Volume 117 December 2007
Print Post Approved - 535347/00018
CFS July.indd 1 4/12/07 4:42:19 PM Aluminium Replacement For Isuzu, Hino and Safety Panels Mitsubishi Canter trucks
Front door quarter panel Vent FSS 550 101 LEFT FSS 550 801 LEFT FSS 550 102 RIGHT FSS 550 802 RIGHT
Fender Blister FSS 550 601 LEFT FSS 550 602 RIGHT
Door Blister Indicator Blanking Panel Corner FSS 550 501 LEFT FSS 550 400 FSS 550 502 RIGHT Panel FSS 550 301 LEFT FSS 550 302 RIGHT
Mud Guard FSS 550 901 LEFT FSS 550 902 RIGHT
Mud Guard Extension FSS 550 901X LEFT FSS 550 902X RIGHT
Step Panel FSS 550 401 LEFT FSS 550 402 RIGHT
Rear Door Plate For Dual Cab Front Door Plate FSS 550 701/R LEFT - FSS 550 702/R RIGHT FSS 550 701 LEFT - FSS 550 702 RIGHT
Why install aluminium replacement safety panels ? In extreme conditions such as attending bushfires, plastic panels are simply not adequate. Newlans Coachbuilders have addressed this problem by designing and manufacturing aluminium replacement panels that will not rust or warp and can often be repaired after accident damage unlike plastic panels making them a one time investment and a long term budget saver. Newlans panels are easy to install and available pre-painted in fleet colours. Already widely used around Australia and New Zealand by most rural fire service orginisations Newlans aluminium replacement safety panels are a potentially life saving appliance upgrade. Tel: (08) 9444 1777 Fax: (08) 9444 1866 [email protected] 47 Gordon Road (East) coachbuilders Osborne Park 6017 Western Australia www.newlanscoachbuilders.com.au
CFS July.indd 2 4/12/07 4:42:22 PM [ CONTENTS ] WELCOMES – 4 With messages from the Chief Officer, Minister for Emergency Services, CFSVA President and Public Affairs. NEWS & UPDATES – 8 Featuring the 2007 CFS AFSM recipients, a farewell 3 message to the CFS Operations Centre Officers, SACAD information, CFS State Competition results, VOLUNTEER - CONTENTS Fire Danger Season news and much more. TRAINING – 34 Meet some of the staff of the State Training Centre and the Road Accident Rescue Training Officers and more. WEATHER & BUSHFIRE BEHAVIOUR INFORMATION & POSTER – 41 STATEWIDE – 48 Includes a wrap up of regional news on incidents, events and training. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY – 70 Includes articles on the recommendations for action from Mount Bryan and the importance of a safety culture for CFS. CADETS – 72 The CFS cadet focus group to assist in research, cadet leader training and more. EQUIPMENT - 74 Features an article on standardised fire hose coupling for Australian fire agencies. PHAMOUS PHOTOS - 76 Includes updated conditions of entry. FACES IN THE CROWD – 77 Get to know one of the many dedicated CFS volunteers. OBITUARIES - 78 THANK YOU AND CONTACT DETAILS – 82 Letters of thanks and praise recognising CFS volunteers.
Front cover image taken by Colin Jenke of Eudunda CFS at the Freeling hayshed fire on 16 January 2007. CFS Volunteers Thank You, page 47. Images taken by (from top right, down): Ashley Hosking, Basket Range CFS, Bridgewater fire on the 21 March 2007; Murray Dolan, Littlehampton CFS, Harrogate fire in January 2007; Emmanuel Cusack, Littlehampton CFS, Mount Bold on the 10 January 2007; Kay Richardson, Compton CFS, Gum Lagoon on the 27 November 2006
Managing Editor: Melanie Hunter Editors: Heidi Geytenbeek, Andy Warner and Kate Husband Tel 08 8463 4206 (CFS Media Line). If you would like to contribute to Volunteer… Send your photos and stories to: The Editor, Volunteer Magazine, 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 elec- tronically, via email or disc, as a Microsoft Word document. Volunteer is published by Boylen Publishing. Comments and opinions expressed in Volunteer do not necessarily represent the views of the CFS. Volunteer is free to all CFS volunteers. We make every effort to credit the photographers and the authors of articles published in Volunteer. Articles and photos are published at the discretion of the editorial team.
CFS July.indd 3 6/12/07 10:50:32 AM [ CHIEF OFFICER Euan Ferguson
ecently there have been Over the last 12 months, CFS has I hope that the new arrangements concerns expressed over a moved to restructure the processes for consultation in CFS work better Rnumber of changes occurring for volunteer involvement in CFS and strike a practical balance so in the emergency services sector. decision making on those matters that volunteers feel informed, but not 4 We have seen changes from the that affect volunteers and how overburdened with information.
VOLUNTEER - WELCOMES Wangary fire and the Coronial service is delivered to the community. As I move around the state from Port Inquest; from recent accident We have established the Chief Lincoln to Ardrossan and to Paringa, investigations; and from a more Officer’s Advisory Council (COAC), at Happy Valley and at Clare, at integrated service delivery approach which is comprised of senior CFS Gladstone, in the Mid Murray Group, within the emergency services sector. volunteers and staff from each at Salisbury and at Naracoorte: I see Changes are also occurring because Region and the CFS VA executive. committed, proud and motivated of greater accountability required with COAC considers matters of people who are striving to make the the expenditure of community funds. interest to volunteers and makes community a safer place to be. “Change management” is one of recommendations, or expresses views. Thank you so much for your the most important challenges facing This then enables me, as the Chief dedication, professionalism CFS and the emergency services Officer, to make a fully informed and commitment. sector generally. decision or, where appropriate, to Change occurs for a variety of better inform the SAFECOM Board. reasons, some external (such as COAC has a number of functional demographic, industry and land Advisory Committees (for training, use changes) and some internal vehicles and equipment and (often driven by funding, legal or telecommunications) that, in turn, environmental issues). advise COAC. I recognise that change needs to Each region also has a Regional be very carefully managed in a Volunteer Management Committee volunteer organisation. (RVMC) that can refer matters Change in CFS must reflect the to COAC, or comment on matters fact that CFS is a community based referred to it from COAC. volunteer organisation. CFS is also developing processes The cornerstone of CFS are our to communicate more quickly with volunteers, who are drawn from the volunteers on matters that require a community to selflessly serve in rapid decision. times of need. Thus, teleconferences, the use of Change management is a shared email and the web site are all tools responsibility between CFS, our that CFS will use more in the future. volunteers, the CFS VA and others Obviously, we rely on our volunteer involved in the change process. leaders, especially at Group and Communication about change, Brigade level to ensure that and consultation and involvement reasonable communication occurs in decision-making must be core on such matters right down to the to maintaining the commitment of members at Brigade level. volunteers to that change. Managing change better is vitally The key objective is that volunteers important to CFS and to me. are given reasonable opportunity There will always be situations to comment on those matters that where we overly consult, or where we directly affect them. do not consult enough.
CFS July.indd 4 4/12/07 4:42:27 PM [ MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES Hon. Carmel Zollo
can’t say enough how much this their contribution in the community. at the “coalface” and personally thank Government values the commitment On July 1 South Australia moved to as many volunteers as possible for Iand contribution made by the many a single Emergency Services Call, their continued dedication. thousands of South Australians who Receipt and Dispatch system. Beyond the investment in make up the Emergency Services This change has been a number infrastructure and equipment the 5
Volunteer community. of years in the planning and follows Government provides other support to VOLUNTEER - WELCOMES In recognition of that contribution, the a great deal of work by the CFS in assist our volunteers. support provided to volunteers comes preparing for the transition. The Chief Officer has implemented in many forms. By moving to a single dispatch many of the recommendations from In the past five years the CFS has system for 000 calls, we are taking the 2006 CFS Volunteer Summit, and undertaken ambitious programs of advantage of new technology and best a new Chief Officers Advisory Council equipment replacement and station practice in emergency management. made up of CFS staff and volunteer upgrades as we are committed to I am grateful to the work of local representatives provides support and providing the best available equipment brigades and individual volunteers in advice to CFS management and allows and training to volunteers. bringing this project to fruition. CFS volunteers to have a voice in the This budget has seen an expansion Recently I visited the ComCen on running of the agency. of CFS training to the tune of $2.5m Wakefield Street and witnessed At this point I’d like to make it (over four years) with five new training the new arrangements at work and clear that my door is always open; programs to be introduced for more it is pleasing to see the level of volunteers who feel they have an issue than 10,000 volunteers. cooperation between our emergency to raise can feel free to contact my These training programs will better service organisations. office at any time. equip volunteers with accredited rural In 2006-07 CFS undertook an The Government has fire fighting skills covering bushfire ambitious program to modernize its demonstrated its commitment to suppression, forestry fire fighting, fire vehicle fleet, which resulted in the reducing additional work loads fighting in remote areas, navigation replacement of 42 appliances. on emergency service volunteers so and global positioning techniques and This program is continuing through that they can focus on what they urban interface fire fighting techniques. 2007-08 when it will deliver a further joined an emergency service for in For those CFS members who, for 41 new appliances. the first instance; to various reasons, find the training The new appliances not only improve deliver emergency services to regime too much, the CFS is looking at fire fighting capabilities, but also their local, and the wider South ways of making it easier for people to add new features, such as increased Australian community. be involved. crew protection that will help keep our I value the contribution of emergency We will also continue to make volunteers safer. services volunteers and career staff changes to ensure the administrative The capital program has also and we are striving to establish the burden on volunteers (of government supported the modernisation of facilities best, most efficient and most effective policies and procedures) is eased. such as new joint CFS and SES facilities management of emergency services. As a Government we have a role to play at Clare, Hallet and Andamooka. This will ensure that funding, not only in supporting volunteers, but Officially opening new stations, such infrastructure and services are also in promoting and recognising the as those mentioned above, along delivered at the grassroots. many thousands of employers who allow with CFS facilities at Jamestown and Each agency enjoys their own our volunteers to undertake their duties. Melrose- and commissioning fire strong identity and is, rightly, held Over the next 12 months SAFECOM will appliances, such as the new 34 and in high regard not only by the State further focus on supporting volunteers pumper at Happy Valley CFS - gives me Government, but also by those to recognize their efforts and promote a welcomed opportunity to meet people communities they serve.
[ Minister's Christmas Message s Christmas approaches my a tremendous contribution to an emergency will arise. warmest wishes go out to all community safety. Where ever, and however, you spend Aof South Australia’s Emergency I sincerely hope you all get the the festive period please know that Services volunteers and staff. chance to relax and celebrate with my thoughts will be with you and, as All of you have had an extremely family and friends, but we all know always, I extend my heartfelt thanks busy year and, as always, made that in reality there is every chance for your selfless dedication.
CFS July.indd 5 13/12/07 10:32:14 AM [ CFS VA PRESIDENT Ken Schutz
s we move into what looks like certain that it will affect many others CFS regarding our name and logo. another extreme fire season, for a long time to come. The Association has in general Awe need to reflect on the busy Some of our volunteers have really accepted the fact that as the world 06/07 bushfire season and think had a tough time during the inquiry, moves on, so must we and if a name about what happened, what were the and I’m sure that none of us want and logo change is what is needed to issues, what we did well, what we to go through what they have had to acquire extra funding then, so be it. did not do so well and how can we do deal with, not only in Court but also It was therefore moved at a General 6 things better next time. within their own community. Meeting earlier in the year that the
VOLUNTEER - WELCOMES As we look back, perhaps the most The CFS VA, predominantly through Associations name be changed disturbing news was that of the our Executive Officer, Wendy Shirley, to Country Fire Service Volunteers Mount Bryan truck rollover and the has supported the volunteers Association (CFS VA). subsequent injuries to one of our involved as much as possible and we A decision on our logo will be made fellow volunteer firefighters. will continue to do so in the future. in the New Year but at this point It always makes me stop and think Wendy has done a great job of time we have just changed the when you hear of a firefighter injured following up with volunteers and lettering at the bottom of the logo. while providing a service to the CFS attending Court whenever one of our The Association also felt that our (or any other fire service). members was either on the stand new name; Country Fire Service I ask myself, “Could that ever have or when any issue may have arisen Volunteers Association, spells out happened to me?” We would like to affecting volunteers. more clearly what and who we think not but how many times have Amongst everything that the CFS VA are to new CFS Volunteers who we done something and afterwards has been involved with over the last automatically become our members. thought about how risky that was or 12 months we still need to carry out At the end of the day, no matter could have been. our day-to-day business. what our name or logo is, the Many volunteers go out every day To be able to do this and keep up Association will be there to do doing what they have been trained the support for all our members, everything we can to look after the for and giving their time freely for which are all CFS volunteers, it interests and welfare of ALL Country the sake of others, thinking little would be great to have a bit of extra Fire Service Volunteers. about the potential consequences of funding above that which the CFS attending such dangerous incidents. and the State Government generously Some will say, “That’ll never provide us with. happen to me” and then, in the blink We understand that CFS funds are of an eye, it happens. fully allocated and cannot provide us We all need to take as much care with any extra funds at the moment, as possible. although I reject the reasons that We pray for our fellow volunteer’s were stated in the footnote of my recovery and also for his family, as last Presidents Message in the last they now have to deal with their lives Volunteer Magazine. being changed forever. To acquire more funds, the then Also, having finished another fire SAVFBA Management decided to seek season, the Wangary Inquiry has sponsorship from outside sources finally been brought to a close and such as big businesses. the findings will be handed down on In preliminary discussions with the 18th December. a few selected companies, they We hope that this will be able to have generally been very receptive bring some closure to the incident. except that they would like to see the While it may well do for a few, I am Association have more of a link with
CFS July.indd 6 4/12/07 4:56:57 PM [ COMISSIONER OF FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES David Place
n September, the Emergency Board during this interim period systems for the sector’s more than Services Minister, Carmel Zollo and said, ’Now, under David Place, 18,000 SES and CFS volunteers. Iannounced the appointment of SAFECOM will continue to consoli- Speaking informally David said, the South Australian Emergency date and streamline the Governance ’I am delighted to be appointed to Service Commission Chief Executive of the Emergency Services Sector this position and be able to continue (SAFECOM), David Place as the – as well as provide leadership on to build on our collaborative State’s first Commissioner of Fire Emergency Management issues.’ approach and work with our 7 and Emergencies. ’He will take on the key leadership dedicated fire and emergency
The appointment of a role in the Emergency Services volunteers and staff to create safer VOLUNTEER - WELCOMES Commissioner represents the sector and will be responsible for and more resilient communities’. merging of the positions of Chief providing the Government with David said that his appointment repre- Executive of SAFECOM and the advice about Emergency sents both an honour and an endorse- Chair of the SAFECOM Board, Vince Management policy and strategy.’ ment of the strategic directions that Monterola, whose tenure expired on David will also be responsible for have been endorsed by the SAFECOM 30 September. spearheading the implementation of Board over the past few years. ’Those two roles were initially split Government policy initiatives in the He acknowledged the contribution to help facilitate the transition to Emergency Services Sector, made by the Board, the ESO Chiefs SAFECOM, which was established in including the consolidation of and the great number of people 2005,’ says Minister Zollo. training, community education, across the agencies who have been Minister Zollo thanked Vince corporate and strategic services and involved in setting new goals and Monterola for steering the SAFECOM the implementation of new support implementing necessary change. [ PUBLIC AFFAIRS n a slightly ‘left field’ his edition of the Volunteer Dispatch transfer to the MFS Com- Officer to start soon. note, we want to shouldn’t blow off the table munications Centre, along with a As you can imagine, it’s been a congratulate former O Teasily, or the back of the big ‘thank you’ to all of the former steep learning curve as we discover CFS Public Affairs team appliance for that matter, with over CFS Operations Centre Officers. the different roles, staff, policies member Brenton Ragless on 90 pages of information compiled We have also seen an amazing and procedures for all three ser- his engagement to Hayley, from everyone around the State. transformation of our own team in vices. In the CFS ‘aerial firefighting’ his partner of 2 years, The mini poster in the centre of the Public Affairs. means using water bombers on especially given the Volun- magazine on Weather and Bushfire On the 15 October, a new integrated a bushfire, whereas in the MFS it teer magazine can be held Behaviour was produced with the as- Emergency Services Public Affairs means deploying a 24 tonne Bronto responsible. Brenton, the sistance of the Bureau of Meteorolo- Unit was formed, bringing together Skylift Hydraulic Platform on a smooth talking individual gy and we hope will be useful in both media and communications staff structure fire. We have also quickly that he is, worked his way in training and as a reference on the from CFS, MFS and SES. realised that it’s a mortal sin to to Hayley’s affections while effects of weather on fire behaviour. Now there are even more Public confuse a CFS Brigade with a MFS having photos for the Volun- Reports and articles have been Affairs staff available to provide Station or SES Unit. Ouch! teer developed at Diamond received from volunteers, staff communications support not just And, we are as keen as ever to Photographics, where she and others from all over on topics for CFS but to raise the profile of the keep CFS Volunteers in the public was working. We wish them ranging from training, individual emergency services sector as a whole. eye via media coverage. We are both all the very best. achievements to fire research and Kate Husband has started as Act- hoping to visit all the regions over equipment and safety news. ing Manager, Public Affairs joining the comings. Of coursecourse,, ttherehere iiss sisignificantgnificant HeHeidiidi and Mel from the CFS, Judith So, keep an eye out for us in our rereferenceference to the CCallall Receipt anandd BlBleechmoreeec from the SES and John new lime green PPE at the fire- FoFoodyody from the MFS. We are also ground this Summer. fifinalisingnali recruitment of a Project OfOfficerfice and Senior Public Affairs Heidi, John, Judith, Kate and Mel
<< Melanie Hunter, Kate husband, John Foody, Heidi Geytenbeek, Judith Bleechmore
CFS July.indd 7 13/12/07 10:32:15 AM NEWS & UPDATES 2007 CFS RECIPIENTS OF THE AUSTRALIAN FIRE SERVICES MEDAL
8 our SA Country Fire Service List, announced on 26 January 2007. (CFS) volunteers and staff were Congratulations to Greg Butler of VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES Fhonoured with the Australian Yorketown CFS and Dean Elliott from Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in 2007. Coonalpyn CFS who received an AFSM Congratulations to Euan Ferguson, in the Queens Birthday Honours List, CFS Chief Officer and Robin Holmes announced on 11 June 2007 and was of Burnside CFS who received an presented with their awards on 5 AFSM in the Australia Day Honours September 2007 at Government House.
Robin Holmes, Burnside CFS, Australia Day Honours List awardee with Euan Ferguson, CFS Chief Officer.
Robin Holmes Robin’s contribution to the CFS at Euan Ferguson, CFS Chief Officer and fellow AFSM recipient Grant Lupton, MFS Chief Officer, Australia Day Honours List awardees with Robin joined the Burnside Brigade all levels has been phenomenal. Vince Monterola, Chair of SAFECOM Board. of the CFS in 1977. His guiding force in many initiatives He has held many positions within within the CFS and the emergency the Brigade and has been heavily services in general is testament to his involved in numerous operational commitment to the organisation. Euan Ferguson career in fire service management. and Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) His willingness to participate in a wide Euan joined the CFS as Deputy “2006 was a really tough year responses, including Ash Wednesday range of forums beyond that normally Chief Officer in 2001, after serving for the CFS so it was especially 1980 and 1983, Langhorne Creek expected of a volunteer is commendable. six years with the Victorian Country rewarding to receive this flooding 1992, the Sydney bushfires Robin openly admits that he was Fire Authority (CFA) in a wide range acknowledgement on Australia Day,” 1994, and Black Tuesday 2005. deeply honoured in receiving the award. of operational and planning roles. he said. He was closely involved with the “I think the work I have done and One month later he commenced “I see this award reflecting where development of HAZMAT capabilities the things I have influenced are for duties as Chief Officer ultimately the CFS is at moment and where we across South Australia, taking a lead the benefit of many, I hope. responsible for the safe, effective sit within fire services nationally.” role in the redesign and building of “I have met a great many people and efficient operations of the Euan has taken a proactive the current style vehicles. who I respect and have had some CFS, and also responsible for the approach to leading the CFS, An integral part of the Brigade wonderful experiences in the CFS management and administration of initiating Project Phoenix to Management Committee, Robin has and as a volunteer representing the the organisation. implement changes from the lessons held the positions of President, Logistics CFS in many venues,” he said. Euan has displayed exemplary learned through recent experiences. Officer, Finance Officer, and Bushfire Robin sees a very bright and leadership through many initiatives. “My philosophy is that you have to Prevention Committee Representative challenging future for the service. His drive, initiative and leadership learn from what has happened and on the Burnside Council. “The CFS is so important to the qualities have led to an ongoing adopt a ‘no blame’ approach. His active involvement with the CFS fabric of the community that it commitment to a safety culture across “We’ve resisted suggestions to Foundation assists in ensuring the should be supported at all costs,” the entire service, and have resulted find people to blame and have welfare of CFS volunteers injured in the states Robin. in a wide range of key improvements instead looked at how to improve our line of CFS duty and in illness or distress. Clearly Robin means as he says; in the CFS systems of work and systems and practices. Also increasing the awareness of the his dedication to the service over business management processes. “I hope we have come through role of volunteer firefighters, thereby the past 30 years is testimony to Euan said the award represented a as a better, stronger and more enhancing the firefighting capacity his ongoing loyalty and passion for significant milestone in his 30 year focused organisation.” and expertise of CFS volunteers. community service.
CFS July.indd 8 4/12/07 4:42:36 PM documents to ensure the smooth running of the Centre, including a ‘Logistics Planning’ folder, which has been adopted as the standard across Region 2 and is being utilised in other regions. A founding member of the Southern Yorke CFS Farm Firefighting Unit Dean Elliott, Coonalpyn CFS, Queens Birthday Working Party, he assisted in Honours List awardee. getting CFS and farmers together in 9
understanding firefighting in rural VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES areas of Southern Yorke Peninsula. Dean Elliot in developing Fire Prevention GregGreg Butler, Yorketown CCFS,FS, QQueensueens Greg has been instrumental in Dean joined the Emergency Fire Committees and protocols, and was BirthdayBirthday Honours List awardee. assisting South Australia to move Service (EFS) in 1961 as a firefighter Chair of the Volunteer Fire Brigades towards a more structured and safer with the Coonalpyn Brigade. Association, Murraylands Branch. approach in the utilisation of farm He was heavily involved in the Dean has set an exceptional example fire units on the fireground. formation of the Coonalpyn Downs to all CFS members, encouraging GregG BlButler Not only has Greg continually EFS Association and became a all ranks to undertake training and Greg joined the Yorketown Fire demonstrated the true character of Supervisor of Fire Control Officers in maintain professionalism in their Brigade of the CFS as a firefighter a volunteer firefighter but, as a Fire the Coonalpyn Downs area. roles within the CFS. in 1978. Prevention Officer, he has attempted He oversaw the building of a His passion and commitment to the In 1989, he was elected Brigade at all times to improve the service joint EFS and ambulance station CFS and its relationship within the Captain and has continued to hold a offered to CFS members and the at Coonalpyn, including the community have been exemplary. position either within the Brigade or community of South Australia. purchase of several appliances for Dean said his years of service within the Group. A major upside of being a the Association. brought some unforgettable memories. He is currently a valued member of volunteer is the friendship, When the EFS transformed into the “I’ve been through some fairly big the Region 2 AIIMS Team and Regional Greg says, and the people he’s Country Fire Service (CFS) and the fires in my time, including going to Management Committee, as well as a met throughout the State while Coonalpyn Downs CFS Group was New South Wales twice to help out Fire Prevention Officer with the District undertaking CFS duties. formed, Dean was elected Group Officer over there,” he said. Council of Yorke Peninsula. His duties have resulted in and held that position until 2004. Dean was surprised and touched to Instrumental in setting up and him previously being awarded He also held the position of receive the award and said: managing the Southern Yorke CFS Life Membership and a Group Equipment Officer between “I was shocked; it’s really great Peninsula Incident Management Ministerial Commendation. Centre, Greg formulated many 1999 and 2004, was instrumental to be recognised.”
VALE SAM MITCHELL AFSMBy: Euan Ferguson, CFS Chief Officer
e were deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Sam Mitchell Win January 2007. Sam’s funeral was held in Clare and many CFS volunteers and staff attended. In 2005, Sam received the award of the Australia Fire Service Medal at Government House for his long and Sam Mitchell and Euan Ferguson at Government House after Sam received the valued contribution to CFS. Australian Fire Service Medal in 2005. An obituary for Sam Mitchell is on page 78.
CFS July.indd 9 4/12/07 4:42:43 PM SACAD FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS… NEWS & UPDATES
ver the past few years SACAD MFS Comcen The SACAD terminals will be located Who sends out the brigade has been an ongoing project. Calls to Brigades located adjacent in three purpose built CRD centres response pager message? OIt has cleared some major to the near city area (30 brigades), in Adelaide i.e. SAPOL, SAAS and MFS Comcen Operators send the milestone of late and, as such, were answered by the MFS Comcen. SAFECOM agencies (CFS, MFS & SES). pager message in the same way Volunteer chased up some answers MFS then dispatched appliances as The SAFECOM CRD is located the SOCC did, but the prefix has to help shed light on the project. per the CFS Brigade response plans. at the MFS Comcen, Wakefield changed from SHQ: to MFS: The information provided in this Street, Adelaide. article is also reproduced on the Local Brigades Should any communications Who do brigades contact to CFS website (www.cfs.sa.gov.au) For the remaining 366 brigades, path or equipment fail there are acknowledge their response 10 under the ‘CRD Call, Receipt, 000 calls were forwarded to the either redundant communications pager messages?
VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES appropriate brigade or group alarm Dispatch & SACAD Information’ paths or contingency plans that MFS Comcen Operators will number using the ALERTS facility. logo on the homepage. will keep the SAFECOM CRD centre usually obtain response page Additional information available ALERTS System functioning so the community will acknowledgement during the on the CFS website includes Brigade The ALERTS facility connected always have a response to their Alerts conference. Short Name Codes, Incident Types the caller to a ‘Conference Bridge’ request for help. If the brigade has been direct and Risks and CRD Registration of paged (no Alerts conference) the consisting of up to eight brigade How will the way the community Issues Form. brigade needs to ring the MFS members including the CFS SOCC rings CFS brigades change? The Registration of Issues Form Comcen direct on 08 8412 9007 or and the brigade business phone. There will be very little noticeable is provided to brigades and groups radio into MFS Comcen using the Members of the conference spoke change from the way emergency to record any operational issues Regional Operations Talk Group with with the 000 caller and directed calls are handled at the moment. associated with CRD and should the call sign ‘Adelaide Fire’. the SOCC operator to respond the The public will continue to ring 000 be emailed or faxed back to the Comcen Operators may also ring appropriate brigade/s or additional or their local brigade number and Regional office. the brigade Alerts number. resources by GRN paging. This was the call is answered by the ALERTS Hard copies of the form can also be especially useful when there were no system, with one member of the What if an Incident Controller requested from Regions. street numbers or street names and ALERTS being the MFS Comcen. needs to respond additional What is SACAD? therefore common in rural areas. resources? Have brigade alarm numbers The project known as the South If a call was not answered within The Incident Controller will contact changed immediately? Australian Computer Aided 60 seconds, the ALERTS facility the MFS Comcen by radio (‘Adelaide No - not with the transfer of CRD Dispatch Project or ‘SACAD’ aims automatically forwarded the call to Fire’) or telephone 08 8412 9007 to MFS Comcen. to improve the communication the MFS Comcen. and request additional resources However, 000 will be promoted to centre services for all emergency including CFS and non-CFS resources. What is the new system? the community as the only means services, enabling the best possible RESPONDING TO INCIDENTS The project, known as SACAD of alerting brigades prior to the full response to emergencies and calls CALL “ADELAIDE FIRE” described above will see the use of transition to SACAD in 2008/2009. for assistance. Triple Zero ‘000’ as the only means MFS COMCEN 08 8412 9007 Essentially a call, receipt, dispatch How will brigades contact the of reporting an emergency across all What about CFS Resource (CRD) centre for all of SAFECOM’s MFS Comcen by radio? of South Australia, rather than the Tracking? (Region 1 only) emergency service agencies will As you do now, via your Regional ‘old system’ described above. Responding brigades need to report be created and located in the MFS Operations Talk Group with the call For the first time it will ensure to ‘Adelaide Fire’ on Talk Group 124. Wakefield Street complex. sign ‘Adelaide Fire’ all brigade response plans are They then need to proceed to their CFS will adopt Triple Zero ‘000’ documented and fully transparent, What telephone number should Command and Control Talk Group as the primary emergency response with a strong focus on capturing brigades ring to contact MFS (Group TG) as per the Region 1 number across all of South Australia. ‘local knowledge’ to assist in the Comcen? - 08 8412 9007 Regional Operations Management What happened with CRD process. Plan and inform ‘Adelaide Fire’ Who answers the Alerts the old system? of the TG. Who will be using CAD? calls in Adelaide? CFS achieved CRD using Additional resources responding to All South Australian Emergency MFS Comcen Operators answers a combination of the Telstra the incident must report to ‘Adelaide Service Organisations (ESO’s) will Alerts calls. ALERTS system and the SAGRN Fire’ on TG 124. adopt the use of the CAD program. Four CFS OCO’s transferred to the MFS Paging Network. ‘Adelaide Fire’ will inform them of These organisations include Comcen so there is significant ‘CFS Depending on the location of the the Command and Control TG the SA Country Fire Service (CFS), expertise’ in the CRD for CFS incidents. incident, the public was able to call Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS), State incident is working on. for assistance through ‘000’ or the Emergency Services (SES), SA Police How many operators take Currently, there is no operational local brigade number. (SAPOL) and SA Ambulance (SAAS). emergency calls? requirement for ‘arrival All 000 calls were answered by a There are a minimum of four notifications’, ‘sit reps’ and Telstra operator. Why did the SOCC at CFS State HQ operators, with a further two operators ‘return to station’ messages to be Based on location/postcode have to amalgamate with the SAMFS available at a moment’s notice. transmitted to ‘Adelaide Fire’. information stored in the Telstra Comcen in Wakefield Street? The CFS Communications After hours sit reps can still database, the operator forwarded the The CFS will be transitioning to a CAD Coordinator will also be located at be transmitted to ‘Adelaide Fire’ call to the designated fire brigade. system in 2008/2009 called SACAD. the MFS Comcen. depending on operational activity.
CFS July.indd 10 4/12/07 4:42:50 PM
CFS July.indd 11 11 July.indd July.indd CFS CFS 4/12/07 4:42:51 PM PM 4:42:51 4:42:51 4/12/07 4/12/07
Darren van Ek and Tanya Norman. Tanya and Ek van Darren
Hunt, Lisa Coles, Simon Owler, Kathy Burbidge, Burbidge, Kathy Owler, Simon Coles, Lisa Hunt,
4. From left: Alex Macleod, Briony Harris, Dawn Dawn Harris, Briony Macleod, Alex left: From 4. The SOCC team with a thank you gift from Region Region from gift you thank a with team SOCC The
<<
The SOCC team with CFS, MFS and SES Mangers. SES and MFS CFS, with team SOCC The
<< <<
for the service they have provided to to provided have they service the for o o o o t t t ed ed ed id id id ov ov ov pr pr pr pr pr pr e e e av av av h h h y y y y y ey ey ey h th th th th th th th e e e e c ic ic ic ic ic ic ic ic rv rv rv rv rv rv se se se se se se s s e e e e e e h h h th th th r r r fo fo fo fo u u u u yo yo yo h h h it it it w w w w rk rk rk wo wo wo th th th u u ou ou ou o S S S S he he he he h h t t t t t t d ed ed ed ed ed serv s s ha ha ha ha ha t t t t t t a a ha ha ha ha ha ha t t t t t t m m m m am am am am am am te t te te te te te t d d d n n n an an a a s s s s s s s a ay a ay w w w w w er er er th th th th o o o o o n in in team that has served the South South the served has that team work with you in other ways and and ways other in you with work
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all the OCOs past and present present and past OCOs the all t t t t en en en es es es pr pr pr d d d an an an t t t t as as as p p p p p p p p p s s s Os Os Os C C C OC OC OC OC OC OC e e e e e e e th th th th th th t l l l l l l l al al wa w w or o o f f f f f f f k ok ok ok o o o o lo d d d n n n n an an an a ed ed ed e e e t t at at at at at c ic ic ic ic ic d ed ed ed e e d d d d d d d nd nd nd a a a a essional f o pr p p p p p y y y y y y ul u u u u r r r tr o o o o o t t t t t t t g g g g g ng ng ng ui ui ui u u u n in in nt nt n n n n o co co o o o t t t t t t d d d d d d d rd truly professional and dedicated dedicated and professional truly and look forward to continuing to to continuing to forward look and S ES S AS AS S S S S er c ic ff f O O O O ef e e e e e e i i i hi hi hi hi C C C Acting Acting Chief Officer SASES Officer Chief Acting
take this opportunity to thank thank to opportunity this take nk nk nk ha ha ha h h h h t t t t t t to to to y y y y t it it it un un un un rt rt rt o po po po po po po po po op o o o op op o o o o o s s s s hi hi hi hi t t t t t t ke ke ke ke ke ke k ta ta ta ta ta ta a a a a a a as as as as a as d te en en en en es es es es es es pr s s s s s s ay a ay ay a lw a ve ve ve ve v v a ha u u u o Yo Yo e e e le le le le ro ro ro r r r ro ro ro r w w w w w w w w w ne ne ne ne ne ne n r r r r u u ou ou ou o o y y y y in in in in i i in i e e e e ur ur ur ur u u ut ut f f he t t r or f f f l l ll we we we w we w w w w You have always presented as a a as presented always have You well for the future in your new role role new your in future the for well Stua od le le l l ac ac ac a a ac M t r Stuart Macleod Stuart
s an era comes to a close, I I I I I I e, e, e, os os os close, cl c c a a a a o o o to t t t es es es o o o om o om om o o comes c c c a a a ra ra ra ra era e e e e e e n an an an an an an an s s s s s s s s s s. s. s. s. s. s ie c c c nc nc nc ge ge g ge g g a a a a a er h t o d nd nd a ic i l l l bl pu pu p p p u u u yo yo yo y yo yo yo y h h h h h s s s is is w w w I I S, S S, S, E SE SE SE SE SE A SA SA SA e e h h th th t f o o rs rs rs r r e e e e ee ee ee nt nt nt u lu lu lu vo vo vo
public and other agencies. agencies. other and public volunteers of the SASES, I wish you you wish I SASES, the of volunteers
En e th th th h h it w t t ct ct ct ct ct ct ta ta ta ta o on on on on c c c c c S S FS FS FS FS C f o e tlin on r f d d d d d d d d n an an an an f f f f af af af af st st st s s e e e e th th th f f f o o o f l a ha ha ha be be be n n n O O O e. e e nc nc n e ie ie ie ie ie ie er er er er er er er exp ew e e n ur yo y y y y y y y jo Enjoy your new experience. new your Enjoy frontline of CFS contact with the the with contact CFS of frontline On behalf of the staff and and staff the of behalf On
LUCK FROM SES FROM LUCK
ge ili d e e e th n n n n n e ee ee ee ee ee e e b b b b ve ve ve v ve ha ha ha ha h s s s s O CO CO CO CO CO O O O O O O O O he he he t t , e m For . . . rs rs r ea ea ea y y y he he he h t t t er er er v v v ov ov ov ov ou ou ou y y y y k k k k nk nk nk ha t I I I I I I t t t t t at at at at at at th r r r fo f fo ; y ly t t nt e e e diligently; for that I thank you thank I that for diligently; For me, the OCOs have been the the been have OCOs the me, For over the years. the over
THANK YOU AND GOOD GOOD AND YOU THANK
st st st s Au A A . . re re r re r re u tu tu tu tu tu fu fu fu e e e e e h th th th th th o o o o o nt nt nt nt nt nt i i i i i ll ll ll ll ll l we we we we we we we means S) S S S S SE S S SA SA SA SA SA SA ( ( ( ( ce ce ce ce ce vi vi vi vi er er er e e e S S S S S S S y y y cy cy cy cy n n n n en en en en e g g rg rg m me m E E E te te te ta ta ta S S S SA SA SA d d d d d d d an an l l el e e e e w w y t ni ni n n n u mu om om om o om o o c c c an li ra ra r ra Australian community well and and well community Australian means well into the future. the into well means SA State Emergency Service (SASES) (SASES) Service Emergency State SA
work with such a fine bunch of people. of bunch fine a such with work Dawn Hunt, Alex Macleod, Briony Briony Macleod, Alex Hunt, Dawn CFS had to say farewell to four of of four to farewell say to had CFS to monitor emergency interbase interbase emergency monitor to
It has been an honour and privilege to to privilege and honour an been has It These members were Augie Gray, Gray, Augie were members These With the transfer to “Adelaide Fire”, Fire”, “Adelaide to transfer the With day, with a total of nine operators operators nine of total a with day,
- NEWS & UPDATES - NEWS VOLUNTEER
with distinction over the years. the over distinction with SOCC team. SOCC to exist. to designed to be staffed 24 hours a a hours 24 staffed be to designed
11 community exceptionally well and and well exceptionally community another nine members made up the the up made members nine another Fire" and as such the SOCC ceased ceased SOCC the such as and Fire" co-ordination, the centre was was centre the co-ordination,
emergency services sector and the the and sector services emergency Together with these four OCOs, OCOs, four these with Together Communications Centre "Adelaide "Adelaide Centre Communications bushfires and special service service special and bushfires
Gary Bau, have serviced CFS, the the CFS, serviced have Bau, Gary who are now based at SAMFS. at based now are who Metropolitan Fire Service (SAMFS) (SAMFS) Service Fire Metropolitan Originally intended to co-ordinate co-ordinate to intended Originally
All of the SOCC team, led by by led team, SOCC the of All Ek, Kathy Burbidge and Lisa Coles Coles Lisa and Burbidge Kathy Ek, of the SOCC transferred to the SA SA the to transferred SOCC the of since the 1970's. the since
er rn Tu P Keatch, Grant Wood and Prue Turner. Prue and Wood Grant Keatch, (OCO) staff, Simon Owler, Darren Van Van Darren Owler, Simon staff, (OCO) On Sunday 1 July 2007, the work work the 2007, July 1 Sunday On majority of CFS staff and volunteers volunteers and staff CFS of majority
Ha im J Norman, Tanya Bonzer, tt Ma is rr Harris, Matt Bonzer, Tanya Norman, Jim Jim Norman, Tanya Bonzer, Matt Harris, the CFS Operations Centre Officers Officers Centre Operations CFS the in significance and function. and significance in 24-hour seven-day lifeline for the the for lifeline seven-day 24-hour
Over the years, the SOCC has grown grown has SOCC the years, the Over iconic institution within CFS as a a as CFS within institution iconic
T
State and CFS HQ Adelaide. HQ CFS and State Oscar Charlie, has been an an been has Charlie, Oscar
of District Council areas within the the within areas Council District of Centre (SOCC), also known as as known also (SOCC), Centre
communications, with the majority majority the with communications, he State Operations Call Call Operations State he
by the OCOs. the by
Malim Watts, Manager Operations Services CFS CFS Services Operations Manager Watts, Malim By: Last pager message sent sent message pager Last << OCO’S LONG SO ‘BUSHFIRE READY’
CAMPAIGN OVERVIEW NEWS & UPDATES << The Bushfire Ready sticker and logo.
he Premier launched the CFS direct mail outs, web site info, The behavioural changee messages Fire Danger Season 2007- new brochures and a segment on are; ‘you need to identifyy your T08 campaign on Sunday 4 “Youtube”. personal level of risk’, ‘develop November 2007 at Eden Hills. This year, the theme is a Bushfire Action Plan’,n’, ‘decide The campaign plays a critical role BUSHFIRE READY. whether you will ‘stayy and defend or in raising the profile of the CFS in A number of key messages are go early’ and ‘be ‘Bushfireshfire Ready’ on the community and more importantly relevant for the coming fire danger days of high fire danger’. 12 delivering strategic messages about season and these messages Key components and dates of fire safety and prevention. will be used repeatedly in all the fire danger season campaign streets and towns that have ‘done‘done VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES The campaign features television communications activities. 2007-08 the right thing’ by completing and radio adverts (pre- and post The community awareness message is A new component of this their Bushfire Action Plan and Christmas versions), print ads, ‘Bushfires pose a threat to the community’. year’s campaign is direct mail. then placed their ‘Bushfire Ready’ On 8 November Australia Post sticker in a prominent location as began delivered 80,000 ‘kits’ recognition of their preparedness.
Premier Mike Rann at the Fire Danger Season to households in bushfire prone The aim is to generate widespread << << 2007-08 launch on 4 November at Eden Hills. areas (metropolitan and regional), areas of well-prepared households including a letter from Chief through community peer pressure Officer, a Bushfire Action Plan and social responsibility. (which can also be downloaded The 30-second television from the CFS website) and a commercial will run for two bursts, ‘Bushfire Ready’ sticker to place on each of two weeks duration, in the front gate/letterbox. November 2007 and January 2008. The sticker acts as a reward for Three different radio commercials residents who have planned for the will run on metropolitan and regional Fire Danger Season whether they will stations from early November 2007 stay and defend or go early and have to late March 2008. done the prevention work around The radio commercials are available their homes. on the CFS website to listen to. Public Affairs is working closely The radio commercials will be with CFS Community Education supplemented by community service and Prevention Services to ensure announcements, bushfire ready tips, the ‘Bushfire Ready’ message is live reads and interviews. integrated into all public information Press advertising commenced and released consistently. on 11 November and will appear A comprehensive public relations in both regional and metropolitan campaign, predominantly using local papers promoting the need to plan press and radio, will support the appropriately and the ‘Bushfire advertising campaign. Ready’ sticker. The PR campaign will reinforce the In a first for the CFS, electronic ‘Bushfire Ready’ sticker reward and media has been has been used to the need for behaviour change in promote the campaign. bushfire prone areas. A video clip on the campaign can be CFS will be showcasing homes, viewed on “Youtube” www.youtube. com.au, then search for Bushfire Ready or Fire Danger Season). This is where we need your help! CONGRATULATIONS ON A USEFUL MAILOUT Please encourage EVERYONE you know to participate in the campaign ith all the rubbish professionally installed sprinkler It is terrific that you have by completing a Bushfire Action cluttering our letterboxes system, as well as a pile of bushfire- supplied residents with such Plan and displaying the ‘BUSHFIRE Wat the moment, it was a ready clothes, breathing masks and a practical aid to safety - how READY’ sticker. refreshing surprise to receive your goggles in a room inside. wonderful to see our tax dollars Your Bushfire Action Plan and bushfire action plan. My rather daggy hand-written plan spent so well! sticker has been included in this I've lived in Crafers for the last goes up on the fridge at the start of Thank you again. edition of the Volunteer, so that all 22 years, and my home has a each fire season, but your clear and Unsolicited email response dated CFS members can either update large tank, pump, fire hose and concise plan is even better. 7 November 2007 their plan or develop a formal plan to ensure we are all BUSHFIRE READY.
CFS July.indd 12 4/12/07 4:42:58 PM RECOGNISING EMPLOYERS THAT SUPPORT CFS VOLUNTEERS By: Volunteer Management Branch
he Volunteer and Employer Volunteer’s benefit by being able We would like to identify and Once this information is Recognition and Support to contribute to a very valuable and recognise employers of volunteers more collected, we will be offering TProgram provides a platform necessary community service, have formally than has occurred in the past. employers’ information about for the framework of the four ‘R’s, opportunity to develop skills and To this end, you are invited to provide volunteers in emergency services, Recognition, Raising the Profile, develop networks. your employer details for a central the benefits of employing Recruitment and Retention. Employers of emergency services database that is being developed. emergency service volunteers, It is an exciting approach to volunteers benefit from having recognition stickers and other 13 Please phone 1300 364 587 with providing ongoing recognition and volunteers who are team players, opportunities to further engage the following information: VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES support for volunteer and employer disciplined, well trained in many with emergency services. • Your name: involvement and engagement in the different emergency procedures • Employers Name: Calls will be taken until emergency services sector. including first aid and willing to step • Nominated Contact Person: 31 January 2008. Everyone benefits from volunteering. up and take on leadership roles. • Employers Address: The emergency services sector relies The community benefits from having • Employers Phone number: very heavily on its volunteers to achieve its citizens engaged in community • Employers Email: its vision of ‘A Safer Community’. safety and creating a safer community.
The CFS exhibit at the 2007 Royal Adelaide << << Show won second prize for the Best 2007 ROYAL ADELAIDE SHOW Outdoor Exhibit (non-agricultural section).
lmost 70 CFS volunteers from and the colouring-in competition across the State were the was a huge hit with the youngsters. Adriving force of this years ‘It was a combined team effort award-winning CFS exhibit at the and thank you to all the CFS Royal Adelaide Show. volunteers and CFS staff, in The CFS exhibit was awarded particular the CFS Community second prize for the Best Outdoor Education team for your support.’ Exhibit (non-agricultural section) at the 2007 Royal Adelaide Show that was held from the 7-15 September. From left: Richard Davis, Aldinga Beach CFS Media Liaison, Heidi << CFS, Lee Mintram, Williamstown CFS, Geytenbeek, said that ‘while the Luke Trewartha, Aldinga Beach CFS, site featured great fire prevention Will Trewartha, Aldinga Beach CFS & Mel Hunter, Media Liaison Officer, SA CFS. information messages and best practice examples, it was the passion of the CFS volunteers that made the site really come alive. ‘The enthusiasm of the CFS volunteers was evident, right from when the expression of interest went out seeking volunteers who are keen to participate in the show; we were inundated by volunteers happy to help’, Heidi said. ‘The roster filled up very quick and apologies to those volunteers who responded but didn’t get a chance to help out. ‘Smokey the Koala’ was again a highlight of the CFS exhibit with regular appearances each day, while CFS volunteers handed out Smokey tattoos. ‘Free CFS show bags were on offer
CFS July.indd 13 4/12/07 4:43:03 PM NEWS & UPDATES 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CFS STATE COMPETITIONS This year the CFS State hosted by the CFS Angaston GGroup.roup. Competitions celebrated their Nuriootpa had a very successfulssful T60th anniversary. day winning the Government CCupup in The first CFS State Competition the Senior Championship, thee Cadet was held at the Royal Adelaide Show Junior Championship, as welll as in 1947 with Mt Gambier taking out claiming the award for the ‘BestBest All the honours winning the inaugural Round Brigade’. Government Cup. Many of the teams traveled The 2007 competitions were held hundreds of kilometers from arareas,eas, on Sunday 7 October at Nuriootpa in including Ceduna, Port Lincoln,n, the Barossa Valley and were proudly Cowell, Yorketown and Waikerie.rie.
<< << CFS volunteers in action at the 2007 CFS State Competitions held at Nuriootpa on 7 October 2007. Photo: Ben Wrightson, CFS State Operations Support Brigade. 14
VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES The winners of the Government Cup, Nuriootpa. Team members from left to right: << Troy Rohrlach, Russell Butler, Darryl Mustard, Simon Butler and Michael Furnell. Photo courtesy of The Leader.
AIRS REPORTING UPDATE
By: Yvette Dowling, CFS State Operations Planning Officer Analyst s of 1 July 2007 with the Phone reports produce Group and Brigade reports with computer and internet access amalgamation of SOCC to MFS Phone reports are still available for will be available shortly. at stations or at the homes of AComcen, the following applies CFS Groups and Brigades using the The direct entry of AIRS Reports will trained personnel. in regards to AIRS reporting: current AIRS phone number below. be completed within the CRIIMSON Those Groups and Brigades wanting However, phone calls will only be System (CFS Resource and Incident to submit web AIRS reports when Faxing reports answered between 0800 hrs and Information Management System development is complete, can submit There are no changes to the current 2000 hrs Monday to Friday. Online Network). their interest to Yvette Dowling at system of faxing AIRS reports. AIRS Phone Number: 1300 651 231 Direct entry is planned to be ready [email protected] Continue to fax completed reports (0800 hrs – 2000 hrs weekdays) for training early next year for For more information contact to the current AIRS fax number below Web reports – coming soon Groups and Brigades wishing to Yvette Dowling, CFS State and CFS staff at CFS HQ will enter A new web version of AIRS reports for use this function. Operations Planning Officer Analyst these reports. Groups and Brigades to enter reports This function will only be on 8463 4218 or email AIRS Fax Number: 1300 651 232 directly into the AIRS Database to available for Groups and Brigades [email protected]
CFS July.indd 14 4/12/07 4:43:15 PM NEW CFS OCCURRENCE BOOKS By: Yvette Dowling, CFS State Operations Planning Officer Analyst
he new look CFS use of CFS Occurrence Books and to Occurrence Book is ensure CFS personnel use the books in Tnow available. a consistent manner. All CFS personnel are required to These guidelines apply to all CFS use a CFS Occurrence Book to record staff and volunteers and are printed on important issues, discussions and the inside front cover of the new books. decisions during incidents. The page layout has been changed Occurrence Books/Incident logs from previous occurrence book may form the basis for any evidence designs; Table 1.1 illustrates an CFS personnel may be required to example of the new page layout. give in any subsequent court case or The new layout includes an additional coronial hearing. column ‘Comm Method In/Out’ to record For this reason, records must be the method of communicating; refer 15
thorough and consistent. to Table 1.2. VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES Guidelines have been developed Books are available to purchase via to facilitate improvements with the Regional Offices.
Table 1.1 Example of the new CFS occurrence book page layout
Date Time (24 hr) Comm Method In/Out Action Req’d Y/N Dateate << Front cover of the new CFS occurrence book
OCCURRENCE BOOK CFS CREW BAG METHOD OF COMMUNICATING CODES
CodCo e Code Meaning V Visit Face to Face PPI or CI oor TTI Phone In / Call In / Telephone In POP or CO or TO Phone Out / Call Out / Telephone Out EOE Email Out EIE Email IN P or PM Pager Message FI Fax In FOO Fax Out RII Radio In RO Radio Out Sick of looking for your CFS overalls? MFIMF Message Form In Carry them with you in an approved MFO Message Form Out CFS bag. Made from durable 11oz SWW Spoke With canvas with yellow handles and W Website pockets each end and one side. LL Landline (Media) Large Crew Bag: $50 A Attended Extra Large Crew Bag: $55 INTNTT Interview TC Teleconference We also manufacture ute seat B Briefing covers, swags and camper C CRIIMSON units for tray top utes. TMR Text Message Received TMS Text Message Sent CANDY’S OF TINTINARA M Meeting Ph (08) 8757 2285 Fax (08) 8757 2286 Table 1.2 List of codes to abbreviate method of communicating www.candycanvas.com.au
CFS July.indd 15 4/12/07 4:43:25 PM NEWS & UPDATES CFS claims top prize at national safe work awards
he SA Country Fire Service (CFS) firefighters working on the rear 16 has been recognised as a national crew deck. VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES Tleader in workplace safety. The inside of the truck cab is also The accolade comes after the CFS protected by quick action roll down was presented an award for the Best blinds that cover the entire glass area. Solution to an Identified Workplace These blinds are made from a Health and Safety Issue at the 2007 similar material to that used for Safe Work Australia Awards held at the crew haven and are designed to Old Parliament House in Canberra. minimise the transmission of radiant The Federal Employment and heat into the cab. Workplace Relations Minister, Joe Once again CFS was the first dedicated Hockey, and the Chairman of the fire agency to introduce this level of Australian Safety and Compensation protection with others now following suit CFS Chief Officer, Euan Ferguson, with CFS Manager Infrastructure and Council, Bill Scales announced the after independent testing demonstrated Logistics, Arthur Tindall, proudly display the National Award with other CFS as the winner for its innovative the merits of such a system. category award recipients at the 2007 Safe Work Australia Award approach to crew safety onboard the Modern day trucks utilise Ceremony, Canberra. new 34P appliances. significant amounts of plastics The judges considered the CFS’ inside the cab, which, when faced commitment to the occupational with radiant heat, begin to melt health and safety of its volunteers giving off toxic fumes. impressive, noting that such Over the past four years CFS has appliances may well assist the CFS worked with one of the worlds leading in attracting and retaining skilled manufacturers of breathing apparatus volunteer firefighters. to develop a system that provides The CFS had earlier won the short duration breathable air for crews category at state level in November trapped in such an environment. 2006 (refer to article in the CFS has been recognised for its role Volunteer, Volume 116, February in assisting in the development of this 2007, page 25), allowing CFS to then product, which has applications in go on and enter the 2007 national other industries such as mining and OH&S event. secure transport services. SafeWork SA Advisory Committee Other fire services are now showing Chairman, Tom Phillips, congratulated interest in the product, which has been the CFS for its excellent contribution released for sale to the wider market. towards creating a safe and healthy The final part of the safety package was work environment. the introduction of a spray ‘halo’ system Federal Employment and Workplace Relations Minister, Joe Hockey, CFS “The CFS and those individuals around the perimeter of the cabin. Manager Infrastructure and Logistics, Arthur Tindall, and Chairman of the responsible for the project can The ‘halo’ is designed to spray Australian Safety and Compensation Council, Bill Scales who announced CFS as the winner of the award. be very proud of this national water directly onto the glass to recognition to their commitment further minimise heat transfer to health and safety in their into the cab and also to reduce the workplace,” Tom said. chances of the windows breaking. “I want to recognise the excellent “CFS continues to focus on the Over the past six years CFS has This system has been introduced work of the CFS Infrastructure and safety of our volunteers and remains focussed on improving firefighter by other fire services and CFS has Logistics Team and everyone who was committed to ongoing development safety on its vehicles with the incorporated it into the overall involved in designing, testing and of safety systems and solutions for introduction of a crew cab being the safety package. building these vehicles,” Andrew said. their benefit. first step in the process. CFS Deputy Chief Officer, Andrew “The award is a well-deserved “We want to dedicate the award to CFS was not the first rural fire Lawson, said the national award recognition of the quantum leap that all CFS Volunteers who give freely service in Australia to introduce crew recognises the excellent work CFS has made in recent years in the their time and willingly put their cabs into its fleet but was the first undertaken by a wide range of provision of class-leading safety lives on the line to serve and protect to provide burnover protection for volunteers and staff. systems on our vehicles,” whe said. their communities.”
CFS July.indd 16 4/12/07 4:43:28 PM Congratulations - well deserved
ongratulations on the Safe The firefighters, and their families am pleased to offer my y sincere congratulations Work Australia Award in and friends and fellow community congratulations to you, and your staff to the CFS team for an Cthe ‘Best Solution to an members, can be reassured that the Ifor the outstanding achievement Moutstanding result in the Identified Workplace Health and hardworking, dedicated and self- under the Australian Safety and national OH&S awards. Safety Issue’ category. sacrificing men and women on fire units Compensation Council (ASCC) National To be judged best in the nation for As a rural South Australian resident are being valued highly for their work. Safe Work Awards 2007. an innovation to address a recognised I highly value the place the CFS I wish you all the best in I note that the South Australian workplace hazard is a marvellous has held, and continues to hold, in getting vehicles matching the Country Fire Service won the award feat and one that demonstrates CFS’s ensuring the best possible outcomes standard of the CFS 34 with its of Best Solution to an Identified true commitment to the safe work 17 in the case of fire. personnel protection system out Workplace Health and Safety Issue environment of its people. It is a concern that the safety and there and operating in the field for the purpose-designed system In particular I pay tribute to the VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES lives of firefighters is at risk every in all regions. engineered to provide fire cab crews dedication of Arthur (Tindall) for the time a unit is called to attend a fire, Once again, Congratulations with the maximum prospect of personal commitment he has and it is wonderful that there are to those involved in this project, survival during a burn over situation. shown in leading the search towards serious efforts being made to and thank you for your continuous To be recognised as a national leader cost effective solutions to a unique address safety issues. dedication to your communities. reflects well on every level of your Agency safety problem. This Award must be given as much From an appreciative rural South and is a credit to the SA Public Sector. Vincent Monterola AFSM JP publicity as possible to highlight your Australian resident I commend you and your staff on Chairman, SA Fire & Emergency attempts to keep workers’ injuries Email to SA Country Fire Service your commitment to leadership in Service Commission and deaths to a minimum. State Headquarters, 30 April 2007 workplace safety. From an email to Euan Ferguson, Michael Wright MP Chief Officer, SA Country Fire Minister for Industrial Relations Service, 24 April 2007 From a letter to Euan Ferguson, Chief Officer, SA Country Fire Service, 3 May 2007
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
CFS July.indd 17 4/12/07 4:43:36 PM Research Burning Program - Project FuSE By: Meredith Henderson, Senior Fire Research Officer, Department for Environment and Heritage 18 VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES
A ‘go’ in 1958 mallee fuel, April 2007 Photos: Mandy Slipper, Fire Management Officer, DEH
he Ngarkat Conservation Park dynamics and fire behaviour with the First, bcause the nature of fuels important role in how fires move (CP) in the State’s Upper South aim of developing a fire behaviour is important to fire behaviour, we across the landscape and a wind TEast has been the scene of guide for mallee and heath fuel want to know how fuels change over expert was present to determine how Bushfire Cooperative Research types. time by utilising different ages of wind parameters vary between the Centre (CRC) research into fire These fuel types are common in vegetation in the reserve. fuels. behaviour and prescribed burning other areas of SA and are found Some questions to be answered Some example questions in May 2006 and again in April this in the Victorian and NSW Murray include: investigated are: year. Darling Basin and parts of Western • How does the fuel structure • Do gust sizes vary between The work is being called Project Australia. change over time? different fuel types and ages? FuSE (Fire Experiments in Scrub While the research is focussed on • Do all ages have the same • Are there patterns in the way the with attention to wind [u]) and is South Australia, it will have broader amount of leaf litter, or tall wind moves across the vegetation an ambitious collaborative project, applicability across a number of shrubs? at different heights? involving researchers from across states. • And is bark hazard the same To answer these questions a range the country. The research is being conducted across different ages? of instruments that measure wind Bushfire CRC researchers from in Ngarkat CP in two main areas, on To answer these types of questions, speed and direction are utilised Ensis (the joint venture between the western boundary of the property intensive fuel sampling of all and these instruments are also CSIRO and Scion in New Zealand) are Kirra and east of the Baan Hill Track different fuel elements (surface, used when conducting experimental working closely with land and fire in an area known as McCallum. near-surface and elevated fuels) is burns. managers from the South Australian The project has taken advantage conducted and then the fuels are The burning is divided into two Department for Environment and of areas that were planned to be weighed. main experimental types: go/no-go Heritage (DEH) at every stage of the burnt as part of DEH’s ongoing An overall fuel hazard is also and fire behaviour. three-year project. commitment to fire management determined by using a visual The go/no-go work is about The Ensis team is lead by Jim and areas that represented a assessment of the different fuel determining under what conditions Gould, with Juanita Myers (Ensis) number of different post-fire ages elements. of fuel, fuel moisture and weather and Meredith Henderson (DEH) as incorporating mallee last burnt in Second, because fuel moisture the forward rate of spread is the joint project coordinators. 1958, 1986 and 1999 and heath last contents can alter fire behaviour sustained. Miguel Cruz from Ensis is the burnt in 1986, 1988 and 1999. we want to know how fuel moisture This is called the propagation main fire behaviour scientist and content varies between the two main threshold and many small fires are Brett Stephens, DEH Regional Fire What are we trying to fuel types, the fuel ages and during conducted at different ignition times Management Officer, Murraylands is answer? the course of the day. to determine the threshold. the principal end user liaison. The overall aim of the research is Once again this involves intensive Once a ‘go’ is determined, fire Many other people are involved in to develop a fire behaviour guide to sampling of the fuel, drying behaviour experiments begin. conducting the research aspect of help inform prescribed burning and and weighing the samples and These experiments determine the project, including DEH staff that suppression operations. correlating the moisture contents how fast the fire travels, what the carry out the burns and local CFS To achieve this aim and to produce with the weather conditions on that physical characteristics of the flame crews who help with local knowledge an answer that will be robust and day. front looks like, whether any spotting and construction of fire breaks. useful, the project is divided into a Lastly weather, in particular occurs and how continuous the Researchers are investigating fuel number of key areas of investigation. wind, is investigated as it plays an flame front is.
CFS July.indd 18 4/12/07 4:43:37 PM Photo from the air showing the quadrats for Project FuSE. Photo: Brett Stephens, DEH Regional Fire Management Officer, Murraylands
19 VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES
Lighting up a go/no-go plot in 1958 mallee, April 2007
To answer these questions a The results from this year’s work number of instruments called rate are still being analysed, but so far of spread (RASP) loggers are used. some of the highest temperatures RASPs are a simple clock device ever recorded in fire experiments in with an electric circuit completed Australia have been observed. with solder. Last year, results showed that fires The RASPs are buried, the safety in heath moved more quickly than switch turned off and the loggers those in the mallee of the same marked for recovery post-fire. age and under the same weather When the fire front moves past conditions. the RASPs, the solder melts, thus The rate of spread in the heath Measuring fuel structure with Leigh Douglas, breaking the circuit and stopping plot was 30.8 m min-1 and in Miguel Cruz and Jim Gould the clock. mallee was 1.5 m min-1, under the Since all clocks are synchronised conditions of 20∞C, RH 37%, prior to burial, it can be determined and 5m wind at 15km hr-1 and an exactly when the fire front passed FDI of 12. the loggers. All of the 2006 ‘go’ fires were in Using the distances between loggers heath that was last burnt in 1986. a rate of spread can be calculated. Dr Cruz has also developed some What next? more easily deployed RASP loggers Ideally more burns will be that measure the temperature conducted under a range of fire above ground. danger conditions; so far plenty of The researchers enter the hot zone data for the mild (<10) range has while the fire experiments are going been collected, but more data for to make observations of the physical higher FDIs is needed. The research team after a characteristics of the fires and also Planning has commenced for more long day of burning. to deploy some ‘low-tech’ devices to experimental burns to be conducted measure rate of spread. around mid-February to late March Because this research will Portable Automatic Weather At all times the researchers are 2008 to capture higher FDI data. assist in the implementation of Stations (PAWS) that DEH utilises mindful of safety, but this is one of These experimental burns are being prescribed burning and suppression during bushfire incidents. the most exciting parts of the job! planned in conjunction with the CFS. of bushfires, we believe all CFS The next phase of the project will members will benefit from this be intense, hot and demanding and What has been found so far? Our partners and the research. will require the cooperation of many. Around 21 go/no-go burns and four community The Bureau of Meteorology has Nevertheless, the results fire behaviour burns were conducted Without the help of many people, provided support with 12-hour will be fascinating and will help in April this year and around 22 including CFS volunteers and staff and four-day site forecasts from better manage fire in these complex burns in May 2006. this work could not be completed. information recorded by two fuel types.
CFS July.indd 19 4/12/07 4:43:39 PM NEWS & UPDATES CFS CONTRIBUTES TO A NEW AUTOMATIC WEATHER STATION ON THE EYRE PENINSULA By: Andrew Lawson, CFS Deputy Chief Officer
n March 2006, several community location and potential funding groups and individuals raised options for the establishment of one Ithe requirement for an additional or more AWS’s on Eyre Peninsula. Automatic Weather Station (AWS) on During 2006, the Steering the Eyre Peninsula. Committee met several times Recognising the importance of gathering pledges for funding from accurate weather forecasting for the a number of local groups. 20 effective management of bushfires, In October 2006 Mark Cant, ERDB in June 2006 the CFS convened Chief Executive Officer, wrote to the CFS VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES a meeting with all interested Chief Officer requesting a contribution stakeholders in Port Lincoln. of $10,000 from the CFS towards the The meeting included project, which was approved. representatives from the Eyre The ERDB had secured other Regional Development Board funding sources from the Port Lincoln (ERDB), the Bureau of Meteorology Rotary Club ($50,000), the Cummins (BOM), local government, Community Bank ($30,000), the community groups, industry ERDB ($10,000) and in-kind support representative and CFS. from the BOM for technical support to BOM Regional Director, on Thursday Observations from the new Cummins At the meeting the stakeholders supply and install. 5 July 2007. AWS are now available on the Internet agreed to form a Steering Committee The new weather station was Andrew Watson thanked the and will significantly contribute to to be chaired by the ERDB. established at Cummins, central community groups and CFS for the production of accurate weather The purpose of the Steering Eyre Peninsula, and officially providing the funds required to provide forecasts for the Eyre Peninsula and Committee was to agree on a commissioned by Andrew Watson, this essential piece of equipment. the Yorke Peninsula.
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CFS July.indd 20 4/12/07 4:43:43 PM DEVELOPING FUTURE LEADERS By: Adam Hurle, Brigade Captain, Meningie CFS Participants taking part in one of many team building NEWS & UPDATES activities at the Sydney Institute of Sports.
wo volunteers represented the learning activities that allowed them SA Country Fire Service (CFS) to apply the ideas covered in the Tat the 2006 Developing Future program and observe the process of Leaders (DFL) program in NSW in team development. November 2006. During the program, participants Adam Hurle, Brigade Captain of were grouped into syndicates. Meningie CFS and Paul Stribley, The syndicates worked together on Brigade Captain of Barmera CFS, a number of challenges during thehe along with twenty- three other week, including a research projectct 21
participants, attended the intensive on an issue that is topical within tthehe VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES five-day residential course. public safety industry. The DFL course is sponsored They drew on material from the by Dulux, Bunnings and the presentations and workshops Australasian Fire Authorities Council conducted during the program, alongg (AFAC) and is designed to develop with their own research, to prepare a key leadership skills. presentation for course members, AIPMPM The 2006 program at the Australian staff and industry representatives. Institute of Police Management (AIPM) At the first of two formal dinners, in Manly, Sydney, hosted participants Director General of Emergency from every State and Territory in Management Australia, Mr Tony Pearce,ce, Australia and New Zealand. highlighted the importance of the workk The backgrounds of the undertaken by emergency services ‘Our future leaders’. Participants of the 2006 Developing participants were diverse with career within Australia and New Zealand, andd Future Leaders program in Manly, Sydney. and volunteer personnel from fire the critical role that current and futuree services, State Emergency Services leaders will play in the ongoing safety and land management agencies. of their communities. Participants attended presentations He commended the participants on and workshops examining: being recognised by their agencies ‘influencing skills’, emotional as potential leaders and encouraged intelligence, creativity and innovation, them to apply the skills and ideas leadership and governance. that are central to the Developing They also took part in experiential Future Leaders program.
Adam Hurle, Brigade Captain, Meningie CFS, taking part in one of the workshops. >>
ANNUAL AFAC LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS
NEWS & UPDATES AVAILABLE TO CFS PERSONNEL
olunteers and staff who public safety personnel. materials, outings, meals and should be forwarded via a Regional have been recognised by These programs have been running accommodation at Manly, NSW. Commander or the CFS VA to the VCFS as potential leaders annually for a number of years CFS covers the cost of travel and office of the CFS Chief Officer at have represented the agency over and participants benefit from the specified additional expenses. State Headquarters for consideration. the years at the Australasian opportunity to learn from, and build Calls for expression of interest Final nominations are then Fire Authorities Council (AFAC) relationships with, their peers for these courses are disseminated forwarded to AFAC, who assess the Leadership Programs in NSW. throughout Australasia. through CFS regional offices and applications and provide advice to AFAC, in partnership with the Five-day residential courses, which the Country Fire Service Volunteers successful applicants. Australian Institute of Police are of particular interest to volunteers, Association (CFS VA) at varying For an overview of upcoming Management (AIPM), has developed include the Developing Future Leaders times of the year. programs visit the Events and outstanding leadership programs and Volunteer Leaders Programs. Application forms and Programs / Leadership Programs tailored to meet the needs of the Most courses are sponsored and accompanying information must section of the AFAC website at Australasian emergency services and cover the cost of tuition, course address the selection criteria and www.afac.com.au
CFS July.indd 21 4/12/07 4:43:47 PM REDUCING THE RISK OF FIRE ESCAPES FROM HARVESTING OPERATIONS By: Terry Hassam, CFS Project Officer, Prevention
NEWS & UPDATES
22 VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES
uring previous Fire Danger Historically, local codes of practice Seasons, significant fires have been developed by some Dhave started from harvesting communities to further reduce the Local procedures can be developed done” and the ability to control any operations escaping out of control. risk of loss from fires caused by to specify how the Harvesting COP is fire outbreak. Considerable losses have been grain harvesting. implemented in different areas. Input has been invited and received incurred by neighbouring properties and However, the standards and There has been extensive from SA Farmers Federation, SACFS civil action for damages has resulted. conditions vary widely between discussion about the best method to at various levels, Local Government As the result of community and different local codes. describe the weather conditions that Fire Prevention Officers, TAFE SA, farming industry concerns and calls The aim of providing a State would offer a reasonable chance of Safework SA and others. from Government for harvesting based generic code of practice suppression of any fire outbreak. The final draft Grain Harvesting bans on days of very high fire is to specify measures and There is clear agreement that the Code of Practice has been released danger, a joint review of the practices to: actual local Grassland Fire Danger and is being trialled across the Harvesting Code of Practice (COP) Take all reasonable steps to Index (FDI) (not the Forecast FDI) state. Some areas are electing to by the South Australian County Fire prevent the outbreak of fire; and is the most objective measure of make the assessments and apply Service (SACFS) and SA Farmers Limit harvesting to conditions fire behaviour and therefore should the code individually, whereas Federation was initiated. such that if a fire starts, there be used to trigger the cessation of in other areas local harvesting The current legislation does not is reasonable chance of the fire harvesting activities. committees are making and prevent harvesting on days of Total being controlled with resources A GFDI of 35 has been communicating the decisions. Fire Ban (TFB), and only specifies immediately available to the recommended as the cut-off point, Following the harvesting season very limited fire prevention and person/people involved in the and this figure is a compromise there will be workshops to evaluate control measures. harvesting operation. between the need to “get the job the Draft Code.
CFS July.indd 22 6/12/07 10:50:36 AM CHILDREN’S SAFETY DAY NEWS & UPDATES By: John Gawen, CFS Prevention and Community Awareness Officer
ach year, Safer Communities home, at school, in the community, Australia holds a Children’s on the street and in cars. ESafety Day to promote Eden Hills Brigade represented CFS, emergency service organisations and providing more than 700 students with safety to primary school students. an insight into the role our organisation This year’s event was held at plays within the community. Bellevue Heights Primary School, CFS volunteers emphasised the with nearby schools from Eden Hills, importance of having a working Coromandel Valley, Blackwood and smoke alarm in the home and each Hawthorndene also participating. household having a family fire plan Along with CFS, emergency service for house fire and bushfire. agencies such as SAPOL, MFS, As well as a 15-minute safety SES and SAAS set up displays and talk, the students had the chance
presented safety information to to look over the fire truck, which << Paul Dare, Eden Hills CFS, showing students features of the truck. 23 students on how to keep safe at is always a hit. VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES
CFS Prevention and Community Awareness Officer, John Gawen, with volunteers from Eden Hills CFS presenting safety information to school students.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT TRAINING FOR SA By: Fiona Dunstan, Assistant Coordinator Community Education n June 2007, CFS Community outcomes, better relationships with • A process to identify stakeholders Education Unit representatives community, increased understanding and analyse their appropriate type IFiona Dunstan, Natasha Huber and of community issues and better of engagement to ensure that the Jeff Ayres assisted the Department partnerships and networks. wider community and not just the of Sustainability and Environment The DSE in Victoria have been vocal minority are heard (DSE) in the delivery of a Community conducting community engagement • Understand the commonly Engagement Fundamentals training training for multiple agencies for the accepted different levels of course in Bendigo. past five years. stakeholder involvement Over 25 participants from Victoria The CFS Community Education • Clearly identify the parameters Police, DSE, Country Fire Authority Unit is planning to conduct a of a project and establish clear (CFA) and a variety of other Victorian two-day Community Engagement community expectations agencies spent two days learning Fundamentals course on the 2nd & 3rd • Understand the underlying the skills required to develop a April 2008 for CFS volunteers and staff. themes of common engagement community engagement plan and The course will introduce participants techniques how to put the plan into practice. to community engagement planning • Gain experience in developing a Community engagement refers where participants will gain “hands community engagement plan to the mutual communication and on” experience in developing • Plan to minimise community deliberation that occurs between community engagement plans outrage government and citizens that allows and be able to discern effective • Feel confident that diverse groups equal participation in formulating community engagement from have be heard. Natasha Huber, CFS Community the policies and conditions of “community consultation”. If you are interested in participating Education Officer, presenting at a government services. Some learning outcomes of or would like further information, Community Engagement Fundamentals The benefits of effective community the Community Engagement contact Fiona Dunstan, 8463 4082 training course in Bendigo. engagement include: better project Fundamentals course include: or [email protected].
CFS July.indd 23 4/12/07 4:44:23 PM NEWS & UPDATES THE NEW SAMFS WORKSHOP AND LOGISTICSATAT AANGLECENTRENGLE PPARKARK By: Phil Luxford, CFS Project Officer Equipment
he new SA Metropolitan Fire 11 appliances inside at any one Service (SAMFS) Workshop and time and includes mechanical TLogistics Centre at Angle Park pits, brake testing equipment and was officially opened on 8 May 2007. machining capabilities. CFS has a constant presence at Other features include natural the centre, with one CFS personnel lighting, natural air flow and solar based there full time and the ability power which can deliver power back to store equipment and up to four into the electricity grid. appliances in the facility. The workshop is located next to thee The facility can hold up to SAMFS station at Angle Park. 24
VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES
<< << << < < Hon.Hon. CarmCarmelel ZolZollo, Minister for Emergency Services, officially lo, Minister for Emergency Services, offic openingope the new SAMFS Workshop and Logistics Centre atial Anglely ParkPar on 8 May 2007.
InternalInte features of the new SAMFS Workshop and Logistics
<< << << Centre,Cen such as mechanical pit and natural lighting.
SCIENTIFIC EVALUATION OF STRESS PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES By: Dr Michelle Tuckey, Lecturer, University of South Australia and member of Happy Valley CFS
he Stress Prevention and suggest that the SPAM Team’s In addition, participants will Winefield (Academic staff Management (SPAM) Team will procedures are effective, a thorough complete a short questionnaire member at the University Tsoon commence a scientific and rigorous scientific evaluation will before the intervention begins and of Adelaide) will be evaluation of the effectiveness of ensure the Team continues to look after again as part of an extensive follow- conducting this project. three standard interventions: firefighters in the best way possible. up process one month later. This project has the (1) critical incident stress debriefing Initiatives, such as this evaluation, The SPAM Team’s primary concern support of the CFS Chief (2) post-incident screening position the CFS as a recognised is always the welfare of CFS Officer, the CFS Volunteer (3) stress management education leader in research and continual members, and months of preparation Association (CFS VA) and (commonly known as a pre- improvement in the area of stress have gone into this research project. Regional Officers from incident training or PIT). prevention and management. Participation will be entirely voluntary around the State. The aim of the research is to find Starting on 1 August 2007, all CFS and members are free to withdraw For further information, out which of these interventions firefighters across the State who from the research at any time. please contact the Program are most effective in supporting attend a critical incident will be SPAM services remain available on Coordinator, Trudy Whelan on firefighters after critical incidents. asked to participate in the research. a 24-hour basis. 8463 4141 The SPAM Team is committed to As part of the project, the Team Ms Jill Scott (Consultant or 0409 155181. continually improving its processes will offer the three standard Psychologist to the CFS), Dr Michelle to provide the best possible service interventions listed above, but not Tuckey (Lecturer, University of South to CFS members. necessarily in the same order they Australia and member of Happy Although a number of data sources would normally be provided. Valley CFS) and Professor Helen
CFS July.indd 24 4/12/07 4:44:33 PM CABA RESCUE MAT By: Garth Hogarth, CABA Project Manager FS has recently endorsed the use The Rescue Mat has now been of a new casualty rescue tool - added to the CFS APPROVED stowage Cthe CFS CABA Rescue Mat. item list, which entitles all CABA The Rescue Mat was designed and brigades to be able to purchase this developed by the staff at the State tool direct from the manufacturer. Training Centre, volunteer CABA This tool is an optional item for On a recent CABA initial training course two volunteer Trainer-Assessors and A G Williams, CABA brigades and all mats used trainees from Region 6 demonstrated how to conduct a safe rescue using the new CABA Rescue Mat. Upholsterer in Clarendon. by CFS personnel must display the The mat is designed to simplify CFS Logo and the manufactures load and standardise rescue techniques rating label. for rescue crews needing to remove Below are the Rescue Mats training in its correct use and Stowage: injured personnel from the fire ground. specifications and contact details of operation. In a structure fire The Rescue Mat is required to be The Rescue Mat is made of a PVC the manufacturer. situation it is to be carried by a stowed on the fire appliance with the lightweight tear resistant laminated Please contact the CABA Project qualified CABA operator on the CABA main guideline bag. 25 tarpaulin fabric, which has ultra Manager at the CFS State Training cylinder of the CABA set. violet and fire retardant treatment. Centre with any queries. FGP’s: VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES Training on the use of the Rescue Construction: The fire ground practices have been CABA Rescue Mat Proposal Mat will commence in 2007 on PVC lightweight tear resistant written and are included in the new Purpose: The South Australian all CABA initial and Operator laminated tarpaulin fabric, which Fireground practices folder located Country Fire Service Rescue Mat Refresher courses. has Ultra Violet and fire retardant at all stations. is designed specifically to simplify In June 2007 all CABA brigades treatment. The mat is stowed in a and standardise casualty Load Rating: received a copy of the new CABA bag made from the same material. rescue techniques. All CFS Rescue Mats used by CFS Fire Ground Practices DVD, Dimensions: personnel must display the following which demonstrates the correct Operation: Length 350mm manufactures labeling. procedures for the use of the The mat is designed to be used by Diameter 150mm Rescue Mat. any firefighter who has undertaken Weight 2.5Kgs Cost: $145.00 inc GST
Maximum Load Rating = 182 KG Phone 0417 812 319 CABA RESCUE MAT Manufacturer: Glynn Williams, Furniture Upholster Replace if damaged signifi cantly!
CFS July.indd 25 4/12/07 4:44:50 PM Incident Management Update By: Leanne Adams, CFS Incident Management Project Officer
26 VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES
Participants from Yorke Peninsula who attended the AIIMS course at Maitland.
Participants on the Operations Officer Course came from all over the state. Eddie Lacko and Jeff King discuss some incident objectives with course Pictured from left, Rob Giles – Strathalbyn Group, Ivan Smith – Kangaroo Island participants on the Operations Officer Course. Group, Gerry Thomson – Para Group and Peter Edgcumbe – Wattle Range Group. AIIMS Courses Level 3 Operations Officer large group of people who have been that demonstrated the level at which Australasian Inter-service Incident Course nominated to be Operations Officers we should be operating at major Management System (AIIMS) courses During March 2007 the first Level 3 for Level 3 incidents (large and/or incidents. continue to be in high demand with Operations Officer Course to be held complex incidents). “Also the course gave participants several courses being delivered in in South Australia was run at the CFS The course is one of the first AIIMS an insight into the training regional SA locations such as Maitland, State Training Centre at Brukunga. functional courses to have been run packages available to other fire Sheoak Log and Port Lincoln. The course went for five days and and CFS is hoping that many more services and it’s good to see CFS If you are interested in being involved was delivered by Eddie Lacko and Jeff courses in all the functions of AIIMS provide members with much needed in incident management please speak King from the Queensland Fire and (Control, Operations, Planning and additional training in incident with your Brigade/Group Training Rescue Service. Logistics) can be run in the not-too- management,” Rob said. Officer to register for an AIIMS course. Participants included senior distant future. Gerry Thomson, Para Group Deputy The AIIMS course is a pre-requisite volunteers and staff from CFS, DEH Rob Giles, Strathalbyn Group Officer, Group Officer, said he “gained a better for any functional courses that become and ForestrySA. said “the course was good, particularly appreciation of being strategic at available in future such as Operations The participants were chosen from a the exercises on the last two days incidents instead of reactive.” Officer and Incident Controller.
CFS July.indd 26 4/12/07 4:44:53 PM 27 VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES
Catering Catering tip from interstate Last year the first Catering When CFS State Logistics Officer, Workshops were held and proved to Lee Watson, was in a deployment be very successful. in Victoria at the end of 2006 he The workshops were introduced observed an esky system used to in response to the large number of assist feeding personnel. issues raised during debriefs after “Meal pack eskies were prepared incidents. for each appliance for every shift,” The one-day workshops consist of a Lee said. half-day Hygiene for Food Handlers “The eskies contained course presented by TAFE SA and predetermined contents that were a half-day CFS specific Catering prepared by local suppliers and a Information course. register was utilised to log which Feedback from these sessions esky had gone with which appliance. was excellent and another Catering “Upon the eskies returning, they Workshop has been scheduled for were cleaned and re-stocked for the Saturday 1st September 2007. next shift and no one went hungry or Please put forward your details to thirsty.” your Brigade/Group Training Officer if Two eskies were allocated per you would like to attend. appliance, which enabled one esky to A couple of the workshops have be on the appliance while the other been held in regional locations was being cleaned and re-stocked. One of the posters in the food hygiene package that was and if you are interested in having distributed to CFS Groups. a session run in your area please AIIMS Team Resource contact your Regional Training Pool (Incident Management Officer. People) The TAS (Training Administration Food Safety DVD for System) database has been Caterers upgraded to include AIIMS During February 2007 all CFS (Australasian Inter-service Incident Groups were sent packages Management System) positions. containing information, posters and At this stage, training courses for a DVD developed by the Department many AIIMS positions have not been of Health regarding preparing food available and Regions have had to hygienically. nominate individuals for positions The information is very relevant based upon their experience, skills and although much of it is common and abilities. sense, it will reveal some new Due to the TAS update, TAS interesting information about safe printouts will now list AIIMS positions food preparation. at level 2 and/or 3 incidents next to If a package was not received individuals. or if additional packages are Please contact your Regional Appliance eskies ready for delivery to staging during the required please contact Sophia Operations Planning Officer to incidents in Victoria. Chumak on 8463 4240 or discuss concerns or questions about [email protected]. the roles.
CFS July.indd 27 4/12/07 4:44:57 PM VOLUNTEER, REX HALL NEWS & UPDATES LAUNCHES BOOK ON PERSONAL REFLECTION OF THE CFS
alued CFS Volunteer Rex invaluable contribution to the Hall AFSM has launched State Government, CFS, CFS VA and Vhis book titled “Forty-Five the wider rural community, far Flaming Years – A reflection on my beyond what is normally offered by involvement with the SA Volunteer a volunteer. Fire Service (1960-2006)”. Rex is an Executive Member of the 28 Chairman of the SA Fire & CFS VA and has a long-standing Emergency Services Commission history with the CFS and is currentlyy VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES and CFS Volunteer, Vince Monterola the Naracoorte Deputy Group Officerer AFSM writes in the foreword of the and President of the South East book ‘Rex’s story embraces tragedy, Branch of the CFS VA. humour, drama, conspiracy, and He is also the Chairman of the above all mateship.’ Cross Border Working Party and thee ‘Long serving members of the CFS/CFS VA Heritage Working Partyy Emergency Fire Service, and then as well as CFS VA Delegate on the forty
the Country Fire Service, will enjoy Farm Fire Units Working Party and << five Euan Ferguson,F CFS ChiefChief rekindled memories of old mates CFS Awards Committee. Officer, Rex Hall and Trevor emerging from Rex’s anecdotes.’ The book was launched at three flaming Norris, Brigade Captain, One ‘Newer members will enjoy reading locations around the state years Tree Hill CFS at Rex’s book of the characters who faced an including One Tree Hill, Willalooka, launch on Sunday 27 May 2007 A Refl ection on my involvement as a Volunteer with the SA Volunteer Fire Service incredible array of trials in the and Naracoorte. throughout the past 46 years, 1960 – 2006 at the One Tree Hill CFS Station. formative days of our Service, and “Forty-Five Flaming Years” can be Photo by: Bruce Hobby, One of the ingenuity that enabled them purchased for $39.95 plus postage Tree Hill CFS to succeed. They were our pioneers and handling. and Rex knew them,” Vince said. Place your order by contacting Rex In 2006 Rex was awarded the on 08 8762 1424, 0417 081 560 or <<<< The front cover of Rex Hall’s book AFSM REX JOHN HALL titled ‘Forty Five Flaming Years’.
Emergency Services Medal for his [email protected] 07 4:21:49 PM 228/3/078/3/ 4:21:49 PM
ndd 1 Cov r A4er for A4 pdf for indd pd f.i1
Send entries to The Editor, WIN A COPY OF FORTY-FIVE FLAMING YEARS! Entries should not exceed 300 words, guarantee your story is not forgotten! Volunteer Magazine, olunteer Magazine is calling for be received by COB 3 February 2007 The four best CFS stories will receive GPO Box 2468, Adelaide SA 5001 memorable ‘CFS stories’. Send and please include the authors name a copy of Rex Hall’s ‘Forty-Five Or email: [email protected] in your CFS story so everyone can and contact details. V Flaming Years’. reminisce, laugh, cry; but most of all to
'SPRING' CHANGE TO SAVFBA NAME
he SAVFBA held Earlier in the year it was proposed Since then volunteer feedback was will be contracting a graphic NEWS & UPDATES a special General that the SAVFBA change its name to collected and raised at the meeting. artist to establish some possible TMeeting on Tuesday the Country Fire Service Volunteers A unanimous vote confirmed the logo designs to reflect the new 26 June in which one of the agenda Association (CFS VA). name change from the SAVFBA name change. items was a possible name change The proposed name change falls to the CFS VA. If you have any suggestions please for the Association to better reflect in line with other emergency service The change of name came into send in your thoughts to the relationship it has to the SA associations including the SA Police effect on the first day of spring - [email protected], Country Fire Service and the volunteer Association and the State Emergency 1 September 2007. PO Box 2359, Regency Park SA 5942 members in which it serves. Service Volunteers Association. Over the coming months the CFS VA or by fax on 8244 6400.
CFS July.indd 28 4/12/07 4:44:59 PM n February 2006 the CFS VA formed and equipment has been established, a small working party under the the CFS Heritage Committee will CFS HERITAGE Iguidance of the CFS Chief Officer, be seeking gifts of items worthy Euan Ferguson and CFS VA President, of preservation which, when Ken Schutz to develop a strategy for ultimately displayed, will be suitably
NEWS & UPDATES & NEWS PRESERVATION UPDATE the preservation of CFS’s rich acknowledged. cultural heritage. Due to contractual and insurance By March 2007 the working party: difficulties it is not anticipated that • Obtained some seeding funding the committee will be able to take from the CFS VA and the CFS responsibility for loaned items. • Became a CFS Committee formed CFS Chief Officer, Euan Ferguson, from CFS VA regional members, the said after he recently attended CFS VA President and two members an official CFS function at the of CFS staff Naracoorte storage area that he was • Had established terms of reference very impressed with the progress that with the mission of ‘The preservation the working party had made. of the history of the volunteer fire “It’s a testimony to the passion of services of South Australia’ the volunteers and staff involved in • Established a large storage area in the project who are determined to 29
Naracoorte in the South East, and see the history of CFS preserved for VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES are looking at possibilities in the future generations,” Euan said. MMid North “I’m hoping there will be • A Acquired 10 appliances which are momentum in the level of oout of service and now in storage enthusiasm with other members keen • I Iss in the process of arranging for to get involved.” tthe safe storage of old competition CFS members with items of trtrophies and volunteer fire service interest, please contact Rex Hall on clclothing and equipment 08 8762 1424, 0417 081 560 OnOnce the secure area for trophies or [email protected] of age Area with one << EuanEuan FFergusonerguson at the Naracoorte StorStorage Area with one of the first donations to the CFS/SAVFBA Heritage Working Party
NEWS & UPDATES CURTAIN LOWERED ON CORONIAL INVESTIGATION INTO EYRE PENINSULA BUSHFIRE he Coronial Investigation into “Many people had to spend time the Eyre Peninsula bushfire away from work and family to attend Tthat occurred on 11 January the proceedings. 2005 has finally drawn to a close. “We’re very aware it’s been a South Australia’s Deputy Coroner, strenuous and emotional time for Tony Schapel, heard the last of the those involved and we want to submissions on Tuesday 8 May. recognise the sacrifices these people The Coronial Investigation started have made to participate in the on 15 November 2005 and finished investigation. I thank them for their after 18 months of opinions and time and efforts,” he said. accounts from a long list of witnesses, The recommendations will be victims, and fire and weather experts. released on 18 December. About 100 CFS personnel were “Naturally we’re anxious to involved in the investigation, which know what the recommendations included almost 80 volunteers. are, even more so what possible The Court sat for 233 days implications they may have on our resulting in more than 23,000 members,” Ken said. pages of transcript. “Regardless, CFS people are CFS VA President Ken Schutz extremely resilient and we will make said he was pleased that the our best efforts to ensure they are investigation had finished because well represented through whatever the process had been a long and challenges lie ahead. exhaustive effort for all involved. “Unfortunately we live in a day “Many people have been affected and age where everything we do by the investigation and it’s taken is under intense scrutiny and I am a real toll on CFS volunteers and keen to see a package developed staff,” Ken said. that helps volunteers, in particular “It’s not just those that have those in leadership positions, to presented on the witness stand that better understand and prepare for CFS volunteers deal with the have been affected but the members the potential legal ramifications of aftermath of the Wangary fire of their families as well,” Ken said. our business.”
CFS July.indd 29 4/12/07 4:45:11 PM CHILDREN’S FIRE PREVENTION
NEWS & UPDATES & NEWS BOOK AVAILABLE
he heartbreaking tragedy of actual fire situation. children being severely burnt “I want children to have a book Tby fire has prompted a West they can keep in their homes and Australian author to write a special refer to at any time,” she says. fire prevention book aimed at children. Concerned at not finding any 30 A former fire safety educator with books on fire safety for children the Fire and Emergency Services in Australia, New Zealand or VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES Authority (FESA) of Western Singapore, she set about writing Australia, Jillian Fitzgerald became one to fill the gap. disturbed by the unacceptable “Learn Fire Safety with Jamie” has number of children, some of them been endorsed by the Director of the babies, suffering in hospital with Western Australia Burns Service, Dr
severe burns to their bodies. Fiona Wood, and part of the proceeds << Author Jillian Fitzgerald with Bali Bombing Survivor, Peter Hughes Knowing that carelessness and will go towards burns research. lack of knowledge about fire Jillian Fitzgerald says that with prevention were often responsible, winter coming up, her book should Jillian set about writing a book be of great interest to parents aimed specifically at raising and grandparents wanting to children’s awareness of fire safety. ensure that their offspring develop Her 40-page publication tells the responsible attitudes to fire as well story of two young boys who visit as learning fire survival skills. a fire station where they learn fire “Learn Fire Safety with Jamie” by safety skills, fire prevention and the Jillian Fitzgerald is published by responsible use of fire. Kandy Ko Publishing and available Children reading this book will for purchase for $19.95 plus have a clear understanding of the postage and handling via www. consequences of playing with fire kandyko.com or by post at PO Box and what to do if caught in an 111, Thornlie 6988.
<< The front cover of Jillian Fitzgerald’s book titled “Learn Fire Safety with Jamie”
Visit the SAVFBA website www.savfba.org.au featuring all the latest news and information affecting CFS volunteers, a “have-your-say” section, and special opportunities offered to members.
NEW SERVICE MEDALS TO BE AWARDED BY CFS CHIEF OFFICER proposal to have CFS volunteers The decision to release the medal was than 30 years service will receive Service Medal was initiated by the awarded an official medal for made at a Chief Officer’s Advisory the medal with volunteers who have Country Fire Service Board and was A their years of service has been Council (COAC) meeting attended by completed between 10 and 30 years one of several proposals put forward made successful. CFS volunteers, staff and members of also to receive a medal during the at the 2006 Volunteer Summit to better The CFS Chief Officer, Euan Ferguson, the CFS VA Executive. second phase of the medal’s release recognise the efforts of CFS volunteers. will introduce the CFS Service Medal The CFS Service Medal is separate to which will occur in later years. The initial release of the CFS Service following a recommendation proposed the National Medal and is presented Once an ongoing budget for the Medals will be presented at regional by the CFS Awards Committee, to volunteers in recognition of their project has been established medals ceremonies to be organised in 2008 comprising of representatives from dedicated service to the organisation will be awarded on the basis of 10, and, like all other service medals, the CFS VA, CFS and the Volunteer and the wider community. 20, 30, 40 and 50 years service. can be worn as part of the official Management Branch (VMB). Initially CFS volunteers of more The concept for introducing the CFS CFS dress uniform.
CFS July.indd 30 4/12/07 4:45:15 PM VOLUNTEER - WELCOMES 31 4/12/07 4:45:21 PM4/12/07 4:45:21 PM
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merging from the driest winter 11 November 2006 ever recorded, October 2006 Location – Gosse, Kangaroo Island, Eheralded an increase in rural Region 1 fire activity across South Australia Area burnt – 2,800 hectares that was beyond our experience base. Cause – Undetermined The lack of rainfall, predicted 20 November 2006 higher temperatures and no forecast Location – Ki Ki (Coonalpyn), respite in conditions expected for Region 3 some time meant that the fire Area burnt – 11,000 hectares danger season had the potential to Cause – Lightning be of longer duration than those of 20 November 2006 32 previous years. Location – Stoneleigh Park, The Fire Danger Season (FDS) was Region 3 VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES brought forward to commence on 15 Area burnt – 1,300 hectares October 2006 for the entire state. Cause – Lightning In the past, individual Fire Ban 21 November 2006 More than 200 firefighters responded to a grass and scrub fire at One Tree Hill (Humbug Scrub). Districts have had the FDS start Location – Padthaway, Region 5 date brought forwards; however this Area burnt – 478 hectares The fire burnt 214 hectares and destroyed three sheds. was the first time it had occurred Cause – Lightning Photo: Matt Bonser, Morphett Vale CFSFS statewide. 21 November 2006 The dry conditions, combined with a Location – Marcollat, Region 5 27 November 2006 2 December 2006 series of dry lightning events, resulted Area burnt – 265 hectares Location – Bookmark complex of Location – Worumba (Hawker), in over 25 significant bushfires Cause – Lightning fires (Gluepot), Waikerie, Region 4 during a period from October 2006 21 November 2006 Region 3 Area burnt – 250 hectares through to March 2007. Location – Naracoorte, Region 5 Area burnt – 120,000 hectares Cause – Lightning 5 December 2006 Significant incidents of the Area burnt – 250 hectares Cause – Lightning Location – Onkaparinga Gorge, 2006/07 FDS included: Cause – Unknown 28 November 2006 Region 1 10 October 2006 21 November 2006 Location – Bundaleer, Region 4 Location – Brechin (Mt Taylor), Location – Jip Jip Conservation Area burnt – 209 hectares Area burnt – 200 hectares Kangaroo Island, Park, Region 5 Cause – Deliberate Cause – Lightning Region 1 Area burnt – 200 hectares 31 December 2006 Area burnt - 1,500 hectares Cause – Lightning 30 November 2006 Location – Little Desert, Region 5 Cause - Rekindle from private 21 November 2006 Location – Hincks Conservation Area burnt – 9,000 hectares burnoff previous week Location – Humbug Scrub Park, Region 6 Cause – Lightning 23 October 2006 (One Tree Hill), Region 2 Area burnt – 5,500 hectares 10 January 2007 Location – Mount Bold, Region 1 fi Location - Head of Bight, Region 6 Area burnt – 214 hectares Cause – Lightning On Area burnt – 2,000 hectares Area burnt - 20,000 hectares Cause - Lightning 1 December 2006 Cause – Deliberate Cause - Undetermined 23 November 2006 Location – The Bluff (Burrungule), 10 November 2006 Location – Bunbury (Tilley Swamp), 16 February 2007 Region 5 Location – Ngarkat, Region 5 Location – Nullarbor, Region 6 Region 5 Area burnt – 166 hectares Area burnt – 37,000 hectares Area burnt – 550 hectares Area burnt – 162 hectares Cause - Machinery Cause – Lightning Cause – Lightning Cause – Lightning
The Bluff (Burrungule) forest fire on the 1 December 2006 burnt approximately 166 hectares. More than 200 firefighters attended the incident including firefighters from other regions and interstate. The mosaic of photographs was taken six weeks after the incident. Photo: Paul Dare, Eden Hills CFS
CFS July.indd 32 4/12/07 4:45:22 PM Photo: Lindy Alderslade, Sheaoak Log CFS Photo: Ashley Hosking, Basket Range CFS Photo: Paul Heck, Cherry Gardens CFS
33
Around the 27 November 2006, some eighteen fires caused VOLUNTEER - NEWS & UPDATES More than 250 firefighters attended to the Bridgewater fire by lightning strikes eventually consolidating into the The Mount Bold fire on the 10 January 2007 burnt 2,000 on 21 March 2007, which burnt 17 hectares and Bookmark Fire of some 120,000 hectares. The incident hectares. More than 250 firefighters from CFS, MFS, DEH threatened a number of homes in the area. involved many fire fighting crews and IMT personnel from and Forestry SA worked to contain the blaze. across the State working intensively for 14 days.
16 February 2007 10 March2007 Location – Gammon Ranges Location – Rockleigh, Region 3 (Wilpena), Region 4 Area burnt – 54 hectares Area burnt – 1,000 hectares Cause – Accidental Cause – Lightning 21 March 2007 17 February 2007 Location – Bridgewater, Region 1 Location – Willunga Area burnt – 17 hectares Area burnt – 15 hectares Cause - Accidental Cause of house fire was accidental. 1 fatality 19 February 2007 Location – Pureba Conservation Park (Wirrulla), Region 6 Area burnt – 11,450 hectares Cause – Lightning 19 February 2007 On the 5 December 2006 more than 400 Location – Gawler Ranges firefighters from CFS, MFS and DEH attended the (Wudinna), Region 6 Onkaparinga Gorge fire that burnt approximately Area burnt – 1,467 hectares 209 hectares. Cause – Lightning Photo: Allan Pomery, Port Elliot CFS
TABLE 1 Fire Danger Season Fire Ban Districts AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE From To Adelaide Metropolitan Area 1 November 30 April Mount Lofty Ranges 1 November 30 April FOR ALL CFS VOLUNTEERS Kangaroo Island 1 November 30 April Mid North 15 October 30 April REVISED START DATES TO THE 2007/08 FIRE DANGER SEASON Yorke Peninsula 15 October 30 April he record dry conditions across At this time, the normal termination Murraylands 15 October 15 April the state has resulted in early dates will apply. Riverland 15 October 15 April Tdrying of both grasslands This year there will be a significant Upper South East 1 November 15 April and forests. risk in forested and scrubland areas. Lower South East 15 November 30 April This has meant that the start of the Further information can be found Flinders 15 October 15 April 2007-08 Fire Danger Season has been on the CFS website at www.cfs. North East Pastoral 15 October 31 March brought forward in all but two Fire sa.gov.au or phone the bushfire Eastern Eyre Peninsula 15 October 15 April Ban Districts. information hotline on 1300 362 361. North West Pastoral 15 October 31 March The official Fire Danger Season Lower Eyre Peninsula 15 October 15 April commenced on the dates specified in Authorised by Euan Ferguson, CFS West Coast 15 October 15 April table 1. Chief Officer * These dates may change due to seasonal conditions.
CFS July.indd 33 4/12/07 4:45:47 PM WHO’S WHO IN THE TRAINING ZOO
34 VOLUNTEER - TRAINING
or this edition of Volunteer, total,eight years with Burnside and Specialist project area: Training Being part of Air Operations in the Public Affairs spoke with the 27 years with Athelstone. course development and all other summer and the personalities that Fmen and women of the State Specialist project area: HAZMAT, specialist areas in CFS training. I get to work with on a daily basis Training Centre. CBR, clandestine labs, special risk Other CFS positions: Air Attack makes it a great work environment. The CFS training department assists hazards, MART (Mutual Aid Response Supervisor, HAZMAT Oncall, Acting If I won a million dollars I would: with the training of more than 15 000 Team) and HAZMAT Oncall Manager Training. Buy an island. volunteers and helps coordinate more Other CFS positions: Air Attack What attracted you to the position? If I could be doing any job in the than 32 000 course accreditations Supervisor, HAZMAT Oncall and Enjoyment of training and working world it would be: What I’m doing. being undertaken by the staff, Acting Manager Training. within a fire service. volunteers and external agencies. What attracted you to the position? Most enjoyable part of being in Owen Glover CFS is a Registered Training Being part of the State Training the CFS Training Department? Position: Senior Curriculum Organisation and this only goes Team allows me to combine a I would call all of the Development Officer – Incident to show how professional and passion for training with the people that I work with Management. dedicated our volunteer and staff enjoyment of working within a fire my mates and to come to Years of Service: 20 years. trainer assessors are. service. On a regular basis I get work everyday and spend Volunteer Service: 35 years. So let’s meet the staff of the State to see the people go to incidents, time with them makes it a Specialist project area: Incident Training Centre. manage and attack the incident and great place to work. Management. come home safe. Knowing that I am If I won a million dollars Other CFS positions: Regional Brenton Eden AFSM part of the process that gets people I would: Buy a banana Commander Regions 4 and 2, Position: CFS Manager Training. trained to such a high standard is plantation and retire. Manager Training Facilities, Years of Service: 10 years. very rewarding. If I could be doing any job in the Assistant Regional Officer, State Volunteer Service: 19 years service Most enjoyable part of being in world it would be: Boundary rider for Information Officer. with Elliston and Stirling North the CFS Training Department? the AFL. What attracted you to the position? Brigades. Excellent team of people that I get I have always had a strong interest Other CFS positions: Project Officer to work with on a daily basis who David Pearce in firefighting and was an Aviation Coronial Inquest and Deputy State all have a team focus and I get to Position: State Training Officer – Firefighter for 10 years. I saw the Coordinator. meet other great people from all Natural Environs, Project Manager CFS as a place to go where there What attracted you to the over the state. Rural Firefighting. would be a good career structure position? Opportunity to turn a If I won a million dollars I would: Years of Service: 10 years with and more challenges. I think it was hobby into a career. Continue to work but I have always CFS and 19 years with MFS. also natural progression as I also Most enjoyable part of being in wanted to travel through South Volunteer Service: 31 years with enjoy helping people progress in the CFS Training Department? East Asia, especially the war sites. Blackwood and Brukunga. their training needs. Working with the staff in the I would love to go to ANZAC Cove on Specialist project area: Most enjoyable part of being in department. ANZAC Day. Rural Firefighting. the CFS Training Department? If I won a million dollars I would: If I could be doing any job in the Other CFS positions: Acting The camaraderie between all of Build a purpose built class and world it would be: I’m doing it, it’s Manager Training, CFS Senior the staff. I also enjoy meeting new auditorium for Brukunga. the best job in the world. Curriculum Development Officer, people and being able to train If I could be anything in the world Acting Manager Operations the sons and daughters of people I would be: This one. Corey Dunn Planning, Air Attack Supervisor, Air I trained years ago is also a big Position: Senior Curriculum Operations and Level 3 Incident reward. I also get to train people Wayne Atkins AFSM Development Officer. Management Team. who want to be trained. Position: CFS Senior State Years of Service: 16 years. What attracted you to the position? If I won a million dollars I would: Training Officer. Volunteer Service: Member The challenge of the position. Buy a small country pub. Years of Service: 20 years. for 12 years with Tea Tree Gully Most enjoyable part of being in If I could be doing any job in the Volunteer Service: 35 years and Salisbury. the CFS Training Department? world it would be: Ship’s Captain.
CFS July.indd 34 4/12/07 4:45:56 PM Other CFS positions: Air Observer, What attracted you to the Air Operations Manager and Rural position? Personal interest in Fire Investigator. structural firefighting as my What attracted you to the brigade is in an urban area. position? A passion for the Also a chance to specialise and organisation and training. I am increase knowledge in structure able to help people who want to firefighting techniques. expand their knowledge and learn Most enjoyable part of being in new skills as firefighters. It’s the CFS Training Department? very rewarding. Working with the volunteers, I get Most enjoyable part of being in the to interact with volunteers from CFS Training Department? Working across the state and get to see << 35 Front row: Aimee Foster, Sarah Stopford, Alison Walsh, Wayne Atkins with a great team and training how diverse our organisation really
Middle row: Lee Watson, Greg Stone, Corey Dunn, Matt Davis, Owen Glover, Tim Maitland people who want to be trained. is. I now have a greater appreciation VOLUNTEER - TRAINING Back row: Darren Chapman, David Pearce, Grant Walker, Garth Hogarth If I won a million dollars I would: of CFS as a whole. Pay off any debts, invest the rest If I won a million dollars I would: Lee Watson Other CFS positions: STO - and keep working. Keep working, invest in my children’s Position: State Training Officer - Specialist Rescue, STO - CABA If I could be doing any job in the future and pay off debts. Quality Systems and Professional Training and Compressors, world it would be: V8 Supercar If I could be doing any job in the Development. Eastern Zone Training Officer, driver or helicopter pilot. world it would be: This one. Years of Service: Eight years. Acting Regional Commander 3, Volunteer Service: 26 years – 5 and 6, Acting Aviation Services Bob Kearney Corey-Jay Frazer Started with Basket Range before Officer, Acting Manager Training Position: Senior Leadership Position: Acting State moving to Norton Summit/Ashton. Facilities, State Air Resource Consultant. Training Officer. Specialist project area: Manage Coordinator, Air Observer, Years of Service: Seven years. Years of Service: Two. organisational requirements to Air Attack Supervisor, Air Volunteer Service: Six years with Volunteer Service: 15.5 between enable the CFS to be a Registered Operations Manager. Brukunga. Smithfield, Athelstone, One Tree Hill Training Organisation (RTO). What attracted you to the position? Specialist project area: Frontline and Dalkeith. Manage volunteer Trainer-Assessor During my time studying at Uni I leadership & Navigate in Urban and Specialist project area: Road professional development. Coordinate spent a lot of time at Brookway Park Rural Environment. Accident Rescue all issues relating to Recognition helping to run training courses. I Other CFS positions: Base Camp Other CFS positions: Region 3 of Prior Learning and Course Credit saw the position as an opportunity Manager, Staging Area Manager and Training Officer, Instructor in CFB, Transfer as well as managing the to extend what I was doing as a Leadership within CFS and other OBAOC, LPG Hot Pad and involved arrangements for external training volunteer and gain more knowledge agencies. with Air Operations. provider to deliver First Aid, Chainsaw, and experience. What attracted you to the position? What attracted you to the position? Driving related training to CFS. Most enjoyable part of being in Escaped from Yatala.* My life career goal was to become a Other CFS positions: State the CFS Training Department? I Most enjoyable part of being in trainer with a Fire/Rescue agency. Logistics Officer have the best playground to play in, the CFS Training Department? Most enjoyable part of being in What attracted you to the position? in a wonderful environment and with Working with positive people, the CFS Training Department? Combining a passion for volunteer a great team. volunteers and country folk. I love the challenge of dynamic firefighting with a desire to provide If I won a million dollars I would: If I won a million dollars I would: changes that occur throughout quality training. Pay off any debts and then go on Send anonymous cheques to a few training in our industry and Most enjoyable part of being in the an extended diving holiday in the close friends and family. understanding where the CFS Training Department? Everyday Caribbean. I would also look at If I could be anything in the SACFS procedures align with brings something new and challenging setting up a dive shop or dive world I would be: A very interesting the rest of Australia. It also helps within the State Training Team. tour business in the Caribbean grandfather. to be working in an environment If I won a million dollars I would: or Bahamas. (*Editors note: Although some that encourages fun, enthusiasm Continue working for the CFS, buy If I could be doing any job in the would query the statement, Bob and productivity. Having worked a new house, set myself up for world it would be: Dive shop or actually worked for Correctional in many team based jobs over retirement and go on a long holiday. dive tour operator in the Caribbean Services and wasn’t a prisoner.) the years I am confident in If I could be doing any job in the or Bahamas. saying that the STC people are world it would be: I’m doing it. Darren Chapman the best group of people that I Garth Hogarth Position: State Training Officer – have had the pleasure of Greg Stone Position: State Training Officer – Built Environs. working with. Position: State Training Officer – OBAOC (Operate Breathing Apparatus Years of Service: Seven months. If I won a million dollars I would: Safe Off Road Driver Training. Open Circuit) Project Manager Volunteer Service: 32 years with Set myself up with a dive shop in Years of Service: 19 years. Years of Service: Four years. Salisbury and Tea Tree Gully. Queensland somewhere and also Volunteer Service: 27 Years in total Volunteer Service: 27 years in Specialist project area: travel the world. with Ardrossan and Tea Tree Gully. total at Ardrossan, Tea Tree Gully Compartment Fire Behaviour and If I could be anything in the world Specialist project area: Rural and Brukunga. Hot Pad. I would be: A travelling international Firefighting and Driver Training. Specialist project area: OBAOC Other CFS positions: Air Operations. chocolate tester!
CFS July.indd 35 4/12/07 4:46:00 PM
<<
<< Brenton Eden and Bob Kearney Corey-Jay Frazer
Tim Maitland OtOtherher CFCFSS popositions:sition AAiri OOperations some time off and backpack around Years of Service: 18 months.th Position: Manager Training Facilities. Manager and Air Observer. the world. What attracted you to the Years of Service: Seven months What attracted you to the position? If I could be doing any job in the position? Job availability. Volunteer Service: 3 years with Love for CFS and was following in my world it would be: Interior designer. Most enjoyable part of being in 36 Cherryville. big brothers footsteps. the CFS Training Department? The What attracted you to the position? Most enjoyable part of being in Aimee Foster great group of people that I get to VOLUNTEER - TRAINING Was looking for a change from what the CFS Training Department? Position: CFS Administration spend my days with. I was doing and saw CFS as a great The big family environment Officer STC. If I won a million dollars I would: opportunity and a great place to work. at Brukunga. Years of Service: Five years. Pay off my house and buy a holiday Most enjoyable part of being in If I won a million dollars I would: What attracted you to the position? shack in Port Douglas, Queensland. the CFS Training Department? Pay off my debts, go on a long Close to home in a peaceful location. If I could be doing any job in the Being interviewed by CFS Public holiday and give the rest to charities. Most enjoyable part of being in world it would be: A retiree. Affairs and the wonderful people I If I could be doing any job in the the CFS Training Department? The work with and great atmosphere. world it would be: This one. great bunch of people that I get to Grant Walker I get to come to work amongst the work with. Position: Groundsman. birds and the trees everyday.* Sarah Stopford If I won a million dollars I would: Years of Service: Six months. If I won a million dollars I would: Position: CFS Training Administration Go on a long holiday to Italy. What attracted you to the position? Buy an Aussie Racer and compete in Systems Project Officer. If I could be doing any job in the Gardening and landscaping is my the Aussie Racer Circuit or I’d buy an Years of Service: Seven years. world it would be: Chef. profession and this is close to home. Aston Martin DB9. Specialist project area: Training Most enjoyable part of being in If I could be doing any job in the Administration System. Alison Walsh the CFS Training Department? The world it would be: Formula One Driver. What attracted you to the position? Position: CFS Facilities people that I get to work with. (*Editors note: Sorry Tim, saying Living in the Adelaide Hills it was a job Administration Officer STC. If I won a million dollars I would: nice things about CFS Public Affairs that was close to home. Pay off my house, buy a new car still wont get you a cover shot.) Most enjoyable part and a Harley Davidson and go on a of being in the CFS nice holiday. Matt Davis Training Department? If I could be doing any job in the Position: Technical Support Officer STC. The people that I world it would be: Pilot. Years of Service: 4 years. get to work with. Volunteer Service: 18 years with If I won a Woodside. million dollars Specialist project area: Everything. I would: Take
The CFS State Training Centre at Brukunga.
CFS July.indd 36 4/12/07 4:46:04 PM ROAD ACCIDENT RESCUE TRAINER ASSESSORS By: Corey-Jay Frazer
round 1995, a small group of their high level of professionalism highly trained and operationaly when instructing on the job, and you Aexperienced volunteers were have one great group. brought together to become the Road It is very pleasing to see the addition 37 Accident Rescue Training Officers of the first female RARTA to the team (RARTOs) for the SACFS. recently, with the addition of Tanya VOLUNTEER - TRAINING Back then, the group consisted of Norman of Aldinga Beach Brigade. volunteers from every CFS region, As a young volunteer my first giving their time to deliver the initial exposure to the team was at the STC Corey-Jay Frazer Anthony Paul Vehicle Accident Rescue (VAR) courses when I completed my VAR course. of Tea Tree Gully Brigade at the State Training Centre (STC). Instantly I knew I wanted to expand Over time, the group progressed my knowledge and experience in the to travelling around the state to field of Road Accident Rescue. deliver Road Accident Rescue (RAR) I started out in 1998 as a forklift upskill training. operator for the RARTOs and have These extremely dedicated since shared many opportunities members also travelled interstate and experiances with volunteers to national competitions to at State Level & Australasian observe and learn new rescue Rescue Challenges. Todd Robertson Tanya Norman techniques and how to deal with I learnt so much from all the RARTOs of Pt Wakefeild Brigade of Aldinga Beach Brigade new vehicle technologies from about professionalism and realism. other Emergency Services. Although many of them have This group became well known now moved on to other things in amongst our organisation and life, I would like to acknowledge established great camaraderie and thank those volunteers that and traditions that continue in the built the foundations of where the present group of Road Accident Road Accident Rescue training is Rescue Trainer Assessors (RARTA’s). in the CFS today. The group are never shy to test the With that said, I took a few boundaries of setting each other up moments to randomly ask some of Bill Prideaux Greame Hancock for a good laugh. Match that with the current RARTA’s a few questions: of One Tree Hill Brigade of Birdwood Brigade
CFS July.indd 37 4/12/07 4:46:10 PM RARTA’s using hydraulic tools. <<
ROAD ACCIDENT RESCUE << TRAINER ASSESSORS Demonstrating extrication techniques. Continued from page: 37 How Long have you been a RARTA? What has been your most Graeme: I remember one course technology hash createdreated a necessitynecessity Todd: Five years memorable moment as a RARTA? early in my RARTA days, I had to keep up to date with changes and Bill: Ten years, I started in the first Todd: Representing the CFS in New this trainee and he had all the advancements to vehicles safety intake of RARTA back in 1996. Zealand and every course leaves me right answers whenever I asked a systems as they are effectively Anthony: Joined the group in 1999, with good memories question. I made a comment to him making our role as rescuers more 38 so eight years now. Bill: I have a lot of moments that “What are you a rocket scientist” difficult and hazardous
VOLUNTEER - TRAINING Tanya: 12 months. I remember fondly, but the most He was, he worked at Woomera! Tanya: Keeping up to date with Graeme: About 18 months (Been rewarding was working on the National changes in techniques and technology having too much fun to remember). RCR Competitions in 2006. From the What are the challenges of being a Graeme: Yes, keeping abreast of planning, setup, running and cleanup, Trainer Assessor in a Specialist field? the changes, as each new model of Why did you become a RARTA? it was a great time and I learnt a lot. Todd: Dealing with different people vehicle is released there is always Todd: Enjoyed instructing at brigadegade Anthony:Anthony: I wwouldould hhaveave to ssayay tthehe andand theirtheir personalities somethings new to give us a surprise. level and wanted to take it further.er. Bill: To put something back in WhatW advice would you give to to CFS, I had some skills and a volunteer wanting to become experiences that I could pass on toto a Trainer Assessor in any of the Back row: Graeme Hancock, Tanya other members. Norman and Anthony Paul. Front row: ttraining fields? Anthony: Tragically my mother Todd Robertson and Bill Prideaux. Todd: Love what you do. was killed in a road crash when I Bill: Keep an open mind and learn was 14 years old, as was a good abouta your subject. Never stop friend when I was 18 years old. learningle because change is always After joining the Tea Tree Gully CFSFS thereth and you will be working with a in 1987, I soon completed my VARR greatg bunch of people. So go for it! course so I could do something It’sIt very rewarding. to help unfortunate casualties Anthony:A Being a Trainer Assessor in of road trauma. My decision to a chosen field can be very rewarding, undertake the course was met withith however,ho in this day and age where some hesitation by the brigade peoplepe are more ‘time poor’ it can leaders who were concerned aboutut be time consuming. The old saying how I would cope, but this just ‘every‘e little bit helps’ is very true, but made me more determined. Road I wouldw certainly encourage anyone accident rescue became my passionion aspiringas to become a volunteer Trainer and after ten years I was looking to Assessor,As particularly in RAR, to do do more. With some mentoring fromom it for the right reasons, whatever Arthur Tindall (ex TTG LT and RARTO)TO) theyth may be, and give it 100 percent. I applied to become a RARTO in As a leader in your chosen field 1998 so I could broaden my own youryo knowledge and skills need to knowledge and skills and impart be current and above average and this on many other volunteers thethe best way to maintain this is to throughout the state. be involved as much as possible. In Tanya: I enjoy helping others doingdo so you will become part of a learn in CFS & find RAR to be the dynamicdyn team of people working most challenging. towardstow a common goal and you get Graeme: I worked shift work for RARTO trip to the International Bill: There sure are a lot of to meet people from all over the state 20 years (on a continental roster). competitions in Melbourne in 1999. challenges, trying to keep up with who are looking to draw from the Which meant I only got 13 weekends What a learning experience! Aside all the new safety equipment being knowledge you and your team have off a year. After I gave up shift work I from this, I would include delivering put into vehicles now and being able to offer. found I had all these extra weekends a very memorable course in Coober to pass on new ways to do the job Tanya: Make a commitment to off and what was I to do with them? Pedy, and in general just being partly safely and efficiently. attend as many courses as possible, I know become a RARTA. No seriously responsible for training people from Anthony: Road Accident Rescue is but most of all have fun and enjoy I felt that my brigade could really many and varied backgrounds so continually evolving and certainly what you are doing, as this will pass benefit from having a RARTA in the they too can provide an invaluable provides a challenging field to be on to the trainees. brigade and allow us to keep up with service in their communities a trainer / assessor in. Although Graeme: Be passionate about your the ever changing field of road crash Tanya: Meeting people from across the basic rescue evolutions remain field of expertise and have a real desire and I love meeting new people. the state. much the same, new vehicle to impart your knowledge to others.
CFS July.indd 38 4/12/07 4:46:20 PM CABA RECOMMISSIONING
FACILITY UPGRADE OC/CABA By: Garth Hogarth, CFS State Training Officer, Project Manager OBAOBAOC/CABA
ver the past twelve months the The old PPC drying room has been CABA BATA Recommissioning removed allowing a larger area for thehe 4. OFacility has undergone some delivery of practical training sessions.s. major changes. All CABA PPC has been replaced These changes were required to with new PBI Gold clothing. improve manual handling issues, The clothing is stored in two new reduce hazards and improve the timber cupboards that facilitate thee environment for teaching sessions, storage of 50 new pairs of level threee which require demonstration of skills structural gloves to be used by CABAA to be attained. trainees. (Photo 4) 39 Improvements such as a fresh A new stainless steel bench VOLUNTEER - TRAINING coat of paint and new lighting has installed at the end of the wash brightened the area and made it trough will allow trainees to easily much more conducive to training. observe the delivery of the CABA set
Changes have been made to recommissioning training session. << stored in two new timber cupboards. the storage of CABA cylinders; all The bench also houses the CABA ClothingClothing is stored in two new timber cupboards. cylinders are now stored below the set record cards and wipes used for workbenches in PVC tubing. (Photo 1) drying the CABA facemasks. The PVC tubing, unlike previous (see Photo 1) steel shelving, has reduced the The original CABA compressor has frictional drag between the cylinder been replaced with a larger capacity 3. and the tubing, reducing the effort compressor with the addition of a required to load and unload cylinders. Revolve Air filling cabinet. (Photo 2) Two stainless steel cylinder trolleys, The new compressor will fill the which carry 10 cylinders at a time, storage banks much quicker and have made it easier to transport have the capacity to direct fill cylinders between the building and cylinders faster than the existing one. the Gator. (Photo 2) This will improve cylinder The old helmet rack from over the filling turn around times for wash trough was removed and two wall training courses and operational mounted stainless steel helmet drying requirements when needed. racks have been installed. (Photo 3) A big ‘thank you’ to the volunteer The new helmet racks accommodate Trainer Assessors, Course Assistants, two sets of helmets for Saturday and staff and their families for helping been installed. ying racks have Sunday CABA operator refresher courses. with the renovations. << steel helmet dr < ss Two nenewws stainlessstainle steel helmet drying racks have been installed.
1.
2. The new Revolve Air cylinder filling blast cabinet and one of the new stainless steel cylinder trolleys.
CABA cylinders are now stored effectively under workbenches in PVC tubing.
CFS July.indd 39 4/12/07 4:46:40 PM CFB NATIONAL SEMINAR uring April 2007, the SACFS Assessors to ensure that each agencyy hosted the first AFAC- gained the benefit of those who had Dsponsored Compartment Fire extensive experience in the field of Behaviour Training Working Group CFB training. (CFBTWG) Workshop. Since the seminar Darren Chapman, The seminar was originally CFS State Training Officer, has proposed in 2000 during discussions traveled to the Northern Territory between CFB Training Officers from to assist with the delivery of a CFB Queensland and South Australia. Instructor Course in collaboration While it took seven years to with the NSW Fire Brigades and John McDonough, Station Officer, achieve, the Working Group was very the Fire and Emergency Services NSW Fire Brigades practicing gas successful, with representatives Authority of Western Australia. cooling techniques. 40 from fire services across Australia More recently Corey Dunn, CFS State
VOLUNTEER - TRAINING and New Zealand. Training Officer, has continued an The original intention of the Working established tradition of assisting Group was to establish a network of with the delivery of training with the Participants entering Trainer Assessors to support those New Zealand Fire Service. Cell A to undertake fire agencies currently delivering Under the leadership of Chairperson the first burn. CFB, or planning to deliver CFB John McDonough, Station Officer, training, so they could discuss, plan from the NSW Fire Brigades and the and implement the next progression Deputy Chairperson Corey Dunn, CFS in structural firefighting. State Training Officer, it is hoped One of the key outcomes of the that this Working Group will assist in seminar was to continue the providing all agencies with a clear tradition of interstate Training direction as they enhance their areas OfOfficersficers wworkingorking wwith local Trainer of training in structural fire fighting.
Channel 9 interviewing Peter Mason, District Officer, SA Metropolitan Fire Service.
Safety Officers check participants before undertaking a burn.
Fire building in intensity within the cell.
MEDICAL FORM NOW ON WEB By: Garth Hogarth, CFS State Training Officer, Project Manager OBAOC/CABA
he new Medical Form Version medical that will be accepted by the 7 for Operate Breathing CFS for trainees undertaking initial << The new Medical Form V7 TApparatus Open Circuit or refresher training. available on the CFS website. (OBAOC) and CABA Operator CFS will not be responsible for the refresher (CABA) is now available via reimbursement of any CABA medical the CFS website www.cfs.sa.gov.au cost incurred by volunteers who have Volunteers wishing to use this form not received confirmation of a course must ensure they comply with the nomination approval from either requirements as stated. their Regional Training Officer or the CABA medical V7 is the only OBAOC Project Manager.
CFS July.indd 40 4/12/07 4:47:02 PM Weather and Bushfire Behaviour 41 VOLUNTEER - WEATHER & BUSHFIRE BEHAVIOUR INFORMATION & POSTER
SA has a history of droughts and severe fire weather, which has caused some devastating fires, causing extensive loss of life and property. Such tragedies are high on the list of “Natural Disasters.” It is important for each level of our Service to understand the weather, where they can access the information and the potential for its adverse influence on bushfire behaviour, either immediately or within a few days.
Firefighters - should be aware permanent weather stations are special fire weather forecast for the • Drought Factor and Mount of the strategies and tactics to be displayed on the BOM Registered next 12/24 hours or 4 days. Soil Dryness Index (MSDI) for implemented, their surroundings, User website. The BOM website can provide selected locations. fuel levels, fire behaviour, current It is essential to be aware of a change current and predicted weather, • Weather Bulletins including and forecast weather, so that in wind strength or direction, either specifically: weather and rainfall data they work as an integrated team by being provided with the forecast or • Weather Forecasts, Warnings • Forecast Charts including MSL supporting each other, not just by observing the “tell-tale” signs – a and Observations Analysis and Prognosis relying on their crew leader’s flank can quickly become a front and • Weather Charts • Forecasts and Warnings knowledge and competencies. could seriously affect the safety of your • Radar Images including SA Fire Danger Crew Leaders - should obtain crew. • Satellite Images Ratings, Smoke Dispersion weather information from their Apart from a front, sudden wind • National Weather Charts Forecasting Model for hazard Incident Control Centre, that can changes may also be associated including Mean Sea Level reduction burns and bushfires access the Bureau of Meteorology with downbursts from thunderstorms (MSL) Analysis and Prognosis During the Fire Danger Season, the (BOM) website. or showers from higher based • Rainfall and Temperature Maps CFS State Coordination Centre (SCC) Sector Commanders and Divisional clouds, willy-willy or the arrival of a • Seasonal Outlooks facilitates a weather briefing for the Commanders - are expected to have sea breeze. The weather information forms an next week during a phone conference a superior understanding of weather Firefighters can determine the integral part of the Incident Action at 10.30am each Thursday for all prediction and the effects on fire likely change of wind direction from Plan (IAP), which details the efficient agencies’ regional fire managers behaviour. a downburst by the location and and effective use of all resources around the State. Incident Controllers - are direction of travel of the storm. to effectively contain the fire in the Total fire bans (TFBs) are based on responsible for obtaining and Any such change not already forecast shortest possible time, minimising the ratings (derived from forecasts analysing all relevant weather must be communicated immediately to life, property and environmental loss. of weather elements – temperature, information, current and forecast, to the Incident Control Centre and all crews The CFS has access to the relative humidity and wind speed establish and implement strategies on the fireground. “Registered User” section of the - as well as the Drought Factors to ensure the safety of all involved. It is important to take weather BOM website, which provides and Grassland Curing at specified This will be the role of a Situation readings on the fireground, which additional information including: locations in each South Australian Officer during a complex incident should be relayed to the Incident • 12/24 hour and four-day going Fire Ban District) received daily To calculate the Fire Danger Index Control Centre. fire forecasts. from the Bureau of Meteorology, (FDI) on a total fire ban day or when This weather information will • Latest Weather Chart and during the fire danger season, at responding to an incident, you need enable you to utilise the forest Satellite Picture approximately 4.30pm. to know, the drought factor (scale or grassland fire danger meter • Current Observations After reviewing the forecast of 1 – 10) for Forest FDI (FFDI), and assist in predicting the fire • Radar images and radar from the BOM, the Deputy State relative humidity, temperature and behaviour. derived rainfall totals Coordinator (or other delegated wind speed for both FFDI and GFDI, The BOM require your accurate • Recent Conditions including officer) will determine which and curing for GFDI. The FDI’s for fireground observations to provide a Rainfall Maps districts will have a TFB imposed.
CFS July.indd 41 4/12/07 4:47:40 PM WEATHER AND BUSH HIGH PRESSURE SYSTEM LOW PRESSURE SYSTEM
High pressure systems provide dry, warm weather with the possibility of a Winds circulate clockwise. lead up to critical fire weather. Winds circulate anti-clockwise. TROUGH 1016 1018
RIDGE 1012 1022
LOW 998 1000 Isobars showing a ridge or wedge of high pressure. Isobars aanandnd wiwwindsndn s of a typicalical llow.ow. 1002
LIGHT WINDS WIND PATTERNS WIND STRENGTH 1014
1012
1010
1018 LOW
STRONG WINDS Streamlines show the direction of wind flows Wind strength according to pressure gradient. The closer the around highs and lows. isobars, the stronger the wind.
FRONTAL SYSTEMS
When one air mass moves into an area occupied by another, the two do not mix substantially unless their temperature and moisture are similar.A boundary zone known as a front forms between the two.
Diagramatic cross section of a typical cold front. Diagramatic cross section of a typical warm front.
CFS July.indd 42 4/12/07 4:47:41 PM FIRE BEHAVIOUR
FIRE DANGER INDEX AND RATING
STABLE & UNSTABLE ATMOSPHERE 12 24
5 50 STABLE ATTMOMMOSPHERE Cloudss in llaayery s No vererticcala momotioni RELATIVELY WARM AIR Stratus typey e clouds 0 100 Smoke coluumn driftfts aparpa t Innteensity FlF ame after limited rise (kkw/m) HeH ight (m) FDDR FoForest Firees Poor visibility in lowererr RELATIVELY levels ddue to accumulatition Fires generally self COLCO D AIR of smoke and hah ze 0 - 50 00- - 0.0.5 LOOW extingguisi hing. FogF layers HanHand tool linneses shhould Steady winds 50 - 5000 0.5 - 1.5.5 MOODERATET hholo d the fire. Direct aattack recommenme ded.
FFireet too intenseef for 500 - 2002 0 1.55 - 3.0 HIGH ddirectt attack.k ParPa allel aattack recommennded. UNSTABLE ATMOSPHERE CloC oudsud groww vererticiccalla y RELATIVELY and smokee rises tto great CroCr wn firreae at upper COLD height 2000 - 4000 3.0 - 10.0.0 VVERY HIGH intensnsiities. Indirect atttack recommended. CuCumumuluul s type cloudou s Crowwning, spotting and major UUpwardds and dowoward over 4000 over 10.0 firess ruruns likely. Control efforts EXTRREME probabablyl inei ffective.ve Defensive currents gusty wind strateegy recommended. RERELATIVELLY WARM Gooood visibilityitty Fuel loads heavier than 12.5 tonnes per hectaare Dust whirrls may produce more extreme fire behaviour
SUMMER HEATWAVE: Typical Bad Fire Weather Situation DOWNBURST (Microburst or Macroburst)
Strong cold front moving through the Bight.Strong, dry N to NW winds ahead Cool dense air sinks and spreads out rapidly in all directions, of the front. typically at 80kph but can be up to 270kph causing a dangerous situation for firefighters.
TURBULENCE
STORM MOVEMENT
ROLL CLOUD WIND SHEAR WIND SHEAR TURBULENCE TURBULENCE ZONE ZONE
PRECIPITATION FIRST GUST
© BOM. Reproduced by courtesy of Bureau of Meterology, NSW
CFS July.indd 43 4/12/07 4:47:48 PM Beaufort Scale El Niño The Drought Factor (DF) calculation is seasonal fluctuations in the air pressure based on the rainfall record over the past difference between Tahiti and Darwin. Is a scale that uses observations of the Nowadays, the term El Niño refers 20 days and the current Mount SDI. effects of wind to estimate its speed. to the extensive warming of the Squall Central and Eastern Pacific Ocean La Nina Cold Front that leads to a major shift in Comprises a rather sudden weather patterns across the Pacific. The extensive cooling of the Central increase of the mean wind speed, Where relatively cold, dense air In Australia (particularly Eastern and Eastern Pacific Ocean. which lasts for at least several moves towards the equator, causing Australia), El Niño events are In Australia (particularly Eastern minutes before the mean wind warmer, less dense air to be forced associated with an increased Australia), La Niña events are returns to near its previous value. upwards over its sloping surface probability of drier conditions. associated with increased A squall may include many gusts. with the consequent reduction in probability of wetter conditions. temperature. Front Thunderstorms When sufficient moisture is present Lows in the air, the uplift associated with Is the boundary between air masses Deep convective clouds or clusters the front can result in the formation having different characteristics. In the southern hemisphere are of clouds from which lightning and of large cumulus clouds. Cumulus atmospheric circulations that rotate the resulting thunder occur. 44 clouds produce shower type weather, Gust clockwise with converging air rising Thunderstorms are usually
VOLUNTEER - WEATHER & BUSHFIRE BEHAVIOUR INFORMATION & POSTER and sometimes develop further into in the centre. associated with precipitation (rain thunderstorms. Is any sudden increase of wind of Lows are generally associated with or sometimes hail). However, a If the air is very dry, a cold front short duration, usually a few seconds. stronger winds, unsettled conditions, thunderstorm may have lightning can also bring a “dry change” with cloudiness and rainfall. to peripheral areas where no rain a change in wind direction and drop Highs falls or it may be a completely dry in temperature but with little or no Portable Automatic Weather storm creating lightning strikes to cloud. In the Southern Hemisphere are Stations (PAWS) ground, which have the potential to Cold fronts are much shallower (less atmospheric circulations that rotate start fires. vertical height) in summer and move anticlockwise with sinking air spreading Portable Automatic Weather quickly up the gulfs, but take much out in a spiral away from centre. Stations (PAWS) are a valuable Troughs longer to pass over the hot land. Highs are generally associated with lighter tool in obtaining critical real-time Often at night, the front can suddenly winds and fine and settled conditions. weather information at or very near A trough is an elongated area of accelerate over the land because the an incident. relatively low pressure. air over the land cools down. Isobars PAWS units provide information about It is indicated by rounded isobars air temperature, relative humidity, mean extending outwards from an area of Convection Are lines on weather maps joining wind speed, gustiness, wind direction, low pressure and has a trough line places with the same mean sea level barometric pressure and rain. associated with it. Is the process generally associated air pressure. Weather information from PAWS The trough axis is usually shown as with warm, rising air and the formation Mean sea level pressure is an units is made available via the BOM a dotted line on the weather chart. of cumulus cloud. “equivalent pressure at sea level” website during major incidents. Showers and thunderstorms are a that allows stations at different Relative Humidity - Is a traditional Wind result of convection in the atmosphere. heights to be compared by taking indicator of the air’s moisture content. their altitude into account. It is the ratio of the amount of Is movement of air and is Downburst moisture actually in the air to the experienced as a continuous Mount Soil Dryness Index (MSDI) maximum amount of moisture, which the succession of gusts and lulls (quiet Is a strong downdraught generated by air could hold at the same temperature. intervals) associated with equally a falling shaft of rain, associated with The Mount Soil Dryness Index (SDI) Relative humidity is normally rapid changes of direction over a an isolated storm or shower, which rarely is calculated using the 24-hour expressed as a percentage and at range, which may exceed 30°. lasts more than 10 – 15 minutes. rainfall and maximum temperature saturation the relative humidity The mean wind speed over a period Dry downbursts can occur when the to 9 am each day and is an indicator will be very close to 100%. of time is therefore the mean of rain evaporates before it reaches the of the amount of rainfall (in mm) The air can hold more moisture at many gusts and lulls. ground, where the intense cooling required to saturate the top layer of higher temperatures; hence the relative Usually only the mean wind is caused by the evaporation causes soil within a forested area. humidity alone does not give an forecast, unless the gusts are the descending air to become denser The Mount SDI value varies, depending absolute measure of moisture content. expected to be a significant feature. and sink even faster. on what type of forest canopy is assumed. For instance, Fresh, gusty south- When the downdraught hits the For locations in the Mount Lofty Ranges Ridge west winds indicates that the mean ground the wind spreads out rapidly and Lower South East districts, the Mount wind speed will be between 30 and in all directions, 80kph is typical but SDI is representative of a pine plantation A ridge is an elongated area of 40 km/h and the mean wind direction can be up to 270kph. (indicated by the darker green shading relatively high pressure. will be from the southwest, but that in the table above). For the remaining It is indicated by rounded isobars there will also be gusts with speeds Drought Factor locations (olive green shading), the extending outwards from an anti-cyclone significantly higher than the mean. calculated Mount SDI is representative of (high) and has a ridgeline associated with it. Thanks to the following individuals Is a scale of 1 - 10, used when an open eucalypt forest. The ridge axis is occasionally shown as for their assistance: calculating the forest fire danger For full details, see the paper by A. B. a wavy line on the weather chart, but is Alan Brinkworth and Ben with the McArthur fire danger meter. Mount, “The derivation and testing of a often not indicated at all. Shepherd, NSW Rural Fire Service It is based on the Mount Soil Dryness soil dryness index using run-off data”, John Prideaux, Bureau of Index, the number of days since rain published as Bulletin Number 4 by the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) Meteorology and the rainfall amount at the time Forestry and Timber Bureau, Canberra, Rob Sandford, CFS Manager of last rain. August 1967. Is calculated from the monthly or Operations Planning
CFS July.indd 44 4/12/07 4:47:55 PM VOLUNTEER - FACES IN THE CROWD 45 4/12/07 4:47:56 PM4/12/07 4:47:56 PM CFS July.indd 45CFS July.indd 45 Statewide > MOUNT LOFTY RANGES ALDINGA PLANE CRASH REGION 1 & KANGAROO ISLAND FS volunteers responded to an aircraft incident on C14 June 2007. Reported to CFS just before 9:30 am, firefighters arrived to find an CAPE JERVIS CFS DINNER aircraft suspended in a vineyard By: Ian Henry, Cape Jervis CFS off Adey Road. Aldinga Beach, Willunga and n December 15 2006 the Cape As a born leader his talents were Sellicks brigades attended the Jervis CFS held it’s annual soon recognised as he was nominated incident to monitor the fuel leak OChristmas party at the Cape and became Group officer in 2000. and assist other agencies. Jervis Tavern. Phil is always calm and in control This may not sound exciting to and has had to deal with quiet a few Aircraft crash in vineyard most, however this was also a interesting situations. at Aldinga. special occasion to present two of He has spoken about stepping our highly regarded fire fighters with down recently to allow other fire very prestigious awards. fighters to take command however 46 Phil Irvine (presently our Group his popularity and reputation have Officer for the Southern Fleurieu) and not allowed this to eventuate. VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE Trevor Bennett (Lieutenant 2 for the He has set a standard that will be Cape Jervis Brigade) were awarded hard to beat. life membership for their dedicated Phil Irvine is truly deserving of life service over many decades as membership and a valuable member He is a highly regarded truck driver members of the Cape Jervis CFS. of both the Cape Jervis CFS and the and considered one of the best in Phil Irvine joined the Cape Jervis Southern Fleurieu Group. the group. CFS in 1982 and had within 10 The group wishes to thank Phil for He’s never pretentious, just the years moved up the ranks to become all his time and commitment to the quiet achiever (maybe sometimes Brigade Captain in 1994. CFS (most of that unseen by your not so quiet). average fire fighter) and appreciates Trevor, well and truly deserves this his dedication and perseverance to Life Membership, he’s a great fire the group. fighter, an excellent leader, and a Trevor Bennett is one of the rare true friend. locals of Delamere / Cape Jervis, It is difficult to express our true with his ancestry going back a very admiration for both Phil and Trevor. long way in the local area. Phil Bowey (our existing Cape Jervis Trevor joined the Cape Jervis CFS Captain) presented these awards as a young lad of 20 years and often unbeknown to either recipient. tells us of the changes that have As part of the proceedings poems occurred over this time. were read out to express some of our Trevor has been a Training Officer, inner most feelings. Lieutenant, Cadet Coordinator, Marie Buller constructed a poem on EquipmentE Officer, Captain and the more serious side of both parties SeniorS Fire fighter. while Ian Henry responded on a not Having been in CFS for 43 years, we so serious side. figurefi he must have just about covered They were well received, however I suspect they will not end up on the << all the positions over this time. Phil Irvine and Trevor Bennett Trevor has a great sense of humour lounge room wall alongside the Life and a fabulous disposition. Membership certificate. He is never frazzled and adapts to Thanks to all for a great night and difficult situations well. congratulations to both Phil and Trevor. $80 000 HOUSE FIRE AT CHARLESTON FS volunteer responded to a Firefighters followed the dog house fire at Charleston just through the internal door and Cafter 11:30pm on 16 May 2007. conducted a search of the room, When firefighters arrived, the rear locating an occupant. of the house on Onkaparinga Valley Both the occupant and the dog were Road was well alight. then safely removed from the home by Firefighters wearing breathing firefighters. apparatus entered the house, Firefighters contained the fire in just and were greeted by a large dog, over 30 minutes. barking furiously. Damage to the two bedroom timber As firefighters started their search of frame home was estimated at $80 000. the house, the dog proceeded to run Fire cause investigators determined back and forth between the entrance that the fire started as a result of a door and another internal door. fault with an electrical fan.
CFS July.indd 46 4/12/07 4:47:58 PM STRATHALBYN GROUP CFS WATER RECYCLING GRANT By: Lorraine McVitty he Strathalbyn Group benefit and involves practical on- Strathalbyn Group CFS was successful in the-ground works that will save and Officer, Rob Giles said, Tits application to the protect our water resources. “we are proud to work Australian Government’s The Strathalbyn project is to together with the Community Water Grants for funding construct a specially designed, Australian Government to assist in creating a water recycling paved training pad where all of the to help improve water training pad. water used for fire fighting training efficiency within Strathalbyn CFS received $50,000 purposes can be collected and our community”. 47
in Round 2 of the Community channelled into an underground “Community Water VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE Water Grants. concrete tank, from where it can be Grants encourage Over 4,500 applications were repeatedly reused. better water use and submitted Australia wide in the Currently, the water utilized for training improvements in water Round and $61.65 million was purposes is used once then flows quality through practicalal approved to fund 1,444 projects away into the storm water system. on-the-ground projects,, throughout the country. With this innovative approach to such as reducing The Strathalbyn Group project was Fire Fighter training, we expect to pollutants reaching ourr
supported because it is community save more than 2 million litres of waterways, water recycling and << orientated, it demonstrates public water per annum. efficiency initiatives,” said Mr Giles. Concreting the inside of the tank.
CAR TRANSPORTER ROLLS ON FREEWAY
n the early hours on 22 May 2007, crews arrived on scene to find a car some of the cars, being transported, needing to be done Mount Barker and Hahndorf CFS transport semi trailer had rolled were scattered across the freeway. through the passenger side door. Icrews were called to assist with a onto its side and was facing the Crews worked for some time to After some time the driver was MVA on the Freeway near Hahndorf. wrong way. free the driver, which was made freed and sent to hospital with Reported to CFS just after 2:30am, The driver was trapped inside and difficult due to the extrication relatively minor injuries.
CFS July.indd 47 4/12/07 4:48:05 PM Statewide > Happy Valley CFS Members REGION 1 Photo: Pip McGowen, Basket Range CFS Continued from page 47
HAPPY VALLEY CFS OPEN DAY AND APPLIANCE COMMISSIONING
he Happy Valley CFS brigade only to bushfires, but also to held an Open Day and Appliance urban structure fires within the TCommissioning at Happy Valley district and surrounding areas. CFS Station on 27 May 2007. The brigade boasts a strong Starting at 10:00 am, the membership of 44 dedicated Minister for Emergency Services, and professional volunteers, the Honourable Carmel Zollo MLC, made up of 32 firefighters and 11 Happy Valley CFS Brigade Captain, recognise how valuable these two 48 officially handed over the keys to two operational support members. Lee Filz, said the day was a special firefighting appliances are to the
VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE new appliances, Happy Valley 34 and Established in 1939 as the Happy occasion for the brigade. community,” Lee said. Happy Valley Pumper. Valley Firefighting and Prevention “After such a busy fire season it The community was also encouraged These two new appliances have Association, the brigade now was great opportunity for us to get to come to the station and have a look assisted in strengthening the attends 200 – 300 emergency together, celebrate the hard work at what the brigade has to offer and brigades firefighting capabilities, not incidents per year. that has been put in by everyone and to speak to the volunteers.
RANGE HOPE FOREST ASSISTS FIRE DESTROYS CARAVAN WITH HORSE RESCUE AT DARLINGTON n the evening of 10 May Once enough water had been FS firefighters from Happy of the fire and suffered minor injuries 2007, Range/Hope Forest removed from the tank the horse Valley and Eden Hills trying to extinguish the blaze. OCFS brigade responded to an was placed in a harness attached Cbrigades and MFS firefighters Firefighters set up hose lines to incident with a difference. to a crane and lifted out of responded to a fire at Darlington protect two adjacent caravans, Just after 8:30pm the brigade was the tank. Caravan Park just before 6:00 pm on which sustained minor damage to called to assist with rescuing a horse It took just over three hours for 2 June 2007. the annexes. that had fallen into a rainwater tank. the very lucky uninjured horse to be When firefighters arrived at Quick thinking by other caravan Needing to pump out the tank lifted to safety. the Sturt River Caravan Park park residents in protecting the to assist the rescue the brigade State Emergency Service and the on Brookside Road they found a adjacent caravans and removing responded its 24 and 34 appliances. RSPCA were also in attendance. caravan with attached annexe gas cylinders prior to the arrival of fully ablaze. firefighters, ensured that the blaze CFS and MFS firefighters worked did not spread significantly. to contain the blaze, however the Damage was estimated at $15 000.0. Rescuers prepare to property was fully destroyed. The cause of the fire was rescue the horse. One occupant was home at the time undetermined but not suspicious. Photo: Ian Hockley, Range/Hope Forest CFS
Scene on arrival Photo: Jeff Anderson, Happy Valley CFS
CFS July.indd 48 4/12/07 4:48:08 PM $300 000 DAMAGE TO $200 000 DAMAGE TO HAPPY VALLEY HOME STRATHALBYN STORE ust after 12:30 am on 24 June the home from being fully destroyed olunteers were to stop the fire from spreading 2007, CFS and SA Metropolitan with only the front rooms and responded to a fire at to the rest of the building, JFire Service (MFS) responded to a above roof space being destroyed, Van antiques store at saving many of the antiques and house fire at Happy Valley. the remaining parts of the home Strathalbyn on the evening of collectables inside. When the more than 30 firefighters suffered some smoke damage. Sunday 18 February 2007. An adjoining building was also arrived at the Southern Cross Fire cause investigators determined On arriving at the High threatened but spared from damage Drive home they found the front that the fire started when soft Street store firefighters found due to the firefighting efforts. rooms ablaze. furnishing were placed too close to that the fire was confined to the roof Damage to the property was Firefighters wearing breathing a heater. space and back office area. estimated at $300 000. apparatus work quickly to contain The occupants were not home at the fire within 30 minutes. the time of the fire. More than 45 firefighters some Fire cause investigators were 49 wearing breathing apparatus unable to determine the cause of the Sound firefighting efforts prevented Damage was estimated at $200 000. contained the fire and were able fire, however, it was not suspicious. Internal view of damage to the home VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE <<
Happy Valley house fire << Crews working at Strathalbyn store fire. Photo: Simon Patterson, Strathalbyn CFS
FIRE DESTROYS SHED AT WOODSIDE HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SPILL FS volunteers from Woodside, Road property to find a 9 x 12 metre final damage estimate was Lenswood/Forest Range and shed well alight. approximately $150 000. AT GOOLWA COakbank/Balhannah brigades Around 15 firefighters contained Local Police investigators confirmed responded to a shed fire at Woodside the fire to the shed and protected the fire was caused by an adjacent olunteers from Goolwa and on 15 June 2007. surrounding assets. rubbish burn that spread to the shed. Currency Creek CFS brigades Reported to CFS just before 4:30 The shed and contents were responded to a hazardous pm, firefighters arrived at the Gallas completely destroyed and the Ashley Hosking, Basket Range CFS << V material (HAZMAT) spill at the Investigator College, Glendale Road Goolwa, on 22 May 2007. Reported to CFS just after 2:30pm fifteen firefighters arrived to find a Mercury thermometer broken in one of the classrooms. Crews contained the spill within a short period of time. A number of children were transported by SA Ambulance to the local medical centre for observation and were discharged shortly after.
Crews clean up mercury spill << Photo: Alan Bence, Goolwa CFS
CFS July.indd 49 4/12/07 4:48:21 PM Statewide > MOUNT LOFTY RANGES REGION 2 YORKE PENINSULA & LOWER NORTH SALISBURY RAR TRAINING EXERCISE
n 30 April, volunteers from The scene Salisbury CFS joined with St was made morere OJohn and SA Police to conduct difficult with a Road Accident Rescue (RAR) on lookers andd training exercise. relatives of The training was to simulate a the casualties major road accident, involving getting in the multiple vehicles, multiple way of CFS casualties and the coordination of and St John multiple agencies. operations. On arrival, volunteers were faced Police were 50 with a three car accident; two of the used to assist
VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE vehicles had entrapments and one with traffic and included a fatality. crowd control
One of the aims of the training and to speak << was to give those that didn’t have a with the drivers St John and CFS prepare to remove casualty from the vehicle. great deal of experience in RAR the of the vehicles. were undertaking first aid on chance to become more familiar with The training proved to be a good the casualties. what processes are used and to give exercise in the coordination of Once the training session was other members more experience in equipment that needed to be shared complete, a debrief was held back senior roles. between the two teams undertaking at the station where everyone agreed To add some realism to the rescue operations on the two that the training was extremely scenario, St John prepared the vehicles with entrapments. useful and very well put together. casualties with fake wounds and Crews also needed to consider the A big thank you to all that blood on their faces. operational needs of St John who participated in the evening.
The blaze when first crews arrived. Photo: Lindy Alderslade, Sheaoak Log CFS $1M HAYSHED FIRE AT FREELING
n 1 May, CFS firefighters attack due to the extreme heat responded to a large hayshed generated by the fire, by protecting Ofire at Freeling, approximately nearby assets and ensuring the fire 60 kilometres north of Adelaide. did not spread. Reported just before 10.45 pm, More than 3 000 tonnes of hay in a CFS crews arrived on the Shanahan property, Gawler Road at Freeling, to shed approximately 130 x 30 metres find the shed well ablaze. in size burnt for several days. Around 30 firefighters in four Damage to the shed and hay was appliances undertook a defensive estimated at $1 000 000.
<<< Bi de Michael Alderslade, Brigade Captain, Sheaoak Log CFS, as Operations Officer at the incident. Photo: Lindy Alderslade, Sheaoak Log CFS
Gungellan 24 at the Hayshed fire. Hay still burning three days later. Photo: Lindy Alderslade, Sheaoak Log CFS Photo: Lindy Alderslade, Sheaoak Log CFS
CFS July.indd 50 4/12/07 4:48:30 PM $150 000 DAMAGE TO VIRGINIA HOME <<< Damage to the home was estimated at $150 000. FS responded to a house fire at Virginia, north of Adelaide, Con 28 February. Reported to CFS just after midnight, when firefighters arrived at the home on the corner of Supple and McEvoy Roads, they found the front rooms of the home engulfed in flames. More than 25 firefighters some wearing breathing apparatus took around 30 minutes to contain the fire. 51 The home suffered extensive smoke and heat damage, with damage VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE estimated at $150 000. Fire Cause Investigators
determined the fire started after a
hot water system overheated, due to The front rooms of the Virginia << a lack of water. home were engulfed in flames when CFS firefighters arrived.
SIXTY YEARS OF ARDROSSAN CFS By: Nic Marsh, Ardrossan CFS
n a cool Sunday, on 12 August, recognised a commitment of 225
Robert Hogarth unveils the << a day when firefighting was years of service. Ardrossan CFS Captains Oprobably the furthest thing He also officially handed over the honour board. from people’s minds, the Ardrossan keys to the two newest trucks recently CFS celebrated 60 years of service to supplied to the Ardrossan CFS. the local community. These trucks feature a number of Kicking-off proceedings Greg safety features designed to provide Vandepeer, Brigade Captain, the maximum possible protection for welcomed the people who attended firefighters in the event of a burnover. Peter Freer (25yr), Ian Hicks (10yr), << the ceremony and gave a brief Euan informed the crowd one of his Sue Beck (10yr), Brian Tugwell (45yr), rundown of the history of the less savoury duties involved visiting Greg Vandepeer (10yr), Euan Ardrossan Brigade. injured firefighters in hospital, a job Ferguson, Brenton Phillips (20yr), Of particular interest was the degree he expected to be doing less often, Graham Cooke (25yr), Neil Brown of fundraising involved in the early now these safety features are a part (30yr), Alia Beaumont (for Tim years of the organisation, something of all fire trucks. Beaumont – 10yrs) the Emergency Services Levy has The afternoon concluded with Life Euan Ferguson and Greg Vandepeer Absent: David Porter (10yrs), Bruno effectively made redundant. Member, Robert Hogarth, unveiling an unveiled a plaque commemorating 60 Rovelli (15yrs) Greg then handed over to Euan honour board to recognise the work years of service for Ardrossan CFS. Ferguson, CFS Chief Officer, who of the past captains of Ardrossan spoke briefly about the volunteer station; a list of 12 names stretching ethic in local communities and back to 1947. the sacrifice families, individuals Afternoon tea and the chance to and employers made to keep an catch up with past acquaintances organisation like the CFS viable. ended the official presentations. Euan unveiled a plaque Anyone interested in joining the commemorating 60 years of service, Ardrossan CFS is invited to attend before presenting long service awards any Monday night training session for to 11 local members, for 10 to 45 more information. years of service; in all, the awards New members welcome!
CFS July.indd 51 4/12/07 4:48:47 PM Statewide > REGION 2 Continued from page 51 HOUSE DESTROYED AT BOWMANS
FS volunteers responded to a house fire at Bowmans, near CPort Wakefield on 27 May. Reported to CFS at 3.30pm, on arrival firefighters found the Branch Hill Road home engulfed in flames. More than 25 firefighters, some 52 wearing breathing apparatus, contained the fire within 30 VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE HouseHou fire at Branch Hill Road, Bowmans on 27 May 2007. minutes, however the home was completely destroyed. A single occupant was at home at the time of the fire and was alerted to the fire by a working smoke detector. Damage was estimated at $160 000.
ROSEWORTHY CFS
The annual ‘Dogs ‘DOGS BREAKFAST’ Breakfast’ involves Roseworthy CFS By: Peter Ashcroft, Brigade Captain, Roseworthy CFS members, other Brigades in the Group and members of the he Roseworthy CFS ‘Dogs Bob was one of the original founding community. Breakfast’ has been held on members of the Brigade, and a TGood Friday morning every year long standing President of the for over 20 years. Management Committee. The brigade provides a breakfast The breakfast eventually moved of pancakes and orange juice for to the Roseworthy Hall after a the community. few years. $32,000 UPGRADE FOR HAMLEYMLEY The breakfast originated in the Originally called the President’s early years of the Brigade to help Breakfast, when Bob left the BRIDGE CFS raise funds and originally was held district, the Brigade continued the at Bob ‘The Dog’ Atkinson’s farm breakfast but changed its name to amley Bridge CFS has landed cutter and spreader, rams and at Roseworthy. the ‘Dogs Breakfast’. a $32,000 windfall of high- hydraulic pump. Htech rescue equipment. “The old gear didn’t cope well with Rescue officer, Mark Nappa, said heavier metals used in newer cars,” the long awaited upgrade meant the said Mr Nappa. brigade could now more effectively Brigade volunteers haven’t wasted and efficiently rescue car crash any time in trying out their new road victims from wrecks. crash rescue gear with practise run “We’re lucky to be about the third on an old car where they removed brigade in the state to receive the the entire side and roof dining a equipment,” said Mr Nappa. mock rollover. The state-of-the-art equipment includes a jaws of life, specialised (Plains Producer, 20 June 2007)
CFS July.indd 52 4/12/07 4:48:55 PM NEW EMERGENCY SERVICES CENTRE IN CLARE
Emergency Services Minister Carmel Zollo, SA SES Acting Chief Officer Stuart Macleod, and SA CFS Deputy Chief Officer Andrew Lawson, with local volunteers following the official opening ceremony on 29 July 2007 at Clare. Photo: Photo courtesy of the Northern Argus
53 VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE
<< CFS and SES volunteers and their appliances, along with Clare’s first Ford Blitz fire truck. Photo: Photo courtesy of the Northern Argus
he MMinister for Emergency storage buildings for CFS and SES, Services,Serv the Hon. Carmel Zollo, enabling housing of appliances and Tofficiallyoffi opened the Clare equipment in the one location. co-locatedco-locat CFS and SES Emergency up The centre also has joint kitchen ServicesServices Centre on Sunday 29 July. and bathroom facilities, large The nenew $845 000 facility is also a Level Three Incident meeting/operations rooms, a Coordination Centre. communications room as well as The centre has exceeded members’ separate offices and car parking expectations, providing separate facilities for each service. FIRE DESTROYS SHED COTTAGE AT RIVERTON AT WILLIAMSTOWN DESTROYED BY ARSON FS responded to a fire at a ablaze and the smoke alarms FS volunteers responded to over an hour to contain the fire. stone cottage at Riverton in fitted to the building were a shed fire at Williamstown, The fire destroyed the shed Cthe Gilbert Valley at 3am on 7 still operating. Cnear Gawler, on 7 May. containing maintenance machinery June 2007. 25 CFS firefighters worked to Reported to CFS just before 8pm, and tools for the properties beehive Neighbours alerted emergency contain the blaze rapidly; however when firefighters arrived at the production company, two vintage services of the fire by calling 000 the property was fully destroyed. South Terrace property they found upon hearing noise coming from The cottage had been recently cars and two tonnes of bee’s wax. the 10m x 35m shed well alight. the cottage. vacated by tenants and was Around 50 firefighters, some Estimated dollar damage was When firefighters arrived unoccupied at the time of the fire. wearing breathing apparatus, took minimum $100 000. at the cottage on Charles Damage was estimated Street they found it fully at $100 000.
CFS July.indd 53 4/12/07 4:49:06 PM Statewide > REGION 2 Continued from page 53 $500 000 HAYSHED FIRE
FS responded to a hayshed fire Firefighters ploughed a 50 metre at Freeling, north of Gawler, on wide firebreak around the burnt shed 16 January at around 4.45pm. and undertook asset protection on Jarrad Symons, Sheaoak Log CFS, doing asset protection. C Photo: Lindy Alderslade, Sheaoak Log CFS When firefighters arrived at the another shed located close by. Kapunda Road property they found Damage was estimated at $500 000. the shed containing 900 large hay bales well ablaze. Around 45 firefighters in eight 54 appliances worked to control the fire, however the 25 x 35 metre shed VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE suffered significant damage. The shed, farming machinery housed in the shed and the rear of a semi trailer and a prime mover parked next to the shed all suffered damage.
<< Image of the hayshed fire on the first night. This image was taken when the road side of the Shed gave way. Photo: Lindy Alderslade, Sheaoak Log CFS Photo: Lindy Alderslade, Sheaoak Log CFS
AWARD NIGHT AT DUBLIN n 30 April, Dublin CFS held an Anthony Pietersen Vera Pietersen Anthony Pietersen Award Presentation night for - 25-year Service Certificate Oits members. and Life Member of CFS The evening also included the Certificate commissioning of the brigade’s new Brian Grocke - 25-yearr RCR cutting equipment, followed by Service Certificate a brigade raffle. Ronald Ferme - 25-yearar A number of awards were Service Certificate presented on the night, recognising Annette Halford - 20- the valuable service given to the year Service Certificate
local community. Vera Pietersen - 20-yearar Brian Grocke Terrance Halford Annette Halford Recipients of the awards were: Service Certificate Terrance Halford - 30-year The night was enjoyed Service Certificate by all that attended.
CFS July.indd 54 4/12/07 4:49:12 PM MT PLEASANT CFS WINS SAFETY AWARD n initiative to educate fire near Echunga earlier this year). landholders about bushfire “While they may be aware of the Arisk, and possibly recruit new risks, they may not be taking all the members, has won the Mt Pleasant necessary steps. CFS brigade a 2007 Australian Safer “This really is about encouraging Community Award. people to improve their CFS members have been understanding so they’re better 55 applauded for their New Residents prepared if it were to occur.” Kit - a collection of educational and The brigade distributed several VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE recruiting material about bushfires hundred kits to real estate agents and the CFS that is given to at Mt Pleasant and Birdwood three newcomers to the district via local months ago. real estate agents. Mr Sabeeney said he had received The initiative has proven so popular a few inquiries about membership it is being adopted by other brigades. but couldn’t be sure if the kits had Brigade Captain Jason Sabeeney inspired the calls. said the kit was born out of “It’s early days, although things discussions between members like this are more of a long-term Mark Reed, left, a new resident in the Mt Pleasant district, receives a CFS and CFS staff about how they initiative,” he said. information kit from Elders Real Estate agent Linda Werner and Mt Pleasant CFS could recruit new firefighters and The captain said past fire seasons Brigade Captain Jason Sabeeney. how they could get information to had raised concerns among volunteers Photo: courtesy of The Mount Barker Courier the community about managing about complacent landholders, bushfire risk. particularly with issues such as fire but it’s not possible in a large Awards are sponsored by Emergency “I would say there’s a large clearing vegetation and having basic fire because we physically don’t Management Australia to recognise percentage of property owners who firefighting equipment on site. have enough trucks to cover every projects that help make communities have probably never experienced fire “I think most people believe that home so people need to be fairly safer and offer innovative ways of first-hand,” Mr Sabeeney said. if there’s a fire, the CFS will bring a self-sufficient, certainly in the dealing with emergencies. “They haven’t been through an Ash truck to their house,” he said. initial stages.” (Mount Barker Courier, 19 Wednesday or even a Mt Bold (the major “That may be the case in a small The Australian Safer Community September 2007) HAZMAT AT ST KILDA FS responded to a hazardous Preliminary investigations material (HAZMAT) spill at the St indicate a person rang the CKilda playground on Fooks Terrace, poison centre on finding the just off St Kilda road, on 10 May. drum of herbicide. Reported to CFS just before 3pm, As a result council workers were investigations revealed a spiral slide called to clean up the substance and was contaminated with a herbicide. the CFS and MFS were contacted. A small chemical drum was located Samples were collected from the at the base of the slippery dip and slide and tests were conducted to possibly connected to the incident. confirm the substance. A number of children faced full The following day, SA Police decontamination procedures after being revealed tests on the substance potentially exposed to the herbicide. identified petrol as the cause. CFS firefighters decontaminate children at the St Kilda playground on 10 May 2007.
CFS July.indd 55 4/12/07 4:49:26 PM Statewide > MURRAYLANDS REGION 3 & RIVERLAND
ire caused an estimated $100 000 The fire destroyed the shed damage to a shed at Mannum and its contents, including a Fon 3 May 2007. boat, boat trailer, horse float, Around eight CFS firefighters arrived utility, backhoe and general items at the East Front Road premises such as refrigerator, equipment, MANNUM shortly after 5:30 am to find a four-bay tools etc. shed extensively involved in flames. Firefighting efforts prevented Volunteers wearing breathing the flames from spreading to a apparatus contained the blaze nearby riverfront house only
SHED FIRE within half an hour. four to five metres away.
<< Shed fire at Mannum 56 on 3 May 2007. Photo: Terry Schutz, VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE Mannum CFS
A CFS SUCCESSFUL RECRUITMENT DRIVE FOR BARMERA CFS
Barmera CFS Brigade Captain Paul
armera CFS Brigade undertook “Ideally, we would like another six << a successful recruitment drive members to sign up and be trained Stribley (front), with fellow members Glen in May 2007 in an effort to before the upcoming fire danger season. Hansford and Joanna Schenke. This photo B and accompanying recruitment drive increase the number of members “All in all, the recruitment drive article featured on the front page of The within the brigade. was successful and I am happy with Murray Pioneer on 22 May 2007. Brigade Captain, Paul Stribley, said result,” Paul said. Photo: The Murray Pioneer. that ‘the brigade needed at least Anyone interested in joining the another six members to be near the Barmera CFS should call Paul Stribley numbers needed.’ on 0428 882 905 or attend training at “We had about 33 on the books, but the Barmera Fire Station (behind only about 12 of these were active the Shell Service Station), held members,” Paul said. each Monday from 7.30pm. The brigade held an ‘expo display’ in Barmera on 18 May 2007, as part of National Volunteers Week, in the search for more volunteers. During the recruitment drive Paul kept highlighting the fact that individuals have plenty to gain from becoming CFS members. “Not only are there opportunities to enhance personal skills and knowledge, but you meet new people and put something back into the community,” he said. Since the beginning of the recruitment drive, Barmera CFS has put nine new members through the BFF1 course, and have another two currently waiting for police clearances.
CFS July.indd 56 4/12/07 4:49:31 PM $65 000 DAMAGE TO FIRE DAMAGES STORE AT SWAN REACH MENINGIE SHED FS firefighters responded to a wearing breathing apparatus, CFS volunteers responded to fire at a bakery and adjoining contained the fire in less than an a shed fire at Meningie in the Chouse at Swan Reach just hour and were able to stop the fire State’s Upper South East just before 10:30 pm on 20 February 2007. from spreading to the residence at before 11am on On arriving at the Main Street the rear of the building 31 May 2007. property, firefighters found that the Damage to the property was Firefighters arrived at the fire was confined mainly to the roof estimated at $90 000. Princes Highway property space and bakery area. Fire cause investigators determined to find a double-bay shed More than 20 firefighters, some the cause to be an electrical fault. well alight with flames extending underneath the 57 adjoining carport. More than 10 firefighters VEHICLE ACCIDENT RESCUE VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE worked to contain the fire, which destroyed the carport and shed that contained AT PALMER vintage bikes and FS volunteers responded to “We would not have been able household items. a vehicle accident rescue at to complete the job if not for Efforts by firefighters CPalmer, approximately 10km the assistance of the Murray ensured the adjacent house from Mannum, just before 11:45 am Bridge SES which provided extra only sustained minor smoke on 28 June 2007. equipment (using two rams at the and heat damage. Members from Mannum, Murray same time) and another point of Damage was estimated Bridge and Palmer CFS brigades, as view,” he said. at $65 000. well as members from Murray Bridge “Thankfully the driver did not Fire cause investigators SES, attended the single ute rollover. sustain life threatening injuries. determined the cause as an Mannum CFS Brigade Captain, “It took us nearly two hours to electrical wiring fault. Terry Schutz, said ‘this job was get the driver free from the car
<< extremely challenging due to and into the waiting helicopter,” Shed fire at Meningie on 31 May 2007. Photo: Adam Hurle, Meningie CFS the specific impact which resulted in Terry said. a very complexp eextraction.xtraction. GERARD HOUSE FIRERE FS firefighters responded to a house fire at Gerard, south of CBarmera, just before 7:30 am on 27 May 2007. On arriving at the Katarapko Crescent property, more than 15 firefighters found the home and a car parked next to the home fully ablaze. Volunteers wearing breathing apparatus worked hard to contain the respondedrespond to disconnect the cable to fire in just over half an hour, however assist in making the area safe. the home and car were fully destroyed. Two occupants were at home at the asingle ute << at ing on a difficult extraction A live power cable that was time of the fire. CFS ananddS SESES volvolunteersunteersw workingork on a difficult extraction at a single ute arcing next to the home hampered Damage was estimated to be rollover at Palmer on 28 June 2007. Photo: Terry Schutz, Mannum CFS. firefighting efforts and ETSA between $80 000 - $100 000.
The truck being put back on to its wheels by a Crain. << Photos: Debbie Polst, Glossop CFS TRUCK ROLLOVER AT BERRI FS volunteers responded The truck was transporting potting mix. to a truck rollover at Crews had to wait for a crane to CBerri just before 3:30 pm come from Adelaide to assist in on 2 July 2007. positioning the truck upright.g Around 15 firefighters from Glossop and Monash CFS brigades, attended the rollover at the intersection of the Old Sturt Highway and
Sturt Highway.
The truck rollover at Berri on 2 July 2007.<<
CFS July.indd 57 4/12/07 4:49:35 PM Statewide > FLINDERS, MID-NORTH REGION 4 & PASTORAL AREAS
FLINDERS TRIP WITH MINISTER By: Mick Obst, CFS Regional Commander Region 4
n Monday 16 April through with Dave & Caroline Sciculna who to Thursday 19 April 2007 are members of the newly formed Othe Minister for Emergency Angorichna/Parachilna CRT (SES Services along with CFS, SES and Community Response Team). SAFECOM representative, toured the From Parachilna the tour travelled Flinders region. to Leigh Creek stopping off at Participants of the touring party Aroona dam, which was a superb One of the Flinders trip included Carmel Zollo, Miniter for view; a huge dam in the middle with the Minister files… 58 Emergency Services; Justin Jarvis, of nowhere and a must see place The route taken on the Flinders trip, beginning Ministerial Advisor; David Place, CEO to see if visiting the area located VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE at Port Augusta. SAFECOM; Mick Ayre, CFS Manager about five kilometres South of Strategic Services; Mick Obst, CFS Leigh Creek. Regional Commander Region 4; Matt Lunch was at the Leigh Creek Maywald, SES Regional Commander Tavern with SES volunteers, Leigh North and Sindy McCourt, SES Senior Creek Fire Service personnel, SAPOL, Regional Officer North. NRG Mine General Manager, Leigh On Monday 16 April the touring Creek Town Manager, Beverley Mine party met at Arid Lands Botanic General Manager and the Tavern Gardens (Port Augusta) for lunch Manager, Nadine. and then travelled to Quorn to meet From Leigh Creek the vehicles left both CFS and SES volunteers for the bitumen and started chewing Brigade,rigade which is the most recently The next stop was the Balcanoona afternoon tea. dust (and there was plenty of it) formed CFS brigade in the state. DEH office for morning tea with the The CEO and Mayor of the Flinders whilst heading towards Iga Warta. Thanks to Kelvin, Ian, Judy, Dulcie four Rangers (Darcy, Shera, Arthur Ranges Council together with On the way we came across three and the other members for their and Danny). approximately 25 people welcomed the ladies in distress with a flat tyre, who hospitality and afternoon tea. Following on the tour travelled to touring party and spent an hour or so were quite impressed with the CFS Nepabunna CFS is looking forwards Wirrealpa to be hosted to a second at the Quorn joint CFS/SES complex. and SES response times seeing that to delivery of their fire appliance in morning tea by Warren, Barbara & From here the tour travelled they hadn’t rang anyone at that stage. the near future. John Fargher. to Hawker to meet CFS and SES The ladies did query who the people Arkaroola was the next stop for The next leg of the tour travelled volunteers for dinner, which was were in the other car and when told dinner with Doug Spriggs (Manager through Bunyeroo and Brachina catered by the Craddock Hotel. it was the Minister for Emergency Arkaroola resort) and members of the gorges as well as Blinman. The meal was superb and Services they were ‘gob smacked’! Arkaroola CRT. At Wilpena the tour group were highly recommended to anyone After changing the flat tyre the tour During the evening we were taken to hosted by Keith Rasheed, Wilpena travelling through the Flinders; continued on to Iga Warta. the local observatory and spent around Resort Manager and CFS, DEH, SES the local SAPOL Officer was also in At Iga Warta, Terrence Coultard an hour looking at different stars and and SAPOL members were present attendance at dinner. gave the group a tour of the facility, planets in the solar system, which was during the evening meal. The touring party stayed at the which comprises permanent tent very interesting and informative. Overnight we lodged at the Wilpena Outback Motel in Hawker overnight. accommodation and camping areas The tour group rested at the Pound Resort. After breakfast on Tuesday 17 and has a very strong Aboriginal Arkaroola Resort overnight. Following breakfast on Thursday April the tour group headed off to heritage theme. On Wednesday the tour travelled 19 April 2007, the Minister and Parachilna via the Moralana Scenic The facility has plenty of overseas towards Balcanoona and stopped Ministerial Advisor departed Drive that is a very picturesque, but tourists staying there. off at Arkaroola airstrip where Doug Wilpena for Adelaide via Wilpena very slow drive due to the dirt road. The tour ventured five kilometres Spriggs took four of the touring party Air whilst the remainder of the Upon arrival at Parachilna, morning down the road for afternoon tea with up in his plane for an aerial view of touring party headed back to their tea was had at the Prairie Hotel members of the Nepabunna CFS the Arkaroola area. respective areas.
Blyth CFS members checking out their NEW CABA EQUIPMENT FOR BLYTH CFS newly acquired CABA equipment. By: Bluey Devine, Regional Operations Planning Officer, Region 4
n Tuesday 15 May 2007 Blyth Blyth CFS CABA Operators CFS Brigade gained ownership participated in an exercise at Oof two CABA sets to assist in the Snowtown silos along with improving their emergency response. CABA Operators from Brinkworth The new equipment allows Blyth and Snowtown Brigades, which CFS to provide valuable assistance was organised by Graham Sheehy, to neighbouring brigades and the Blyth/Snowtown Group Officer. Blyth/Snowtown Group.
CFS July.indd 58 4/12/07 4:49:47 PM REGION FOUR PASTORAL BRIGADES
Nik Ludborzs at Roxby Downs delivering Andamooka’s new CFS station TOUR 2007 GRN and ‘Responding From Station’ progressing to completion training to volunteers from Roxby Downs By: Nik Ludborzs, Regional Prevention Officer, CFS Region 4 and Andamooka Brigades.
id you know that CFS Region getting to see parts of the State that Four covers 67 percent of not many people get the chance to, a Dthe State? lot of work is completed along the way. Yes, you read it right – 67 percent In early May 2007 Bluey Devine of the State. (ROPO), Nik Ludborzs (RPO), Pete With an area as large as this, Shalley (VSO) and Lindsay Hinks The Breakaways, Coober Pedy it’s not often that the volunteers (OHS&W) spent the week delivering in the Far North of the State have various training units, Prevention The Region 4 ‘Pit Crew’ doing the one and regular face-to-face contact with the updates and training, Operational only tyre change for the trip in record time. 59 ‘schnoozers’ from the Regional office. audits and OHS&W training. VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE Each year, staff from the Regional The staff took the opportunity to visit office embark on a week-long the new Prominent Hill copper mine, tour of what are known as the south of Coober Pedy, to develop links Pastoral Brigades. and some operational pre-planning Brigades visited include Marree, with the Oxiana personnel. Oodnadatta, Marla, Mintabie, Coober Along with the work, it was great Pedy, Glendambo, Woomera, Roxby to meet up with familiar faces and Downs and Andamooka. meet new members of the brigades. Approximately 2 400 kilometres of A special thanks is given to the great road are covered in the week, with country hospitality that was shown to the majority of travel being on dirt. us along the way by all the brigades. Some may think ’What a way to And I must add; Mintabie CFS/SES spend a week’; however along with cook a mean barbeque! Lindsay’s risk assessment of the drive Aroona Dam, Leigh Creek ‘FIRE TRAILER’ PROTOTYPE AT BELTANA FIELD DAY
n Friday 27 April 2007 two CFS Appropriate Technology and funded Mick Obst, Regional Commander, ’The trailer is a prototype that representatives from Region 4 by the Desert Knowledge Cooperative Region 4 said he can see the would only require a few minor Otravelled to the Beltana Field Research Centre to help make unit has a lot of merit and could alterations’ Mick said. Day, located 25 kilometres South of remote communities safer. be utilised by communities on Many of those attending the Leigh Creek, to make an assessment The fire fighting unit has been the Anangu Pitjantjatjara & Beltana Field Day travelled hundreds on a prototype ‘Fire Trailer’. specifically designed for use in Yankunytjatjara (APY) lands as of kilometres from all parts of the The sturdy trailer was developed remote locations to withstand well as remote communities in Outback and the theme was Outback by the Northern Territory Fire and harsh treatment and can be towed the North/North Eastern parts of resourcing and needs. Rescue Service, the Centre for by any 4WD. the State.
Photo: Desert Knowledge CRC, Remote Area Fire Trailer brochure
Photo: Desert Knowledge CRC, Remote Area Fire Trailer brochure
The fire fighting unit can be towed by any 4WD and can The fire trailer prototype on display at the Beltana Field withstand the harsh treatment and steep terrain of Double hose reels allow for more efficient Day on 27 April 2007. remote locations. fire fighting.
CFS July.indd 59 4/12/07 4:49:54 PM Statewide > JAMESTOWNAM CFS STATION/BUNDALEER REGION 4 Continued from page 59 GROUPGR CONTROL CENTRE OPENING By: Mick Obst, CFS Regional Commander Region 4 >> The Hon. Carmel Zollo, Minister for Emergency Services, at the he Minister for Emergency Euan Ferguson, CFS Chief official opening of the new Services, the Hon. Carmel Zollo, Officer, presented three awards to Jamestown CFS station. Tofficially opened the Jamestown Jamestown members. CFS Station / Bundaleer Group Brian Carpenter was awarded for 35 Control Centre at 1430hrs on Sunday years service and Trevor Young and 29 April 2007. Paul Duke with Life Membership. Approximately 100 guests attended Peter Smallacombe, Bundaleer the opening. Group Officer, and Graham Sims both Tim Cooper, Bundaleer Deputy addressed the guests at the opening. Group Officer 1, was the Master of Graham Goodwin, SAPOL North East Ceremonies for the opening. LSA Inspector, was also a guest at 60 In addition to officially opening the the opening. The new Jamestown
VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE complex, the Minister handed over There were many family members CFS Station/Bundaleer the keys to the recently delivered at the opening and it was good to Group Control Centre. new 34P to Graham Sims, Brigade see numerous past brigade members Captain, Jamestown CFS. in attendance. Melrose Brigade members, family members, ARKABLE << guests and community members who MELROSE CFS STATION/MOUNT REMARKABLE attended the Melrose CFS station opening. GROUP CONTROL CENTRE OPENING By: Mick Obst, CFS Regional Commander Region 4 The Hon. Carmel Zollo, Minister << he Minister for Emergency was present and addressed the for Emergency Services, unveilinging the plaque that commemoratess Services, the Hon. Carmel Zollo, guests at the opening as well as the official opening of the new Tofficially opened the Melrose Geoff Slee, Mount Remarkable Group Melrose CFS station. CFS Station / Mount Remarkable Officer, and Phil Nottle, Brigade Group Control Centre at 1100hrs on Captain, Melrose CFS. Sunday 29 April 2007. Other invited guests included Approximately 65 guests attended Graham Gunn, Member for Stuart, The new Melrose CFS Station / Mount the opening. and Graham Goodwin, SAPOL North- Remarkable Group Control Centre. The Master of Ceremonies for East LSA Inspector. the opening was Trevor Roocke, After the official opening, guests Chairman Mount Remarkable were treated to an excellent lunch District Council, and he impressed put on by the Brigade/Group. everyone with his very thorough It was great to see so many family introduction of the Minister. members attend the opening. Euan Ferguson, CFS Chief Officer,
FIRE DESTROYS CLUBROOMS AT GLADSTONE Volunteer firefighters responded More than 10 firefighters to a fire in the combined responded to the blaze, but netball and tennis clubrooms at were unable to save the Gladstone in the States Mid North clubrooms with the building being on 10 April 2007. completely destroyed. Reported just before 2100hrs, Damage was estimated at $60 000. firefighters arrived to find the Fire investigators believe the clubrooms engulfed in flames. cause of the fire was suspicious. The fire remained unnoticed for some time as the building was hidden behind the football clubrooms and grandstand.
CFS volunteers from Gladstone brigade attending the fire, which destroyed the local netball and tennis clubrooms. Photo: Syd Smith, Gladstone CFS
CFS July.indd 60 4/12/07 4:50:07 PM Statewide > SOUOUTH REEGION EASTEA MILLICENT CABA CONTAINER TRAINING Millicent CFS By: Matt Hann, Brigade Captain, Millicent CFS
illicent CFS is the proud When KCA decided they noo beneficiary of a donated longer needed the container,er, Mcontainer used for they approached Millicent CABA training. brigade who jumped at the Kimberly Clark Australia (KCA), opportunity to have such a Millicent Mill proudly produces great training aid for their leading branded products including immediate use. 61 Kleenex Cottonelle toilet tissue, Not only did KCA very kindlyy VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE Kleenex facial tissue, Wondersoft, donate the container; they paidaid Viva paper towel and the Scott range for the containers repositioningng of hand towel. from the Millicent Mill to the KCA trained their emergency Millicent CFS station,followingg response teams in CABA and after appropriate council approvals.. teams were trained up, KCA found A Region 5 risk assessment that they had no way of keeping the was done on the container thatt skills of BA Operators up-to-date, so highlighted a number of things >> Photo 1 - The BA they approached CFS for permission that could not be done, specificallycally training container to make a duplicate of the CABA smoke or heat can not be used in the showing entry training pantechnicon that travelled container as no power is connected locations. the state for CFS CABA training. for ventilation purposes. KCA purchased a large container The container is available for and built an exact replica of the CFS use by other CFS brigades that CABA training pantechnicon. want to undertake BA training The container was large enough to and maintain their three-monthly include a confined space training wearers requirement. section in the front. Kalangadoo and Glencoe brigades With access from the top and the have come in and trained with us in use of a davit arm, it can be used to the past. train people onsite in confined space. Millicent CFS will source funding The container also has a confined to give the container a fresh coat space entry from the side (Photo 1) of paint and some maintenance that and flanges that can be used to is required. simulate a leak. If you are interested in booking the KCA used the container for a container, contact Millicent CFS or
number of years and carried out Region 5 Headquarters can pass on
<< some significant training with it. the request. << Crews training inside the container CHIMNEY FIRE AT NARACOORTE HOTEL
FS firefighters responded to floor at the bottom of the chimney a fire at the Naracoorte Hotel and firefighters hosed the fire from Cjust before 3:45pm on 1 June. the top of the chimney. Upon arrival at the Ormerod “The fire generated plenty of Street address, firefighters found a smoke and firefighters had to crawl fire in a chimney of the two storey around upstairs to make sure the heritage building. fire hadn’t spread into the roof and Regional Prevention Officer Phil through the top floor,” Phil said. McDonough said “more than 10 The fire was contained to firefighters worked to contain the the chimney and damage was << CFS firefighters attended a chimney fire at the Naracoorte fire. They put a tarp down on the estimated at $20 000. Hotel on 1 June 2007. Photo courtesy of the Naracoorte Herald.
CFS July.indd 61 4/12/07 4:50:26 PM Statewide > REGION 5 Continued from page 61 FISH FARM FIRE
FS Volunteers responded to a shed fire at a Millicent fish Cfarm just after 7:00pm on 10 July. On arrival at the Lossie Road property, they found the blaze going well. More than 30 firefighters contained the blaze within 40 minutes and 62 managed to confine the fire to the workshop, office and fish smoking VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE room of the shed. Sound firefighting efforts by the crews stopped the fire from spreading, saving a large portion of the shed and around $100 000 worth of fish stocks. Damage was estimated at $100 000. Fire cause investigators determined that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the cause of the fire.
The timber framed soldier settlers cottage suffered substantial damage >> HOUSE FIRE AT MINGBOOL
FS volunteers responded to a On arrival, a CABA team were house fire at Mingbool, north tasked to mop up the structure and Ceast of Mount Gambier, on to search the house. 27 March. Although the blaze was contained Reported around 2:15am, quickly, it caused substantial firefighters arrived at the Peweena damage to the timber framed soldierr Road property to find the house well settlers cottage. alight, with flames coming out of the Damage to the home was lounge room windows and roof. estimated at around $120 000. CFS crews conducted a defensive Fire Investigators declared a slow A slow combustion heater with a attack from outside the building, combustion wood heater with a broken broken latch was the cause of the fire. which contained the fire. latch was the cause of the fire. MILLICENT HOUSE FIRE
FS volunteers responded to a than 30 minutes to contain the blaze Owners of the property were not house fire at Millicent in the using an external attack. home at the time of the incident. CLower South East on 12 April. Sound efforts by firefighters prevented SA Ambulance evacuated occupants A neighbour of the Ridge Terrace the house from being destroyed, of a block of units at the rear of property reported the smell of smoke and although the remainder of the house the property due to smoke from the sound of smoke alarms after 10:30am. suffered extensive smoke damage. incident, however no occupants The fire began at the rear of the The damage bill was estimated required treatment. premises and 25 firefighters took less at $100 000.
CFS July.indd 62 4/12/07 4:50:43 PM ROAD SAFETY EXERCISE IN NARACOORTE By: Dean Ludwig, Regional Operations Planning Officer R5
s part of Youth Week in April this school students from Lucindale, Naracoorte CFS brigade was the The performances by all services year, the CFS conducted a road Naracoorte and Bordertown. road accident rescue response and and the students who acted as Asafety exercise at Naracoorte to The mock accident involved two also provided fire cover. casualties and deceased persons educate young people about road safety. vehicles in the town centre and CFS Regional Training Officer, were very realistic and well done. Local emergency services and the emergency services staged some Scott Murray, participated in The exercise hopefully educated the local road safety committee developed distance away from the mock up to providing a commentary of the students and enlightened them to the the event, which involved senior high provide a realisticly timed arrival. rescue and fire protection. horror of being involved in a road crash.
63 VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE
CFS and SAAS crews remove the “injured” driver in the Naracoorte CFS Rescue crew remove the roof of one of mock crash. the vehicles involved in the mock crash. Photo: Kylee Merritt, Volunteer Support Officer R5 Photo: Kylee Merritt, Volunteer Support Officer R5 STRIKE TEAM TO DERGHOLM, VICTORIA By: Cameron Yelland, Compton CFS
FS firefighters from the Mount & Environment (NRE) to complete the Victoria utes as fire vehicles to use water as it was a reasonable drive, Gambier and Port MacDonnell night shift so local crews could rest. instead of CFS trucks. through soft sand, to get back to the CCFS brigades travelled to CFS crews were given the job of It was an interesting experience CFS trucks, which were being used Dergholm Forest, Victoria on 24 patrolling several kilometres of fire using utes instead of trucks, as they as tankers. November 2006. edge to ensure there were no flare- were based on a 4x4 Landcruiser with Additional CFS crews arrived the The 24 CFS members were required to ups or breakouts. a 400 litre tank attached to a small nextxt mmorningorning ttoo tatakeke oonn ththee day shift assist the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Due to the terrain at the fire fire pumppump withwith 3030 metresmetres ofof hose. while the night shift returned to Parks Victoria and Natural Resources ground, CFSFS crewscrews werewere givengiven PParksarks Firefighters had to use minimalminimal South AustraliAustralia.a. ROBE SHED FIRE FS firefighters responded to a shed fire at Robe on C2 February. It was reported to CFS just after 1:15 am. When firefighters arrived at the Beacon Hill Road property they took up a defensive attack and extinguished the fire without entering the shed. The damage bill was estimated at $45 000. The cause of the fire was << accidental and resulted from a An external and cooking activity. internal view ooff tthehe The owner had set up the shed as shed destroyeded by fire at Robe. a home and was temporarily living in the shed before constructing a house on the site.
CFS July.indd 63 4/12/07 4:51:03 PM NARACOORTE CFS - 60TH Statewide > REGION 5 Continued from page 63 ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS Naracoc oro te CFS By: Darren Murray, Brigadede Captain, Naracoorte CFS
he Naracoorte CFS brigade winners on the night with Jimm ReReekieekie celebrated 60 years of winning the Fireman of the year,ear, Torganised fire fighting, in James Ghezzi the Cadet of thee yeyearar Naracoorte and the district, with and Chris Low winning the covertedverted their annual awards dinner on 20 Wood Duck for the biggest ‘whoops’hoops’ October 2007. during the year. The black tie event held at the A highlight of the evening wass the Naracoorte Town Hall was a celebration presentation of a special 60th pplaquelaque with past members, present members to the brigade by Euan Ferguson,n, 64 and honourable guests. and the book “Smoke in your Eyes”,es”, Some guests included the Hon. compiled and written by Rex Hallll VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE Carmel Zollo, Minister for Emergency AFSM with the help of many members.mbers. Services; Euan Ferguson, CFS Chief Thank you to all the memberss wwhoho Officer; Andrew Lawson, CFS Deputy attended, to everyone who travelledelled Chief Officer; Rob Sandford, CFS long distances to help make thisis Assistant Chief Officer, and past and a memorable evening, and to allll
present Regional staff. the people who worked togetherr to << National medal and bars to national medals awarded to, from left to right, Congratulations to the award organise the event. Phil Mcdonugh, Kylee Merritt, Roger Bennett and Darren Murray.
<< 60th Plaque presentation by Euan Ferguson to Darren Murray, Brigade Captain, Naracoorte CFS.
<< Naracoorte CFS 60 year celebration and annual awards dinner on 20 October 2007.
$100 000 MILLICENT HOUSE FIRE HOUSE DESTROYED AT TARPEENA olunteer firefighters responded forced to fight the fire from the FS volunteer firefighters less than an hour to contain the fire, to a house fire at Millicent in outside, as the roof had begun responded to a house fire at which started in a front room of the Vthe State’s Lower South East, to collapse. CTarpeena, near Mount Gambier timber clad home. around 1pm on 25 May. Firefighters contained the fire in on 6 May. The damage bill was estimated CFS arrived at the Clifford Road just over 40 minutes. Reported to the CFS just before 3:30 at $80 000. property to find a three-bedroom No occupants were home at the am, firefighters arrived at the Penola The owner was home at the stone home completely engulfed time of the incident and damage Road home to find it well alight. time of the fire and was able to in flames. was estimated at $100 000. More than 15 firefighters, some escape uninjured. More than 30 CFS firefighters SA Police, SA Ambulance and ETSA wearing breathing apparatus, took attended the incident and were also attended.
$20 000 DAMAGE TO AVENUE RANGE SHED olunteer firefighters Olivers Road property, they quickly damage to part of the structure and responded to a shed fire at donned breathing apparatus and machinery inside. VAvenue Range near Lucindale found the fire was confined to one SA Police investigated and in the Lower South East just after section of the shed. determined a faulty refrigerator 8am on 22 March. More than 10 firefighters worked started the fire. When firefighters arrived at the to contain the fire, which caused Damage was estimated at $20 000.
CFS July.indd 64 4/12/07 4:51:19 PM Statewide > EYRE PENINSULA REGION 6 & WEST COAST FAREWELL TO CLEVE VOLVO n July 2007, Cleve CFS farewelled its longest running vehicle. I Volvo Cleve 32 had been in seservice with the Cleve brigade for 25 years. CCleve District Council purchased ththee unit for $96 000, of which Cleve CFCFSS brigade raised $10 000. MMonies were raised by Cleve brigadede in vvarious ways but mostly by sellingg 65 bibingon tickets at the Cleve Hotel. VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE BrBryan Trigg, Group Officer Eastern EyEyrere CFS Group, explains “we wewerer going to have a 180hp Inter AcAccoco automatic unit until Mills Tui susuggestedgg that for $4 500 more we could have a 230hp Volvo unit.” Cleve CFS volunteers with Volvo Cleve 32, from left, Keith Edwards, Brian Carlaw, Ben Hackshaw, Glen “This meant going back to Councilcil Selby, Geoff Bammann, Bryan Trigg, Shaun Stringer, Brian Harkness, Kym Pearce and Trevor Rodda. to argue the case for a better truckk Photo: Brian Harkness, Cleve CFS plus more money. “We expected Council would rejectct the request because they thought $90 000 was too much for a fire truck anyhow,” he said. “But as luck had it, we were in and up and moved the motion for the the Cleve brigade when the VVolvol CCaptain,ptain RRossoss BaBates,tes wwhoho wwasas out in 10 minutes with the approval. new truck at an increased price was purchased. Captain at the time the Volvo came “The Deputy Chairman of the immediately, which was passed.” The current Brigade Captain of into service. District Council of Cleve thought Bryan is the only person in Cleve CFS is Shaun Irrgang, who The Eastern Eyre Group will refit the it was too good of a deal to pass Photo 1 that was a member of is the son in-law of a past Brigade unit as a bulk water tanker.
WESTERNWESTERNTERN EEYREYRE GGROGROUPROUP s off 1 JJuly 2007, the CEDUNA & DISTRICTS CFS Ceduna CFS Group Achanged its name and is now known as the Western Eyre GROUP NAME CHANGE CFS Group.Group. By: Mark Hewitson, Group Officer, Western Eyre CFS Group The Western Eyre GroGroupup extends 600 kilometres to the hrough rural decline and naming; country people are protective first step in the process that poses Western Australian border dwindling membership it is of their name, especially when it no structural changes to the group. and is approximately 90 000 Tharder for Groups to attract relates to their town or district. It was agreed, to minimise any square kilometres in size. personnel into management positions. At a Group meeting on 19 February perception of a “take over” should a Technology changes and world wide 2007, a proposal was tabled to change merger occur (eg Ceduna Group has corporate rationalisation in general the Ceduna Group name to a name taken over the Streaky Bay Group or mean even volunteer organisations that is not aligned to a specific town visa versa), that the renaming of the will not escape change. but to something more geographical. Ceduna Group to a geographical name Being proactive and visionary, The Ceduna Group representatives would remove the politics before it we can see the day that groups, are aware of the challenges faced became political or emotional. as we know them, will merge into in the future and the possible The name change will also reflect larger ones, reducing the number of rationalisation of groups. that the Group does not belong to a groups but increasing the number This vision was seeded with them brigade or a town. of potential members to actively in early 2006. A motion was passed at the Group manage groups. Although it is not anticipated a meeting to change the name of the One of the main obstacles faced merger would occur in the short Ceduna CFS Group to Western Eyre in this type of rationalisation is the term, a name change would be the CFS Group.
CFS July.indd 65 4/12/07 4:51:32 PM Statewide > REGION 6 OPERATION INCITEC Continued from page 65 By: Tristan Baldock, Lincoln CFS
hile many people are all facets of structure firefighting, spending the nights at home from entering the structure, to Wby the fire at this time of search and rescue, all within a year, our local CFS volunteers are realistic smoke-filled environment. out honing their skills in structure Exercise organiser, Derek Carkle, firefighting. was grateful for the generosity In May 2007, 15 CFS firefighters of Incitec Piviot in providing CFS from the Lincoln brigade converged access to the facility for training. on the Incitec Pivot Fertiliser complex “Simulating structure firefighting in Port Lincoln to take part in a training at brigade level can be very 66 structure fire exercise. difficult, but Incitec has provided The mock incident involved a CFS with the opportunity to do this Lincoln CFS members, Dean Gillet and Katrina Pobke, inspect the
VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE ceiling in one of the rooms within the complex at Incitec. small domestic dwelling fire, with local crews,” he said. in which the family inside were New Lincoln CFS recruit, Geoff experienced crews carry out their “Training exercises like these, overcome by smoke. Earle, said the training was a great tasks in a realistic environment gave better prepare members for Thanks to the generosity of Incitec experience with many benefits. me a greater understanding and situations they will face in real Pivot, crews were able to run through “To be able watch and assist more awareness of structure fire fighting. emergencies,”, Geoffeoff sasaid.id. HAPPY VALLEY FIRE FS firefighters responded to Over 20 firefighters from various a grass fire on Happy Valley CFS brigades and two fixed winged CRoad near Port Lincoln on bombers assisted at the fire. 19 February 2007. The fire was declared contained at Reported to CFS at approximately approximately 3:45pm, having burnt 2:15pm, the fire began at the base of seven hectares. Winter Hill by a ‘bobcat’ clearing land.
A fixed winged bomber doing a drop at the Happy Valley fire near Port Lincoln on 19 February 2007. Photo: Alan Penna (son of Ian Penna, Deputy Group Officer, Elliston Group, Mount Wedge CFS)
CFS July.indd 66 4/12/07 4:51:38 PM LINCOLN CFS BENEFITS FROM WIND FARM By: Tristan Baldock, Lincoln CFS Greg Napier, Brigade Captain, Lincoln CFS, accepts a cheque from John Fannin, Manager, Cathedral Rocks Wind Farm. incoln CFS was the beneficiary thanked John for his efforts and of a substantial donation from willingness to prepare the wind farm Lthe Cathedral Rocks Wind Farm for fire protection. earlier this Year. “Nothing was ever too hard for John Greg Napier, Brigade Captain, and his team,” he said. Lincoln CFS, gratefully accepted the “John was open to all suggestions, cheque on behalf of the brigade from and has invested in significant John Fannin, Wind Farm Manager, who infrastructure and planning at CFS said it was a pleasure to hand over a request to ensure that every possible 67 cheque to such a worthy organisation. measure is taken to help reduce the VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE “The CFS, in particular the Lincoln risk of fire, should one occur near the Brigade, has worked closely with wind farm,.” us in developing a fire plan for the As part of the wind farm’s fire wind farm. preparedness plan, John takes all “Their input has been highly contractors and visitors through an valued, and consequently we see induction process. “Fire prevention is a necessary ‘It is far easier to invest in this donation as a great opportunity The induction briefs individuals on part of our business, both to protect methods to prevent fires, but to help the brigade help us and the safe work practices to prevent fires, the company’s investment, and we have also made significant community,” John said and what to do in the event of a fire, to provide a duty of care to the investments in resources to control On receiving the cheque, Greg including the decision to Stay or Go. community,” John said. a fire should it eventuate.” CHIMNEY FIRE AT COWELL FS firefighters responded to smoke inside the double brick home firefighting efforts prevented the fire at the residence until confident there a chimney fire at Cowell on coming from the fireplace. from reaching the roof cavity. was no possibility of reignition. Cthe Eastern Eyre Peninsula The fire was extinguished by Firefighters closed off the chimney Damage was estimated at $50 000 just before 2pm on 4 July 2007. spraying water down the chimney with wet bags, used thermal and the cause of the fire was Firefighters arrived at the from the rooftop and, although imaging equipment to detect hot determined as a build up of soot Lincoln Highway address to find brickwork collapsed in the chimney, spots in wall cavities and remained in the chimney. ELDERS GETS BEHIND LOCAL CFS By: Tristan Baldock, Lincoln CFS
lders Port Lincoln “There were a number of fires early pledged its support in the season, and it is important Eto the SA Country Fire that people are prepared to defend Service last bushfire season their homes,” he said. through the Elders Bushfire Kevin May, CFS Regional Fighter Promotion. Commander, accepted the donationss In April 2007, Elders presented on behalf of the brigades and was the Koppio, North Shields and grateful for the support. Tumby Bay CFS brigades with “It is great to see a company like donations from the promotion Elders supporting the volunteers that ran during the 2006-2007 and investing their profits back fire danger season. into the community in such a Tristan Baldock, Promotion worthy manner,” he said. Organiser and Elders “The promotion proved to be a Agronomist, said the great way to ensure landowners promotion was well supported could access the right equipment and he looks forward to to protect their properties, and running similar promotions support their local CFS brigades Kevin May, CFS Region 6 Commander, accepts a cheque from Darryn in the future. while they’re at it.” Johnston, Elders Port Lincoln Merchandise Manager.
CFS July.indd 67 4/12/07 4:51:53 PM BLUE WEEK SUPPORTS CFS
<<< Waikerie High School STUDENTS RAISE OVER $450 Principal Peter Crawford, SRC President Craig Gartley, ANZ Bank he Waikerie High School SRC SRC students cooked the representative Libby Law, students and the ANZ bank sausage sizzle for lunch, with the CFS Mid Murray Group Thave combined to raise $465 bank donating the sausages. Officer Mike Arnold and for the local CFS brigade. The Waikerie CFS was presented ANZ Bank Manager Darren Dean. Photo courtesy of The money was raised after the two with a cheque for the money, after the River News. groups combined as a part of the an outstanding fundraising effort by ANZ Blue Week celebrations, to hold the staff and students of both the a sausage sizzle and casual day. ANZ and the high school. <<< Seaford CFS members on display to thank ANZ on 22 March 2007. The photo was taken at the end of 68 the ANZ Blue Week demonstration SEAFORD CFS DEMONSTRATE THEIR at the Seaford Shopping Centre. VOLUNTEER - STATEWIDE ROAD CRASH RESCUE SKILLS Photo: Phillip Grocke, Seaford CFS
hoppers at the Seaford ANZ Blue Week, run by ANZ bank, is volunteers andd as a thankyouth k we thankedthanke the ANZ saying that the Shopping Centre were witness aimed at raising funds for community decided to raise funds for our local money raised will certainly be put to Sto the road crash rescue groups, charities and organisations brigade,” Joanne said. good use buying some equipment for expertise of local volunteers from within the local community. ‘These volunteers do such a the station. Seaford CFS on 22 March 2007. Seaford CFS was chosen by their wonderful job in the community and “The brigade is grateful that ANZ As part of ANZ Blue Week, the CFS local ANZ branch to be the focus of it’s great for us to say thankyou, and Seaford chose us as their nominated showed their thanks to ANZ staff Blue Week in 2007. this is just a small way in which we organisation this year, they have done for raising money for the brigade by Branch Manager, Joanne Weller, can help,’ she said. such a wonderful job supporting us putting on a demonstration. wanted to support and recognise the To raise funds, bank staff held and we thank them for it,” Mark said. The demonstration showed the significant efforts and contribution a raffle, packed bags at the local “The demonstration was a chance specialist techniques used by CFS the brigade makes to the community supermarket for customers for a for the Seaford CFS brigade to get out volunteers at road crash rescue by focusing their 2007 Blue Week donation and had a lucky dip in the into the community and demonstrate incidents where sections of the activities on the Seaford CFS brigade. bank for the cost of a gold coin. some of our capabilities, display our vehicle need to be removed in order to “This year has been a really tough Around $500 was raised for the brigade. new fire appliance and to publicly assist the occupants. and busy fire season for all CFS Seaford CFS Captain, Mark Grocke, thank the ANZ for their support.”
A THOUSAND REASONS FOR THANKS >> ANZ presents cheque to Balaklava CFS alaklava ANZ Branch successful week of fundraising. ANZ Balaklava held a sausage Manager,Paul McBride, and Fiona From 19 to 23 March 2007, ANZ held sizzle, trading table, children’s BAnderson presented Balaklava Blue Week, a nation-wide effort by colouring competition, and sold blue- CFS, represented by Jenny Stewart, with the bank to raise funds to be directed coloured Lions donuts to raise money. a cheque for more than $1000 after a back into the local community. (Plains Producer, 28 March 2007)
CFS July.indd 68 6/12/07 10:50:46 AM CFS July.indd 69 4/12/07 4:52:06 PM RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR ACTIONBy: Mike Guilfoyle, CFS OHS&W Officer
n 29 November 2006, an To date, the off-road driver training appliance from Mount Bryan program has been implemented and OCFS Brigade was involved in a enthusiastically endorsed by all who rollover that unfortunately resulted have attended. in a very serious injury to the driver. The review of policies is currently 70 CFS and SafeWork SA conducted an underway and a training program
VOLUNTEER - OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY investigation into the accident and for dynamic risk assessments is the subsequent report outlines three currently being developed. key recommendations that have A CFS hazard alert has been issued been put forward for action. revoking part of the pre-existing These recommendations are: Chief Officers Standing Order 1. An off-road driver training (COSO) 7 that provided an exemption program is implemented for CFS for wearing of seatbelts in CFS drivers. appliances (refer to Hazard Alert). 2. A review of all policies and Now, all drivers and passengers procedures relevant to this travelling in/on a CFS vehicle accident is undertaken and are required to wear a seatbelt volunteers be notified of any at all times, except crew on the changes resulting from that firefighting crew deck in actual review. firefighting operations. 3. Training is provided in dynamic One of the most important lessons risk assessments to all CFS that all firefighters can learn personnel to improve the from this accident is the need for identification and management a dynamic risk assessment to be of risk. conducted whenever a hazardous In February 2007, three improvement operation is undertaken. CFS Hazard Alert number notices were served on the CFS This assessment will reduce the 16 relating to the wearing of seatbelts in/on CFS Chief Officer and copies of these risk involved and enable volunteers vehicles. improvement notices have been to return to their families and homes distributed to all Brigades. free from injury.
The Mount Bryan 24 appliance after the rollover at the Bundaleer fire on 29 November 2006.
CFS July.indd 70 4/12/07 4:52:07 PM OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY THE IMPORTANCE OF
A SAFETY CULTUREBy: Judy Arthur, SAFECOM Manager Health, Safety & Welfare
hen a member of the CFS discussion throughout the CFS. have already happened and Nearly every volunteer that has “family” is severely injured, The major principle of accident compliance with legislation. been approached since the accident Wthe CFS is deeply concerned investigations is not to focus 4. The fourth rung involves an said they have not worn seatbelts and caring for the injured person and blame on individuals, but to review approach to safety where at some time or another in a CFS their family is always first priority. organisational systems. leadership and values drive appliance, either driving or as a In partnership with CFS, the The focus needs to be on analysing safety through continuous passenger (1. Vulnerable level). 71
SAFECOM Health, Safety & Welfare the situation to ensure strategies to improvement, and learning Other volunteers have said they VOLUNTEER - OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY Branch manages the injury claim, prevent a recurrence are identified happens from events. have experienced a similar event to provides rehabilitation and welfare and implemented. 5. The top rung is the resilient level, that which happened in November, for the injured person, forms a team where informedness, trust and but were lucky because they to investigate the accident and looks Establishing a Safety Culture accountability are part of the health were able to regain control of the at ways to prevent a recurrence. In safety literature, there is much and safety culture and ’is the way appliance and prevent a rollover In November 2006, a very serious discussion on ‘safety culture’ and business is done around here.’ (2. Reactive level). injury occurred during mop-up what it means for an organisation to So how does the Hudson model of The Hazard Alert issued regarding operations at the Bundaleer fire demonstrate such a culture. Safety Culture apply to the CFS? the mandatory wearing of seat when an appliance rolled down a As an example, the Hudson model In regards to the Mount Bryan truck belts caused a lot of discussion steep hill and came to rest against a used to describe a safety culture uses rollover accident, it was apparent and divided opinion (3. Compliance large gum tree. the concept of a ladder with each that several things happened to Driven level). The driver was thrown out of the level being represented by a rung. cause the chain of events. Appliances are designed to keep appliance and sustained a very 1. The bottom rung is described It is critical to look at each event our volunteers safe and the CFS serious neck injury that has left him as a vulnerable level where the and ask ‘why?’; sometimes to get to Infrastructure and Logistics team are a paraplegic. message is ’who cares as long as the true cause we may need to ask continually improving safety features The injured driver is currently we are not caught.’ why more than once. (4. Continually Improving level). undergoing treatment at the 2. The second rung represents the When we drive our cars we buckle up. There have been several accidents Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre. reactive level, where people say When this law was introduced drivers in other emergency organisations Bravery, courage and a positive 'safety is important, because we obeyed to prevent being caught and during the past few years where the outlook are words that describe the do a lot of it every time we have fined, but now it has become second wearing of seat belts would have volunteer during his rehabilitation. an accident.’ nature in most situations. saved lives and/or the quality of He recognised the need to talk 3. The third rung is the compliance However, why do some drivers not survivors’ lives. about the accident to prevent it driven level, where organisations have wear seatbelts and when do these Seatbelts can cause discomfort to happening again. systems in place to manage hazards. drivers think they are safe not drivers but either tightening the belt The story of the Mount Bryan truck Compliance Driven organisations wearing them? or adjusting the height of the seat rollover accident is fairly well known collect data and keep records, The next step is to look at the CFS and may rectify the problem. and has been a priority topic of but focus on accidents that ask ‘how are things done around here?’ The CFS Infrastructure & Logistics team have taken note of the seatbelt concerns and are working to develop The Hudson model of Safety Culture. alternatives. Resilient Let’s be sure that the CFS culture is we integrate safety into business practices and performance 5. a positive one that truly looks at the safety of our volunteers. Increasingly Continually Improving Our decision making must be based Informed People we continually improve practices and performance beyond compliance on strong principles and values that 4. are inherent in a safety culture, where safety is simply “the way we Compliance Driven do things around here”. 3. we have systems in place to meet legal requirements References: Increasing (1) Safety in Action Conference Papers, 2007, Reactive Trust Safety Institute of Australia, Victoria safety is important, we do a lot every time we have an accident 2. (2) Safety, Culture & Risk, 2005, Anthony Hopkins Organisational Maturity, Hudson Vulnerable 2003 1. no attention to safety
CFS July.indd 71 4/12/07 4:52:11 PM
CADET LEADER TRAINING
ACROSSBy: THEJo-Anna Kenney, STATEYouth Programs Officer
adet leader training has regional activities and camps. been carried out around the In June 2007, 29 Cadet Coordinators 72 Cstate to provide CFS Cadet and Leaders from Region 1 Coordinators and Leaders with participated in the cadet leader VOLUNTEER - CADETS information, resources and support training at Region 1 Headquarters. to assist them in their role. Despite the early morning start and << Participants of the R4 The training also provides an cold weather participants enjoyed the cadet leader training << opportunity for those leading cadet opportunity to get outside and put theirir held at Crystal Brook CFS programs to get together and share problem solving skills to the test. in May 2007; taking part ideas to ensure they have the tools The leadership exercise, conducted in the leadership exercise that required a to deliver a fun, informative and at all courses, was detangling a great deal of teamwork interesting cadet program. number of ropes, but there was a and communication. In a first for CFS cadets, Region 3 catch, once you had hold of the rope combined their camp activities with you could not let it go. cadet leader training in March 2007. Inevitably this task required a lot Feedback from the Leaders and of weaving, ducking, stepping over Trainers suggests this was a positive teammates and plenty of laughter. initiative and they appreciated Experienced Scouts Leaders delivered the understanding and flexibility the training to all our dedicated required to make it happen. Leaders in the various Regions. In April 2007, with the help of David Some of the topics covered include; Bryant, Cadet Representative Region Coordinator role and responsibilities 6, 17 Cadet Coordinators and Leaders (including a raising awareness completed training at Streaky Bay. on Child Protection session), The weekend was especially busy helping others learn, programming, for the Region 6 Leaders as they communication and behaviour took the opportunity to hold a Cadet management, community youth Committee Meeting. needs and the cadet program. In May 2007 Cadet Coordinators For information on cadet leader and Leaders from Region 4 training coming up in your Region, participated in the Cadet Leader please contact your regional training at Crystal Brook CFS. representative on the State Cadet
For this Region, often isolated by Committee, your Volunteer Support << A Scout Leader presenting the communication module to R4 Cadet Coordinators and Leaders. distance, it was a great opportunity Officer or the Youth Programs Officer to share ideas and discuss future on 8463 4106.
<< The two brigades together in their uniforms – KI KI CADETS VISIT ALDINGA BEACHCH cadets in red and Aldinga Beach cadets in green. By: Tanya Norman, Cadet Coordinator, Aldinga Beach CFS
n Sunday 27 May 2007 exercise and were treated to a Cadets and Supervisors BBQ lunch. Ofrom Kangaroo Island Everyone involved had a great visited Aldinga Beach CFS as time with plenty of laughs part of their Camp to throughout the day. At the end of the mainland. the visit, the KI Cadets surprised The KI visitors joined cadets Aldinga Beach CFS with a from Aldinga Beach in team Certificate of Appreciation. building and problem solving Aldinga Beach Cadets are games, practising their fire looking forwards to a possible fighting skills with a Hose Drill visit to KI in the future.
CFS July.indd 72 4/12/07 4:52:12 PM CFS CADETS FORM FOCUS
GROUP FOR AFACBy: Jo-Anna RESEARCHKenney, Youth Programs Officer
A Country Fire Service (CFS) The target age group for the a desirable way of receiving cadets have formed a focus research is 15 to 29 year olds. community safety messages. Sgroup to assist in research Some notes from the CFS cadet Television on how to incorporate community focus group are: It was established that television safety messages with technology. Methods of communication is now used less than before, Video games The focus group was made up of SMS messaging, mobile phones, however, it is still used every day. five cadets; all aged 15 or 16 years Video games may be successful if MSN messenger and email are the Most of the focus group watch from Freeling and Roseworthy CFS they can make a fire hazard appeal most popular ways to communicate television only at night and do not brigades, who met on 14 April 2007. to a younger demographic. 73 with friends and peers. use www.YouTube.com to watch
The group met with four fire Advertising VOLUNTEER - CADETS television content. engineering students from the Mobile phones Community safety messages McDonalds, Hungry Jacks and Worchester Polytechnic College In the future all mobile phones will KFC are popular places where in the United States who were in more than likely have cameras, video The focus group has seen fire advertising can be placed and Australia working on a project and other features such as GPS. safety, speeding, and smoking perhaps billboards with catchy under the supervision of Rob Internet safety messages. phrases to grab people’s attention. Llewellyn from the Australasian Fire Dramatic and vivid images that For the focus group the Internet Brand names Authorities Council (AFAC). make an impact are more likely to was mostly used for general web The purpose of the project was to make them aware of the content of Conveying safety messages by surfing and school research. investigate how technology devices the message. means of famous brand names such as mobile phones, ipods, Internet, Ipods It was noted that personal could be successful and some television, etc. may be utilised for Ipods were discussed and it experiences might also change the favourite brands were Nike, Adidas, community safety messages. was concluded that they are not behaviour of the public. and Fila.
REGION FIVE CADET TRAINING DAY By: Kylee Merritt, Volunteer Support Officer R5
n 17 June 2007, Region scores were; Yellow team won first Five cadets attended a place, Green team second, Red team OTraining Day held at the third and Blue team fourth. Regional Training Centre. All teams received a prize for their Cadets participated in four efforts on the day. exercises, those being the hose During the day the Instructors and << < All hahandsnds oon ddeck for the LPG bullet exercise at the R5 cadet Training Day. drill, rural drill, search and Leaders were looking for a ‘Cadet of R5 cadets participating in the hose drill exercise.
rescue and LPG bullet. the Day’ who stood out from the rest << Cadets were put into teams and showed outstanding leadership, that were specifically selected teamwork and communication skills. so cadets worked with other Alex Van Rijn from Naracoorte CFS cadets that they don’t normally brigade won this title and received work with and these teams had a copy of Rex Hall’s book “Forty Five to compete against each other. Flaming Years”. Teams were scored out of I would like to thank everyone who 10 for their communication, helped put the day together and assist teamwork, listening to on the day and Rex Hall for donating a instructions and performance copy of his book as a prize and teams were timed on the With out all of you the day would hose drill. not have been the success it was - At the end of the day final Thank you.
CFS July.indd 73 4/12/07 4:52:40 PM EQUIPMENT NEWS STANDARDISED FIRE HOSE COUPLING FOR AUSTRALIAN FIRE AGENCIES
By: Arthur Tindall, SACFS Manager Infrastructure and Logistics
74 he concept of common hose across State borders; the fact is we feature that allows either end to be
VOLUNTEER - EQUIPMENT couplings for all Australian fire cannot interoperate when brigades connected, whereas BIC couplings Tagencies is nothing new, with are required to come from “long have a male and female end. several attempts having been made distances”, as occurred when NSW Also, BIC couplings also have to standardise on a single coupling. Rural Fire Service (RFS) responded moving parts that add to their During these earlier attempts a to SA in 2005. maintenance, cost and complexity number of agencies willingly embraced Global Warming is another concern and therefore it is suggested that the concept and implemented change that has become a reality with BIC would be the least appropriate whilst others showed little interest and scientists stating it will lead to ‘quick connect’ couplings to be Storz quarter-turn couplings failed to act. larger fires of longer duration. included in a standard for Australian Overall the concept lapsed due Such fires will have the potential fire agencies. to a lack of unilateral support to significantly impact the way fire A number of fire agencies i.e. and the perception that the costs and emergency services need NSW Fire Brigades, NSW RFS and and logistics involved would be to be delivered and will make the Melbourne Fire Brigade (MFB), have prohibitive for little gain. need for national interoperability a adopted Storz as their sole coupling. Consequently a number of logistical necessity rather than a Whilst such an approach has merit, agencies, including those in long held vision. in principle it should be recognised South Australia (SA), continue to that these couplings have a number use ‘historic’ couplings that are Selection of a Common Coupling of disadvantages when used in rural not only inefficient but inhibit A common couplings survey applications with smaller diameter interoperability. conducted amongst Australian hoses because they reduce flow at Cross-jurisdictional operations fire agencies indicated strong the coupling as indicated in table 1. Storz quarter-turn couplings between fire service agencies are support for the concept of a Forestry couplings are fully becoming increasingly commonplace standardised coupling, but diverse interchangeable up to 38mm with agencies from Queensland, New views as to what the selected irrespective of hose size and provide South Wales (NSW), Australian Capital coupling should be. full flow rates relative to the Territory (ACT), Victoria, Tasmania and In this situation personal or agency designated hose size. SA all having been involved in such preferences must be set aside and They are also lighter, cheaper, operations in recent years. couplings need to be selected on less bulky and easier to drag Invariably these agencies have fitness for purpose, ease of use and through the bush. faced problems with achieving cost effectiveness. In small hose sizes, similar flow interoperability due to the different A number of ‘fit for purpose’ rates can be achieved with Storz by couplings used by each agency. couplings are already used by using couplings with appropriate After the ‘September 11’ terrorist Australian fire agencies namely Storz, bore diameters, but each coupling attack in 2001 on the twin towers Forestry (often referred to as Wajax) would be a different size therefore Forestry quarter-turn couplings in New York, the Federal Emergency and British Instantaneous (BIC). adding unnecessary complexity. Management Agency (FEMA) in These couplings are all ‘quick Forestry couplings are only Washington noted: connecting’ but Storz and Forestry available in sizes up to 65mm “After the disaster, it became have the advantage of being making their selection as the sole painfully clear that while emergency hermaphrodite, or sexless, a standard coupling impractical in fire equipment from neighbouring TABLE 1. geographic areas may have been compatible, there were grave Nominal Coupling Size Forestry Storz incompatibilities hampering rescue Bore O.D. Bore O.D. and communications efforts when the equipment came from longer (Across Lugs) distances, as will happen during 19mm 19mm 76mm large-scale disasters.” 25mm 25mm 76mm 17mm 55mm Forestry quarter-turn couplings Although many will argue that fire agencies can already interoperate 38mm 38mm 76mm 32mm 78mm
CFS July.indd 74 4/12/07 4:52:56 PM 75 VOLUNTEER - EQUIPMENT
urban environments where large prohibitive, logistically challenging bined will and motivation to make it volumes of water is sometimes and a significant impediment to the happen. required. adoption of common couplings as From a timing perspective, it can be In Urban environments Storz has been evident in past attempts. argued that now would be an ideal couplings have a significant It is suggested that the time to commence the implementation advantage as they are available implementation of common of common couplings. in sizes up to 250mm in diameter; couplings could be best achieved The reason being that the CFS and hence can cater for not only existing at a minimum cost if the transition the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Vic- requirements but also accommodate were to take place over an extended toria have recently entered a period the increasing requirement for high period, say twenty years. where large numbers of appliances volume hoses. Over this period, transition would procured post the Ash Wednesday Example of an adaptor set, in this Given that both Forestry and Storz be predicated on each new appliance Bushfires of 1983 are either due for case Storz to Modified London couplings have their own specific manufactured being fitted with the replacement or are in the process of Round, (SAMFS/SACFS) advantages depending on the agreed common couplings and two being replaced. environment in which they are used, sets of adaptors also being provided. Standardisation allows emergency it is logical that both be considered Based on the widely accepted service agencies to share resources concept of common couplings for all for inclusion in a coupling standard, lifespan of twenty-years for rural during times of peak demand AFAC member agencies. as to propose only one fails to appliances, the fleet would be fitted and during periods of maintenance A copy of the paper can be obtained recognise the differing needs of with common couplings by 2027. or breakdown. by contacting Arthur Tindall by e- agencies in rural operations from Urban services would achieve a It also provides opportunities for mail on: [email protected] similar outcome in less time due to a aggregation of purchases hence Since the paper was prepared, all those operating in a predominantly shorter appliance lifespan. potential cost savings. South Australian and Tasmanian fire urban environment. When NSW RFS elected to Indications are that the concept service agencies have agreed to adopt completely change to Storz of common fire hose couplings for the recommendations contained in the Implementation couplings, it nominated an Australian fire agencies has strong common couplings proposal. Previous attempts to implement implementation of period of ten support from within most agencies As a result interoperability between common fire hose couplings have years with the actual changeover and industry alike. SA, Victorian, Tasmanian and NSW fire failed due to the focus being on trying occurring in four years due to a The need now is for the Australasian services has been largely achieved. to achieve a single coupling solution, rapid up take by brigades who Fire Authorities Council (AFAC), to show Queensland is currently reviewing the implied cost and the perception appreciated the simplicity of using the leadership required to make the its position, Western Australia, a that any changeover would need to hermaphrodite couplings. long held vision of a common coupling user of BIC, has stated they will not occur as a single action and within a The implementation of a common for Australian fire agencies a reality! change; and the Northern Territory relatively short time frame. coupling for Australian fire agencies Note: this article is a shortened has yet to state a position. Such an approach would be cost is only possible if there is a com- version of a paper promoting the
CFS July.indd 75 4/12/07 4:52:58 PM PHOTO COMPETITION UPDATE Conditions of entry he Volunteer photo competition Any photo submitted to Volunteer ‘Phamous Photos’ has recently been automatically becomes an entry to the Treviewed with some of the conditions Phamous Photos competition. of entry updated (refer below). Photographs may be of any subject but The prize remains the same – the winner must include either CFS personnel in receives a prize to the value of $50. turnout gear or uniform, be of any CFS WINNER In most instances, the winner chooses event or incident attended by CFS. a $50 voucher. The competition is open to CFS Some points to remember when taking personnel only. photos is to ensure the digital camera is Photographs must not be enhanced by set at a high mega pixel and ensure the any means. date stamp is turned off. The prize can be utilized at the How to enter photographer’s discretion. Simply send in your photo with the name When photos are received for Volunteer of photographer and/or name of submitter, magazine, the photographer does not address, telephone number and brigade (if necessarily submit them. In these 76 applicable) with a description of the photo instances the name received will be published and the prize money will be VOLUNTEER - PHAMOUS PHOTOS and/or details of the incident at which the photo was taken. split between the person submitting the photo and the actual photographer. Post photos to:
<< Unless otherwise requested in A hard days work, deserves…a rest, at the Coobowie House Fire, CFS Public Affairs, GPO Box 2468, writing, all photos become the February 2007 Photo: Gareth Jones, R2 Operations Planning Officer. Donated prize to Yorketown CFS. Adelaide SA 5001 property of the CFS. The CFS may Photos can be posted either use the entry for any publication or
as hard copies or on a CD displays with acknowledgment made
<< in the largest file size available. of the photographer. Monitoring the scene at Or email photos to: Entries must include name of a Kersbrook road [email protected] crash, April 2007 photographer and/or name of submitter, Photo: Matt Bonser, If emailing photos, please do not reduce address, telephone number and brigade Morphett Vale CFS the size. Sometimes Outlook asks if you (if applicable) with a description of the want to keep original size or send smaller. photo and/or details of the incident at If the file size is reduced the quality is which the photo was taken. affected and therefore the photo may not be able to be published in a large size.
<< Erickson Aircrane Helitak 746 at the Onkaparinga Gorge fire, December 2006. Photo: James Crocker, Littlehampton CFS
BA training exercise at the Old Noarlunga Meatworks. Photo: Matt Bonser, Morphett Vale CFS
<< Ready to refill, Heysen bulk water carrier at the Mt Bold fire, January 2007 Photo: Emmanuel Cusack, Littlehampton CFS
CFS July.indd 76 4/12/07 4:53:00 PM VOLUNTEER - FACESES IN THE CROCROWDWD 77
4/12/07 4:53:27 PM4/12/07 4:53:27 PM
Courier, 6 June 2007 June 6 Courier,
Photo: Mount Barker Barker Mount Photo:
50 years in April 2007. April in years 50
reached the milestone of of milestone the reached
CFS Volunteer, Ray Allen, Allen, Ray Volunteer, CFS Bradbury's longest serving serving longest Bradbury's << Ray never expects praise, he is a Ray has been a builder, mechanic, Ray has been a builder, Ray has given 50 years of full service Ray held the position of Fire At the AGM in August 1971 Ray Ray was elected Captain of Bradbury Up until 1968, Bradbury CFS didn’t Ray was a delegate at original most modest man, but in his families highest award. eyes he deserves life’s firefighter and mentor to so many; you his life. could say it’s to the CFS and only Lois knows the silent hours he has put in working on trucks and at the station. Controller until be became a Lieutenant in 1980 and has been a Lieutenant for 27 years. became the Brigade Administration Officer (BAO), a position he has held for 36 years. CFS at the 1968 AGM and again in May 1980 for a few months. have a Captain and Lieutenants, as we know them now; there was a Fire Controllers and Station Officer, Fire Party Leaders. Council EFS meetings and has served on many other CFS committees and even now still attends general meetings with the Mount Lofty Group. calm in hazardous situations. Ray married Lois in 1964 and as a He would come home from work, It wasn’t long before Lois found In the early years of Ray and Lois’ Ray has been in the thick of two Ash some After the first Ash Wednesday, with a wonderful band of helpers, did all the inside work to the shed once it was erected. new bride, she soon found out how life. much CFS was a part of Ray’s have his meal and go straight to the fire station, a schedule that would sound all too familiar to partners of CFS members. ‘if you can’t beat it; join it’ and she is still a member of Bradbury CFS and holds the positions of Brigade Logistics Officer and Radio Operator. marriage, Ray did water carting with the fire truck; Lois took the calls. Ray delivered water after work and on weekends for many years, often with their eldest daughter Robyn who was trained at the age of eight to start the pump. and many other fires. Wednesdays of the wives and mothers of Bradbury CFS members told Lois that they were always glad to hear that Ray was driving the truck, as he was a safe and experienced driver who remains
t age 72, Ray Allen is the longest serving member of Bradbury CFS, having reached the milestone of Ray officially joined the Longwood, Ray officially joined the Longwood, In the early years, CFS was a real His father Charlie and brother John, Ray and his brother John built three Not only was Ray one of the station’s In 1985, Bradbury was expecting a This is a well-liked story that is In 1996, eleven years after this
A RAY ALLEN’S 50 YEAR MILESTONE ALLEN’S RAY 50 years service in April 2007. on Scott Creek EFS Bradbury, 28 April, 1957. family affair for Ray. urged him both members of Bradbury, to join. fire trucks for the brigade, including one from a former petrol tanker they bought for 200 pounds in 1957. mechanics, but he was a builder too, helping to erect the fire station at its first location and then adding to it later on. new appliance which wouldn’t quite fit the station, so Ray said ‘no worries, we will just lift the roof and take the sides out; a piece of cake!’ still recalled. addition to the station, a new location and station was needed and again Ray drew up the plans and together CFS July.indd 77CFS July.indd 77 VOLUNTEER [ OBITUARIES ] Sam Mitchell By: Heather Hean and Colin Mitchell, Sam’s children
am Mitchell was never one received his greatest satisfaction design and installation of the foam “He was a true gentleman and very for glitz and glamour, however from being part of an organisation proportions that are used on the back well respected.” Sin September 2005 he stood that helped people in need’, that of appliances. After ‘retiring’ in Clare in 2001, Sam tall and proud at Government House being the SA Country Fire Service. Sam spent four years as continued to work on the farm as much 78 where Governor Marjorie Jackson- During the time he lived in Yacka, Vice President of the South as he could, as well as his community
VOLUNTEER - OBITUARIES Nelson presented him with Sam was involved in such things as Australian Volunteer Fire Brigades involvements. the prestigious Australian Fire Chairman of Yacka Primary School, Association (SAVFBA) and was CFS He would often answer the phone Service Medal. Yacka Community Development Board, Representative on the Regional ‘Sam’s Volunteer Help Service’ as his It was a just reward for 47 years Agricultural Bureau, Institute Benefit Bushfire Prevention Committee for days were spent wherever he was needed dedicated to the CFS. Committee, Councillor on Georgetown Region 4. most – with son Colin on the farm, Sam was born at Clare Hospital to and Rocky River Councils, Yacka He was one of the foundation helping daughter Heather with her baby Hurtle and Annie Mitchell and grew up Progress Group and others; but the CFS members of the Rocky River Group son, or one of the various committees he in a small farming town called Yacka was his true passion. in the Mid North of South Australia. In 1959 he joined Yacka CFS Sam attended Yacka Primary School and was Station Officer/Captain until 2001. and Gladstone High School, which he As well as firefighting, he left after one year to work with his spent hundreds of hours building parents on the family farm. and maintaining the vehicles His limited education was no and fire shed. barrier to him achieving the things In 1966 the group then known as he did during his life. Yacka Emergency Fire Service (EFS) did Sam had a thirst for knowledge, loved a reassessment of equipment, especially a challenge and his perfectionist nature the existing design of the truck following showed in all his accomplishments. a large fire and Sam was given the job Sam Mitchell being presented with the Australian Fire He was very talented when it came of building a new body for the truck, and Service Medal in September 2005 by Governor Marjorie to working with his hands. his design, planning and welding skills Jackson-Nelson. Sam’s 21st birthday present, an arc showed through. welder, led him to manufacture many Sam was a natural leader and gadgets, machinery and building his ability to quickly survey a fire construction. and analyse what method of control and was involved in the formation of was on, including Lions, Clare Uniting Sam also obtained an electrician’s was needed played a vital part in his the Bundaleer Group. Church, Rural Counselling, SES and Road licence to help supplement the farm firefighting roles. Sam thoroughly enjoyed being able Safety Committee. income during tough times. In the 1980’s he completed to have such valuable input towards After a very hard year health wise in In 1963 Sam married Kathleen Levels 1,2 & 3 Basic Fire Training matters that he felt strongly about. 2006, Sam passed away suddenly on and they enjoyed 44 happy years of at their inception, and went on to gain his He made many good friends and he and 4 January 2007, aged 68. married life together. Instructors certificate. Kath enjoyed travelling around Australia He is survived and greatly Sam and Kathleen lived on the Sam spent many weekends teaching at on several interstate conferences. missed by his wife Kathleen, children family farm until 2001, when they Bowman’s Park at Whilst researching this Colin and Heather and retired into Clare. Crystal Brook, along with George Polonka obituary, everyone that was their partners Kathy and Mick, Sam had three main loves in his and Gary Bradke. spoken to, kept reiterating the along with his grandchildren and life – his family, his farm and his In 1988, Sam was honoured with a Life same opinions towards Sam, ‘little mates’ Leah, Brett, Jessie, community involvement. Membership of the CFS at a ceremony those being… Lachie and Jake. His family meant the world to that coincided with the opening of the “He stood up for what he believed After his funeral at Clare Uniting him and he worked hard to provide for new Yacka CFS shed, a project which in and had the gift of foresight, both Church, a guard including members of them and future generations. Sam had a great deal to do with. great qualities that helped get a lot the CFS, SES and Lions Club of Clare, In the latter years, Sam had In 1994, Sam received a National of things accomplished. honoured Sam. more time to spend with his Medal for meritorious service. “Whatever group or committee he Yacka 34 fire truck sat at the gates of grandchildren, who he completely adored Sam served as President of the was working for, he would always put Yacka Cemetery waiting to welcome him in. and the feeling was reciprocated. Northern Fire Fighting Association their thoughts and wishes forward Sam Mitchell was a quiet achiever who As a farmer, he had a tremendous (now the SA Volunteer Fire Brigades and not his own, something that those led by example, providing an excellent love for the land and considered it a Association) as well as Regional within the CFS admired him for. role model for his family, fellow volunteers privilege to be able to grow produce Representative on the State Vehicle “His initiative and commitment and the community at large. to help feed the world. and Equipment Committee. was invaluable to many sectors of The world could do with a lot more Sam was once quoted as saying ‘he He had a great deal of input into the CFS across South Australia. Sam Mitchell’s.
CFS July.indd 78 4/12/07 4:53:32 PM VOLUNTEER
[ OBITUARIES continued ] Michelle Maguire R1, Anthony Maguire and Peter Davis
ichelle first started working opinion when she saw things weren’t Council and also played an active approach to processes that are now on contract with the right and then work with people to role in state-wide fire prevention employed throughout the State. MNational Parks and Wildlife develop good solutions. activities through membership of the We are privileged to have known Service (NPWS) in 1983 with the Her professional approach to CFS Region 1 Bushfire Prevention and worked with Michelle. Protection Management Unit bushfire prevention planning was Committee and as the Minister’s Even when she was unwell she working for Howard McBeth, writing much sought after with the result representative on the SA Bushfire kept doing the job that she was so Fire Management Plans for NPWS that she wrote a number of bushfire Prevention Advisory Committee to good at. Reserves. prevention plans for other councils which she was appointed in 2000. Michelle was kind, caring and 79
During this time she worked and organisations. Michelle played a high profile dedicated to her family, the wider VOLUNTEER - OBITUARIES alongside Anthony who was working Michelle was very active in her role in the wider Fire Prevention community and the environment. on weed control plans. role as a council Fire Prevention Officer network in SA and brought From CFS love and deepest sympathy Michelle started work with CFS in Officer with Kangaroo Island a considered and professional to Anthony, Alex and Maddie. December 1986 with the Bushfire Prevention Unit at Stirling where shee was involved in developing new CFS processes; building in Bushfire Pronee Areas, bushfire prevention plans; Michelle with her son Alex. Fire Prevention Officer training; waste depot inspections and community education. Michelle became the first female Regional Officer in South Australia for the CFS working at Stirling. It was during this time that she first came to Kangaroo Island and did inspections of townships with Trevor Davis who was the Kangaroo Island CFS Group Officer. Michelle resigned from CFS to marry Anthony and she worked for NPWS as a guide at Seal Bay. However, CFS recognised her talentss and asked her to continue with Fire Prevention Planning and Michelle became the first female Bushfire Prevention Officer in South Australia.. In 1990, Michelle was appointed part-time Fire Prevention Officer for Dudley and Kingscote Councils and continued in this position in the Kangaroo Island Council. Michelle registered as a Volunteer Firefighter of the Kingscote CFS in 1990 and transferred to Penneshaw CFS in 2000. As a volunteer she was Group Administration Officer from 1996 Vale Michelle Maguire By: Euan Ferguson, SACFS Chief Officer to 1998. Michelle was instrumental in t is with great sadness that we long battle with a brain cancer. better fire management. developing professional approaches in learned of the passing of Michelle Our sincere condolences are We will miss her deeply as a friend all that she did and was an excellent IMaguire from Kingscote. extended to Anthony and the family. and a colleague. role model for women working in a Michelle was a former employee of Michelle was unique. CFS was represented at Michelle’s male dominated organisation. CFS, Bushfire Prevention Officer for She was a thoughtful but funeral by Regional Commander, At times this was challenging KI and a longstanding Minister’s strong advocate for proper fire Mark Thomason and Manager for both her and the people she nominee on the State Bushfire management. Prevention Services, Leigh Miller. worked with. Prevention Advisory Committee. She was energetic and collaborative. She was not afraid to voice her Michelle passed away following a She was inspirational in leading (FireWire No.113, 21 August 2007)
CFS July.indd 79 4/12/07 4:53:34 PM VOLUNTEER
[ OBITUARIES continued ] Daniel James Clarke of Tanunda CFS By: Rick Kessner, Captain Tanunda CFS
aniel passed away on 14 April in his capabilities. He made himself available for Daniel donated his new washing 2007 at the age of 26 after a Daniel was proud of the skills he strike team deployments and went machine to the brigade, but only on Dshort but brave fight with a acquired and would readily pass on to the Port Lincoln fires and recently the proviso that it was looked after. very rare form of cancer. his knowledge. the Riverland fires. I gave him that assurance and that Daniel joined the CFS as a cadet in He had a great knowledge of vehicles Tanunda CFS moved into its new SOPs for its use would be prepared. March 1994 at Edithburgh. and equipment, and an eagerness to station in September 2006, which Daniel was a highly valued member The story behind Daniel joining the learn about new equipment. concluded a very busy period of of the brigade and community in 80 CFS began when he and a few of He was mechanically minded and working bees. general, one of those people who his friends were playing around and if something needed fixing he had These working bees were held nearly would get in and get things done. VOLUNTEER - OBITUARIES accidentally started a fire. a saying “I can do it”; and would every weekend for many months and He made some very strong, To ensure Daniel learnt the errors of proceed to the boot of his trusty Ford Daniel hardly missed any of them, lasting friendships in the CFS and his ways, he was asked to attend a to get the appropriate tool required which proved his dedication. was well respected. CFS meeting. to do the job. Also, Daniel was involved on Daniel will be a truly missed member Following the meeting Daniel joined For example, after an altercation the brigade’s Management of the CFS, our family and St John. the CFS and completed his Level 1 between a 34P and a fence post Committee and was a member “Miss me, but let me go.” Firefighting course, which was one whilst patrolling a previous fire that of St John, Barossa Division for of 21 courses Daniel completed over day there was some repair work to three years, up until the time of the next 13 years. be done on the truck - straightening his passing. In March 2001 Daniel moved to out of the roller locker door, the guide Daniel was incredibly brave - he Tanunda and joined Tanunda CFS. rail, the bottom and side of the locker organised his own funeral with the He formed strong bonds with and some internal fittings. help of his mate, Quinton Kessner, fellow members of the Brigade and At around 2130 hours, and with who is a fellow member of the the CFS became a very important more extreme weather forecast for Brigade and a funeral director. part of his life. the next day, discussions began on It was Daniel’s wish to have his life Daniel was a fibreglasser by how to fix the truck. celebrated at the new station and trade and undertook other “I can do it” was the comment his coffin to have the CFS and Ford employment in the Valley, which from Daniel; it was just a matter of logos on it, topped with flowers in included being a security guard, reversing the Ford back and opening the CFS colours. and his final employment with the boot. Over 240 people attended his Helbig Memorials learning the skills Any tool you needed, he would say funeral at the new Tanunda CFS involved in stonemasonry. “in the boot”. station, which was followed by a Daniel was a BA operator and With his panel beating skills and guard of honour and a procession by undertook a compartment fire support from others, the 34P repair CFS and St John in escorting Daniel Daniel Clarke, behaviour course. work was completed by 0200 the for the walk along the main Tanunda CFS In September 2004, Daniel was next morning. street to his final resting place elected Lieutenant 3, demonstrating Daniel carried out all his duties (all vehicles in the order as per the confidence Tanunda Brigade had with dedication. his instructions).
James Neville Butler (Jim) By: John and Sonia Beimans, Moorak CFS
im was a founding member of the the service and attended many of community within the fire brigade. Emergency Fire Service (EFS) in 1947 the larger fires around the district Jim’s father was a founding member Jand Life Member of Moorak CFS. including Ash Wednesday and the of the original Moorak district Fire Fellow firefighter, Col Lamond, Kongorong fire in January 1959. Brigade in 1939, and his son Iain remembers Jim’s first fire at a local During the Kongorong fire followed in his footsteps to reach the landmark - Mount Percy. Jim was remembered for saving rank of Captain and his grandsons Jim ran up the hill with the tools the crew of the truck with only volunteered for many years. of the trade; sacks, milk cans full of the hairs on the back of their Jim will be fondly remembered by water and a hand pump to curtail hands singed, after he had talked the Moorak and surrounding districts the blaze - always with a cheerful younger over-enthusiastic members for his service to the community and disposition. out of going to the head of the fire assistance to anybody needing a James Butler (Jim), Jim assisted building the first fire when a wind change occurred. hand or a friendly chat. Moorak CFS. shed at Moorak. Jim was one of a line of Butler’s Jim passed away on 19 April 2007. He observed many changes within who gave service to the Moorak He will be sadly missed.
CFS July.indd 80 4/12/07 4:53:39 PM 46 years as a firefighter
homas Henry Moore passed away Tom was a Sergeant in the Tom’s love for the Dublin CFS was joined the CFS. on Wednesday, 16 May 2007. army and was also involved with clear by the amount of work he did and Tom was a great friend to us all. T He joined the Emergency EFS Headquarters Reserve, the the time he spent helping to build the Our thoughts are with Ronda and family. Fire Service (EFS) / SA Country Fire Volunteer Industrial Fire Squads crew room, radio room and toilet block. It has been a trying time for them Service (CFS) in 1960. and participated as a Marshall at He joined the Freemasons and during Tom’s illness - we wish them Tom was a popular member at the EFS/CFS competitions for took great delight in telling other all the best for the future. Dublin CFS and was very involved in many years. members that not only could he Tom is at peace now and may the great Dublin’s training as an instructor on Tom later worked in the correctional moralise on the excellent work of the architect of the universe look after our Monday and Wednesday nights. services as a Prison Officer for ancient builder of King Solomon’s brother, friend and fellow firefighter. Every one looked up to Tom as a role Enfield and Cadell. temple but was an operative mason Terry Halford model, mentor and leader. He trained prisoners the skills and could really work in stone. Vice President and former Captain He not only knew fire fighting, he was involved in fire fighting and then Approximately 30 years ago, Tom Dublin CFS one of the pioneers; one of the few who later led prison crews to fight fires moved to Dublin and joined the first wrote the training, put the training such as Ash Wednesday and other Dublin brigade at the time that Phil During quiet moments together into practice and went out fire fighting large campaign fires. Ferme was Captain. around the campfire or sitting in the in the early beginnings. Following this, Tom applied for a Phil was delighted that Tom had dirt on the side of the road munching 81 Personally, he was my role model position at General Motors Holden as joined Dublin; Phil and Tom had been on a pastry, Tom and I would reflect
and mentor. a Security Guard, then later became judges at the Fire Service Competitions on our lives, activities and family. VOLUNTEER - OBITUARIES At work, we always spoke about his We would always conclude times as a fire fighter while he was appreciating the support and teaching me the craft of stonemasonry understanding of our wives and and also while I assisted him as a Cadet family who allowed the two of us time Leader at the Dublin brigade. to pursue our interests. Tom attended every EFS/CFS course These “special occasions” were and available in his 46 years, and was remain precious to me. presented hundreds of different Tom’s ability to communicate and certificates of achievement and received gain peoples’ co-operation and numerous awards in his lifetime. respect was unique. Originally Tom joined Salisbury CFS Tom Moore, Dublin CFS He had a sense of humour particularly brigade as a fire fighter and was awarded in situations that were trying ones Life Membership of Salisbury CFS. Safety/Fire Officer, before retiring as so they had much to talk about. patience i.e. competitions in pouring rain, He was an active Instructor at the a stonemason in his local community Tom had many skills; he was the standing in mud and water over your Mount Lofty Training Centre. repairing old buildings. person that knew all the knots and ankles, and being pelted by hailstones. He was awarded the National Tom worked on many historical spent many hours trying to teach us. Tom possessed strong ethical and Medal, 1st and 2nd Clasp to the buildings and homes in the area He loved to show us his petrol gas moral values and was a man of National Medal and received a such as the Mallala Museum, Dublin machine (which demonstrated gas dignity and pride. Ministerial Commendation in 2003. Institute, Lower Light Primary School, vapour sinking to the lowest point It is a “sad time” for all as we grieve the Tom’s 3rd Clasp was posthumously Catholic Church and Balaklava and only ignites when vapour comes passing of a family member and a friend. awarded and presented to his wife Freemasons Lodge. in contact with flame at the bottom The challenge now is to maintain the Ronda by Ray Bryant, Light Group Many times if the homeowners could of the stairs) and took great pleasure standards, practices and ethics Tom Officer, after Tom’s farewell. not afford to pay him (eg. if they when new members jumped with has taught us, striving always to serve In Tom’s early days he was quite were pensioners), Tom repaired their amazement when it blew open the lid others and “do things better”; that is the sportsman; he represented houses for no money and would often on top of the box. what Tom would want. Broken Hill in competition cycling, only accept chocolate cake, lunch and When Tom’s illnesses (Parkinson’s Cherish these rich and meaningful represented NSW football (under plenty of coffee as payment. disease) began to take hold, he was memories as a lasting tribute to a 14’s) and was a very competitive A Tom was a stonemason by trade determined not to let it beat him and great guy “Our Tom”. grade cricketer, as a wicket keeper. and a perfectionist. worked even harder. Brian Menadue Tom’s first job was in the pits at the He taught me how to be a Personally, I think work took his Senior Development Assessment silver mines of Broken Hill and later craftsman and we both worked mind off his health problems and Officer, SA Country Fire Service he learnt the craft as a stonemason together on many projects. later when he couldn’t work he would in Broken Hill. Trevor Schiller come down to the station on his These are just some of the thoughts Tom then moved to South Australia Captain Dublin CFS, Friend and scooter and work the radio for us. and memories of ‘Tom’. and soon after married Ronda. Work Colleague He loved it when his grandchildren We will miss you Tom. A tribute to Ray By: M George Harris, Pt Broughton CFS aymond Ensley Robinson truck easily to attend call outs. Ray would be the first person to put his training night I would pass them by joined Port Broughton brigade Ray was also our Communications hand up to help with the cadets. Ray to hear his thoughts. Rwhen he was around sixty-nine and Equipment Officer. When the brigade had a BBQ, Ray In Ray’s younger years he fought in three years of age and completed his level When something needed to be done, with was our cook and when food was wars; the Korean War, the Malayan War one and two training courses. a big smile on his face, Ray would make required at an incident, Ray ordered it, and completed three tours of Vietnam Ray became our Radio Operator after suggestions on how it could be completed picked it up and delivered it. and was a highly decorated soldier. he began to experience knee problems and then would get in there and do it. As the Training Officer, when I Ray passed away on 30 January 2007. and was unable to get in or out of the When the Cadet Officer needed a hand, needed ideas or had ideas for a We all sadly miss Ray.
CFS July.indd 81 4/12/07 4:53:42 PM THANKYOU CFS
CFS Praise the first public expression of its kind he On Wednesday evening 10 January When the smoke was thick and the could remember in 25 years of service in 2007, fire leapt across Saddlebags fire looked like spreading towards We all read with horror every week the district. Road and raced through grass Bassnet Road, it was very reassuring of the damage bushfires wreak on People usually wrote letters of behind our house and into our native to see a CFS truck rolling up the our neighbours and never expect it to bushland and gullies beyond. driveway to check that the residents in happen to us. appreciation or came into the each house were okay. Last week it did. station personally. By the time we knew what was Even when we couldn’t see what was 82 The quick action of one of our “I think it’s really good that people are happening, Kangarilla CFS and other thinking about the volunteers,”he said. units were on our property, protecting happening, we knew we weren’t on
VOLUNTEER - THANKYOU & CONTACT DETAILS neighbours and the CFS, both on the our own because we could hear the ground and in the air, averted what Meanwhile, the Charleston our house and working so hard to stop aircraft coming and going as they could have been a very serious fire. community showed its appreciation to the fire taking hold. helped to fight the fire. Sometimes we forget the work these the CFS with a sausage sizzle outside Water bombers were operating and We know that many of the crews worked people do for us, in their own time, for the local hotel. things were happening at a hectic pace. into the night and that the crews of some no money. All proceeds from the barbecue plus The fire front moved through quite fire trucks, water tanks and earthmoving I thank them from the bottom of $1 from every counter meal sold at the quickly, but trees continued to burn equipment spent the next few days in the my heart. pub went to the Woodside brigade. and we experienced a moderate area making sure the fire was out. Susi Lamb, Aldgate Charleston Hotel publican John resurgence in the gully near our house We really appreciate all your hard work. Pearce also donated $250. later that evening. With thanks, (Mount Barker Courier, 21 February 2007) The CFS response was again very Members of the Bassnet Road and effective; at that stage the sight of (Mount Barker Courier, 24 February 2007) Sambell Road; Community Fire Safe appliances arriving to help was as Community thanks its Group CFS Volunteers Kangarilla CFS Brigade good as it gets. Some backburning and other Two “thank you” signs painted by The purpose of this letter is to say operations protected our house and Thank You Harrogate Echunga residents for their local a very big, heartfelt thanks to all probably stopped the fire moving into We own one of the properties that CFS brigade have put a smile on the CFS personnel, and particularly our sustained major fire damage near faces of volunteers, Heysen Group our horse paddocks and down to other own Kangarilla Brigade and support properties below and around us. Harrogate on January 4, which burnt Officer and Echunga firefighter Peter people, for the wonderful work done For the next 2-3 days the CFS were out about 80ha, plus 30ha of natural Hammond said this week. on 10 January 2007 and subsequent ever-present day and night, extinguishing bushland. The signs, put up near the Hagen Arms days battling what we now call the Mt burning trees and small flare-ups. The bush block, as we call it, was hotel shortly after the Mt Bold fires, were Bold Fire. Their presence was at all times one of the few remaining native purposeful and well managed, and for vegetation areas left. us was very re-assuring. Although many of us tried to stop The destruction of bushland is the fire racing across the paddocks, it saddening, but the people, animals trapped a mob of 150 sheep, burning and built assets on our property (other a large number. than some fencing) were safe. The fire also brought down about 100 Without your presence, your skills mature gum trees, most over 100 years old. and courage the outcome may have The bush block was home to been much worse for us and for many numerous native animals and birds, of our neighbours. some perished and others lost their Our thanks and our respect goes to habitat, which is going to make life you all. very difficult in this drought year. Best wishes The bush block also contained some Mike and Wendy Golder rare and endangered plants and we can only hope they will recover. Thank You CFS We would like to thank all the On Tuesday 21 November 2006 at neighbors who came to our assistance about 11am, lightning started a and, of course, the CFS and air bushfire near Kelly’s Hill Road, One appliances who did a brilliant job. Tree Hill. We did not manage to see many We would like to thank the many of you at the time, as we were busy Country Fire Service (CFS) ground crews trying to save what we could. and aircraft that attended the fire. Thanks again, your efforts were very The police and fire crews were on the much appreciated. scene quickly, warning motorists and The person who lit this fire and possibly residents about the fire. the many others we have experienced,
CFS July.indd 82 4/12/07 4:53:42 PM needs to understand that it is not just Whilst we are sure it was a team grass that is destroyed. effort, our personal experience The obvious losses of stock was with the local CFS Brigade at feed and fences can be replaced Kangarilla and other brigades from at a financial cost, however we Pinaroo, Balaklava and Orroroo. cannot replace the old trees and If the attitude and commitment unnecessary suffering inflicted on of these brigades are indicative of 83 the sheep and native animals. those of your whole Service then we Peter, Sue and Chris Atkinson consider ourselves very lucky to have VOLUNTEER - THANKYOU & CONTACT DETAILS Harrogate moved to South Australia. We would appreciate you passing (Mount Barker Courier, 24 February 2007) this message on to your brigades and thank them and their families Thank You for their time and commitment Yours faithfully, We are writing to thank you and your Janeen & David Coleman I was part of an ambulance crew The assistance of Myponga CFS in members for the outstanding service Cut Hill Road, Kangarilla that attended an incident at James extricating the patient firstly into and diligence they showed during the Track Rd, Myponga for an elderly lady the fire appliance and then onto our fighting and controlling of the Mt Bold Well done to that had fallen while bushwalking stretcher was invaluable. Fires from 10 January 2007. and fractured her ankle. Once again the skill and care with Our property is in the area in Cut Hill Myponga crew The Myponga CFS crew were which the driver escorted us out in very Road which was severely affected by I wanted to highlight the brilliant and without them the trying conditions was unbelievable. the fires and without the support of the brilliant service your volunteers are outcome for the lady would not have Although I thanked the Myponga CFS in particular, we believe we would providing to our state. been anywhere near as good. CFS crew for their assistance on the have lost far more of our property. Currently I work as a paramedic Their ability to navigate a narrow day, please pass on my thanks and Their professionalism combined with SA Ambulance and yesterday winding old fire track for 2km allowed us appreciation as I feel it is important to with the warmth and kindness in (Sunday 13 May 2007) I experienced to take our medical equipment (and us!) recognise the awesome work CFS do. our time of need and sorrow was first hand the expertise and to the patient, which ensured they were Adam Swalling, Paramedic SA overwhelming and heart warming. professionalism of CFS crews. treated adequately. Ambulance Service
STATE TRAINING CENTRE REGION 5 (BRUKUNGA) REGION 2 South East 6 Pyrites Road, Brukunga SA 5252 SA COUNTRY FIRE SERVICE Mount Lofty Ranges, Yorke Peninsula 46 Smith Street, Naracoorte SA 5271 T: 08 8398 9900 STATE HEADQUARTERS and Lower North T: 08 8762 2311 F: 08 8388 6997 8 Redbanks Rd, Willaston SA 5118 F: 08 8762 1865 E: [email protected] Level 7, 60 Waymouth St, Adelaide T: 08 8522 6088 E: [email protected] F: 08 8522 6404 GPO Box 2468, Adelaide SA 5001 SOUTH AUSTRALIAN VOLUNTEER E: [email protected] REGION 6 T: 08 8463 4200 FIRE BRIGADES ASSOCIATION Eyre Peninsula and West Coast F: 08 8463 4234 17 Wirriga Street, Regency Park SA REGION 3 Level 1, Jobomi House 5010 E: [email protected] Murraylands and Riverland 48 Liverpool Street, Port Lincoln SA 5606 T: 08 8244 6500 W: www.cfs.sa.gov.au Corner of Second St and Seventh St T: 08 8682 4266 Murray Bridge SA 5253 F: 08 8244 6400 CFS Bushfire Information Hotline: F: 08 8682 6569 T: 08 8532 6800 E: [email protected] 1300 362 361 E: [email protected] F: 08 8532 6220 W: www.savfba.org.au E: [email protected] REGIONAL OFFICES VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT REGION 4 REGION 1 BRANCH Flinders, Mid North and Pastoral areas 1300 364 587 Mount Lofty Ranges and Kangaroo Island 3 Main St, Port Augusta SA 5700 75 Gawler St Mount Barker SA 5251 T: 08 8642 2399 T: 08 8391 1866 F: 08 8641 0176 F: 08 8391 1877 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]
CFS July.indd 83 4/12/07 4:53:45 PM -ERCURY &IRESAFETY
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CFS July.indd 84 4/12/07 4:53:48 PM