Volume 120 April 2009
Print Post Approved - 535347/00018 Around 90 cadets from Region 2 took part in a training camp at Brukunga last month. They were supervised by 27 adult leaders with some of their activities captured on this page. To read more turn to page 20. [ CONTENTS ] WELCOMES – 4 3 Messages from the Chief Officer Euan Ferguson, CFSVA President Ken Schutz, Minister for Emergency Services Michael VOLUNTEER - CONTENTS Wright and the Chief Executive SAFECOM, David Place. NEWS & UPDATES – 6 Feature articles on the Victorian bushfires, the CFS deployment and support for its victims. CFSVA – 10 The Victorian Bushfires Memorial Service at Hazelwood Park, financial assistance for volunteers to say ‘thanks’ and helping to develop future leaders. VOLUNTEER STRATEGY AND SUPPORT – 14 The new VSS manager Mark Groote talks about the significant contribution volunteers make to our communities. AERIAL FIRE FIGHTING – 18 An insight into the men and women who pilot the Erickson Aircrane. REGIONAL ROUND UP – 25 Onkaparinga Gorge and Proper Bay fires, Happy Valley CFS 70th anniversary celebrations, Region 2 Field Day, CFS Citizens of the Year, an injured CFS firefighter on the road to recovery and more. FACES IN THE CROWD – 33 Get to know one of the many dedicated CFS volunteers. PHABULOUS PHOTOS - 34 A collection of photos of CFS volunteers serving their communities and others. THANK YOUS – 35 Letters of thanks and praise in recognition of the service of the CFS and our volunteers. OBITUARIES - 37
Images this page: Proper Bay fire page 32; Aerial fire fighting page 18; Happy Valley celebrates its 70th page 25; Phabulous Photos page 34.
Front cover image: CFS firefighters Neil Topperwein (Gumeracha) and Lieutenant Terry Dymond (Cudlee Creek) monitoring a fire on Thomson Road at Churchill in Victoria on 9 February 2009. Photo taken by David Bradshaw, Kersbrook CFS.
Editorial Team – Managing Editor: Chris Metevelis. Editors: Haley Cahalan and Karina Loxton. Tel (08) 8463 4206 (CFS Media Line). If you would like to contribute to Volunteer… send your photos and stories to: The Editor, Volunteer, GPO Box 2468, Adelaide SA 5001 or email: [email protected]. Don’t forget to include your name, address, brigade and a contact phone number. Photographs can be supplied digitally, via email or disc, in the largest file size possible or as original prints. Text can be supplied as hard copy or electronically, via email or disc as a Microsoft Word document. Comments and opinions expressed in Volunteer do not necessarily represent the views of the CFS. Volunteer is a free publication to all CFS volunteers. [ CHIEF OFFICER Euan Ferguson he following is an edited copy of a presentation I made on the Day of National Mourning, on Sunday, 22 February at Hazelwood Park, Burnside. I hope in some small way it captures the sentiment that I feel within CFS and within Tfellow South Australians towards our Victorian counterparts. In Remembrance Of Black Saturday (Sunday, 22 February 2009)
his beautiful rugged landscape is On the 7th February 2009 we were whose life now seems filled with shaped by earth, water, wind and reminded of our humility and our despair; we say: “You are not alone”. Tfire. Unforgiving, indiscriminate powerlessness in the scale of nature. We are here by your side. We are and sometimes without reason, these We have been reminded of the with you, in your time of need. elements periodically exercise their fragility of life. Let us take strength from the spirit rule over humanity with devastating Material possessions can be of mateship and the resourcefulness 4 consequences. replaced. that arises from adversity – for this is And these elements have shaped the But the true values of humanity: the what has defined us as Australians. VOLUNTEER - WELCOMES spirit of our people. love of family and friends, and the In the dawn of a tomorrow, the seeds How often do we hear of great feats compassion and mateship between of a new forest will grow from the of courage, strength and unity in the neighbours and our community are ashes of the bushfire. face of adversity? what life is all about. We pray that, so too, will tomorrow Natural disasters such as Black We mourn the loss of many and are bring hope, repair and recovery for Saturday help define us as a nation filled with sadness and sorrow for all all who have suffered from this and as a people. those who are at loss, for all who are catastrophe. Bushfire is a natural part of our in pain. We wish you determination, courage Australian environment. To those who have lost everything, and strength of spirit. Rarely though, do we see such (some whilst selflessly serving You are in our thoughts. unbounded and uncontrollable fury others); to those who feel unbounded We are your mates. of nature. grief and sadness; and to those
[ CFSVA PRESIDENT Ken Schutz ike most South Australians, I ended Who could have thought that a Corporately, we stand strong with Llate Saturday afternoon, February 7, bushfire could reach such a level of the CFS through whatever challenges with a sigh of relief. Another looming destruction? they may face with a national bushfire disaster thwarted by a It is now loud and clear that, despite inquiry. Rest assured, this is not just welcome cool change ending another the most technically advanced an issue and tragedy for Victoria, but record-breaking heatwave. equipment or the highest amount of for all Australia. Unaware of the unfolding fire human resources made available, the We have unprecedented conditions situation in Victoria, I switched on the most unimaginable of consequences with more people living and working television to see out the day’s final during bushfires or any other natural in high fire risk areas than ever hour. Initial information was limited disaster can become real. before. We have just ended a record- as the impending chaos was still With the Wangary coronial inquest breaking heatwave on the back of being realised, but around 20 deaths still fresh in our minds, I can’t begin several consecutive years of drought. had been reported, possibly more. to imagine what process awaits the I take this opportunity to say My heart immediately went out to people of Victoria. However, we can how proud I am of you all and to those just a 10-hour drive to the east. be certain that the next 20 years of encourage you to take stock of your Then, with every passing hour, the bushfire mitigation will be different own livelihoods. death toll climbed. Surely, I thought, to the last. To all who were involved in the fire the toll won’t match the 78 deaths The Victorian Country Fire fighting operations in Victoria, while that occurred on Black Friday (1939). Authority and respective Volunteers others kept our own state under their But by Monday morning it was Associations, our own local CFS watchful eye and to those who have official, in the space of 24 hours and other emergency services have or know those who have lost loved Victoria’s bushfires had become the the full support and backing of the ones, we surrender our warmest nation’s worst natural disaster in CFSVA. Operationally we will support regards and condolences and hope history with more than a hundred the volunteers who have gone to for a swift recovery. deaths. A day later and the toll neared Victoria to assist and our thoughts You are not alone and we will walk 200 with thousands left homeless. and prayers go with them. with you on the uneasy road ahead. [ MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES Hon. Michael Wright ire and emergency service I am told that Scott and Ian are on The devastating bushfires will be volunteers are unique the road to recovery and my thoughts remembered as one of the darkest Findividuals who are willing and best wishes for a speedy return days in Australia’s history. to confront dangerous and to full health are with them and their That is why, as a Government, we unpredictable environments to families. must take steps to do all we can to protect our community. In total, South Australia deployed prevent a similar incident happening Our volunteers and staff are well over 750 firefighters and emergency here in South Australia. trained, well equipped and go services workers to help our friends In State Parliament, on Thursday about their duties with the utmost and neighbours across the border. 5 March, I announced the formation professionalism and pride. In spite of Our people were working in and of a specialist taskforce, consisting these admirable attributes, there are around the areas of greatest impact, of experts in various fields, who regrettably occasions where injury or with crews involved in a number will be working side by side to bring death can occur in the line of duty. of urgent interventions early in South Australia to a new level of 5 We saw this harsh reality reinforced their tour of duty. The majority of bushfire preparedness. tragically with the death of Canberra our support teams returned tired, They’ll analyse key issues arising VOLUNTEER - WELCOMES firefighter, David Balfour, killed by with the enormity of the disaster in from the Victorian bushfires and look a falling tree near the fire-ravaged Victoria taking a significant physical into immediate, medium and long Victorian town of Marysville. In two and emotional toll. term solutions needed to improve other incidents we learned that I would like to take this opportunity bushfire management practices and SAMFS Senior Firefighter, Scott to commend everyone involved on strategies in South Australia. Pearson, was seriously injured along a job well done. I would also like to The taskforce will be headed by CFS with SACFS firefighter Lieutenant Ian thank their families and employers, Chief Officer, Euan Ferguson. Kleinig, who were part of the South because without their support and I look forward to discussing the Australian support team battling the generosity, the deployment to Victoria findings of the taskforce with you in Victorian blazes. would not have been possible. future editions of the Volunteer.
[ CHIEF EXECUTIVE, SAFECOM David Place he dedication, valuable service A combination of a heightened CFS Chief Officer Euan Ferguson and I and selfless commitment of level of preparedness, a strong will be among its eight members. Tvolunteers across the emergency police presence through Operation The Bushfire Taskforce will view key services sector is unquestionable. Nomad and perhaps an element of issues from the Victorian bushfires Responding to bushfires, building good fortune in the weather helped and assess any action required fires, hazardous spills, heatwave, South Australia avert the sort of to improve bushfire management floods, storms and road crashes bushfires which Victoria unfortunately practices and strategies in South are all part of the routine of sustained. Australia. emergency services. The devastating Black Saturday The South Australian Government These incidents will occur with bushfires in Victoria demonstrated the has also initiated a media campaign unpredictable frequency and when strength and will of a cross- sector and review on the management they do, in most instances, our partnership to respond of native vegetation in relation to volunteers will be the first on quickly to a call for help from our urban developments. It has also the scene. Victorian counterparts. implemented a review of bushfire With this in mind and spurred by Teams of predominantly CFS protection and risk rating, with plans past events from which lessons volunteer firefighters, in addition to to also fast track a telephone-based have been learnt, such as Ash MFS, SES and SAFECOM personnel, warning system. Wednesday in February 1983 and were deployed in groups of around The Bushfire Taskforce will more recently, Wangary in January 75 people in a weekly turnaround consult with other agencies and report 2005, we approached our current fire over a four-week period, as the fires back to State Cabinet by the end of season with a mixture of caution and continued to burn in Victoria. the year. anticipation. The magnitude of the consequences As the fire danger season draws to Our worst fear of a catastrophic of the Victorian bushfires will resonate an end, many will be comforted by the bushfire this fire season climaxed on for many years with most to be impending sense of relief, but in the Friday, 6 February when forecasts of influenced by the recommendations of hiatus of the ensuing months, others extreme fire danger were predicted the subsequent Royal Commission. will no doubt be contemplating for the following day and at the For our part, the South Australian bushfire strategies and policies for end of almost a week of soaring Government has established a preparedness. temperatures above 40 degrees. Bushfire Taskforce to be chaired by the THREE WEEKS NEWS & UPDATES OF CONTINUOUS DEPLOYMENT TO VICTORIA
he last contingent of Country tribute to their commitment, selfless South Australia’s Aircrane ‘Flynn’ ForestrySA also sent fire fighting staff Fire Service (CFS) and efforts and professionalism for assisting was also deployed to Victoria on and support personnel to Victoria. TMetropolitan Fire Service (MFS) the Victorian bushfire effort – with some Sunday, 2 February and returned 11 Strike teams from DEH and firefighters and staff, along with being deployed more than once. days later. ForestrySA remained committed to SA Ambulance Service paramedics “The CFS praises the firefighters “At no point in time was South the Victorian bushfire effort for an returned home on 4 March 2009 who gave up their time to offer Australia’s bushfire readiness extra week. ending almost three weeks of their services interstate and also compromised due to the deployment “Our thoughts are now with those 6 continuous deployment to Victoria. those who stayed behind to ensure interstate and overall, it was a many Victorians who have been left Just under 800 firefighters and the safety of the South Australian successful operation,” Euan said. devastated by the loss of lives and VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES support staff from the CFS and MFS community,” Euan said. The CFS also committed five fire the insurmountable task of rebuilding provided much needed assistance to “The deployment was highly fighting appliances and a command their communities,” Euan said. their Victorian counterparts as they successful as it took into account vehicle to the Victorian bushfires “I am sure that in the days, months struggled to contain a range of fires in the needs of South Australia while in addition to 19 Department for and years ahead, we can continue to the most ravaged parts of the state. assisting Victoria with their request Environment and Heritage (DEH) assist their recovery." CFS Chief Officer Euan Ferguson paid for resources.” vehicles.
CFS fi refi ghters at the Toorourrong Reservoir Park, near Whittlesea. Photo by Michael Alderslade
[ PUBLIC AFFAIRS UPDATE his summer, we have seen The Public Affairs Unit has certainly national policy debates – has seen the releases to promote the work of the some of the most extreme fire been kept busy since the last edition public affairs team and CFS personnel CFS and the fire danger risk. Trisk days on record, but thanks of Volunteer. The media’s thirst for inundated with media requests. The team has also been working on to the selfless dedication of you, information during incidents such We were at the airport to see off a a number of education campaigns. our volunteers, some good fortune, as Proper Bay, Gawler River and the number of the Victorian deployments, In response to the Victorian fires, we and the chorus of strong messages heatwave, and the media’s extraordinary have fielded hundreds of national worked quickly to extend the duration imploring the public to be vigilant interest in the Black Saturday fires and local requests for media of the Bushfire Ready campaign. and prepared, we have so far it – from South Australians rallying to interviews and have organised Anecdotally, the ‘What if’ campaign seems, escaped the worst. support our Victorian neighbours to the many press conferences and media has been well received and appears Quotes from CFS firefighters deployed to Victoria…
“ It was utter devastation I suppose. You could “ The respect from the community to the CFS/CFA was compare it to Hiroshima, just after the war. The just amazing. They were giving us the thumbs up smell of death was in the air, animals had been and waving, it was just fantastic.” burnt and there were rotting carcasses.” Shane Wade, Hindmarsh Valley (The Victor Harbor Shane Smith, Naracoorte (Naracoorte Herald, Times, 26/02/09) 19/02/09)
“ It was a great feeling to give relief to the CFA members, “ We just did our job, that’s all. We gave CFA to let them go back to their families and grieve. Many volunteers time at home to sort out their problems.” of them had lost friends and even loved ones.” Andy Bartosek, Naracoorte (Naracoorte Herald, Shane Wade, Hindmarsh Valley (The Victor Harbor 19/02/09) Times, 26/02/09) 7 “ The intensity of the fire was greater than I’d ever VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES “ It was like the fire picked and chose which houses seen, houses were just turned to ash.” to burn; there were timber houses still standing and Nigel Petersen, Mangalo (R6) (Eyre Peninsula brick houses destroyed.” Tribune, 26/02/09) Thomas Wooldridge, 19, Mount Gambier (The Border Watch, 13/02/09) “ There’s a lot of hard work ahead for the Victorians – the clean up hasn’t really started.” Nigel Petersen, Mangalo (R6) (Eyre Peninsula Tribune, 26/02/09) Emergency Services Minister Michael Wright addresses CFS fi refi ghters at Adelaide Airport before their deployment to the Victorian bushfi res. Michael Wright (centre), with Andrew Lawson (left) and Euan Ferguson (right). Photo: Nicole Ely
to have made people stop and think print and radio campaign to educate Officers have joined the team. Although it has been a busy time for about their preparedness. With people on what they can do to clear Melissa Veal comes to us from us, our thoughts are with our media the support of television and radio their property of native vegetation for Safework SA and Haley Cahalan counterparts interstate and to those stations we secured additional airtime bushfire prevention. And the 10-year was the editor of the Murray Valley who have selflessly given their time to for an extra 3-4 weeks and metro radio smoke alarm retirement campaign Standard. Melissa had a real lend a hand in Victoria’s time of need. aired the commercial for the first time, generated good media coverage both baptism of fire being confronted with Karina Loxton, Chris Metevelis, further extending its reach. regionally and in Adelaide. the Proper Bay fire in her second week Tara Rischmueller, Nicole Ely, We have also been collaborating with As flagged in the last edition of on the job, while Haley had a steep Carmen Lewis, Haley Cahalan and the Native Vegetation Council on a Volunteer, two new Media Liaison learning curve with the Victorian fires. Melissa Veal. NEWS & UPDATES AFAC KNOWLEDGE FIREFIGHTERS WEBSITE By: Naomi Brown, AFAC CEO he Victorian bushfires and coronial inquiries that will follow SHAKE THEIR BOOTS floods in Queensland and NSW and will ultimately be made Tmeant that February was a busy available to AFAC members and for month for AFAC members. research purposes. The way in which agencies have If you have not subscribed to the FOR VICTORIA worked together, shared resources electronic AFAC (Knowledge Web) and provided support for each other KW news I would urge you to do so has been commendable and I thank as it will become an increasingly he Metropolitan Fire Service stunned by the level of generosity everyone for their ongoing support. important method of keeping you (MFS) and Australian shown by children, teenagers, The large loss of life and updated with the Research Taskforce 8 TProfessional Firefighters adults, community groups, schools destruction of property on 7 February and the events of the upcoming Foundation (APFF) in South Australia and businesses.
VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES has meant that a number of national 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal teamed up in February for ‘Shake “The amount of people who walked policy issues have come under Commission. the Boot’ and raised $200,000 for up to our collectors at shopping scrutiny, particularly 'Prepare Stay You can subscribe from the home victims of the Victorian bushfires. centres and community centres to and Defend or Go Early' and AS:3959 page of the Knowledge Web at Dozens of APFF and MFS hand over anything from ten cents Building in bushfire prone areas. www.afac-kw.com firefighters joined volunteers to hundreds - or even thousands The Bushfire CRC has established across Adelaide and regional South - of dollars, was amazing," said Greg. a Bushfire Research Taskforce Read more on page 38 about South Australia to collect money for this MFS Acting Chief Officer, Mick that has begun work on the fire Australia’s response to the Victorian cause. Smith said the money will make a ground. The evidence gathered will bushfires with a Bushfire Taskforce APFF President and MFS District great deal of difference to many be available for the 2009 Victorian being established. Officer, Greg Crossman said he was lives. Bushfires Royal Commission and VICTORIAN ROYAL COMMISSION INTO FIRES
he Royal Commission into the powers to call for any papers or this year, so recommendations that be addressed before the next fire Victorian bushfires has begun persons relevant to their inquiry might be made in that interim report season will include the adequacy Ttaking evidence from survivors and will make recommendations on can be put in place in time for the of warnings, causes, ways to help with the first of its submissions a wide range of aspects including fire season of 2009/10. The final victims and raising awareness. closing on 18 May, 2009. fire preparation, planning schemes, report is due by July 2010, so that Fuel reduction burning, planning Retired Supreme Court Judge response measures, communication any final recommendations can be and building are expected to be Justice Bernard Teague heads the systems and strategies, training and put in place for the fire season in tackled in the second phase. Royal Commission and is being resources. 2010/11. The full terms of the Royal assised by Justice Ron Maclean and The Victorian Government has Justice Teague has indicated Commssion can be found on Justice Susan Pascoe. asked the Royal Commission to that the inquiry will be split into the website: The Commissioners have extensive ensure that there is an interim report two groups of issues. Issues to www.royalcommission.vic.gov.au
Part of the CFS and MFS deployment to the Victorian bushfi res near the staging area at Alexandra. << Quotes from CFS firefighters deployed to Victoria… “ It instills a lot of pride in people, individuals and “ There was nothing there that you’d really want to the brigade.” remember.” Andrew Young, Angaston (The Leader Newspaper, Brad Batt, Stewarts Range (South East) (Naracoorte 25/02/09) Herald, 26/02/09) “ After the Wangary fires in 2005, it was the least we “ Most of them (locals) were in good spirits mainly … could do. We had a lot of Victorians help us out – so those who were still there had a smile.” we like to do what we can.” Brad Batt, Stewarts Range (South East) (Naracoorte Simon Pedler, Yallunda Flat captain (Stock Journal, Herald, 26/02/09) 19/02/09)
“ It didn’t matter what job we did, it just had to be done.” “ Everything was black; everything was laid to the ground.” 9 Kym Schmidt, Angaston (The Leader Newspaper, Shane Wade, Hindmarsh Valley (The Victor Harbor VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES 25/02/09) Times, 26/02/09)
SA SCHOOL CHILDREN AND CFS BRIGADES GET BEHIND VIC APPEAL outh Australian children have “Amazingly over $128,000 was children, particularly in the hills community groups and various raised more than $128,000 raised for those bushfire affected areas, understood the impact of fires CFS Brigades including Aldgate, Sfor bushfire affected schools schools in Victoria,” she said. and wanted to support schools and Bridgewater, Stirling and Burnside in Victoria. “Even kindergartens have found ways preschools in Victoria where toys and which collected more than $9,000 The Education Minister, Jane Lomax- of raising money by raising several books had been lost. during an ABC Radio live broadcast Smith, said the efforts have been hundred dollars from efforts such as “It’s an amazing achievement for at Aldgate on 13 February and brilliant with some schools also having fairs or fetes or even ice-cream stalls. children in schools,” she said. almost $120 from an afternoon tea
collected food and supplies for pets. Dr Lomax-Smith said many Funds were also raised by at CFS HQ. << Part of the SA fi refi ghting deployment to the Victorian bushfi res at the Churchill- Jeeralang complex. Photo: Adam Hurle
Colin McDonald (left) and Phil Dunkley from Region 1 << Operations Brigade near the
Alexandra base camp.
<< << Station Offi cer Leigh Cunningham with Ian Baines, Neil Topperwein and Terry Dymond mopping up along Jeeralang West Rd, Jeeralang. CFSVA CFSVA PRESIDENT’S MEMORIAL By: Ken Schutz AFSM, CFSVA President SERVICE MESSAGE ike most South Australians, devastating repeatedly filled my I ended late Saturday afternoon mind and later became regular L7 February with a sigh of relief. statements in discussions with Another looming bushfire disaster others. Other words like tragedy and thwarted by a welcome cool change horror have become too small to ending another record-breaking describe the situation. Wreaths laid at the memorial service. heatwave. To lose your house and property 10 Unaware of the unfolding fire can be a traumatic event in itself
VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES situation in Victoria, I returned home but to lose a loved one and in some late Saturday night from a motor of these cases your whole family, is << People gather at vehicle incident in our area in which the most dramatic and traumatising Hazelwood Park a person known to most of us who event in a person’s life. in Adelaide for a attended was killed, I switched After talking to many people who memorial service for the Victorian on the television to unwind for a went through the Wangary Fire on the bushfi res. while before going to bed. Initial Eyre Peninsula a few years ago, they information was limited as the all described the noise, the heat, the impending chaos of the fires was smoke and the speed of the fire as like still being realised, but around 20 nothing you could ever imagine. The deaths had been reported, possibly fear that comes with a fire like these more. Already dealing with one is horrific, but many of those who lost death, my heart immediately went their lives selflessly did so while trying
out to those just a 6-8 hour drive to to save others, putting their own << CFS Chief Offi cer the east from where I live. fear at the back of their minds; their Euan Ferguson Then, with every passing hour, the bravery will not be forgotten by any speaks at the memorial service. death toll climbed. Surely, I thought, of us and while we have marked this the toll won’t match the 78 deaths day to mourn… it’s also time for the that occurred on Black Friday (1939). good news stories… it’s time to make But by Monday morning it was official, public the efforts of unsung heroes in the space of 24 hours Victoria’s that when Victoria dialled triple bushfires had become the nation’s zero… Australia responded. VFBV BLACK SATURDAY VOLUNTEER worst natural disaster in history To those who have or know those who with more than a hundred deaths. have lost loved ones, we surrender RECOVERY FUND A day later and the toll continued to our warmest regards and condolences olunteer Fire Brigades Victoria updates visit the VFBV website climb with many more missing and and pray for a swift recovery. You are has created a trust fund www.vfbv.com.au. thousands left homeless. not alone and we will walk with you, Vto enable those wishing to The VFBV Black Saturday Volunteer Words like unbelievable and the uneasy road ahead. provide assistance specifically to Recovery Fund is distinctly separate volunteer firefighters and their from the VFBV Volunteer Welfare brigades affected by the February Fund that the VFBV maintains to 2009 bushfires. assist volunteer firefighters and their PASTORAL SEMINARAR The fund, called VFBV Black families who experience financial SaturdaySa Volunteer Recovery difficulties from time to time. Fund,Fu is designed to complement As well as being financed by IN THE PLANNING Ian Gordon is organising a Pastoral Seminar. theth Bushfire Appeal and the CFA contributions from brigades, the lanning is underway for a DonationsD Trust Fund and has Welfare Fund welcomes contributions Pastoral Seminar to be held beenb established by VFBV from the wider community. Pafter the fire season. specificallys to provide financial People wishing to make contributions CFSVA Pastoral Branch President supports to volunteers. to the broader community appeal are Ian Gordon is organising this Donations to the fund are tax encouraged to do so through the Red seminar, to which all brigades in thee deductibled and trustees of the fund Cross 1800 811 700 or go to pastoral region will be invited. area all volunteer firefighters and www.redcross.org.au, and those The seminar will include topics of members of the VFBV Board. wishing to target donations to interest to brigade members both off Contributions to the fund can be specific brigades or to general an operational and volunteer nature.e. made through the Bendigo Bank: volunteer support initiatives can do Information will be sent to the BSB No: 633.000 so through the CFA Donations Trust relevant brigades as it becomes Account No: 136263787. Fund, by contacting the CFA on available. For further information and (03) 9262 8542. CFSVA VICTORIAN BUSHFIRES MEMORIAL SERVICE community memorial service everyone to reflect on the enormous << CFS Brigade Captain was held at Hazelwood Park on contribution of firefighters here and from Two Wells, Adam Harris and ASunday, 22 February as part of around the country. daughter Carla, 3, the national day of mourning for the “Members of the fire service make pay their respects victims of the Victorian bushfires. an extraordinary sacrifice, putting to the victims of the their own lives on the line to save Victorian bushfi res. The event was organised by the Photo: The Advertiser Country Fire Service Volunteers and protect those of others,” he said Association (CFSVA) and the “I personally extended my thanks Salvation Army led proceedings. to the dozens of members of the fire CFSVA executive officer, Wendy service who pledged their help and Shirley, said that the community support during the height of the event provided an opportunity for Victorian tragedy. people to gather and mourn those “Saturday February 7 will be who died in the Victorian bushfires. forever etched in the minds of all 11 “It was also an opportunity for Australians as the day when Victoria VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES everyone to acknowledge the efforts faced its worst disaster and it was of firefighters,” Wendy said. therefore important to begin the “This included CFS volunteers long road to recovery as a nation, by and other emergency services taking part in the national memorial personnel from interstate and service.” overseas including the United States CFS Brigades have also been << << CFS Chief Offi cer and Canada, who were committed contributing to the fundraising Euan Ferguson andd to helping those affected by this efforts towards the Victorian MFS Chief Offi cer devastating tragedy,” she said. Bushfire Appeal, including just over Grant Lupton at thehe Minister for Emergency Services, $9,000 which recently was raised in Memorial Service.. Photo: The Michael Wright, who took part in the one morning by the Aldgate Brigade. Advertiser service, said it was a chance for
NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING
By: Prime Minister Kevin Rudd Edited speech read at the Memorial tend to the injured, console the In recent days, we have witnessed To do this will be hard. But let us Service on Sunday, 22 February suffering. And yet our work has unspeakable suffering. resolve, learning from the mistakes 2009 by the Emergency Services barely begun. We have lost mothers and fathers, of the past, to rebuild together. Minister Michael Wright on behalf In meeting this great test, as a grandmothers and grandfathers, Our nation's flag now flies across of the Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. people, and as a nation, we have brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, the charred remains of these precious drawn deep on our ancient values the tiniest of children, family, friends communities, flags by the hundreds. hen the histories of nations are and given them fresh voice in our and neighbours. No words can provide Flags of courage, flags of compassion. written, there are times which modern age. solace for grief so personal. But simply Flags of resilience. Flags of hope. Wsorely test a nation's soul. Values of courage. know this: you who suffer are not alone. Great Australian values that will Whether through the carnage Values of compassion. This great Australian family is with see Australia through this great of human conflict or through the Values of steely resilience. you. And led by an almighty army testing of our nation's soul. terrifying forces of nature unleashed. These are Australian values. Values of AAustralianustralian vvolunteers stretched Let us honour each of the precious This nation Australia has just also of our deepest common humanity. acacrossross this vast concontinent.tinent. AnAndd bebeyondy human lives that has been lost. been put to such a test. And you the For on Black Saturday, what we saww our shores, know too that you are AndAnd letlet usu also resolve that from people of Australia, you the people at work was the worst of nature yet susurroundedrrounded by an ocean of compassion thisthis time forth,forth, onon eveveryery of Victoria and most especially you the best of humanity. from every country on God's earth. February 7, the nation pause at noonnoon the people of these fire-ravaged A new army of heroes in which Governments of all persuasions aandnd for one minute silence, to honour communities you have faced the test the yellow helmet evokes the samee at all levels have failed communities theirtheir memory in what is the and still you stand. reverence as the slouch hat of old.d. in the past. Let us resolve not to faifaill greatestgreatest peacetime disaster in As a people, we weep for the lost, Courage. And compassion. ththeseese communities in the future. our nation's history. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO SAY ‘THANK YOU’ he CFSVA has made $300 This amount will be availablee for available to each branch for events run before June 30, andnd wilwilll Tany group that wishes to hold a be on a ‘first in’ basis on applicationplication thank you event for its members. to the relevant CFSVA branch.h. CFSVA DELEGATE INFORMATION PACKS UPDATED DEVELOPING FUTURE LEADERS he CFSVA has updated its working parties that have volunteer five-day leadership program Australia and New Zealand attend, ‘Information Package for CFSVA representation. called ‘Developing Future which makes it a great networking TDelegates’. There a quite a number of them! ALeaders’ will be held from opportunity. This package has been developed These packages are currently August 3 - 7 in Manly, New South It is of no cost to the attendees. to assist CFS Volunteer Association being distributed at branch Wales. Information about this course will delegates in their role of ensuring meetings. Run by the Australasian Fire be posted on our website at volunteer input into CFS and If you are a CFSVA delegate and Authorities Council, it is a highly www.cfsva.org.au as soon as it SAFECOM decision making. you have not yet received your recommended course that has been becomes available. It includes a position description, package please contact the state attended by a number of CFS Applications involve a nomination some valuable contact details, and office on 8244 6500 or email volunteers who have all reported very form and a short statement also a list of the CFSVA, CFS and [email protected] and we will favourably on it. outlining why participants would like SAFECOM committees, boards and post one out to you. Volunteers from all around to attend.
NEWS & 12 UPDATES Wyly VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES Preston CITIZEN OF THE YEAR WINNERS ANNOUNCED attle Range Council has While farming at Maaoupe, near Closer to town he has been an announced the region's Penola, Wyly served with the Country active member of the Penola Lions W2009 Australia Day Citizen Fire Service until his recent retirement. Club, serving as president twice and of the Year Award winners, who were The Maaoupe fire truck was active being involved in many projects. honoured on January 26. for eight days during the 1983 Ash Wyly is also involved with Rural Among the recipients was Wyly Wednesday fires, during which time he Watch, the Greenrise Management Preston, who was named Penola’s was a fire control officer and he received Committee and the town's sports Other CFS recipients featured in Citizen of the Year. a national medal for his services. club, mans the gate at Penola races, this edition of Volunteer include; The retired Penola farmer was He is known locally as the "Mr organises parking at festivals and Wayne Thorley and Gilbert Pilgrim, nominated for his outstanding work Fixit" for his knowledge of farm sets up seats and music for the page 28 and Quentin Russ and within the community. equipment. Community Christmas Carols. Barry Jagger, page 33.
YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR FROM TWO WELLS By: Plains Producer ewiston student Matthew Young Citizen of the Year. long list of personal achievements. was one of five South Australians to Harmati has been named The 17-year-old has been involved with This year he was named rural youth win a place on the 2008 Premier's LDistrict Council of Mallala's Two Wells CFS for four years, and has a ambassador at the Gawler Show, and Anzac study tour. << Rob Buttery (dec) with his wife Pat. Rob has POSTHUMOUS GONG been awarded an Australian Fire Service Medal. FOR VOLUNTEER By: Leader Messenger
ormer Tea Tree Gully Country firefighter to deputy group officer, Fire Service volunteer Robert Mr Buttery remained a member until FButtery has been awarded an his death. Australian Fire Service Medal almost Mrs Buttery remembers her a year after his death. husband as a positive person who Mr Buttery, who lost his battle with was dedicated to his volunteer work. cancer at the age of 68 last February, "He always said no matter what joined the CFS soon after arriving in life throws at you there was always a Australia from England in 1975. silver lining." "There was a fire lit by some school Mrs Buttery said although she was children down the road, and so of very proud of her husband, he would course as soon as he saw the fire he have been embarrassed to receive was off," Mr Buttery's wife Patricia, the Australia Day honour. 67, said. "He was a very outstanding "That is basically how he began at gentleman," she said. the fire service." "Even in his death they called him Moving through the ranks from the dignified gentleman." NEWS & UPDATES INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR CFS he Chief Officer of the CFS Chief Officer Andrew Lawson and MFS spent seven days in Adelaide 'The MFS and CFS can easily relate Euan Ferguson and the Chief District Officer George Rodis. which included a tour of the MFS to the difficulties faced by the Hellenic TOfficer of the MFS Grant Lupton The delegation was invited to Headquarters in Wakefield Street. Fire Service, given our own battles hosted two international firefighters Greece by the Hellenic Fire Service The MFS Chief Officer Grant Lupton with bushfire, including the Proper from Greece in January as part of several weeks after the country’s said: “South Australians were also Bay fire at Port Lincoln,' Grant said. an Australian rural fire service worst fire season with 76 deaths and impacted by the fatal fires in Greece CFS Deputy Chief Officer, Andrew educational visit. numerous injuries. in 2007, given the state’s large Greek Lawson said the Hellenic Fire Service Major Ioannis Kapakis and “This is an acknowledgement and community and the fact our fire clearly recognises the high quality of Major Christos Lambris from the recognition by the Hellenic Fire Service services have faced similar challenges. service that CFS volunteers and MFS Hellenic Fire Service spent a week of the quality of service our CFS “The strong bond between South firefighters provide during bushfires. familiarising themselves with volunteers and staff provide to protect Australia’s fire services and the Andrew said: “The CFS and MFS CFS operational and community their communities,” Euan said. Hellenic Fire Service was forged hope that their relationship with the education imperatives. “This visit also reflected the strong through this tragic event and Hellenic Fire Service will continue continues to be mutually beneficial to grow, so that all three services Their visit followed an Australian ties between the CFS and international 13 senior fire fighting delegation to Greece fire fighting agencies,” he said. from a learning perspective,” can reap the rewards of exchanging in 2007 which included the CFS Deputy The Hellenic Fire Service firefighters Grant said. skills and knowledge.”g VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES
Lambris. From left, Major Ioannis Kapakis, MFS District Offi cer George Rodis, CFS Deputy Chief Offi cer Andrew Lawson and Major Christos
WANGARY BUSHFIRE RECOMMENDATIONS By: Sally Hardy he implementation of all 34 Australia during the fire danger Committee regarding CFS policies after market, non-standard recommendations has been season. and procedures for issuing public mufflers to vehicles used in rural Tongoing since the Deputy • The release of two research warnings for bushfire. environments. Coroner handed them down on 18 reports into farming practices and • Empowerment of the CFS Regional • Creation of a Native Vegetation Code of Practice. December 2007. bushfire risk. Coordinator to undertake the • Farm fire unit guidelines and role of Regional Public Warnings The implementation group Significant progress has been chaired by David Place, Chief information. Officer and create and deliver made and as we go to print only Executive SAFECOM, comprises • Introduction of landowner and public warnings. five recommendations remain key stakeholders including SAPOL, water liaison officers within • 2008/09 Fire Danger Season outstanding, the majority of which Department of Water, Land and Incident Management Teams. campaign to increase awareness are dependent upon changes to the Biodiversity Conservation, Local • The seeking of input from of citizens to listen for radio Government Association, CFS, SES, Fire and Emergency Services Act. landowners/landholders regarding announcements relating to MFS, Department of Environment The Act is currently under review. topography, vegetation, existing bushfire. and Heritage and PIRSA. Key initiatives that have been fire breaks and accessibility by • Establishment of pre-planned Copies of the recenlty released implemented include: CFS Regional Coordinators. level 2 Incident Management farming research reports and • The provision of a large volume • Endorsement of policies by the Teams in each region. further information can be found at water helicopter based in South State Emergency Management • Research into the fitting of www.safecom.sa.gov.au. VOLUNTEER STRATEGY & SUPPORT MARK JOINS VOLUNTEER STRATEGY AND SUPPORT TEAM
Mark Groote is the new ark Groote has recently the South Australian Housing Trust Manager, commenced as the Manager, and the Aboriginal Housing Authority. Volunteer MVolunteer Strategy and Mark has also been responsible for Strategy and Support Branch, SAFECOM. the management of the Supported Support. Mark trained as a social worker, Accommodation Assistance and commenced his career with Program and Crisis Accommodation The Salvation Army where he Program and led the creation of the worked with young people, and Homelessness Strategy Team. 14 went on to manage the Red Shield Mark is excited about the
VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES Housing Association. opportunities to contribute to the In this role Mark managed volunteers work of SAFECOM. across administrative, governance, “Volunteers play such a significant and service delivery areas. role in our agencies, and I’m thrilled Mark comes to SAFECOM from to be leading the Volunteer Strategy the Department for Families and and Support Branch,” he said. Communities where he has extensive “I’m also looking forward to getting management experience, particularly out and about and meeting many of in the housing sector where he the people who volunteer their time managed the Housing Policy Units for for the CFS and SES.” FEEDBACK SOUGHT ON WORKLOAD RREVIEWEVIEW gencies within the emergency • A streamlined approach to responsibilities of volunteers and SES, the job description, training and services sector continue to forwarding correspondence. volunteer managers. leadership issues will be prioritised. Areceive feedback from volunteers • Providing staff to assist larger groups. • Recognising the full range of The report can be downloaded concerning the administrative burden • Better usage of online reporting leadership skills required for from the initiatives and reviews that is placed on them, impacting through the website. volunteer roles. section of www.safecom.sa.gov.au. their willingness to volunteer. • Minimising meetings and • Clear guidelines for conflict The SAFECOM Board has asked As a result, SAFECOM engaged using technology such as resolution responsibilities and for feedback on the report’s an external consultant to conduct teleconferencing, online forums training assistance provision to recommendations, and this can a survey of volunteers and look at and feedback. Regional Commanders. be provided to Sally Pfeiffer, options to reduce the administrative • Clarifying job descriptions for all As part of the development of a SAFECOM Volunteer Strategy and burden for volunteers. volunteer roles and developing Service Level Agreement between Support Branch via email pfeiffer. Key recommendations put forward Position Descriptions. the SAFECOM Volunteer Strategy and [email protected] or phone by the report include: • Training in the rights and Support Branch and the CFS and (08) 8463 4102 by 15 May 2009.
VOLUNTEERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE By: Mark Groote
id you know that each year much bigger picture – so remember Having worked with volunteers in my In coming editions, we’ll report in Australia, more than six you are part of a process which previous positions, I’m excited to be back on some of the exciting projects Dmillion people over 18 years of makes a significant contribution to in SAFECOM, and working on ways to we are working on, and what we are age do some kind of voluntary work our community. support you as a volunteer in the CFS. planning to achieve over the next in their local community? I have recently commenced in During 2008, Volunteering SA twelve months. That’s over a quarter of our entire SAFECOM as the Manager of the undertook a review of the VSS Branch. If you would like any further population – a great effort by any Volunteer Strategy and Support This review had a number of information or want to get in comparison. (VSS) Branch (you might know us recommendations which looked at touch with the VSS Branch, Emergency service volunteers play by our former name – the Volunteer how the branch meets the National please contact the Volunteer Support such a key role in our community Management Branch). Standards in Volunteer Management. Officer through your – safety, awareness, protection, I have a background as a social We’re working through this report local CFS Regional Office, or prevention – and you are part of this! worker, and worked for The Salvation to look at ways we can improve our call 8463 4102. While we all have different reasons Army before joining Housing SA services to volunteers, and will be for volunteering, each role that (in the Department for Families working with the CFS and the CFSVA a volunteer plays is part of a and Communities). to do this. COMMUNITY EDUCATION MANAGE YOUR NATIVE VEGETATION he State Government is “Everyone has a part to play CFS and NVC can offer valuable and • Clear native vegetation along reminding South Australians in protecting lives and property constructive advice to help landholders property boundaries up to a depth Tof the actions they can take to against the threat of bushfire and take the appropriate measures now to of 5 metres to create a fire break. minimise the impact of bushfires by where possible conserving native become Bushfire Ready. In some regions of the State this legally clearing native vegetation. vegetation,” Euan said. Landholders who have native can be 7.5 metres. In the wake of Victoria’s devastating The NVC’s Presiding Member Dennis vegetation on their property can take The campaign features statewide bushfires, the CFS and Native Mutton said it was important to the following actions today: radio and print advertisements, Vegetation Council (NVC) have highlight the exemptions that exist in • Clear any tree branches that a fact sheet and poster and a launched a campaign outlining the the Native Vegetation Act 1991 that overhang your house or other 'portal' has been created on the steps regional landholders can take allows the clearance of native vegetation buildings on your property. CFS website bringing together today to clear native vegetation that without the need for formal approvals. • Clear native vegetation up to 20 information from the CFS presents a bushfire risk on their “The State Government recognises metres from around houses (with and NVC. property. that, native or not, if plant growth has the exception of large trees which Further clearance of native Chief Officer of the CFS Euan the potential to threaten lives or property will require approvals). vegetation can still be sought by 15
Ferguson said that bushfire safety is it must be managed,” Dennis said. • Clear native vegetation up to 5 contacting the NVC. VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES a responsibility that is shared by all Euan added that preparation is the metres around property buildings Visit www.cfs.sa.gov.au for South Australians. key to surviving a bushfire and both the such as sheds and garages. further information.
Cut down the impact of bushfires. Are you Bushfire Ready?
Manage native vegetation on your property, take action today. Clear any tree branches that overhang your house or other buildings on your property. 3 20 metres of native vegetation around Clear up to your house. Make sure you exclude any big trees 3 as they require clearance approval. 5 metres of native vegetation around other Clear up to 3 buildings on your property such as sheds and garages. Clear the native vegetation from your property 3 boundary to create a fire-break of 5 metres.
For more information visit the SA Country Fire Service website.
Native Vegetation Council
Printed March 2009 www.cfs.sa.gov.au
BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY! By: Nicole Ely he CFS, MFS and the State year ‘use by’ date, replace them from a house fire. It’s so easy to lose Government have launched a immediately,” he said. track of the years and not realise that Tstate-wide campaign urging MFS Chief Officer, Grant Lupton, your smoke alarm is too old to be people to send their smoke alarms said, “Years ago in a house fire you relying on,” Grant said. into retirement when they reach 10 would have well over 10 minutes to Research undertaken by the MFS years of age. get out. Today that time has reduced indicates that only one third of the Regardless of whether smoke to less than 4 minutes. So every population knows that smoke alarms alarms are battery operated or extra warning per second is vital.” have a limited life. connected to the mains power supply, Today’s housing designs and our Emergency Service Minister, smoke alarms only last for 10 years increasing preference for synthetic Michael Wright, said it was crucial under normal operating conditions. furnishings and building materials for people to make the effort to checkk CFS Chief Officer, Euan Ferguson have reduced the amount of time their alarms, which could have life- said the fire services are asking available to escape from a house fire. saving consequences. families, as making sure that your people to check when they installed “Old smoke alarms take longer to “We’re asking all South Australians smoke alarm is in good working their smoke alarms. respond to smoke, or may not respond to take the time and do the right order could just save your life and “If they have passed their 10 at all, reducing critical escape time thing by themselves and their home in a fire emergency." BUSHFIRE ACTION PLANS
The Jackner family home with the green roof in the middle of the picture, SAVE EP HOMES moments before the fi re front impacted on the home. No major structural By: Haley Cahalan losses were suffered because of the family’s Bushfi re Action Plan. COMMUNITY EDUCATION
ell prepared bushfire action The family had decided early plans saved many Eyre on that they would stay, and had WPeninsula homes when the practised the tasks required that Proper Bay fire tore through outer would help to save their home andd Port Lincoln in January this year. keep them safe inside. Kaelie and Steven Foord’s property Their work outside and inside off tthehe on Proper Bay road was the last hit home paid off, as structural losseses 16 by the fire. were minimal.
VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES The family of four kept busy The land was scorched to bare earth,th through winter, clearing prickly but that is a small price to pay, they say. In 2006 the Jackners bought a Across the road, resident Paul acacia and long grasses and making As with any fire the Foord family 6.5 horse power petrol fire pump unit O’Brien is also reaping the benefits the area around the home more has taken many lessons from their with an electric starter and installed of his bushfire preparation work. accessible for fire trucks. experience. pipes under the gutter with 20 rotary Mr O’Brien implemented a number The CFS Women’s Bushfire Fighting From now, they are planning to sprinklers along the roof. of measures across his 14 hectare Workshop was a good grounding for install sprinklers along the sides of A 6,000 gallon rainwater tank is scrubland property on the outskirts Mrs Foord, who learnt a lot about fire the house and shed and a fire pump connected with the pump. of town, in response to Country Fire preparation and from women who will go in at the swimming pool. “We thought it may have been a Service messages about having a survived the Wangary fire. “You can not afford to be waste of time and money, but if working bushfire action plan. “I think in the end I came to realise complacent about this. Use the something ever happened it meant While he is the first to admit the you almost need to have three to four winter season to do the groundwork we were ready,” Mr Jackner said. protection measures he introduced plans, what you will do if the kids and don’t think it’s never going to “We knew we couldn’t rely on tap were not the most expensive or are home, husband is home etcetera, happen to you, because it may not water, so we had a tank and our own state-of-the art, he said it showed because nothing really happens as be a matter of if, but when,” Mrs firefighting pump, which would be the simple measures any home you plan it,” she said. Foord said. strong with enough pressure for all owner could adopt to save their “Everyone should be aware, women 20 rotary sprinklers to work in one hit. homes. ono the edge of town on acreage should “The pump was in a house with Fuel reduction and fire breaks dod the women’s bushfire course and a solar panel on the roof and every were Mr O’Brien’s main priority, with passp this information on to the rest of month I would start the pump unit work including removing dead wood thet family (including children) so that and check it was working. from the ground and rolling flat the theyt know on the day. “I believe every person in fire grassy areas. “Children need to be aware for if danger areas should have this “I was never under the delusion theyt are ever home alone.” equipment before they are given that I could stop a fire from hitting Mrs Foord praised the CFS permission to build on a property. my property, but I hoped I could volunteersv for their work both on the Plus, they should be required to clear slow it so that I could manage it,” dayd but also in the days following. a fire break.” he said.
<< Mr Jackner says it cost him no more It was this preparation, along with Kaelie Foord is encouraging women And the story is similar nearby at living in a town fringe to do a the property of Renate and Gerd than $2,000 to implement the bushfire sprinklers on the day, that saved women’s fi refi ghting course. Jackner, whose home was saved protection measures that saved his his home from being destroyed in thanks to 20 rotary sprinklers. home from the Proper Bay fire. the fire.
NEW CFS BUILDING FIRE SAFETY OFFICER
he CFS welcomes its latest and joiner and has post graduate Pat says: “I am very excited at the member of the family, Pat Ryan. qualifications in business prospect of working in the South T Pat joins the ranks of CFS management and fire engineering. Australian Country Fire Service in the role of Building Fire Safety Pat has maintained a significant and look forward to the challenges Officer taking over from Max professional connection with ahead.” McAlister who resigned in December. the emergency services in South Pat commenced work with the Born in Chatham in Kent, Pat joined Australia in his previous role as CFS on 23 March 2009 and is based the Kent Fire Service where he served State Manager with First 5 Minutes, in the CFS Building Fire Safety for 13 years. a fire and emergency training Unit in the CFS regional office at He is also a qualified carpenter organisation. Mount Barker. Lock Area School students eagerly learning about bushfi re safety. STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT << BUSHFIRE SAFETY By: Therese Pedler and Haley Cahalan
tudents at Lock Area School school principal and CFS Community have been learning about Education department to arrange Sbushfire safety with the for a school visit from the CFS. Country Fire Service this year. Therese and John divided their Community Education Officer sessions into different age groups Therese Pedler and Regional throughout the day. Prevention Officer John Probert were Puppets were used to discuss with invited to the school in the aftermath Reception to Year 3 students the of some incidents in the area. difference between good fires and Prior to the visit a Community Fire bad fires. Safe session had been held with Personal Protection Equipment was 17 some of the women in October. used with 25 year 4 to 6 students
Within a couple of weeks some where they ‘dressed up’ to talk aboutut VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES of the women were impacted by a the dangers of radiant heat and howw bushfire that started by lightning. best to protect yourself. A local resident was also involved Year 7 to 8 students used science in a serious vehicle accident around to explain bushfire behaviour, while the same time. the senior school students were The school bus driver began to urged to act as young adults and notice that in the aftermath of these help the adults at home to become incidents students were making Bushfire Ready. comments about bushfires such as All students were given a Bushfire “I would just get out and run” or “I Action Plan and encouraged to write would get in the car when it got too their name on it for ownership and bad to stay”. take it home to work on with the As a result, he liaised with the adults at their home.
<< Trying on the gloves and personal protection clothing for size.
<< Enjoying learning about bushfi re safety around the home.
Students dress up in PPE to understand how to <<
protect themselves from radiant heat. << All students were given a Bushfi re Action Plan as a homework task to work on with adults in their home. THE FIRE PILOTS WHO HOVER AT 500 PACES
By: Chris Pepper Story and photo courtesy of the Sunday Mail 18/1/09
18
VOLUNTEER - AERIAL AERIAL
The Erickson Aircrane pilots on standby at Brukunga.
t any given moment, they and the state's multi-million-dollar in helping to prevent a major disaster government contract, provided will be within 500 paces of asset was needed to fight it. from engulfing the West Coast town. by Helicorp of Adelaide and Aa weapon relied on to save Flying 600m above ground in Capt Anderson, 51, from Missouri, US, subcontracted by US firm Erickson countless lives in South Australia. temperatures well above 40oC, the who has flown fire fighting missions Air-Crane, Inc. They are four people who spend their scale of the mission soon became in America, Canada, Alaska and Italy, "We're kinda like family - we're days playing table tennis and watching shockingly clear. remains reluctant to take credit. mates," Capt Anderson said. MTV in a building tucked away in the "We could see the fire about "We're just one small slice of the When off duty, they are free to scrub of the Adelaide Hills - waiting. 45 minutes before we got there," pie," he said. explore locally in a rental car. Day after day, they sit and wait for Captain Anderson said. "Smoke "I think mother nature was our "I've been to Hahndorf and the the message they hope they'll never was just pouring out. It was pretty greatest asset in this (Port Lincoln) fire. Barossa Valley ... and I like it," Capt receive. But they know that when spectacular." "The winds abated, slowed down, Walker, also from the US, said. "I they do, life is in their hands. With Capt Anderson's assistance, and there was a wind shift and a find (Australians) very kind, very For Adelaide's Aircrane pilots Don Capt Ruehl gently guided the temperature change. If we didn't cordial and very helptul. Anderson and Bill Ruehl that wait Aircrane towards a lake at a quarry, have all those factors then I think When not touring, it's a diet of TV, came to an abrupt end on Tuesday and started taking on board water. it would have been a lot more ping pong, reading the internet to when a flurry of pager messages hit the During the day they sucked up more devastating for sure." keep them occupied while waiting for duty pilots at their base in Brukunga. than 100,000 litres, passing back The pilots work shifts of three call to air. (Among the other pilots, John Walker and forth over the flames 22 times. weeks on, three weeks off. They also The team eat and drink together was off duty and Vivi Barlogianni was Their actions supported the CFS, take turns on duty: three rostered on in Brukunga's mess hall and sleep assisting the ground effort). MFS and Department for Environment together, one on leave. in bunks, meaning they are never A bushfire was raging out of control and Heritage teams on the ground, Two engineers and a fuel further than a sprint from their and heading towards Port Lincoln, and the other water bombing pilots, tanker driver also come with the aircraft. The Aircrane, which will be stationed Air conditioning however, is not crew are keen to emphasise that OTHER TEAM MEMBERS: in SA during the next five fire danger included. the firefighters on the ground are Captain Bill Ruehl - Age : 40 seasons, is one of five in Australia, "It's a sweatbox," said Capt the ones who deserve more Home town: Courtenay, British Columbia (Canada) costs about $12,000 an hour to run Anderson, referring to the cockpit's recognition. Standby Pilot: Andy Fidock and is based on 1950s technology, but huge bubble windows. "We were very impressed with the Grew up in Hamley Bridge (SA) and currently based it can fly with the best of them. "The worst part is when landing for CFS," Capt Anderson said, also in Canada with Erickson Aircrane "It's an excellent, excellent fuel. We're sitting in the sun and it praising the communications teams Crew Chief Ted Cassidy machine," said Capt Waker. becomes a greenhouse." and the state's other air attack pilots. Home town: Queenstown (New Zealand) "It will do anything any helicopter Although fire fighting helicopters "They deserve a lot more credit Support Mechanics: can do." dominate news footage, the than we do." Scott Garrett and Mike Fossen (USA) Fuel truck driver: Gordon Brooks (Eskdale, Victoria)
Captain Don Anderson | Pilot and SK-64 training captain | Age: 51 | Home town: St Louis, Missouri (USA)
ongue in cheek, veteran US pilot then trucks, then airplanes, then He likened Tuesday's Port Lincoln Don Anderson said driving a car helicopters," he said. inferno to bushfires he has fought Ton the left-hand side of the road "It's a unique way to make a living, in America. 19 is harder than flying a helicopter. that's for sure." Captain Anderson, who is engaged, VOLUNTEER - AERIAL "Flying to Port Lincoln and fighting Captain Anderson has flown said he was beyond homesickness the fire was not as terrifying as missions in the US, Canada, Alaska and was used to the regular flights driving home afterwards," he said. and Italy. between Australia and the US. The fire fighting helicopter veteran "There's a high degree of job Acclimatisation is an issue, with was bitten by the flying bug at an satisfaction," he said. temperatures in St Louis hovering early age. "What's the old saying? Many hours around 10oC. "When I was in high school I was of boredom and tedium, interspersed "One of the hardest parts of my job into motorcycles and cars, and with a few moments of sheer terror." is the commute," he said.
Captain in Training Vivi Barlogianni | Age: 42 | Gold Coast, Queensland
nstead of dreaming of becoming a "It's not an easy machine to learn distract us. In the aftermath, when pilot, Greek-born Ms Barlogianni's to fly. It challenges you immensely," you think about it, we're human, it Iambition was to fight sexism. she said. affects us like anybody." "When I was aged between 10 In Greece, she flew helicopter Ms Barlogianni, who works in and 15 in Greece, I knew I was water bombing missions during the Greece every northern summer, not allowed to enter the air force devastating 2007 bushfires that is half of a flying partnership - because I was a girl. claimed 74 lives. She said it was husband Glenn is a crew chief for "I thought, 'That sucks, why impossible not to be moved by the Air-Crane. not?’ Years later, a friend owned a loss of human life. "I have been married for four helicopter and I got the chance to go "It was one of the worst fires we've years," she said. "These last few up and that was it." seen," she said. months was the first time I'd spent She has had her pilot's licence for "I don't like to think there might be more than three weeks with Glenn at 10 years. people down there because it would home together."
Captain John Walker | Age: 53 | Home town: Gold Hill, Oregon (USA)
emories of the devastating His wife and three children, aged something I enjoyed as much as bushfires in Willunga last 18, 21 and 23, are used to him being this," he said. MMarch remain etched in a long way from home. "It's fun, you get to help, you drive Captain Walker's mind. "I've been doing this for a long big machines. It's a good, fun job." "That will stick out for ever. Some time," he said. He said his greatest respect firefighters got burned over," he "We work through three weeks lay with the firefighters on the said, recounting his memories of his away, three weeks at home. ground. first tour in South Australia. "A lot of fires would get big if the "Most of the people who are out "A helicopter will never put a fire Aircrane was not here." here… are single, or have wives who out. People on the ground do that," During his 22-year flying career, are very self sufficient." he said. Captain Walker also has flown Capt Walker said flying was his "And they have the nastiest, helicopters for logging and greatest passion. hardest, roughest job by far. All we construction. "I'd have a tough time finding do is help them." FRIENDSHIP, FUN AND FOCUSBy:By: MichaelaMichaela DDavisavis RoseworthyRoseworthy CCFSFS FOR REGION 2 CADETS Cadet Captain
n Saturday morning Brukunga CFS station, where they March 7, about 90 cadets and were shown its facilities including O27 adult leaders descended the new 34 appliance with a >> Practical exercise of a upon the State Training Centre at demonstration of its capabilities straight stream attack. Brukunga to begin the Region 2 such as its pump and foam throw. 20 Cadet Camp for 2009. The day concluded with a parade
VOLUNTEER - CADETS Almost every Group within Region 2 and presentation at Brukunga at was represented. around mid-afternoon. After sleeping arrangements were The special presentation marked organised, the cadets were divided the last cadet camp for one of the into six Strike Teams (Alpha through adult leaders, Sue Wallbanks, who to Foxtrot), each team elected their has been the Cadet Coordinator for Strike Team Leader and they had the Wakefield Plains Group. three adult leaders assigned to them. Sue is retiring to spend more time The first day was mostly preoccupied with her daughter and husband. with familiarisation of the Training The presentation acknowledged Sue’s Centre, a presentation by the Erickson hard work over many years for making Aircrane helicopter pilot and a close the cadet camp such a huge success. inspection of the aircraft. Others who were thanked included thee The cadets also took part in several Manager of Training Facilities at the hose drills which rounded out the State Training Centre and David Baker, day just before dinner. R3 VSO from SAFECOM’s Volunteer After dinner the cadets were briefed Strategy and Support Branch. about the State Cadet Committee Also the Cadet Coordinators and and were invited to put forward their Supervisors, the assistant camp suggestions to make improvements leader Vanessa Bywaters and for the future. First Aider Janet Kelly, were also On Sunday morning after breakfast, acknowledged for their work. the cadets took part in more hose The kitchen staff at the Brukunga drills including the five-man step-up Training Centre, the Erickson Aircranee procedure. crew and Brukunga CFS captain Later in the morning three Strike Wayne Bowman, also gained special TeamsTeams tooktook a shortshort strollstroll up toto thethe accoladesaccolades fromfrom veryy satisfied cadets.s.
CFS Region 2 cadets visit the Brukunga Brigade.
Cadets pumpingpumping from an appliance truck. NEWS & UPDATES 2009 AUSTRALIAN SAFER COMMUNITY AWARDS o you have a project that safety in the context of emergency or individual for an award. has improved safety in your management including risk Awards are judged on two levels – Dcommunity? assessment, research, education and State winners will receive an award The Australian Safer Community training, information and knowledge and certificate at a special ceremony. Awards in recognition of such management, and prevention, State winners become finalists for achievements is being sponsored by preparedness, response and recovery. the National Awards with national the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Entries for the awards must relate to: winners sponsored to attend a Department in conjunction with • projects that commenced in 2008 ceremony in Parliament House. states and territories, with SAFECOM or 2009, or Previous CFS projects recognised administering the program for SA. • existing projects with significant include a pilot workshop on bushfire The Awards recognise outstanding outcomes since January 2008, or training for women, developed on at www.ema.gov.au (Go to 'News' achievements and innovation in • existing projects with significant Eyre Peninsula after the Wangary and 'Awards'). The closing date for emergency management. enhancements since January 2008. fire and the development of new applications is 3 July 2009. Applications are sought from Any organisation or individual can residents' kits for people who have Inquiries and nominations to organisations and individuals for enter. If you’re aware of a good project moved into the Mt Pleasant region. Julie Frittum on 8204 9376 or 21 projects that promote community you can also nominate the organisation For more details visit the website [email protected] VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES
CFS SAGRN PAGING UPDATES By: Gary Bau, CFS Communications Coordinator ith the recent change to messages remains unchanged on PC’s and using dial up lines is All SAGRN paging access points the SAGRN paging service http://www.linkq.com.au/mod- still in place and working are monitored and traceable Wprovider there has been LinkQ_Direct-viewpage-pageid- • Fire Station Interface units and so users are advised to use some alterations to the following 32.html - you will need to enter the Alpha units can still access appropriate language at all times paging connections: the 6 digit pager address number the SAGRN paging service. as all messages can be viewed by • The CFS paging indial number • CFS members can use the These services should be used the public and the media. remains the same 1300 720 335 following email address to send for administrative purposes only – you will need the 6 digit pager pager messages: and brigade responses should be Any problems with these services address number [email protected] radioed or phoned into Adelaide Fire should be reported to the SAGRN • The website to send pager • All Airsource software installed using 000 and asking for “fire”. Helpdesk 1300 130 495. TRAINING BASIC FIREFIGHTING 1 COURSES
AT CFS STATE TRAINING CENTRE>> Volunteer fi refi ghters who completed the Robin Geytenbeek (Rural State Training Officer) and Michael Mathew BFF1 course in February this year. By: aining) (Manager, Rural Firefighting Training) well recognised policy of the CFS is to ensure that Avolunteers new to the service complete their Basic Firefighting 1 (BFF1) course within six months of 22 joining their brigade.
VOLUNTEER - TRAINING To support Brigades, Groups and Regions in meeting this requirement, the Rural Training team has offered a number of residential BFF1 courses at the State Training Centre (STC), Brukunga. In the last twelve months, five of these residential courses have hosted almost 100 new recruits to the service, either as new volunteers or as new staff. Trainees on these courses have comprised of volunteers from all around the State, from as far a field as Port Lincoln, Roxby Downs and Mount Gambier and as close as Mount Barker, Brukunga and State Headquarters. New SAFECOM Public Affairs employees, ForestrySA employees and Department for Environment and Heritage (DEH) employees have also received their basic training requirements through these courses, side by side with volunteers. The dedicated Rural Firefighting Training team has enabled these courses to be run both in and outside of the fire danger season without risk of being cancelled due ll to operational activities. > LearningLa i tto roll a hose. Signalling for water. Notably, during the 2007 Kangaroo >> >> Island fires, 24 new recruits completed their BFF1 at the STC The environment at the STC enables The Rural Firefighting Training The residential Basic Firefighting and after two and a half days of trainees to immerse themselves in team can also assist in flexible courses at the STC, Brukunga have intensive training, were eligible to their firefighting training without delivery of the BFF1 course to Groups been scheduled for 22-24 May, respond in an operational capacity outside distractions. and Brigades in conjunction with 21-23 August and 20-22 November with their Brigades. All trainee expenses are covered Regional Training Officers and 2009. Please check the CFS website The latest course, held during for these courses, including meals, volunteer Trainer-Assessors. for the latest training calendar for extreme fire danger conditions accommodation and travel Group and Brigade Training details. All nominations and from February 6-8 2009, saw 26 reimbursements. Coordinators can discuss these options queries regarding courses should new volunteers and staff members Three more weekend residential with their Regional Training Officers. be made through the chain of successfully complete their basic Basic Firefighting courses are It is also important to acknowledge command via your Brigade and CFS training requirements. scheduled to be held in May, August the volunteer trainer/assessors and Group Training Coordinators to The residential nature of these and November 2009. course assistants who help run the the relevant Regional Training courses greatly enhances the ability Nominations for these courses can STC and the BFF1 course: Julian Officer. of new members to build their be made through to your Regional Aggiss, James Honner, Pip McGowan, teamwork skills and confidence in Training Officer via your Brigade and Murray Dolan, Ben Pettman and Photos: Robin Geytenbeek and state-of-the-art facilities. Group Training Coordinators. Ashley Hosking. CFS Promotions Unit. TRAINING
MEDIA LIAISON >> Firefi ghters learn on the hot pad at OFFICERS PULL ON THE Brukunga. FIREFIGHTING GEAR By: Melissa Veal and Haley Cahalan, Media Liaison Officers
e recently attended the CFS training also gave us an opportunity to basic firefighter training at explain that our role is to assist the CFS WBrukunga Training Centre, as by getting positive messages about the part of our CFS education. organisation out into the public - via As Media Liaison Officers for the the media. SA Fire and Emergency Services Throughout the training weekend Commission (SAFECOM) we look after we had a go at activities such as 23 the media function for the CFS, MFS ladder climbing, rake hoe work, and SES. This means that we are radio operation and using hoses VOLUNTEER - TRAINING responsible for speaking to the media and pumps. It was great to get out and providing them with information of the office and try some tasks about the CFS and what they do. that we would never usually do. Our The basic firefighter training really ‘distinctive’ lime green PPC also helped us to understand exactly what earned us the title of ‘Kermits’. the volunteers do – which is a lot! Overall it was a great weekend and It made us appreciate the level of we really enjoyed getting to meet knowledge they must have and how it is some CFS volunteers and see exactly applied in difficult circumstances. The what they do.
Extinguishing a fl ame with a fi re extinguisher formed part of the BFF1 course. >>
CFS TRAINING INVESTIGATES ‘E’ LEARNING OPTIONS By: Brenton Eden, CFS Manager Training o you have a private email or you would like to become part address? of a focus group to trial such DWould you like to receive delivery, please email me and let training via your internet access? me know. The CFS Training Department Likewise if you are reading this is investigating ways to deliver and you have not advised us of your components of their training courses email address, then please send via the option of 'e' learning, but we your details to me and I will ensure need your help. we enter them on TAS. While we have many volunteers who I welcome any feedback about ways have registered their email address in which we can better improve our on the Training Administration delivery of training across the state. System [TAS], to date we have For those who have viewed the new not used your email address as a website, you will notice that we are regular means of correspondence, now using it to deliver up-to-date nor have we investigated how information about many aspects many volunteers would be keen to of our business and I welcome participate in an 'e' learning trial. feedback on ways we could enhance If you would like to receive more the current site. Media Liaison Offi cer Melissa Veal learns how to work the hose. information about our proposed Please address your replies to: move to an 'e' learning environment, [email protected] NEWS & UPDATES AFAC 2009 CONFERENCE $1.4 MILLION FOR his year’s Australasian Fire and and rural fire, state emergency Emergency Services Authorities services, land managers, local, state TCouncil (AFAC) and Bushfire and federal government, private DISASTER MITIGATION Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) industry and community groups.” Conference will take place on the This year’s conference will aim to Gold Coast in September. follow the success of last year’s in IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA The theme of the conference will Adelaide which featured over 90 be ‘Meeting Expectations’ and will presentations and more than 1,000 outh Australia is set to receive communities such as Wallaroo, aim to examine the expectations of delegates attended over three days. $1.4 million for fourteen Robe, Naracoorte, Mallala, Port government, community and industry. “It is important that everyone Sprojects to help reduce the Lincoln and Kangaroo Island, as well AFAC president Euan Ferguson said associated with emergency services impact and risk of natural disasters. as some high priority urban projects there will also be an emphasis on attend the 2009 conference, to take The Minister for Emergency in Adelaide.” issues facing urban fire fighting and advantage of the huge information Services, Michael Wright, and the This will include $70,000 for the State Emergency Services activities. exchange and the invaluable Chief Executive of the Fire and construction of a fire watch tower at 24 “The Annual AFAC/Bushfire CRC networking opportunities afforded by Emergency Services Commission Winters Hill, near Port Lincoln. Conference continues to be the most our industry’s major annual event,” VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES (SAFECOM), David Place, welcomed Australian Government funding important annual event on Euan said. the provision, which incorporates is being allocated from the $18.6 the emergency services calendar,” For more information on the Australian and State Government million Natural Disaster Mitigation Euan said. AFAC 09 Conference log on to funding, and includes assistance Program, which undertakes a range “The conference will cater to urban www.afac2009.org.au from local government. of measures that contribute to safer, “This extra funding will improve more sustainable communities. AFAC President the resilience of these fourteen SAFECOM will administer the Euan Ferguson South Australian communities by funding and provide support to the AFSM welcomes delegates to the mitigating the natural disaster fourteen project teams. AFAC Conference in risks they face, including flooding, “Should disaster strike, we want Adelaide last year. bushfire, sea level rise and storm to help communities recover more events,” Minister Wright said. quickly and be able to demonstrate “A number of projects will be increased resilience during the undertaken to assist regional event,” David said.
All bags made to CFS UTILITY BAGS suit your needs Crew Bag: Extra Large • 12oz Heavy Duty Canvas • End pocket for name tag Pager Pouch: • Heavy Duty Zip • All leather mobile • Separate boot compartment phone belt clip • Size: 750 x 360 x 360mm • Press stud on bottom to protect pager face $6700 $1200 $5000 All bags can have the Brigade Vest Holder: name stencilled. • 12oz Heavy Duty Canvas • Holds 3 vests plus large torch $2100 Note Pad & Radio Holder: Knapsack • 12oz Heavy Duty Canvas Bag: $ 00 • 12oz Heavy 50 Duty Canvas Drink Bottle Holder: $ 00 • 12oz Heavy Proban 15 Duty Canvas $ 00 Dust and • Holds 8 drink Face Mask: bottles 50 A.G. Williams, Upholsterer Member of the CFS Ph 8383 6031 Mobile 0417 812 319 since 1983 STATEWIDE > REGION 1 MOUNT LOFTY RANGES & KANGAROO ISLAND BLAZE WIPES OUT 25HA OF RESERVE By: Jake Dean, Southern Times Messenger IREFIGHTERS are counting Noarlunga on Australia Day was 35oC "Look at (Port) Lincoln the other "It's not unusual for fires of this themselves lucky after flames and the winds were light compared to week - that was just bare ground yet size in January but it's a timely Ftore through the Onkaparinga the stronger winds and temperatures the fire tore across it. reminder of the consequences when Gorge on Australia Day, in what was in the 40s later in the week. "It's not only the gorge, it's things go wrong." the biggest bushfire to hit the south Mawson CFS group incident anywhere within the Adelaide Hills." Chapel Hill Road resident Sue Trott said she had seen three major since the Willunga inferno last year. controller Ian Taverner said that in Mawson CFS group officer Peter bushfires since she moved to Aerial bombers and 200 firefighters the wrong conditions, homes along Venning said the gorge, in the Blewitt Springs 12 years ago and took three hours to control the blaze, Chapel Hill Road next to the gorge Onkaparinga River National Park, the current fuel load in the gorge which burnt 25ha of grass and could be destroyed by fire. was a "worrying area" because much was a "real concern". scrub from about 4pm on Monday, “When a fire gets going and of the terrain was inaccessible to "My neighbour and I keep a tractor 25 January 26. everything is in its favour, you'll be firefighters and vehicles. with a full water tank ready to go The cause is still being hard pressed to stop it,” Ian said. "The conditions the other day at all times and I bring another one VOLUNTEER - REGION 1 investigated but CFS crews say "If it's heading east or northeast to some extent helped us and we from my son's property whenever the gorge area is a constant worry you've got a number of areas where managed significant resources there is a fire," she said. during summer. it can impact houses ... it could be and aerial support, which was "We know we can fight our own fire
The maximum temperature at quite damaging," he said. invaluable," he said. but it is always a concern." >> Founding Happy Valley HAPPY 70TH HAPPY VALLEY Brigade member Dudd Nicolle By: Andrew van Ek celebrates the milestone.
n the summer of 1939 the small cut the 70th anniversary cake alsoso Itownship of Happy Valley in Adelaide’s put out a challenge for the brigadede foothills was left devastated by a to find the original fire truck whichch bushfire that left a trail of damage is apparently somewhere in the which spread as far as Strathalbyn. Strathalbyn area. This event united the Happy Valley CFS Chief Officer Euan Fergusonn
community and on the 28th of who presented service awards to February of that year a fire brigade Happy Valley brigade members >> CFS Chief Offi cer was established. described the event as a fantastic Euan Ferguson Seventy years later to the day, milestone. congratulates Happy past and present members of the “It must be with a lot of pride that Valley Brigade captain Happy Valley Brigade celebrated the founding members such as Dudd Lee Filz.
milestone during a dinner at the and past officers and members Flagstaff Hill Golf Club, where they tonight join with the young, trained >> reflected on the brigade’s history. and committed current members to Happy Valley Brigade This event also provided a celebrate the spirit of service to the captains from left (and unique opportunity to unite all of community,” Euan said. in order of tenure) Lee Filz, Sam Thornton, the captains who had served the “As we have seen recently on Mike Watts, Graeme brigade, with the exception of its display by support forces to Victoria, Fleetwood, Duncan first captain, Dick Candy, who was Happy Valley CFS members are McFetridge, David committed, professional, well Bradley and Howard unable to attend due to ill health. Ellis (the Brigade’s fi rst Founding member Dudd Nicolle who trained and well led.” captain, Dick Candy was unable to attend).
Firefi ghters attend a grass BOMBERS TO THE RESCUE fi re at Nairne accidentally By: The Mount Barker Courier started by workmen. Photo: Ashley Hosking. fire swept through railway Many of them stayed until 4pm to tracks near Nairne early in blackout the area. AFebruary. A CFS spokesman said brigades Two water bombers dropped two in the Mt Barker district enjoyed a loads on the blaze that burnt about relatively quiet weekend, despite 3ha of grass on railway and private the heat. land between Hogan and Lesley roads. An electricity transformer is Nairne, Littlehampton, Mt Barker believed to have sparked a and Brukunga brigades sent six fire at Shady Grove Road near appliances and 25 firefighters to the Littlehampton on Saturday night that scene just after 1.30pm. burnt about 250sqm of grassland. WAITPINGA BUSHLAND BURNS STRATHALBYN By: Victor Harbor Times ight hectares of national park CFS and National Parks. bushland in the Waitpinga Fire Cause Investigators believe the Eregion were scorched on fire to be the work of arsonists. SCRUB BLAZE February 19. A number of fire helicopters and The blaze started at 33.20pm planes, including South Australian fire in Strathalbyn went attended the scene. and was containedd quickly by 6600 sky crane ‘Flynn’ also attended the through 15 hectares of The fire was confined to an firefighters on thee ground from ththee scene.scene. Ascrub and land on area bounded by Gemmell, February 18. Tarrawatta and Wistow- The fire started at about Strathalbyn roads. 7.30pm and 19 CFS appliances Fire Cause Investigators were carrying 79 firefighters examining the cause.
26 VOLUNTEER - REGION 2
Statewide > MOUNT LOFTY RANGES REGION 2 YORKE PENINSULA & LOWER NORTH
LONG NIGHT FOR CFS VOLUNTEERSBy: The Yorke Peninsula Country Times orthern Yorke Peninsula (NYP) Kiln blaze, the CFS received a report SES with road clearing, before crews CFS Group Officer David of another fire, at Copper Hill, near were finally able to return home. NBussenschutt described Cunliffe, which Cunliffe and Kadina He went on to say that if it were Wednesday night (28 January, 2009) appliances responded to. not for patchy, yet heavy downpours as “mass chaos”, saying the CFS Blazes at Kanaka and Alford also of rain accompanying the storm, had to call on Yorke Valley Group, as gave the CFS headaches, as did fires the situation could have been much well as Balaklava and Port Wakefield near Moonta for the MFS. worse. appliances, to cope with the many Port Clinton, Balgowan, Port Victoria “We believe the rain helped greatly fires caused by lightning. and Weetulta appliances offered in stopping a lot of the smaller “We were called to 12 jobs in total, assistance from the Yorke Valley fires,” he said. two of which were to clear fallen Group, though a fire was reported a Yorke Valley CFS Group Officer trees from roads,” he said. kilometre from the Weetulta CFS shed Andrew Cadd said his appliances “A tree down on Kadina-Agery Road once its crew had left, forcing some simply could not find a number of was the first sign of trouble, and appliances to return. reported fires, in areas where it had while the Bute crew was attending Local police and landholders assisted been raining. to that, they saw a fire on Lime Kiln with a number of the fires and “We think the rain put out at least Road (between Bute and Paskeville).” thankfully none grew out of control. a couple of fires we were called While fire crews battled the Lime GO Bussenschutt says final clean to, which allowed us to offer the up took place at about 2am on Maitland SES assistance clearing Thursday, with the CFS assisting the the roads of fallen trees,” he said.
HOUSE FIRE AT MIDDLE BEACH By: The Yorke Peninsula Country Times Firefi ghters clean up after the fi re. wo Wells, Mallala and Virginia Fire destroyed a home at Middle Beach in February. brigades responded to a house Tfire at Middle Beach on 15 February, 2009. It occurred at 772 Esplanade, and caused about $150,000 damage to the property. The cause was undetermined but was not believed to be suspicious. GAWLER RIVER BLAZE THREATENSBy: The Bunyip newspaper HOMES omes were threatened by a fire Roseworthy Country Fire Service along with further communities of at Gawler River on February 7, brigade captain Peter Ashcroft who Evanston Gardens and possibly the Hwhich burnt 108 hectares of was the sector commander said Hills face zone to the south east," farmland and scrub. strong winds and 40-degree heat he said. The flames came within metres hampered firefighting efforts. "The potential was there for losses of homes, with residents forced to He said earthworks along the Northern of property or life." shelter indoors or leave the area. Expressway prevented the fire from Capt. Ashcroft said the fire was The bushfire started on the corner of spreading to surrounding townships. contained with a combination of Gawler River and Wilkinson roads at "At the peak of the fire Angle Vale, hard work and luck. Gawler River at about 11.30am and Kudla and Hillier were under threat. About 30 appliances and more than moved in a south-easterly direction If the fire was not contained when 150 firefighters fought the flames Firefi ghters at the
to Gawler River, before crossing and it was, it is more likely these areas for more than an hour before it was >> Gawler River scrub fi re. 27 burning towards Riverbanks Road. will have been impacted by the fire, contained. VOLUNTEER - REGION 2 MORE THAN 130 YEARS IMPROVED FIREFIGHTING BETWEEN THEM FOR GREENOCK CFS By: The Bunyip newspaper By: Barossa Valley Leader he Shea-Oak Log CFS held its Gordon Leske (10 and 15 years), he Greenock CFS was The appliance will allow Greenock CFS Christmas party in December Michael Alderslade (10 and 15 years), strengthened with the delivery to continue to provide quality emergency Tand Group Officer Peter Kemp Grant Jericho (10 and 15 years), Max Tof a new Isuzu Dual Cab 34 service to Greenock, as well as assisting was on hand to present Service Leske (CFS Life Membership and appliance in December. other CFS brigades when requested. Awards to volunteers. 35 years), Peter Heinjus (10 and 15 Members to receive awards were: years) and Robert Zilm (CFS Life Heather Murchie (10 years) and Membership and 25 years). GRASS FIRE AT ARMAGH By: The Northern Argus
slasher was blamed for SPORTS STORE GOES starting a grass fire at Armagh Aon Friday, January 2, which burnt about 80 hectares of stubble UP IN FLAMES and grazing land. No stock or property was damaged fire at the Minlaton Sports Stansbury and Warooka, plus by the fire. Shop resulted in $250,000 the Ardrossan BA trailer, fought Seven CFS units attended, including Adamage on 17 February, 2009. the fire. all Horrocks Group vehicles and crews Firefighters from Yorketown,orketown, ThThee fifirere iiss bebelievedlieved to have stastartedrted from Blyth, Farrell Flat, Auburn and Firefi ghters work briskly at the Minlaton,Minlaton, Brentwood, Port Vincent, fromfrom a split system air conditioner.conditioner. Manoora plus two quick response >> scene of the grass fi re at Armagh. units, which contained and quickly extinguished the blaze.
Fire tore through the Minlaton Sports Shop in February. FIREFIGHTERS ENJOY Facing the fi re at the Region 2 TRAINING DAY fi eld day. Photo: Ashley Hosking orty Region 2 Brigades participated in a field day late Flast year. Hosted by the Angaston Group, volunteer firefighters undertook various
training exercises with SA Ambulance. >> Volunteers rally together during the The exercises included gas fi eld day. Photo: Ashley Hosking prop, map reading, pumping and draughting, helicopter landing site preparation, rural drills, HAZMAT drills and an SES land search. It was an enjoyable day and beneficial for the volunteers who took part. Statewide > MURRAYLANDS REGION 3 & RIVERLAND WAYNE TO RECEIVE MEDAL HONOUR By: Murray Valley Standard, 29/01/2009 ountry Fire Service Swanport Group Officer Wayne Thorley Cwill receive the 28 Australian Fire Service Medal after being named in the official Australia VOLUNTEER - REGION 3 Day Honours list. Awarded by the Governor-General in recognition of distinguished service in the Australian Fire Service, Mr Thorley said the award was humbling. "I feel a bit embarrassed because I don't know how to react to these things," he said. "It doesn't happen all the time." Mr Thorley has been a member of the Jervois Brigade since 1983, where he has served in leadership roles, set up fundraising activities that enabled the station to expand in size, and was the branch president of the Murraylands Volunteer Fire Brigade Association for four years. He has also served as vice
president of the South Australia CFS << << Volunteers Association since 2004. An AFSM for CFS Jervois Brigade member During this time he helped change and Swanport Group Offi cer Wayne Thorley. legislation that enabled volunteer firefighters to have an influence on decision making. not every country group gets that Mr Thorley said he was most proud opportunity," he said. of the latter achievement. "It ensures the volunteers are
"It's a very special thing because consulted all the way through." CFS A RELIGION << Gilbert Pilgrim – Renmark Paringaa Council’s Citizen of TO PILGRIM the Year. By: Rob McLean, Riverland Weekly 24/12/08 ilbert Pilgrim's devotion to the Like most long serving volunteers, Country Fire Service and local Gilbert has no intentions of slowing Growing has seen him named down just yet, particularly with the CFS. Renmark Paringa Council's Citizen "I will keep going until they can of the Year. get more volunteers and I still really The Paringa man has been a member enjoy it," Gilbert said. of his local CFS since 1979 and the Gilbert has really enjoyed his worldworld mastersmasters in Brisbane.Brisbane. "We"We now have a Vietnam veteransveterans Renmark Rowing Club since 1951. time with the Renmark Rowing "From when I started in 1951, crew, which is a highlight.hi hli ht He is a life member of both Club, including attendance at four there's another three of the original "I'm going to keep rowing for as organisations. Australian masters titles and the crew who are still involved," he said. long as I can." Statewide > FLINDERS, MID-NORTH REGION 4 & PASTORAL AREAS STIRLING NORTH CFS CADET OF THE YEAR
Robert he Stirling North CFS Brigade 1999 and has held a keen interest in Strongman presents Sophie cadets had their inaugural their well being ever since. Stephens with TCadet of the Year presentation The award is a perpetual shield her award. at the Ryan Mitchell swimming (supplied by the Strongman family), centre in Port Augusta on Thursday, an account with Community CPS 11 December 2008. Australia Ltd for $250 and a trophy This award is presented to the (Community CPS Australia Ltd have cadet with the highest score of sponsored this) as well as Cadet points allocated by the cadet leaders of the Month - a $50 account per 29 every week, on the basis of effort month and a certificate from the VOLUNTEER - REGION 4 and behaviour. brigade. The award is titled “The Robert The recipient, in a very close race, Strongman Award for the Stirling of the ‘The Robert Strongman Award North CFS Cadet of the Year” for the Stirling North CFS Cadet of the and has been sponsored by the Year’ for 2008, was Sophie Stephens. Strongman family. Sophie is one of four female cadets Robert Strongman has been involved in the brigade and has shown a with the Stirling North CFS since great attitude towards developing 1975, holding the position of Captain her skills and being an integral part and then Group Officer for many years. of a team throughout the year. Robert was also involved in the Congratulations Sophie from all the development of the Cadet Brigade in cadet leaders. IAN KLEINIG - MAKING ROXBY WELCOMES EXCELLENT PROGRESS urra CFS firefighter, Ian and from a small number of people NEW MEMBERS Kleinig, suffered a serious who were with him when the accident he Roxby Downs Country Fire "For anyone wishing to join they Binjury during his deployment to occurred, and Premier Mike Rann has Service Brigade has welcomed can come along and be a part of it," Victoria when he was hit by a falling rung Ian to pass on his best wishes. Tboth regulars and newcomers to Brett said. tree and suffered severe concussion. Chief Officer Euan Ferguson who 2009 activities. "For the old members, training has He was later transferred from the has also visited Ian said he was Brigade captain Brett Atkins said the restarted, so come along and get Royal Melbourne Hospital to the RAH positive and keen to get back to group was keen to hear from anyone back into it." in Adelaide. playing footy with his two boys. interested in joining the brigade. The brigade is also running a cadet His condition was listed as serious The Chief Officer reassured him "We are looking forward to another program for children from the ages upon his return but he has been that there were about 15,800 CFS year," Brett said. of 11 to 16. making good progress every day. members (and many, many others) "Hopefully numbers stay the same, "They start out as a cadet, then Ian is now at the RAH Hampstead who were thinking about him. or pick up." once they are 16 they can become Rehabilitation Centre where he is A special thank-you was also Training started again on Thursday, a senior firefighter with parental undergoing intensive physiotherapy conveyed to Peter Ferris, Chris 12 February for the new year and Mr permission," Brett said. but is in positive spirits from the Taylor, Chris Martin, Malim Watts, Atkins said any members wishing to "Anyone over the age of 18 can join many cards and expressions of Trudy Whelan, Jill Scott and to DSE’s join are welcome. as an adult firefighter." support from CFS members. Glenys Matthews and the many He has had visits from Burra others for the care that they afforded Brigade Group and Region 4 members Ian’s family. STIRLING NORTH GAINS VOLUNTEERS ix new members have joined always needed and it was good to "It's exciting and I've learnt a lot next generation of volunteers would Stirling North Country Fire gain younger people. since being here," he said. come from. SService brigade in recent "They (younger generations) Port Augusta Mayor Joy Baluch has "The older men and women have months. are essential to such volunteer called for more young volunteers in always kept organisations afloat, Brigade officer Bob Kirby said the organisations,” he said. all areas of the community. but younger people are needed to increase in active members was a "Otherwise the whole organisation "We are a population that is ageing, continue the groups," she said. positive sign. gets a year older every year.” and we need those younger people The Victorian bushfires had "It's always good to spread the Shannen Ellis, 16, is one of the to put their hands up and say that highlighted the need for volunteers. workload, otherwise you burn your brigade's new members. they will help their community," "The running of the country would people out," he said. He was previously a CFS cadet and she said. cease if all volunteers decided to Mr Kirby said new volunteers were said it was both rewarding and fun. She was concerned about where the stop working," she said. STATEWIDE > SOUUTH REEGION EASTEA AWARDS NIGHT AT PORT MACDONNELL By: Phil Richards, Millicent CFS
he Port MacDonnell Country Fire Trevor Coutts was inducted as Service Brigade held an awards a Life Member of the Country Fire Tevening at Periwinkles in Port Service at a Brigade get together MacDonnell for its volunteers and held to present the award between their partners recently. Christmas and New Year. Chevrons were awarded to All current life members within the volunteers for two, four, six, eight Pt MacDonnell Brigade were able to and 10 years of service. attend this function along with many 30 Long Service Awards were also brigade members. presented to Grant Fensom – 15 Mr Coutts’ long history within VOLUNTEER - REGION 5 years, Ted Habner - 20 years, Max the fire service dates back to Carrison, Glen Leggett and Dennis 1977 when he was one of the Port MacDonnell Brigade life original members of the Pt >> Merrett - 25 years, John Holland and members from left, Max Carrison, Garry Talbot - 30 years. MacDonnell Brigade. Garry Talbot, Trevor Coutts, John Holland and Terry Smith. Photo An inaugural award for Brigade He has held many positions over courtesy Grant Fensom. Member of the Year for outstanding the years including: Vice President, contributions to the brigade in Second Lieutenant and Third >> Kate Talbot with the inaugural areas such as training, call-out Lieutenant. Brigade Member of the Year award. Photo courtesy Grant Fensom. attendances, CFS values and overall While at this function he was enthusiasm was awarded to 21- also awarded his 30 Years' Service year-old Kate Talbot. Certificate and chevron.
FIREFIGHTER HONOURS GREAT SOLDIERS
By: Phil Richards, Millicent CFS
he Naracoorte Brigade has Very little happens at Naracoortete thrown its support behind without Shane finding the time ttoo be Tmember Shane Smith who involved with it. has published a book he has been Shane said his book is a link backack researching for the past six years. to the war that made Australia wwhathat Shane, a brigade member for it is today. more than 23 years, has written a “It is a lasting memorial to the 426-page book called ‘The Fighting 75 men who made the ultimate Cavemen’, which is an historical sacrifice,” he said. record of all the men and women “My intention is to tell the truth aandnd from the Naracoorte District who honour these great men. served in World War I. “Many had not even set foot outsideide Shane has always had a keen their local area and then all of a interest in Australian military history. sudden they are rushed off to war.”” His desire to become a soldier was The main focus of the book is thee Author Shane Smith presenting a copy of his book to Joe Davies, vice president of the denied when he lost most of his right service record section which has the >> Naracoorte RSL on Remembrance Day in 2008. Photo courtesy The Naracoorte Herald. arm in an industrial accident. record of every person sent from the He has instead given excellent Naracoorte district that details their Diaries and letters that are still He has presented copies of his service to his community through his service history, wounds, any leave retained by relatives have been used book to the Naracoorte Brigade, the involvement with the SA Country Fire they were granted, appointments to to illustrate particular moments in Naracoorte RSL and to schools and Service. rank positions, commendations, and the lives of the soldiers. libraries throughout the South East He has performed many roles with either their return to Australia or the Shane said it was very easy to area. Naracoorte Brigade, including Cadet information about their death and become emotional as you read of the Limited numbers may still be Coordinator for a number of years, burial. difficulties that were encountered available for purchase. State Road Crash Rescue Instructor, Photos of most of them have been and some of the horrors that were Shane is donating all proceeds to a Lieutenant and Training Officer. included. endured. the Royal Flying Doctor Service. CASTERTON AIR
By: Brenton Hastie, OPS DAY ROPO Region 5 n January 8 staff and volunteers bombing drops in the adjacent pine from Region 5 attended a plantation allowing witnesses to see ODepartment of Sustainability the operational performance and and Environment-managed cross- capability of each aircraft. border aviation exercise. The turnaround time for each of The day featured an array of the aircraft was also shown giving aircraft including a Victorian and people the opportunity to asses South Australian fixed wing bomber, the benefits of fixed versus rotary 31 a medium helicopter together with aircraft relating to the availability an Air Attack Supervisor and several of water. VOLUNTEER - REGION 5 observation aircraft. The day also gave opportunities to The highlight of the day was the build cross-border relationships with 18-seater, Sikorsky S61 heavy both the DSE and CFA and to look at helicopter, a very impressive sight to recent investments by DSE and the see close up and in operation. Victorian State Aircraft Unit for the All aircraft performed several live Casterton airstrip and bombing base. PRE-SEASON BREAKFAST AT NARACOORTE he Naracoorte Brigade held Graham has a very long its annual pre-fire season involvement with firefighting Tbreakfast and blessing of through both CFA and CFS. the fleet late last year. He has been a member with The day has become a tradition Naracoorte Brigade for more than of a cooked breakfast with all the 12 years and enjoys seeking out a trimmings for members, group new theme for his message to the officers and families. assembled firefighters each year. After everyone was full of bacon This year's story related the and eggs, the action adjourned experiences of a NSW RFS captain, to the edge of the apron where his acceptance of Christ and the all attention focused on Graham subsequent effect upon his brigade. Dickson, lay preacher with the Anglican Diocese of the Murray. >> Members, family and friends of Graham delivered a very thought- the Naracoorte Brigade enjoy the provoking service and blessed the annual pre-fi re season breakfast. Photo courtesy Jim Reekie of vehicles and crews for the coming Naracoorte Brigade. fire season. BRENTON HASTIE JOINS REGION 5 -day. I’m writing to introduce aircraft and technology/innovation. myself to you as the new The Tatiara Group for example has GRegional Operations Planning some of the best dry fire fighting Officer with Region 5 at Naracoorte. machinery found anywhere in EVENTS DIARY I come to the SACFS after spending Australia and it is very exciting to be a year with the Victorian DSE as a involved in such an organisation. May 2 Cadet Committee meeting at opportunity to meet members of the Fire Management Project Officer. My role will concentrate on Region 5 HQ at 10am. SAFECOM Board who will present My previous CFS experiences come response planning and operational certificates to nominated employers. from the Hahndorf CFS Brigade where issues including IMT planning, the May 28 Volunteer and Employer I spent time as a lieutenant, training Regional Operations Management Recognition and Support Program June 19 – 22 Regional cadet camp officer and prevention officer. Plan and assisting Groups with (VERSP) event and BBQ at the at Naracoorte Caves, with abseiling The CFS has some real strength operations and risk assessments. Kingston Combined Emergency and search and rescue activities at over other states in areas of both Services facility at 7pm. This is an Region 5 Training Centre. Statewide > EYRE PENINSULA REGION 6 & WEST COAST
Mr Morton was devastated to see leaves and debris didn't build up." what was happening in Victoria, Mr Morton said the fascia was PREPARATION IS THE KEY and said that was why he didn't like flush with the brick wall of the trees around the house. house so it minimised the chance of Mr Morton said his home didn't cinders getting into the ceiling. TO KEEPING YOUR HOUSE suffer any damage from the Proper "If you can reduce the fuel load Bay Fire. directly around your house it's a big This was despite the fire, which advantage." surrounded the house, burning just Mr Morton said after seeing By: Bonnie Puckridge, metres away. the destruction of the Tulka and Port Lincoln Times SAFE It was the clear gravelled area Wangary fires he knew he wanted to around the buildings and the prepare the house. areful bushfire preparation Mr Morton has a 21,000-gallon sprinklers that "definitely saved it," Shortly after, Mr Morton looked including installing a sprinkler rainwater tank, which supplies Mr Morton said. into pipes and pumps and systems, 32 Csystem helped save Robin and water to the 30 sprinklers he "It took a lot of worry off us in and almost four years later he VOLUNTEER - REGION 6 Christine Morton's home on North installed around his house, patio trying to run around with the hose has a high pressure and volume Side Hill during the Proper Bay Fire and shed. and we didn't have to worry about sprinkler system, that cost about on January 13. No trees or shrubs grow next to the cinders building up in the gutters." $12,000. Mr Morton said without the house, and Mr Morton usually sprays When building the home about five He said he chose an "elaborate" sprinkler system and ensuring there weeds in the summer. years ago, Mr Morton thought about tank but agreed it was an was a cleared area at least 20 "I keep it all clean, shrubs are out the measures needed to ensure investment which helped save metres around his house, he didn't of the question and there's roughly safety if a bushfire occurred. his house. know what would have happened to a 20-metre clearance around any "When I designed the house I "If you're in the country you have to their home. buildings," he said. wanted a bullnose verandah so set up some sort of system." FOUR HOUSES RAZED, MORE FIRE FIGHT SAVED IN PROPER BAY BLAZE By: Port Lincoln Times fire burnt through 252 hectares of land, destroyed four houses Water bomber planes at work during the Aand a host of other buildings Proper Bay fi re. and property in January. The fire saw a number of volunteer firefighters and other crews from across Eyre Peninsula and the rest of the State converge on Port Lincoln to prevent the blaze from destroying more property. Sheds, boats and cars were also burnt in the fire, which early on had The Proper Bay fi re was an estimated clean up bill in the fuelled by strong winds and hot temperatures. millions of dollars. The fire started at about noon on Tuesday, 13 January, on a property west of the rubbish dump on the south side of Western Approach Road. More than 250 firefighters and 25 appliances worked to control the fire in extreme weather conditions of low humidity, strong winds and high The fi re looms over Port Lincoln. temperatures. >> By January 14, the fire had burnt 252 hectares from Western Approach Road east to the water and south toward North Side Hill. West Coast police chief inspector afternoon and a support centre was One firefighter received minor Another CFS volunteer was also Brad Flaherty said the main concern set up at Port Lincoln High School. burns, eight people, including injured in a road accident on the way for police had been that the fire would Port Lincoln Hospital had extra members of the public and to the fire. cross Western Approach Road into staff on duty on Tuesday night in firefighters, were treated by Air support included four fixed the main residential area so police anticipation of any injuries but Chief ambulance crews for smoke wing water bombers, two fixed wing started advising people in the Lincoln Inspector Flaherty said there were no inhalation and five people were taken spotter aircraft, a small spotter Gardens area to evacuate on Tuesday serious injuries. to hospital for smoke inhalation. helicopter and the Erickson Aircrane. Tumby Bay CFS Group Offi cer Quentin Russ with his Australia Day Citizen of the Year TUMBY BAY GROUP OFFICER award.
- CITIZEN OF THE YEARBy: Chris Metevelis
uentin Russ is well known “His expertise is much sought throughout the Tumby Bay after because his initiative, ability Qcommunity and therefore not to calculate risk, consideration for surprising that community leaders all involved and commitment to lined up with their commendations to each task, holds him in high regard, nominate him for this year’s Australia whatever situation may arise.” Day Citizen of the Year Award. Ian said that the CFS was only one The CFS Tumby Bay Group Officer of many community services where who is responsible for a total of nine Quentin willingly donates his time brigades, is the Regional 6 President far beyond expectations and the call 33 at Wudinna and the State Strike of duty. Team Management Leader. Quentin is also a highly regarded VOLUNTEER - REGION 6 FACES IN THE CROWD CFS Deputy Group Officer at member of the Tumby Bay Football Club Tumby Bay, Ian Charlton said his and as a retired officer of the Australian fairness and level of commitment to Navy, maintains an association with the outstanding service is recognised and armed services through the local RSL “Quentin offers his support without many wouldld nott survive,”survive ” sheshe said.said valued by all the brigade members. Club as its president. hesitation and receives no personal Quentin was also the recipient of a “His concern for the wellbeing of all As a qualified electrician Quentin gain,” Tumby Bay Yacht Club Ministerial Commendation as part of members in the Brigades is always has also dedicated many hours spokeswoman Linda Trenberth said. the 2008 Emergency Services Medal his number one priority, in relation to to the Tumby Bay Yacht Club for “Without these inputs to small last year and in 2003 was awarded maintenance and safety,” Ian said. various maintenance projects. clubs by volunteers like Quentin, an Australian Fire Service Medal.
FACES IN THE CROWD BARRY JAGGER - A FULL TIME VOLUNTEER By: Southern Argus 22/01/09 arry Jagger of Waitpinga has `Suppress Wildfire' course to more a great job description now-a- volunteer firefighters than any other Bdays, `retired teacher, farmer CFS Group in South Australia. and full time volunteer', along with Barry currently holds positions his wife Merridy and their children. with the Victor Harbor CFS including A family man with traditional administrative officer, senior values, greatly respected by his nationally accredited training family and peers, Barry is like so assessor and deliverer, operationall many other Australians, rather than support coordinator and cadet slow down in retirement, he now has coordinator. more time to give to his community, With the Waitpinga CFS, he is both as a role model and volunteer. brigade training officer, lieutenantnt andand Barry is an active doer of the reserve brigade captain (duty officer).ficer). jobs that many shy away from, When speaking of his City of VictVictoror like secretary and coordinator, Harbor Australia Day Citizen ofof thethe simultaneously, contributing to local Year award, Barry said, "I amm proudlyproudly organisations, including the Yacht flattered, surprised and humbledmbled Club and Country Fire Service. that someone should considerder BarryBarry Jagger, City of Victor Harbor Citizen Barry has taken over the role of Chief I've done sufficient to deserverve thethe >> Jagger, City of Victor Harbor Cit of the Year, retired teacher, farmer and full Training Officer with the Victor Harbor nomination, let alone the award." He the Year, retired teacher, farmer an time community volunteer. izen ommuni CFS Group which is believed to have then added, "So many people have ty volunteer d full delivered the nationally accredited done heaps more!" imply send in your photo with the name of the photographer and/or name of submitter, >> This echidna was rescued from the S Victorian bushfi res by a CFS fi refi ghter. address, telephone number and Photo: David Emes brigade name (if applicable) with a description of the photo and/or details of the incident at which the photo was taken. Post photos to: CFS Public Affairs, GPO Box 2468, Adelaide. SA. 5001. 34 Photos can be posted either as
VOLUNTEER - PHABULOUS PHOTOS hard copies or on a CD in the largest file size available. Or email photos to: [email protected] When emailing photos please do not reduce the size. Sometimes Outlook asks if you want to keep original size or send smaller. If the >> A little ray of file size is reduced, the quality is sunshine during affected and therefore the photo BFF1 training at Brukunga. may not be able to be published in a Photo: Robin large size. Geytenbeek The winner receives a $50 gift voucher of their choice.
Senior fi refi ghter from Happy Valley CFS Shane Whitbread being interviewed by Brenton Ragless at Adelaide Airport. Photo: Haley Cahalan THANK YOU CFS
Thank You CFS
On behalf of Bedford, and in particular our Port Lincoln service based at Compass on Coronation The efforts of CFS fi refi ghters prevented further damage during the Place, my thanks to Regional Proper Bay Road fi res near Port Lincoln on 13 January 2009. Commander Mr Kevin May and the CFS team for controlling the bushfireire which threatened our Compass siteses and the rest of the city. The swift and decisive action 35 of the emergency services clearly contained what might have becomee VOLUNTEER - THANKYOU CFS a disaster. The consequences of not being able to offer our services to people with a disability in the Port Lincoln community due to fire damage or indeed injury, or worse would have been significant without your effective intervention. Thank you once again for the CFS response to this incident. Max Dyason Chief Executive – Bedford.
Supporting Victoria
May I please extend a heartfelt and sincere thank you to the CFS firefighters who assisted the CFA Vic firefighters with the horrendous bushfires. TulkaTulka pprpraisesaisees pprpromptomompt responsepo Hats off to the CFS reasons choose not to, and then You are, each and every one of you, there are some other people, like the angels in yellow – and I can’t Tulka Progress Association would Hats off to all of the CFS in SA for yourselves, who choose to contribute even imagine what life would be like like to thank CFS volunteers for your their contribution to the Victorian to not only your own community, but in Australia without the wonderful, immediate response to the Proper Fires. to the community of others. brave, talented and incredibly Bay fire. You all do a great job here and You choose to make a commitment, generous CFA fireys (and of course Your caring and concern for others interstate. to train regularly, to undertake their support personnel). is always appreciated. No job is too small or too big for extra duties, to forgo employments We are, as a nation, in your debt. Thank you from the Tulka Community. you all. and wages, to leave the comfort of Thank you for yesterday, today and Kaye Paterson Great work. your homes and the safety of your tomorrow. Secretary - Tulka Progress Pat Wake. families to do your very, very best to Avalon and Linda Sperring, Association. protect others from bushfires when Forestville SA. Professionalism and sometimes the very people you have determination praised gone to protect haven't even begun to protect themselves. I am writing to pass on a BIG As it turned out, we were not << "THANK YOU" to all volunteers, but directly impacted by this fire, but A barren landscape had it not been for all your planning, in the aftermath particularly CFS volunteers, for your of the Victorian successful efforts on the day of the prevention and training and Mother bushfi res. Proper Bay Fire. Nature’s whim, the outcome could Photo: Shane This is not the first time we have have been a lot more serious. Smith, Naracoorte benefited from your dedication, We only need to look at what has professionalism and selfless happened in Victoria to know how determination and we just wanted to different things could have been… let you know that we truly appreciate For your time, generosity and your efforts. passion we say a sincere thank you! Some people choose to be part of Therese Pedler and her family their community, others for various at Tulka. THANK YOU CFSCONTINUED
36 VOLUNTEER - THANKYOU CFS
Thanks from Stratford Group
"Euan, Stratford Group wish to thank you and your fire service for the assistance your volunteers gave us during the Churchill, Callignee fires. Your volunteers maning Stratford, Perry Bridge and Meerlieu tankers allowed our group people a well deserved rest. Thanks again, Stratford Group."
" Look what your vandals did to our tanker. Ken." (Ken Baxter) OBITUARIES
John Molineux, Brigade Captain, Tintinara CFS Leon Trevor Klose, Birdwood CFS 6 August 1940 – 4 May 2008 12 April 1941 - 5 November 2008
ydney ‘John’ Molineux joined fires, floods and accident rescue. eon Klose, born on 12 April Service Award. He attended training the CFS in November 1971 as a He also flew to Sydney in January 1941 at Lobethal, was the regularly and was a keen firefighter. Sfounding member of the Tarlee CFS. 1993 to assist in the fires there and Leldest of four sons of Reg and He was particularly active in fund 37 In 1980 he moved to Culburra and was available to go on strike teams Mona Klose who were storekeepers in raising projects, such as car parking VOLUNTEER - OBIUARIES transferred to Tintinara CFS where in many areas. Birdwood. for the Bay to Birdwood Vintage Car he became Captain. During this time He was awarded a National Medal His baptism, confirmation, Run and selling raffle tickets. He he was also a member of Emergency and later also received the Gold Long marriage and funeral services were enjoyed the camaraderie of members Services at Coonalpyn. Service Award for 35 years of service all celebrated in the Holy Cross and felt proud of being actively He also served a period of time as just days before he lost his battle to Lutheran Church, Birdwood. involved in the local community. Deputy Group Officer and later as cancer. After leaving school, he spent his Leon enjoyed his sport; he liked Deputy Two Group Officer. He passed away on 4 May 2008 early adult life working on farms attending the trots, he played a John served the community and which happened to be International milking cows, at first by hand and bit of football and a lot of table beyond being available to assist in Firefighters Day. then later with a machine. tennis, he was a time keeper for Later, he worked on a local potato the Birdwood Football Club, served Malcolm McDonald, Lieutenant, Port Vincent CFS farm followed by driving a milk pick- on the Board of Management of up truck for AMSCOL at Mount Torrens. the Birdwood Park Association and 1953 – 2008 After AMSCOL ceased milk Birdwood Table Tennis Club. collecting, he was employed by the Leon was first diagnosed with teve Cornwall from Port Vincent Malcolm and his wife Wendy moved Highways Department (Birdwood lung cancer in 2001 and underwent advises of the sudden passing to Port Vincent in the late nineties Depot) with his last employment extensive chemotherapy and Sof Malcolm McDonald, Port to take over the General Store and being with his brother Graham as a radiotherapy treatment, but after six Vincent Lieutenant, who passed transferred to the Port Vincent Brigade. furniture removalist. years of respite, he was readmitted away recently as a result of a In 2006 Malcolm was awarded Life Leon served with distinction with to hospital in September 2008. suspected heart attack. Membership of the CFS. the Birdwood CFS for approximately Leon is survived by his wife of Malcolm, 55, joined the Kimba EFS/ Due to his work and dedication 20 years. During that time he was 42 years, Shirley, two sons, one CFS in October 1975 where he rose to the CFS, Malcolm will be sadly presented with the Bronze Long daughter and three grandchildren. to the rank of Brigade Captain. missed by the whole town.
Kerry Liddell, Forreston CFS 29 June 1946 – 30 November 2008
ay Brownbill and Andrew In the late nineties he became Plush have advised of the sad the Gumeracha Group SAVFBA Rpassing of Kerry Liddell of representative through to the earlyrly Forreston CFS Brigade. 2000s. Kerry passed away on Sunday Kerry went on many strike teams,ms, morning 30 November after a couple intrastate as well as interstate. of years fighting cancer. He was a person that enjoyed lifefe Kerry was still a member of and he always had a story or jokee to Forreston where he was a founding tell, and always had his listenerss inin member and also a life member of fits of laughter. the brigade. Ray tells us that Kerry was his Ray recalls that he presented his neighbour and they enjoyed manyy bar for the National Medal to him at chats over a cuppa. his home back in May. He was a mentor to the newer He was captain on several members of the brigade and also to Kerry Liddell (right) with to his family after an awards occassions back in the eighties, and brigades in our group. presentation last year. has carried out many roles including Kerry Liddell will be sadly missed.d. training, equipment and logistics in Our thoughts and prayers are withth the Brigade. Julie and Kerry’s family. REGISTER NOW FOR THE SAPES GAMES 2009 By: Allan Vilcins, Games Executive Officer
38 he organising committee of With the aim of promoting a the South Australia Police and healthy lifestyle and fostering VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES TEmergency Services (SAPES) teamwork and cooperation Games invites you to compete in among friends and colleagues, the fifth SAPES Games to be held in the SAPES Games encourage Adelaide from 1-10 May 2009. participants to unite and 'have Amongst those eligible to compete a go!' in this event are employees of the The SAPES Games will showcase South Australian Fire and Emergency over 40 sports, which will Services Commission with a minimum compliment the sports on offer age requirement of 18 years and in readiness for the 2009 World volunteers who have been with their Police & Fire Games in Vancouver, agency for at least 12 months. Canada. The theme for this year's event is The South Australia Police 'United in Competition' emphasising and Emergency Services Games an opportunity for around 25 organisers wish all competitors emergency service organisations a memorable and enjoyable to unite in a fun and competitive experience. environment, regardless of sporting For more information and to ability or respective roles within register log on to the SAPES website each agency. at www.sapes.com.au GOVERNMENT APPOINTS BUSHFIRE TASKFORCE
specialist taskforce, comprising Australia,” Minister Wright said. • Department of Environment and of experts in various fields, “The devastating fires that occurred Heritage Chief Executive, Allan Ahas been selected to analyse in Victoria will be remembered as Holmes. key issues arising from the Victorian one of the darkest days in Australian • SAFECOM Chief Executive, David Place. bushfires. history. As a Government, it is • MFS Chief Officer, Grant Lupton. Minister for Emergency Services, important we take steps to do all • Cabinet Office Deputy Chief we can to prevent a similar incident Michael Wright, announced last month Executive, Tanya Smith. occurring here in South Australia. the members of the taskforce and the • State Recovery Office Director, Ronnie “South Australia is by no means work they will undertake. Faggotter. impervious to a bushfire of the “This specialist team will aim to magnitude and the devastation that • South Australian Police Assistant bring South Australia to a new level occurred in Victoria. Climate change Commissioner, Bronwyn Killmier. of bushfire preparedness, analyse key and drought are frequently altering • Deputy Chief Executive - Department issues arising from Victoria’s bushfire, the nature, ferocity and duration of of Planning and Local Government, and look into immediate, medium bushfires,” Minister Wright said. John Hanlon. and longer term actions required The taskforce will be headed by CFS The taskforce will consult with other to improve bushfire management Chief Officer, Euan Ferguson and will agencies and report back to State practices and strategies in South include the following members: Cabinet. SA COUNTRY FIRE SERVICE STATE HEADQUARTERS
Level 7, 60 Waymouth St, Adelaide P: GPO Box 2706, Adelaide SA 5001 T: 08 8463 4200 F: 08 8463 4234 E: [email protected] W: www.cfs.sa.gov.au CFS Bushfire Information Hotline: 1300 362 361 STATE TRAINING CENTRE (BRUKUNGA) REGIONAL OFFICES 6 Pyrites Rd, Brukunga SA 5252 T: 08 8398 9900 REGION 1 F: 08 8388 6997 E: [email protected] Mount Lofty Ranges and Kangaroo Island 75 Gawler St, Mount Barker SA 5251 T: 08 8391 1866 COUNTRY FIRE SERVICE 39 F: 08 8391 1877 VOLUNTEERS ASSOCIATION
E: [email protected] Suite 3, Transport Training Centre, VOLUNTEER - CONTACT DETAILS 17 Wirringa St, Regency Park SA 5010 REGION 2 P: PO Box 2359, Regency Park SA 5942 Mount Lofty Ranges, Yorke Peninsula and T: 08 8244 6500 Lower North F: 08 8244 6400 8 Redbanks Rd, Willaston SA 5118 E: [email protected] P: PO Box 1506 Willaston SA 5118 W: www.cfsva.org.au T: 08 8522 6088 F: 08 8522 6404 VOLUNTEER STRATEGY AND E: [email protected] SUPPORT BRANCH VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT REGION 3 T: 1300 364 587 Murraylands and Riverland E: [email protected] 10 Second St, Murray Bridge SA 5253 P: PO Box 1371, Murray Bridge SA 5253 T: 08 8532 6800 F: 08 8532 6220 E: [email protected]
REGION 4 Flinders Ranges, Mid North and Pastoral Areas 3 Main St, Port Augusta SA 5700 P: PO Box 2080, Port Augusta SA 5700 T: 08 8642 2399 F: 08 8641 0176 E: [email protected]
REGION 5 South East 46 Smith St, Naracoorte SA 5271 P: PO Box 8, Naracoorte SA 5271 T: 08 8762 2311 F: 08 8762 1865 E: [email protected]
REGION 6 Eyre Peninsula and West Coast Level 1, Jobomi House 48 Liverpool St, Port Lincoln SA 5606 P: PO Box 555, Port Lincoln SA 5606 T: 08 8682 4266 F: 08 8682 6569 E: [email protected]