums will provide partner program areas, which have been organisations with regular The Bushfire CRC was formed The comprehensive research aligned to the widely accepted updates on the progress of each in 2003 and has led a nationally plan for the next three years risk-management paradigm: of the projects and of the overall coordinated, multi-disciplinary will set the agenda for longer- • Understanding the Risk program. research program into areas term studies. The CRC has • Communicating the Risk such as fire behaviour, smoke drawn on an extensive data • Managing the Threat For more information on management, , collection following the 2009 the latest from the Bushfire prescribed burning, fire weather, fires, discussions with leaders An enhancement to the Bushfire CRC including the 2010-2013 community education and in the fire, land-management, CRC partner engagement Extension Program please visit building in fire zones. The original local government, academic and process has been the formation http://www.bushfirecrc.com/.

High fire

Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons spoke at the recent The Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre’s Fire in the High Country forum held in Albury.

The Australian Alps, in south eastern Australia includes the ACT, south east NSW and part of the eastern Victoria, present unique fire management issues. Rugged terrain, unusual climatic conditions, fuel arrangement and valuable environments all mean the high country needs its own focus. At the two day forum researchers and fire practitioners shared the latest findings arising from the High Fire research program.

BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS 31 NSW RFS AT THE POLICE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES GAMES By Mark Williams, Regional Mitigation Compliance Officer, Region South

Four NSW RFS members He won two Bronze and as travelled to Hobart in February to defending champion of the compete in the 13th Australasian Duathlon, he once again won Police and Emergency Services Gold! (APES) Games. All four members did the Service proud, achieving Superintendent David Hagarty, personal bests and coming home Operations/Learning and with a swag of medals. Development Officer in the Barwon Darling Zone competed Clare Kesby, a volunteer from in Skeet and Trap Shooting. He Brewarrina Brigade competed won two Bronze, a Silver and in Skeet and Trap Shooting. a Gold. He was even happier She came away with three when on Sunday he visited the bronze medals and won the Hobart Gun Club and shot well Ladies section of the 90 Target to win overall in the 90 Target Continental Championship. Continental Championship.

Inspector Peter Jones, Congratulations to all four Community Safety Officer in the members! Riverina Highlands competed in where he finished fourth TOP: Superintendent David in all three events. Considering Hagarty, Clare Kesby, Brewarrina the weather conditions (40kph Brigade and Superintendent Mark winds and horizontal rain) he did Williams with their swag of medals CENTRE RIGHT: Superintendent exceptionally well. Mark Williams winner of the Duathalon Superintendent Mark Williams, LOWER RIGHT: Inspector Peter Regional Mitigation Compliance Jones competed in Archery at the Officer from Region South, APES Games competed in four events.

32 BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS Young Farmers meet the challenge at the Royal Easter Show Story and photos by Terry Jackson, Community Engagement Team

The NSW RFS was a major sponsor for the 2010 Young Farmers Challenge at the 2010 Royal Easter Show. The Young Farmer Challenge is an event for people under the age of 35 who come from, or are closely connected to, the farming community throughout NSW. The event saw young farmers competing in a variety of rural- based farming skills including assembling water pumps and undertaking a firefighting exercise.

The NSW RFS Community Engagement Team and Regional Services provided equipment and a supporting ground crew. A ground support team from the Marsden Park Brigade in Cumberland Zone, consisting of David Brown Captain, Don Deppeler Senior Deputy Captain, Keith Vincent Firefighter, Wayne Clarke Firefighter and Kenneth Siggee, Firefighter were kept

busy setting up the firefighting and was promoted to a position equipment for each heat and the in the State Grand Final to be main arena event for the State held in the main showground finals. Cumberland Zone supplied arena. Some weeks earlier a Cat 1 Tanker and light truck the Camden West Team had along with water bins, hoses also participated in the Young and nozzles. Sutherland District Farmer Challenge at Camden supplied portable pumps and Show and was declared Camden equipment and Hornsby supplied Show Young Farmer Challenge fire trays. Regional Services Champions. provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Personal The composite team from Wagga Protective Clothing (PPC) for all and Albury also won their heat participants. and went through to the finals in the main arena. The Royal Agricultural Society also requested the NSW RFS The Camden West Team to enter two teams in the was placed second in the event; with some negotiation Championship and the Wagga/ as a successful venture by the L-R) Robert Boardman, Scott Vale, the Service was able to enter Albury Team placed fourth. It Service and congratulations are Tim Boardman, Brenton Nicholson three teams. During the heats a was a creditable achievement extended to all who participated. all from the Camden West Brigade. vacancy occurred and we were considering the heats were held BELOW: Fourth place getters: able to assemble a composite on the same day as the final and TOP: Scott Vale and Brenton A composite team from Wagga/ team from the Wagga and Albury that the competition from teams Nicholson, Camden West Brigade Albury: Chris Peel, Tarcutta Brigade, teams giving the Service four across the State was strong. CENTRE LEFT: Robert Boardman, Robert Guttler, Lake Albert Brigade, competing teams. Camden West Brigade Sam Yensch, Thurgoona Brigade The participation of the NSW and Stephen Young Lavington CENTRE RIGHT: Runners up in Brigade The Camden West team was RFS in the Young Farmer the State Young Farmer Challenge successful in winning their heat Challenge has been recognised Championship. Camden West Team BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS 33 Planning the future of

MyRFSBy Luuk Honings, Manager Online Communications Photos by Jacqueline Murphy, Bush Fire Bulletin

ABOVE: MyRFS welcomes aboard its newest team member Luke Hodges (above right with long time MyRFS team member Matt Gould) RIGHT: NSW RFS staff and volunteers taking part in workshops across the state to help shape the future of MyRFS

Since MyRFS was launched in 2005 it has grown to accommodate over 14,000 members who use this portal to assist with the administration of their brigade, check their call outs or incident information and find out all the latest news and happenings at the NSW RFS.

Building on the solid growth and making it available to both our Easter Show recently was used While not every feature will be success of MyRFS, the Online internal and external audiences, to engage members of the public able to be introduced straight Communications Team, with your when they want it. and receive their ideas.. away, they have been recorded help, is already planning how to for possible future use. bring the public website (www. The Online Communications Pleasingly, over 160 participants rfs.nsw.gov.au), MyRFS and the team has started face-to-face made up of around 55 staff, 60 The information gathered from staff intranet together within a workshops and interviews with volunteers and 45 members of the workshops and interviews unified web environment. members, staff and members of the public and representing all was then tested for accuracy the public from across the State four regions, have attended the through follow-up interviews What is a unified web environment? to form a list of requirements workshops and interviews. They and online surveys, to ensure that will ensure the new online have helped us identify what we have captured the priorities A unified web environment is platform is relevant to the needs content and functionality they correctly. a set of integrated web portals of all users. would like to see within MyRFS, that provide an organised and the public website and the The feedback from the sessions informative view of the services Close to 20 workshops and intranet. was overwhelmingly positive provided by the NSW RFS. It is interviews have already been and Online Communications an easy to use system which conducted in Tamworth, Forbes, Hundreds of suggestions were would like to thank everyone organises and facilitates online Queanbeyan and at Lidcombe made for new features on these who has already provided their content (documents, text, audio, Headquarters for volunteers and websites which were then valuable feedback throughout the video, images) into one place staff. Our presence at the Royal prioritised by the workshops. process.

34 BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS SAFETY ALERT 2009/1 DRIP TORCH FUEL SUBSTITUTION The practice of varying fuels/accelerants and mixture ratios in NSW Rural Fire Service supplied drip torch devices is unsafe and has the potential to cause unstable device performance and may result in serious personal injury to device users.

• Drip torch devices supplied by the NSW Rural Fire Service have been designed and tested to operate safely when used in accordance with manufacturer specifications and safe performance of the device cannot be assured when deviating from the stated directions.

• Under no circumstances should any fuel or accelerant be used in these devices other than fuel and mixture ratios provided in the manufacturer directions.

• NSW Rural Fire Service supplied drip torches are to be used with a fuel mix of 25 percent petrol to 75 percent diesel (Type I or Type II). No other fuels or mix ratios are to be used with this device.

MANUFACTURERS WARNING REPRODUCED ON THE FILLER CAP OF DRIP TORCHES AS SUPPLIED TO BRIGADES BY THE NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE

© State of New South Wales through the NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE 2010 infocus:volunteers Could this be your brigade?

Crew with the Commissioner! Your photo or story could win your brigade a VIP crew member for the line or have him rescue your hose bowl. Imagine having him a shift - Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons. using your call sign to provide a SitRep to FireCom.

In an interview with the Bush Fire Bulletin the Commissioner once Throughout the year, NSW RFS members from across NSW send said: “I certainly miss not being on the end of a hose - to coin a in amazing stories and photos to the Bush Fire Bulletin depicting the phrase!...If time permits I would like to go back … and participate highs and lows of firefighting. in being a member and maybe doing some hazard reductions.” So whether it’s a story you have written about a local volunteer who He said it. Now it is your chance to take the Commissioner up on is making a difference in their community, or an amazing photo a his word! member of your brigade has taken of a structure fully involved in fire, we would like to receive your individual brigade contributions. Send us a story and photographs about events in your brigade and you could “Crew with the Commissioner”. Whether you are a And don’t forget – win or lose - the NSW RFS will publish the very member of catering brigade, communications brigade or you are best stories and photos in a future issue of the magazine. This may putting the wet stuff on the hot stuff, we want to hear from you. be the only chance to win this prize, so …what are you waiting for? You could be the one giving the Commissioner the order to put in

How to enter

Email your story or photograph to [email protected]. (Please send photos as separate jpg attachments, in as high a resolution as possible.) Indicate in the subject line that you are entering for a chance to “Crew with the Commissioner”. Then, be sure to read the next issues of the Bush Fire Bulletin to see if your brigade has won! See page 42 and 43 to see what happened when the Commissioner crewed with last year’s winners, the Williamtown/Salt Ash Brigade.

Terms & Conditions • You must be a registered NSW RFS volunteer to be eligible for the prize. • Times and dates for the Crew with the Commissioner will be subject to the Commissioner’s availability • Entries not selected to win a prize may still be published in the Bush Fire Bulletin. • Prize winners are at the discretion of the Bush Fire Bulletin editorial team and all decisions are final. No correspondence will be entered into.

36 BUSH FIREbulletin // IN FOCUS:Volunteers Engaging at the Easter Show

The Royal Easter Show has “Creating an informed, been a part of the NSW RFS prepared and resilient for nearly 60 years. community that will make communities safer and help Like so many people from save lives and property.” regional NSW, cadets from Tumut and Gundagai made “Community Engagement their way up to the Royal means building a mutual Easter Show this year. Steven partnership with the Simmonds and Ronald community. Engagement is Gardner Thompson are seen more than just informing, it here on the Taipan Roller is a conversation between Coaster Ride with Gundagai members of the community Cadets Chris and Stacey and the Service about needs Lewin. and solutions. Collaboration through community The NSW RFS display at the engagement means the 2010 Sydney Royal Easter community takes an active role show was a huge success in preparing for the challenges and as a result was awarded they face.” Silver in “Commercial Section around the grounds.” “Forming relationships with the communities we serve to To assist in promoting the optimise bush fire outcomes stand at the show Community to all, wherever possible. Engagement held an Easter This is opposed to the Show ticket giveaway. Over traditional ‘one-way’ public 80 entries were received from education approach where NSW RFS staff and volunteers. we now engage both ways to The winning responses to foster cross-ownership and the question: “What do you communication of bush fire think community engagement issues.” means?” received entry tickets to the show. Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate. Some of the winning entries defined community The Community Engagement engagement as: Team

Drama on display at the Armidale Show

Members of the Diggings and “In training you normally don’t Devils Pinch brigades entertained have 3,000 people waiting thousands of spectators at the for you to make a mistake,” recent Armidale Show with a Deb said, “The heat is really five-man gas attack and small gas something. You are thankful for bottle display. good equipment and plenty of water. We really love our pump The display began with the operator!” ignition of the gas bottles and the sounding of the Cat 1 . Others in the brigade had the Firefighters got to work with opportunity to show the audience rolling two 38’s, pump started how an ignited 9kg bottle can be and primed while everyone turned off without incident. There donned heavy village jackets and was stunned silence when Pete formed up their attack. Fothergill gave the nod to start the display. On ignition of the gas The group was led by Crew bottle, those in the front row of Leader Deb Donaldson the audience took a nervous step (Diggings). Despite the noise backwards. Neil Clayton (Devils from the gas fire and equipment, Pinch) had the job of reaching the group also had to contend through the fine curtain of water with a large amount of noise spray and turning off the bottle. from the fairground. Deb, who is Once the fire was extinguished not known to be quietly spoken, a small cheer came up from the still had trouble being heard crowd. above the noise! However the crew had the fire under control Story and photo by David within minutes. Purdon, Diggings Brigade

BUSH FIREbulletin // IN FOCUS:Volunteers 37 All the NSW RFS visitors agreed that Pathi Harn stole the show WE ARE GOING TO THE ZOO, ZOO, ZOO…

The promotion was part of the For 65 lucky winners this was an elephant, Pathi Harn, was a show ongoing partnership agreement opportunity to take their families stealer but the family favourite between the NSW RFS and to the zoo for the day. Here are was the Free Flight Bird Show. EnergyAustralia. some of the stories the prize winners told about their day at Our family has now become Volunteers rushed to submit 25 the zoo. much wiser on conservation winning words for their chance issues all thanks to the work to go into the prize draw and done at Taronga. This family EnergyAustralia recently donated more than 370 entries were WHAT OUR WINNING TICKETS TO for one is going to make a 260 Taronga Zoo tickets to NSW received. Entrants were asked in conscientious effort to refrain RFS volunteers to thank them 25 words of less, to explain what THE ZOO DID FOR OUR FAMILY from buying products with palm for the world class service they they liked about the giveaway. oil, the production of this product provide to the people of this State. We travelled to Taronga Park Zoo is causing much of the habitat of The judging team thoroughly on the ANZAC long weekend. animals to be destroyed. In February 2010, EnergyAustralia enjoyed reading through all the in conjunction with NSW RFS entries that were received. Due The dinner conversation that Deirdre Heitmeyer Corporate and International to the overwhelming response, night never left the topic of our Mount Royal Brigade Relations gave 65 lucky all the unsuccessful entrants day at the zoo. volunteers four free passes were given 2-for-1 tickets to either to either Taronga Zoo or zoo as a thank you for taking the There were many memorable Taronga Western Plains Zoo. time to enter the giveaway. highlights…of course the baby

A FIRST VISIT TO THE ZOO To see the anacondas and boa constrictors in real life made me I’ve lived in Australia for 19 years speechless. They were huge and and had never visited Taronga Zoo. they did nothing to improve their The timing was brilliant with the likability with me. We took the dramatic birth of Pathi Harn (the plunge to have a photo taken with baby elephant) just weeks earlier. a black headed python. Funnily enough, when the appointed time I went with my husband Graeme came for the photo we couldn’t and two friends. We arrived right find Graeme anywhere! We on opening time and rushed finally dragged him into the photo straight down to the elephant but as you can see he was not enclosure. It was worth it. Pathi that enthusiastic. He is the one Harn is absolutely adorable and on the left. quite happy playing in between mum’s legs. His cousin (or is it I would like to thank the NSW his half brother?) would not leave RFS and Energy Australia for this him alone. It was like watching a wonderful opportunity and I will game of hide and seek between not leave it so long for a return them. We couldn’t stay watching visit. LEFT TO RIGHT: Graeme Wilson (Limeburners Creek Brigade the elephants all day, so we Captain), Winnie Wilson, Mike Van Balkom (Deputy Captain) and his pulled ourselves away to explore Winnie Wilson wife Joslyn. The snake is a Black-headed Python the rest of the zoo. Limeburners Creek Brigade 38 BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS WESTERN PLAINS ZOO VISIT

We were one of the lucky winners of the family pass to Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

Mum, Dad and two girls attended for two days during the school holidays. We pedalled and walked our way around this great attraction, thoroughly enjoying the experience. My daughter Erin (7) wrote the following:

“At the zoo my favourite part of the day and animal was the hippo when they were brushing it’s teeth. They brush their teeth and use a hose. The hippos have sharp teeth. At the zoo it was the best day ever.” The Gates family Erin, seven years old and Claire, three, enjoying the ‘elephants’ at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo March Brigade

RASCHELLE’S DAY OUT amazing to see our wild birds having been trained in such a We arrived at the zoo at 10am. manner as to fly around amongst I was so excited, I couldn’t wait the crowd on command and it had been so long since I had perform tricks and return back been here. Everything seemed to their appropriate homes on so different now I was older. cue. We were entertained by the Despite all the ongoing gorillas at feed time, as well as renovations, we had a wonderful hearing a very informative talk on day exploring. The grounds are their habits. beautifully kept and the animal displays are superb. We left the zoo about 4.30pm with very tired feet and made The biggest highlight of the our way back home totally day was the opportunity to see exhausted. Thank you NSW RFS the new baby elephant. He and Energy Australia for giving is so cute! He doesn’t leave me this wonderful opportunity. his mum’s side. The other big highlight was to sit and watch Raschelle Webb the Free Flight Bird Show. It is Booral Brigade

GRANDPARENTS’ DAY BELLOWS IN THE DARK

Yesterday we took two of our We wish to thank you for grandkids, Daniel, 8 and his big the opportunity to take our brother Matt for a day at the zoo. grandson, aged 2, to the zoo. We saw lots of animals including We had a wonderful day. We the baby elephant. It looked so saw the giraffes, the elephants, small next to its mother. The the snakes, the seals, and the fishing cat with only three legs ‘meow meows’( tigers). was a surprise. We wondered what had happened to the other Nathaniel loved it all. He yelled leg. We hoped a big fish hadn’t over all the spectators at the seal chomped it off! show and tried to run down to the water to talk to the seals. We were pretty tired by the We went on Thomas, The Tank end of the day, but not too tired Engine. We bellowed in the dark to enjoy the ferry ride back to when the notices said, ‘Be quiet, Circular Quay. Thanks again do not disturb the animals’. But I Energy Australia and NSW RFS. think his favourite animals were the giraffes eating their dinner Nancy Irving from a tree. Perhaps he will eat Kanimbla Brigade his greens now!

Many thanks again Patricia and Ken Grant EnergyAustralia are offering NSW RFS members more free tickets to the Taronga Zoo in Sydney or Dubbo. Look out for the launch of the competition soon!

BUSH FIREbulletin // GENERAL NEWS 39 BRIGADE IN PROFILE Name of Brigade: Byron Bay Rural Fire Brigade Year brigade formed: 15 December 1968 Current Captain: Gregg Miller Current President: Stuart Amos D/T/Z: Far North Coast

Can you give us a brief history of the brigade?

Byron Bay Rural Fire Brigade was formed in 1968 after the Suffolk Park Progress Committee made a request to the local council for a brigade to be formed. The Suffolk Park Progress Committee created the brigade on the 15 December 1968.

The brigade was run out of the home of brigade member Ron Ron Gaggin with the Byron Shire Mayor Gaggin until 1974. He had all the equipment at his home which was basically just a trailer and Also attending the party was some equipment. Ron Gaggin’s daughter and Snow Virtue’s wife, along Ron Gaggin owned some land with representatives from all in Alcorn Street right on the emergency services and many beachfront and he decided to past and present members. donate it for use as a brigade station. In 1974 the local council What type of area do you granted the brigade the princely cover? (e.g. farm/urban/ sum of $250 to build the station bushland) on the land owned by Ron. Both Ron Gaggin and Snow Virtue built The shire is 556 square km in the brick station by hand. size and the brigade covers an area from Bundaleer (halfway The land and park next to the between Byron Bay and Lennox station are known as Gaggin Head) to Bangalow, along the Park in memory of Ron and wife Pacific Highway to Grays Lane who both were Life Members of and then out to the coast. This the brigade. We would have to area has a mixture of vegetation Some of the new Juniors at the 2010 Anzac Day March be one of the few stations in the types with rainforest, heath and featured in the local newspaper. Photo by Stuart Amos State to be located right on the dense forest. Due to the high sand content of soils in the area beachfront and in the middle of calls each year. Our area includes What vehicles do you have? the land stays dry most of the an urban area. a nine kilometre stretch of the time which includes our driest Pacific Highway. It is a dual lane Our first ever truck was an old months from July to November. What are some unique parts of highway and the main route Dodge then we moved on to your brigade’s history? through to Queensland. It is a a Category 9. Currently Byron As we are located in the urban notoriously dangerous road and Bay Brigade has two trucks: a area of Byron Bay, we also In December 2008 we celebrated during the wet season and school Category 1 and a Category 7 provide a dual response with the 40th anniversary of our holidays, sadly we attend many tanker. NSW Fire Brigades to the 28,757 brigade with a large anniversary motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). people who live in the shire. and Christmas party. Over Throughout summer we attend We received the Cat 1 and Cat 100 guests came along to the many grass and bush fires and 7 approximately 11 years ago, What types of incidents does station as well as Regional are also deployed out-of-area. Our but had renovated the station your brigade attend? Superintendent John Parnaby and members have attended major to make room for the larger local Member for Ballina, Donald fires including, Sydney (2001), appliances. We are a Village 2 brigade and Page MP including regular guest Canberra (2003) and Victoria attend approximately 60-100 to the brigade Mayor Jan Barham. (2009).

40 BUSH FIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS Beach view behind station (view to Broken Head)

it will lead to new members Festival. We also attend the Lions transferring to the adult brigade Club Annual Beach Craft Fair, St throughout the Zone and boost Finbars School Annual Fire Works volunteer numbers. and our Annual Australia Day Celebration attracted over 300 What are some unique skills people to the station this year. We and features of your brigade? assist the Byron Shire Council to hold the Suffolk Park Family Fun We are a fully equipped CABA Day in Gaggin Park and in 2009 brigade with 28 active members this attracted over 170 visitors to including four women, the the station. youngest being 17 years of age. The majority of our members Our members are very proactive are male but we do have a in the community, with the female Senior Deputy Captain. locals used to seeing, current Our members come from all Captain Gregg Miller out with walks of life and range from his dog, personally handing out those employed as executives to flyers for an upcoming brigade tradesmen all members are locals or community events! Gregg to the Byron Bay area; however also conducts the monthly hat we do have some who hold collection at the local Suffolk dual membership through work Park Hotel and has personally commitments. visited every home on the brigades rural boundary with Most of the renovations were Our brigade has an annual team- What are some unique community safety information, completed by our members and building day where we focus features of your community? he also conducts regular they included not only doubling on communication skills and Community Safety talks on local the tanker bay size but also team-work. On this day there Byron Bay is located on the most radio. Gregg Miller was recently provided us with a larger kitchen are organised games and events easterly point of Australia and the awarded 2010 Byron Shire and training room which includes where every brigade member town holds many regular festivals Volunteer of the Year. overhead projection and mapping is ranked at the same level. It’s throughout the year which tables as well as a fresh coat of always lots of fun and builds attract many tourists. While the Local elections turn into ‘Election paint. upon the camaraderie of our population of Byron Bay usually Collection Day’, for our brigade brigade. hovers at around 28,757 it can and is a significant source of What type of training do you swell to over 40,000 during the donation income for our brigade. conduct and how do you go We are thrilled to have Christmas / New Year period and about doing this? commenced our new Junior the annual festival periods. Any final thoughts or Member Program in February comments you would like We have a 12-month training 2010 and have plans to expand What community events does to add? program in place and plan this into a Cadet Brigade for the your brigade participate in? scenarios by the seasons. In Byron Shire in the near future. Since 1989 the Byron Bay winter we focus our monthly The Cadet Brigade would be The Byron Bay Brigade actively Brigade has attended over 879 training events on village skills, the first on the Far North Coast. participates in the local incidents and provided over MVAs and electrical incidents. We currently have twenty community and provides fire 10,000 community hours which During the summer months, our Junior members ranging from control for events such as the does not include major festival training is on bush firefighting, 12-16 years of age from all East Coast Blues and Roots events to the community or overrun scenarios, pumping at over the Byron Shire. This is a Music Festival and Splendour Section 44s. the quarry and hose skills. great initiative for the area as in the Grass Arts and Music

BUSH FIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS 41 Crewing with the Commissioner

Story and photos by Brendan Doyle, Media Services

Ever wondered what it would be like to have the Commissioner in your brigade?

Well it is no longer a mystery for the Williamtown/Salt Ash Rural Fire Brigade - the winners of the Bush Fire Bulletin Crew with the Commissioner Competition.

It all started with a competition in the Bush Fire Bulletin. In an interview with the Bush Fire Bulletin the Commissioner had said: I certainly miss being on the end of a hose. If time permits I would like to go back and participate in being a member.

So the Bulletin took him up on his word! We asked all brigades and volunteers to submit a story or photos about their brigade to win a day with Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons.

A story written by Melissa Morris about the juniors at the Williamtown/Salt Ash Brigade, north of Newcastle, caught our attention. Melissa described the vibrant group of juniors at her brigade who, she said, had “made themselves indispensable”.

On 8 May 2010 the Williamtown/ Salt Ash Brigade had the services of the Commissioner for the day.

The day started at 0900hrs sharp with the brigade full of enthusiasm for the arrival of the Commissioner. Proceedings started with a quick introduction and a tour of the station.

The Commissioner took position in the back seat of Salt Ash 1 with four juniors and Senior Deputy Kim Forward. Junior Sarah Watters took much delight quickly as possible. After the Michael Bainbridge had been a remember his passion by naming in calling Firecom informing hose drill the crew of Salt Ash 1 friend to all in the brigade and the Memorial Garden after him. them of their movements: set to attacking a car fire which had a hugely positive impact “Firecom Salt Ash 1, proceeding saw the Commissioner on the on them all. Michael had Ataxia The Lower Hunter Catering crew to Oyster Cove for training. end of the hose being backed up Telangiectasia which meant he had cooked up a storm for lunch Crew of six and….we have the by the junior crew. relied on a wheelchair. He was and afterwards there wasn’t a Commissioner on board!” passionate about propagating hungry firefighter left wanting. Then it was time for the more new seedlings and he never On arrival everyone jumped formal part of the day. The missed a Saturday selling the Once lunch had settled it was straight into the hose drills. Commissioner officially opened plants that he had grown. It time to prepare for the adventure The crew were keen to see the the Michael Bainbridge Memorial was Michael who had supplied that was Stockton Beach. Commissioner’s black helmet in Garden at the Williamtown/Salt the plants that started off the action. Ash Brigade station. The garden brigade’s own garden. In early The Williamtown/Salt Ash Rural was built by brigade members 2009 Michael was diagnosed Fire Brigade covers a large The juniors and the as a place to reflect on past with cancer and sadly passed area including the RAAF Base, Commissioner worked on a hose members and their contribution away in May 2009. The members Newcastle Airport and a number attack simulating a bush fire to the brigade and the broader of the Williamstown/Salt Ash of high traffic roads. It also has with the goal of knocking over community. Brigade made Michael an responsibility for half of Stockton as many of the witches hats as honorary member and chose to Beach which is a 32km stretch of

42 BUSH FIREbulletin // CREW WITH THE COMMISSIONER Crewing with the Commissioner

sand. Williamtown/Salt Ash has station, a small presentation responded to a number of MVAs, of gifts marked the end of an car fires and most recently, a plane excellent and very rewarding day. crash along that stretch of beach. The Crew with the The Commissioner jumped on Commissioner Competition was board Salt Ash 9 and clearly a success and we thank all those enjoyed the opportunity to see involved and especially to the the beach environs. Once out Williamtown/Salt Ash Rural Fire on the beach the Commissioner Brigade for their efforts on the was surprised to see how many day and the continual dedication public vehicles were venturing and service. onto the sand. It became clear why the brigade gets so many New competition calls to the area. The Commissioner is keen to do it all again. Look out for more By 1600hrs it was evident we information about how you could had a tiring crew - including Crew with the Commissioner on the Commissioner. Back at the page 36.

BUSH FIREbulletin // CREW WITH THE COMMISSIONER 43 THUMBS UP FROM THE KADINA KIDS

By Bert Brand, Group Officer, Northern Rivers Team and Bronwyn Waters, Community Safety Officer, Northern Rivers Team I Photos by Theresa Mason, Rosebank Brigade

Sixteen school students at the Kadina High School in Lismore have thrown themselves in to a NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program and their enthusiasm is contagious.

“The job is most rewarding when you see the enthusiasm of the cadets involved with the program,” said Group Captain Jim Jamieson. “They are so keen and so quick to pick up what we are trying to teach them. It is a joy to work with them!”

“The cadets themselves have nothing but praise for the program as well. It is a rewarding experience for all involved and I can heartily recommend it to others.”

The idea to implement the Secondary Schools Cadet Program in the Northern Rivers Area was first raised in early 2009 by our District Manager Superintendent Michael Brett.

After liaising with Amy Blackwood from NSW RFS Headquarters in Sydney late in 2009 and again in March 2010, we worked closely together to make the program a reality.

On 21 April students from Kadina High School, Lismore began their 10 week journey. The 16 Year 10 students including six females, were kitted out with their PPE (personal protective equipment) and enthusiastically began learning about the various roles and responsibilities of the NSW RFS, bush fire awareness, behaviour and suppression and the importance of leadership, communication and teamwork.

The dedicated team of instructors who gave up their time on Wednesday afternoons for the 10 weeks are: Tullera Brigade Captain John Hildebrand, Deputy Group Captains Jim Jamieson and Christine Hartley and firefighters Nathan Cawley and Theresa Mason.

44 BUSH FIREbulletin // SPOTLIGHT ON VOLUNTEERS FIRE NOTE FROM THE BUSHFIRE CRC

By Bert Brand, Group Officer, Northern Rivers Team and Bronwyn Waters, Community Safety Officer, Northern Rivers Team I Photos by Theresa Mason, Rosebank Brigade

WHO’S AT HOME WHEN THE FIRE COMES?

To be effective, community fire greatly in many ways. Within a preparedness, with 35 residents awareness programs need to household, when facing extreme from 17 households selected A CASE FOR BUSH FIRE address the different needs hazards such as bush fires, the from the initial 191 willing SAFETY INFORMATION of people at the community, approaches taken by women residents. household and individual often differ from those of men. TARGETING WOMEN level. In households, women In studying community education Of the 17 households in the generally perform a different programs and exploring different in-depth interview study, six Over time, history has shown and complementary role to responses within and between that society places the highest households had school age men. This means that often they households, the specific skills, priority on saving the lives of or younger children. Of the have different responsibilities, needs and responsibilities of women and children thus the occupational groupings, seven concerns and skills that need women in bush fire events was term ‘women and children first’ were farming families, three were investigated. is often adopted. to be addressed by community retired households, and seven safety programs. Directing fire households were noted as ‘other’, Both the Wangary fire research This is not always the case. In programs to groups of women which included trade work, retail publications and the Women’s emergency situations, research has the potential to improve and hobby farmers. Of the 17 Skills Workshops are based on shows that women are often both their technical skills and women in these households, a severe fire event at Wangary, left behind to keep the family confidence in the face a bush fire. nine were away from the home on the Lower Eyre Peninsula in together but also respond to by the time the fire front hit, and South Australia, on 10 January the emergency in an effort to At the time this research eight were at the home. (The 2005. This largely agricultural protect the home and property. was carried out, it had been fire occurred during the school observed that the number of area includes Port Lincoln and holidays, when mothers were encompasses mainly farming The fires on the Lower Eyre women dying in fires in Australia the main carers of children.) In communities, native scrub and Peninsula in South Australia, on had increased over the past order to focus on the potentially areas of heavily forested National 10 January 2005 claimed nine 30 years as a proportion of gendered aspect to the decision- Park. The fire also claimed nine lives: two men on a private fire total bush fire-related deaths. making within the household lives: two men on a private fire unit and seven women and Late evacuation and passive in relation to the fire event, we unit and seven women and children, six of whom were in sheltering still accounted for set aside the women who were children, six of whom were in cars fleeing the fire. most of these deaths. Despite away from the home at the time community safety messages cars fleeing the fire. At the time, for reasons unrelated to the fire. Dr Helen Goodman, Research to target women for bush fire this was the largest number We only concentrate here on the Fellow at RMIT School of safety awareness, their needs of deaths in one fire since Ash remaining 14 women. Global Studies, Social Science and skills need to be understood Wednesday. As a result of the and Planning, interviewed and addressed. fire, 93 homes were destroyed. Of the six women who left the women who had survived the home at the time of the fire, due Eyre Peninsula fires and looked BACKGROUND Part A: A gendered analysis of the to the impending fire event, only at the effectiveness of Women Wangary in-depth interviews one was regarded as leaving Skills Workshops held after Women are not a homogeneous ‘early enough’ – as their farm those fires. The following is her group with the same interests In July 2005, semi-structured was some distance from the report on the importance of and capacities, and households interviews were carried out to point of origin and her husband including women in community containing women vary inquire into levels of community accurately tracked the fire’s engagement strategies.

BUSH FIREbulletin // BUSHFIRE CRC 45 FIRE NOTE FROM THE BUSHFIRE CRC

passage. Two of the six reported requires developing the technical A fourth workshop made up of leaving of their own accord, and skills needed to prepare for and three parts – networking (with the remaining four on ‘advice’; of deal with a bush fire hazard. other group members), managing these four, three left on advice Sometimes their role includes anxiety and depression, and from their husbands, and one on deciding whether the family a property visit – was also advice of a visiting tradesman. should stay and defend or leave, delivered. The workshops’ Of the two who left of their own when the property is under content was mostly derived from accord, one had always planned threat. Some of the men reported pre-existing materials on fire to leave with her children if a fire this role as burdensome. response and safety, with one threatened, while the second felt major addition: a segment on she needed to reach her children, The research results demonstrated emotional preparedness prepared who were in town that day. that the different roles sometimes by consulting psychologist, Jo- taken up by men and women Anne Hamilton. Other innovative Of those who left ‘on advice’, need to be recognised, and both aspects included participatory each situation was complex, but strengthened, and in some cases, workshop planning, workshop the overriding finding, was that reconsidered, so that both men content that emphasised these women depended on the and women are prepared with interaction, and specifically advice of others, and in most information, and the emotional targeting the workshops at cases, their husbands. They all and technical skills needed to cope women. reported they lacked confidence together with an extreme event. and skill in knowing what to The workshops were designed do. By contrast, of the eight Part B: A creative response by to combine specific fire-related who remained at the property, information, the opportunity two reported acting on advice partnership agencies – tailoring to practise skills, and scenario from their husbands about how fire workshops to target women exercises in a supportive to prepare for the fire, and the environment. Workshops were remaining six reported making The Wangary fire exposed the evaluated using a pre and post their own decisions, but also particular vulnerabilities of women, workshop questionnaire. The being positively influenced by highlighting a lack of technical and total number of women who the presence of their husbands. fire specific knowledge and skills participated in the first three Several of the women in both to feel confident in responding workshops was 50 (with the groups (those who stayed and to a fire. This led Rural Solutions fourth workshop held to meet those who did not), reported SA and the Country Fire Service specific needs). Attendees that they were dependent, in to develop a workshop-based fire also distributed 22 workshop greater or lesser degrees, on program which could help equip manuals to relatives, friends and the male partner. Some reported women with the technical skills neighbours. being particularly anxious and ill and confidence to face a bush fire. prepared, particularly those who On the pre and post workshop left their properties. Those who The Women’s Skills Workshops questions, women reported shifts stayed, in the main, reported as involved three phases: in their knowledge, confidence being grateful for their partners’ • a pre-workshop survey study and preparedness. Those who greater knowledge and skill. • the workshops themselves, reported that ‘prepare, stay FUTURE DIRECTIONS • and an analysis of the and defend’ was their strategy Women’s sphere of household workshop evaluation doubled in number, from 39 to 85 Several women noted that their responsibility is often around documents completed by the percent. Women also indicated motivation to learn centred on nurturing – children, their participants. confidence in their chosen their role in protecting their partners, the elderly, and pets, strategy increased sharply, family. Most of the workshop and at the community level, This work was started in 2007 and knowledge about bush attendees were aged over 40, around neighbours and other by distributing 682 surveys to fire in general increased. The and although a crèche had community concerns. Often women’s groups on the Lower women particularly appreciated been set up, few mothers with these roles are carried out in Eyre Peninsula to identify the the material on psychological young children attended. No ‘ordinary’ (non emergency) aspects of bush fire management preparedness, particularly for indigenous women participated. times, but can flow over into women were interested in those who had decided to The workshop organisers also emergency events. For example, learning about. More than half of “prepare, stay and defend”. reported that they emphasised during this study, those women the women who responded to the importance of practising and who stayed were involved the pre-workshop survey were The workshops revealed that reviewing what had been learnt. in tasks such as telephoning aged over 40, and around one a holistic approach to personal Developing education programs neighbours, preparing food and in five lived alone or were sole fire management requires based on competency skills for putting out spot fires. parents. The survey data (from appreciating the skills that the community would fill a need 133 surveys, a return rate of 19.5 men and women bring to the and be an important adjunct There was limited opportunity percent) showed: event and increasing women’s to other community education to closely examine the specific • a high interest in workshops abilities, in particular, to include programs offered by fire services. impact of children on decision- • a low interaction between the the technical and practical making in this study, as there survey respondents and their skills required in the case of END NOTE: This research were fewer families with children local fire brigade a fire. Women are important predated Victoria’s Black at home at the time. However, • a moderate understanding of keys to preventing harm in Saturday bush fires of February where women are caring for the “prepare, stay and defend the community through their 2009, which has since led to the children, and where the prevailing or leave early” policy (although roles as the primary carers of re-examination of the ‘prepare, view is that children should be half reported that they had children, their husbands, the stay and defend’ policy. removed from the fire threat, this experienced a bush fire), elderly and vulnerable. Through by definition exposes women • variations in perceptions of risk. these roles they are important This FIRE NOTE is published and children to the particular in communicating risk and jointly by the Bushfire danger of a late departure and Based on these findings, educating others. To use their Cooperative Research being caught on the roads. Men the topics for the first three talents to the fullest they should Centre (Bushfire CRC) and traditionally adopt a different workshops were developed: be better prepared in targeted the Australasian Fire and spectrum of caring roles that ‘Preparing Yourself and Your community programs and their Emergency Service Authorities involve the technical and practical family’; ‘Preparing Your Property’; specific needs should be better Council (AFAC). side of defending their family and and ‘Responding to Bushfire’. understood and addressed. www.bushfirecrc.com.au property. In farming or semi- rural communities, this often

46 BUSH FIREbulletin // BUSHFIRE CRC NSW RFS EMPOWERS WOMEN TO TAKE ACTION The NSW RFS has been at work women after the session, this assisting women in rural areas to was a valuable tool. The home develop fire safety skills. fire safety module emphasised the need for working smoke In 2007, Melissa Messenger, alarms and evacuation plans. Community Safety Officer in Bland Temora Zone, developed a The second half of the session workshop specifically for women included a practical demonstration which has been held in Bland of fire extinguishers and portable Temora over the past three years. pumps. Most women who attended had the opportunity to “We held our first run of courses use a and again, in 2007,” she said, “Other districts this was very well received. have contacted me and are using “These workshops have been very successful. We hold it on the program as well in their The workshop was heavily someone’s verandah or garden and talk and walk around the own way that suits their needs. marketed across various property. People attend because they see it as a social event and I would like to see this area of mediums. This included local not as a lecture. They meet some of their neighbours that they capacity building pursued more newspapers, school newsletters, have not met before. They compare issues and have come up as I believe it is important.” posters in shop windows, flyers with some local strategies for helping themselves and each other. handed out to members of the We also learn a lot about the area and the specific concerns of Cudgegong, Wollondilly and Mid community and word of mouth. the residents. We also get requests for individual property visits Lachlan Valley also developed from those attending. their own workshops for women. “We also had the opportunity to Residents are contacted personally by phone by a local brigade promote the workshops on ABC member or interested local resident. This personal invitation is In all cases, the aim of the Riverina and ABC Central West, much more successful than an advertisement or letterbox drop. workshops was to empower Melissa Messenger said. It is promoted as a morning tea rather than as a meeting. It is women with the knowledge conducted in an interactive manner and not as a lecture. There and understanding of how to “There was an overwhelming is a lot of questioning: What experience have you had with bush Prepare. Act. Survive. from and positive response to the fires? What do you think it would be like during a bush fire? Do in bush fires and house fires. The workshops. There was also a you live with children? How do you think they would cope in ideas shared at the workshops strong interest in becoming an a bush fire? What would you do if the main road was blocked? could also be applied to other NSW RFS volunteer. It is also The aim is to get people thinking about the risks and their emergency situations. interesting to note that 100 own individual situation and start planning their own survival percent of those who attended strategies. The discussion can go in the direction of the issues The workshops covered basic would like another workshop.” raised at each individual meeting.” fire behaviour and the basics of the Bush Fire Survival Plan. Photos by Natalie Keene Jayne Leary, Cudgegong Community Safety Officer According to responses from BUSH FIREbulletin // BUSHFIRE CRC 47 WORLD FIRE

Right on the spot at the Californian fires

ABOVE: Midday on the 27 August, we arrived to see the entrance to the Angeles National Forest go up in flames 48 BUSH FIREbulletin // WORLD FIRE By Andrew Roberts, Tumut Headquarters Brigade as told to Jacqueline Murphy, Bush Fire Bulletin

The fire was impressive right from the first day

Last year a friend invited firefighter Andrew Roberts from Tumut Headquarters Brigade to experience America and to see some US firefighting up close. So he saved up his money, bought an air ticket and headed off in August 2009.These are his photographs and his story…

As it happens my friend, Alan Forest Services arrive on scene Simmons is a retired Burbank fire and report there was three acres captain and a video photographer (1.2ha) of heavy brush involved with a very keen interest in fires. in a rapid spread. The fire made He makes training videos and its way into heavy fuel and steep he has suggested if there were terrain. any fires while I was in the US, I could accompany him. I ended By the time we arrived the fire up getting a fair share of flames had already spread to 25 acres and smoke as we did get to see (10ha) and the fire was producing one of the largest fires ever seen impressive large columns of fire. in California. Later that night canyon winds caused spotting into a larger 26 August 2009 canyon making it very difficult for firefighters to contain. My holiday started with a few weeks of sightseeing but then 27 August 2009 the firefighting action started late in August. We heard the first The next day we returned to the fire call come through on the same area to observe and record US Forest Services radio on 26 the fire action. August at 1520hrs – a brush fire in Angeles National Forest. We arrived at the entrance of the Angeles National Forest When we heard the call we around midday to see flames were out in Alan’s 4WD, so we blazing 20 or 30 metres high and turned around and headed in the consuming the signage at the direction of the fire. Listening front gate. on the radio, we heard the US

BUSH FIREbulletin // WORLD FIRE 49 WORLD FIRE

27 August the spectacular display of aviation power to contain the fire in the Angeles National Forest

Nearby a huge contingent of down about twelve miles 30 August 2009 31 August 2009 aircraft were operating so we (19kms) to the flatlands at the drove to a ridge overlooking edge of the Los Angeles city On the 30 August we visited On August 31 the fire had one of the large canyons in the limits. It consists of timber and the township of Acton and saw burned 85,750 acres (34,000ha) National Forest to watch them heavy brush that has not burned extreme fire behaviour on the and, according to radio reports, at work. for around 50 years. outskirts of town with flame only five percent was contained. heights reaching 100 to 150 Air operation in America is very We saw extreme plume- metres and a huge mushroom Firefighters continued to build fire impressive. Most counties, for dominated fire behaviour all cloud of smoke around the town. lines 120 miles (190kms) long. example, have an airbase with afternoon. The fire raced through There were 52 dozers and 54 hand Air Attack Aircraft. Firefighters the canyon and three civilians Later on in the day we heard crews in the field at any given time. regularly use airtankers ranging were injured while attempting the firefighters’ worst nightmare from the S-2T which holds 1,200 to defend their homes. Due to over the radio: By mid-September 2009 the fire gallons ( 4,500 litres) and DC-10 the heavy smoke conditions, the was contained. According to the that holds 12,000 gallons (45,000 rescue helicopter was unable to MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY. US Forest Services statistics litres). reach the victims and the access issued afterwards it was the road was blocked by fallen power It was 1430hrs on 30 August. largest wildland fire in LA County That day the fire was making poles and trees. It took two Then silence. history and the 10th largest runs up the canyon and the air hours before ground crews were in California’s history. Arson is operations were in full swing. able to bring the injured people The call had come from south of suspected to be the cause of the Four Airtankers were building down the canyon where they Acton. A helicopter flew over the fire. Two firefighters were killed retardant lines and three Air- were airlifted to hospital. site and reported over the radio and 22 civilians were injured. It Cranes were at work taking that a fire truck had overturned, burned over 65,000ha - that’s the heat out of the moving The fire raced through the rolled and had been engulfed in more than half the size of Los fronts. Elsewhere dozers were canyon entirely uncontained and flames. Two Los Angeles County Angeles City! Ninety homes constructing containment lines. forty homes and businesses firefighters died in the incident. were destroyed although 12,000 were destroyed as a result. By were threatened throughout the 29 August 2009 the end of the day the fire had We attended the Memorial firestorm. They estimate that there burned 22,000 acres (9,000ha). Service for the firefighters a few was $85 million worth of damage. Late in the morning we entered The fire continued to burn days later. Big Tujunga Canyon. This canyon uncontained for four more days Many thanks go to Alan Simmons starts at 5,000 feet (1,500m) and the fire behaviour was for letting me ride with him and above sea level and extends described as extreme. observe the fire up close.

50 BUSH FIREbulletin // WORLD FIRE This photo was taken in Los Angeles city looking back to the Angeles National Forest

27 August: On our way to see the aircraft in operation, we saw US Forest Service firefighters working on containment

Chilao Flats camping group at the moment the fire crossed the road

Chilao Flats camping ground. On this day three people were injured and 40 businesses destroyed nearby

BUSH FIREbulletin // WORLD FIRE 51 FI L R E A R S

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LIFT-OUT: SOUVENIR- OUR SERVICE’S HISTORY PART TWO THE BUSH FIRE BULLETIN WANTS TO hear from you BUSH FIREbulletinVOLUME 32 No.02 // 2010 THE JOURNAL OF THE NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE ANNUAL PUBLISHING Our Autumn / Winter / Spring / Summer history A story worth telling The Bush Fire Bulletin is the official journal of the NSW RFS. We always welcome stories and photos from members.

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ADDITIONAL STORIES: articles in autumn for the winter edition, in spring for the summer edition SOUTH COAST: FROM DROUGHT TO FLOODS UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL IN CALIFORNIA CREWING WITH THE COMMISSIONER VISIT FROM PRESIDENT OF BOTSWANA Contact the editor Jacqueline Murphy, on 02 8741 5480 or Email [email protected]

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Duffy’s Forest December 1979, Courtesy of Fairfax Photos. Cover Photo Duffy’s Graphic Design& Art/Production Coordinator Steve Byers - Carillon Graphics Publisher NSW Rural Fire Service Produced Corporate Communications Editor Jacqueline Murphy ISSN: 1033-7598 rfs.nsw.gov.au www. Web: Email: [email protected] Fax: 02 8741 5550 Tel: 02 8741 5555 Tel: Granville NSW 2142 Locked Bag 17 Lidcombe NSW 2141 15 Carter Street NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE