FEATURE: Our newest integrated brigade - CFA
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FEATURE: Our newest integrated brigade
Contents Chair Claire Higgins news.cfa.vic.gov.au Incidents 03
04 Incidents
08 Statewide news
08 Chief Officer’s column
Working towards Incident summary
24 Learning from incidents
26 Brigade news
a joint volunteer STATEWIDE INCIDENTS BY Type 1 January – 31 March 2014
31 Community safety
32 Regional directors’ columns
strategy Fire and explosions
False alarms/false calls 1,923
4,884
Good intent calls 1,877
36 Health and safety CFA welcomed the external scrutiny of the Jones Inquiry and, in 2011, developed the
Jones Inquiry Implementation Action Plan in collaboration with VFBV. Last year we Motor vehicle accident, rescue, emergency medical services 1,372
37 Events welcomed the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office (VAGO) investigation and its Managing Hazardous condition 1,093
41 Training Emergency Services Volunteers report was tabled in State Parliament in February 2014. Service calls 824
The VAGO report assessed whether CFA and SES effectively and efficiently manage Others 185
42 Through the ages volunteers. It looked at whether strategic and operational planning is adequate to identify 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000
44 Memberlink and address volunteer resourcing requirements, including the capacity and capability of
the volunteer workforce. The particular focus areas were attraction, recruitment, retention NUMBER OF INCIDENTS
Cover Photo: KEITH PAKENHAM
and support as well as the adequacy and effectiveness of training and education and the
allocation and use of volunteers including surge capacity.
The report acknowledged that CFA has an overarching support service strategy but we STATEWIDE INCIDENTS BY DISTRICT 1 January – 31 March 2014
Rowville 26 lack a sound understanding of the total number of volunteers we need. We also have
limited knowledge of how effective our recruitment methods are because of a lack of
District 2 905
performance frameworks.
District 4 108
To quote from the report, “Neither agency can be assured that it has the capacity to District 5 293
respond to incidents when they occur because assessments of current workforce District 6 198
capacity overestimate their emergency response capabilities.
“CFA and SES’s decentralised approaches to the recruitment, training and deployment
District 7 1,074 Brigades are reminded
District 8 3,191
of volunteers mean neither agency can assure itself that these activities are effectively District 9 465 to submit their fire/incident
addressing workforce needs. CFA is in the process of implementing programs that
aim to address these concerns, however SES’s attempts to resolve these issues are
District 10
District 11 287
541
report as soon as possible
presently inadequate.”
Furthermore, VAGO recognised that, while CFA volunteers are supported, the reasons
District 12 320 after attending an incident.
District 13 1,178
members choose to leave are not well understood because we don’t currently conduct District 14 1,988 Brigades on strike teams
exit interviews.
A new program management team will focus on implementing recommendations from
District 15
District 16 222
787
also need to submit a report.
11 23 both the Jones and VAGO reports. District 17 198 FIRS Call Centre,
This team will receive strategic advice and direction from a steering committee made District 18 400
up of members from CFA, VFBV and the Department of Justice. The committee will be District 20 339 1800 628 844, is open
independently chaired by Dr Heather Wellington who has extensive experience in public
administration and community services. Dr Wellington has served as chair of the board
District 22
District 23 250
630
daily 8am-11pm.
of the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. She is currently a Surf Coast Shire councillor District 24 299
where she is a strong advocate for efficient service delivery and robust planning for a
sustainable future. 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500
Her concerns mesh well with CFA’s impetus to continuously improve our services for NUMBER OF INCIDENTS
and support of volunteers.
Against this background, CFA and SES have begun work on a joint volunteer strategy
which will incorporate the key themes of the Jones Inquiry and VAGO. A workshop will ORIGIN OF fire 1 January – 31 March 2014
37 be convened in the next few weeks involving key stakeholders. Over the next six months
there will be extensive consultation with the field to ensure we are thoroughly addressing Lawn, field, open area 2,200
the recommendations. On or near highway, roadway, street, public way, car park 903
This work is vital. Tackling the issues raised in both reports is critical to our long-term Scrub or bush area, forest 258
sustainability and the safety and protection of Victorian communities. Engine area, running gear, wheel area of vehicle 230
Kitchen, cooking area 203
Court, terrace, patio 109
Passenger areas of vehicle 68
Garage, carport, vehicle storage area 66
in
Area of fire origin undetermined 64
eep
K ouch
You can update your address or email details, or cancel
Brigade magazine, by clicking on the ‘Update your details’
icon on cfaonline.cfa.vic.gov.au or by calling 1800 628 844
If you have any queries about Brigade magazine, contact the editor:
duncan.russell@cfa.vic.gov.au; 9262 8978
For any social media queries, contact: c.ford@cfa.vic.gov.au; 9262 8317
Undetermined vehicle areas
0
64
500 1000 1500 2000 2500
t
NUMBER OF FIRES
Find out more about CFA: news.cfa.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cfamembers twitter.com/cfa_members
04 Incidents Brigade winter 2014 news.cfa.vic.gov.au Incidents 05
Morwell
“They’ve been absolutely awesome,” said bushfire,” continued Paul of the Morwell The community liaison effort
Senior Station Officer Paul Fixter as he played incident. “It doesn’t matter where you come
By bus, train or foot, Peter Bullen didn’t stop at
host to the NSW crews. “It’s really hectic on from; we’re all firefighters. It’s been a great
station because a lot of our gear got used in public transport to help keep the community
experience of camaraderie.”
the first couple of days at the open cut fire as informed about the Morwell open cut mine fire.
round-up
well as the Hernes Oak and Maryvale paper Interoperability at the mine Peter was one of 25 community liaison officers
mill fires. We didn’t have time to clean up so Officer-in-Charge at Traralgon Fire Station (CLOs) who spent 12 hours many days of the
that’s left us with a lot to do now. Peter Lockwood was working in the incident long-duration incident visiting local shopping
“We do a lot of comparing of areas and management team (IMT) from day one of centres, RSLs, bowls clubs and primary schools,
responsibilities and talking about how different the incident. and patrolling trains to help answer questions
it is from Bondi Beach!” He’s long been an important liaison point and listen to the concerns of the public.
Morwell brigade responds to Morwell and between the fire services and the Latrobe Valley “My role is to get out among the community and
Yallourn open cut mines and Yallourn, power industry through the Central Gippsland find out how they’re coping with the smoke and
Hazelwood and Energy Brix power stations. Essential Industries Group. ask if they have any issues,” Peter said at the
They turn out an average of 700 times a year “We maintain a very strong relationship,” said time. “By giving people information and finding
within a community of about 15,000 residents. Peter. “As a fire brigade we might make a run solutions to their problems, it empowers them
Paul worked as a career firefighter in the ACT every few weeks to a call from either a mine to take responsibility and enables them to look
until 2009 and spent his last five years there as or one of the power stations but it’s just part after themselves.”
a compressed air foam (CAF) project manager. of our operating environment.” During the incident, CLOs had more than
“The ACT CAFs trucks were the first in Australia He agrees that this long-duration incident 21,000 conversations with members of the
and, as firefighters, we had a big hand in the was eye opening for many firefighters public through more than 250 organised
design of the trucks,” said Paul. “They have who had never trained or worked in such activities including door-knocking and working
a Volvo cab chassis based on Papua New an environment. out of the mobile information buses.
Guinean mine specifications. They carry 8,000 “They were all worth their weight in gold,” he Teams pounded the pavement in Morwell,
litres of water plus CFA-approved Class A foam continued. “It’s a unique firefighting experience Hazelwood North, Moe, Traralgon, Boolarra and
concentrate and an air compressor.” but everyone had a job to do and we worked Churchill. The teams typically included about
In the ACT, CAFs is used for grass and as one. six staff members from agencies such as CFA,
bushfires, tip and waste fires, woodchip and “The highlight was the interoperability at the MFB, and EPA.
industrial fires. It can be used for both control mine and in the IMT. The AIIMS structure made Peter estimated he talked to between 150-200
lines and direct attack. it seamless. People from interstate walked into people on an average shift.
The Morwell mine fire was the first time CAFs roles and knew what to do. There was no them
was used in Australia on a brown coal fire and us. Trucks washed and serviced
where it slowed down smoke production. “It sounds like a cliché to just say, ‘Thanks Prezioso Transport, about five kilometres from
“In all my years in the fire services, I’ve never for your effort,’ but what more can I say? the Morwell mine, was a hub of activity as all
seen so many crews respond together outside We appreciated the support.” fire agency vehicles were given a thorough clean,
mechanical check and equipment service before
heading home ready for further operations.
All vehicles were washed inside and out before
leaving the mine site, and district mechanical
After 45 days of round-the-clock firefighting, the “We had a few days where we were very lucky – things officers (DMOs) ensured they were roadworthy
Right: Morwell open cut mine fire was officially declared safe, could have turned out different if it wasn’t for the teamwork for the quick trip to Prezioso. The facility’s
CFA’s Gill Heisey talks and management of the mine was handed back to between CFA, MFB and the mine. We had one day where full-factory-length service pits were even large
to residents at Morwell’s enough for the Aviation Rescue and Fire
Neighbourhood House
operators GDF Suez the fire came out of the mine and came within 20 metres
and Learning Centre of the power stations, if not closer at times. I believe we Fighting (ARFF) tenders.
PHOTO: ASHLEY WINCER In the thick of it saved the power station that day.” Recommissioning was a joint operation with
“I’d never seen it so bad − I pulled up at 5.30am and all the Community support kept Pat and the whole Morwell business units such as communications, IT and
batters were glowing through the wind and movement. My protective equipment with up to 30 people on
station inspired.
life was on hold after that. We were working 13-hour days, six site at a time. Scott Hamilton, John Bell and Bruce
“On the first Monday we were driving back through the town Taberner were the recommissioning managers
days a week,” said Morwell brigade First Lieutenant Pat Quinn. for a lunch break with our windows down. People were yelling while Glen Mumford led the team of dedicated
For six weeks, Pat alternated between his job as the out ‘thank you’ and ‘we love the CFA’. That was very special. DMOs alongside a corresponding MFB crew as
Earthworks Superintendent for RTL Mining and Earthworks, well as health and safety officers. They were joined
“For me it’s more about the friendship than the firefighting.
based at the Morwell mine, and as a leader of Morwell brigade. by career firefighters from outer metropolitan
There’s a great mateship in hard times and I’ve seen career staff
“My focus was to support my staff at the mine as well as and volunteers help each other out. It’s a real team at Morwell.” districts helping with small gear servicing, general
the CFA personnel – excavating and bulldozing tracks for equipment maintenance and inventories.
firefighters to access the firefight. It was challenging on every The success of compressed air foam “We asked each agency for their requirements
aspect. We were fighting a fire and a flood at the same time. and worked on the vehicles accordingly,” said
We had guys up to their knees in the mud pulling hose. Morwell Fire Station hosted rotating crews from Fire and
Rescue NSW and their Baulkham Hills pumper for weeks Deputy Chief Officer Joe Buffone, acting as
“There are a few CFA volunteers from different brigades regional controller.
as the incident ran on.
working in my [work] team, so I grabbed them as sector The work undertaken included:
commanders. Having their firefighting experience helped, A station officer or senior station officer operated on every
as we all spoke the same language and knew what had to shift with the NSW fireys who didn’t have jurisdiction under • mechanical assessment and repair
happen with strike teams, zones and sectors. We could all the CFA Act. This freed up the majority of Morwell firefighters (within limits)
talk ‘CFA talk’. to attend the open cut fire. • pump assessments and repairs
>>
06 Incidents Brigade winter 2014 news.cfa.vic.gov.au Incidents 07
CFA thanks NSW fireys
As the complex response to the mine fire rolled on, members
from Fire and Rescue New South Wales continued to backfill
Buchan Hotel gutted numerous modifications. There was no internal firefight done – it was an
external, defensive attack only.”
Four members of Buchan brigade did great work protecting the buildings
integrated CFA stations. on either side of the pub − the town’s public hall and a café. Johnsonville
Frankston Fire Station welcomed rotating crews of four and Incident: Structure fire brigade was called for lighting, while Bairnsdale brigade provided breathing
one truck from MFB before NSW stepped up. After that a District: 11 apparatus (BA) cylinders and Traralgon offered further BA support.
Bondi pumper was operated by a rotating crew of three Date: 8 April 2014 “With such a large damages bill, local detectives understandably wanted
comprising the NSW equivalent of a station officer, leading Brigades: Buchan, Bruthen, Forensics to come from Melbourne,” continued Kevin. “Crews stayed on scene
firefighter and firefighter. Gelantipy, Lakes Entrance, Wairewa, putting out hot spots and flare ups and a joint fire investigation with CFA
Senior Station Officer Doug Broom was kept knee-deep Newmerella, Johnsonville, Traralgon, took place that afternoon. They weren’t able to determine the exact cause.”
in the complex rostering required by the Morwell response. Bairnsdale “We will rebuild,” said Peter. “The adrenaline kept going and going and
“The day-to-day running of the brigade has been a big I’ve already been to see the town planner, the building surveyor and the
disjointed,” he said at the time, “but the NSW crews have council’s emergency management person. The mayor came out to the
gone out of their way to be approachable and amenable. Buchan Captain Peter White was woken by a late night call to site and said that any planning and building permits will be looked at
They’ve adapted their procedures to fit ours.” respond to the pub on fire. He saw the glow in the sky as he pulled quickly by council.”
Shepparton Senior Station Officer Pete Dedman also spoke out of his driveway. STORY LEITH HILLARD
to Brigade magazine when the incident was still underway.
• water and foam tank flushing and cleaning “I did the size up from there and saw there was no hope of saving the
“We’ve had a mix of very experienced officers through to premises,” said Peter who is, unfortunately, also the pub’s co-owner. “We
Above: • communications equipment assessment and repair people who’ve been in the job for just six months. They have
Recommissioning did what we could with what we had but it was all about asset protection.
• protective equipment including hazardous materials different systems and structures so it’s been a learning curve
Centre Manager Scott
detection equipment assessed and repaired “The pub was the town hub and it was also full of local memorabilia.
Hamilton at the facility for us and them. They’re also hopping in to perform duties
It was built in 1896 and there were display cabinets with footy and cricket
used to valet vehicles • firefighting equipment assessed, tested and repaired around the station without hesitation.”
including ARFF trophies and photos going back a long way. It’s all gone.”
Rosenbauer trucks • hose servicing/replacement NSW supported Corio Fire Station while the Corio teleboom was
As first responder, Peter was the initial incident controller, sectorising the
at Morwell with a crew of two rotating through every two hours.
PHOTO: PAUL MOORE • branch and monitor servicing and repair fire before passing the southern end and communications via VicFire to
“The NSW crews have been good fun to work with and their Lakes Entrance Captain Geof Bassett. Peter concentrated on the northern
• vehicle inventories completed and equipment faults
Below: willingness to help and work ethic have been excellent,” end of the fire where three large gas bottles were a risk.
identified and repaired
PHOTO: CARLA PALMER
New South Wales fireys said Senior Station Officer Brad McRobb. “This has been
• borrowed firefighting equipment assessed and returned “Communications to and from the fireground were a challenge,” said
manned Morwell Fire Station a chance to learn from each other quite separate to all the
Rostered Duty Officer Kevin Mann, who drove 75 kilometres from
so that CFA firefighters • specialist equipment such as thermal imaging cameras lessons learned at Morwell.”
could work on the mine fire Bairnsdale to attend.
assessed and repaired. Dandenong Fire Station appreciated the work on station of
PHOTO: SUPPLIED BY PAUL FIXTER “The pub shut at 8.30pm so there was no one there when the call came in.
“We prioritised what could be done on site and what needed MFB followed by NSW crews along with the Mt Druitt pumper.
The fire had already taken hold and it was mostly timber construction with
to be sent away to Scania or Bronto, for example, for follow- “They wear different shirts but we all do the same job,”
up repairs,” continued Joe. “Priority was given to vehicles said Senior Station Officer Paul Caligari.
from interstate agencies to ensure that capability could be
“We’ve had some people from NSW who went home and put
returned at the earliest opportunity.”
Hot act at music festival
their names back in the ballot to come down a second time.
Approximately 80 vehicles went through the process It’s always a good thing to work away from home and see a
with a minimum of two days to complete the clean and different patch and these guys seem to have really enjoyed it.”
check. Some vehicles took up to a week depending on
faults found. STORY LEITH HILLARD, JASON LEIGH AND HOLLY LITTLE Neerim South and Noojee brigades were the first to respond to
Incident: Grassfire a grassfire in McKenzie Rd, Neerim East. It was only 1.6 kilometres
District: 9 from the Forest Edge Christian Youth Camp, where around
800 people were attending the Forest Edge Music Festival.
Date: 9 March 2014
Brigades: Neerim South, En route, Neerim South Lieutenant Ian MacKay could see a
Noojee, Drouin, Drouin West, significant amount of smoke, so he called for five tankers. But when
Yarragon, Nilma North, the brigades arrived at the scene, they saw a paddock fire heading
Upper Beaconsfield, Bunyip, Trida, Darnum and Ellinbank, uphill fast towards Forest Edge, so they requested 15 tankers and
Hallora and District, Longwarry and Disrtict, Tynong, Westbury, aerial support.
Little Yarra, Trafalgar, Warragul, Willowgrove, Yarra Junction It was a major concern that the only escape route for the people
at the music festival was McKenzie Rd, which was blocked by fire.
Crews stopped the fire 750 metres from the camp.
Due to the limited access to the fire in the paddocks, brigades
worked from the roadside to stop the spread of the fire. Two fixed-
wing water bombers worked on the inaccessible fire edge, guided
by a reconnaissance plane, and later a Helitak helped out.
After stopping the fire reaching the camp, a spot fire ignited in the
blue gum plantation to the north of the main fire in an area with
PHOTO: TROY LONGSON
limited accessibility. The Department of Environment and Primary
Industries helped fight this fire with four slip-ons.
Festival goers had to remain at Forest Edge for around four hours
until the road was reopened.
STORY DANIEL ESHUIS
08 Statewide News Brigade winter 2014 news.cfa.vic.gov.au Statewide News 09
Chief Officer Euan Ferguson www.cfa.vic.gov.au/chiefblog
THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR DEDICATION Fiskville update Other works include the creation of a new wetland to filter and clean
stormwater before it enters Beremboke Creek, which currently runs
through Lake Fiskville. When the new works are commissioned,
the creek will no longer enter Lake Fiskville. Instead, it will enter the
We’ve had a busy fire season, starting in October with support to Never once did I detect a loss of resolve. Never once did I see any diversion channel at the northern end of the lake then run through
New South Wales, encompassing a multitude of lightning fires in the channel to the east of the lake. In effect, the engineering works
wavering from our mission to protect lives and property. Never
early January, and responding to a number of significant fires after will reduce the discharge of water from the water management
once did I see any sign of a loss of compassion for our fellow team
extreme fire weather across the whole state on Sunday 9 February. system at the site, including from Lake Fiskville, into the surface
members and for the community we serve. Never once did I see
waters downstream.
In amongst these major incidents, with below average rainfall and anyone talking about giving up.
periodic belts of lightning, there have been scores of fires on a daily The new wetlands area is now being filled with more than 10,000
To each and every one of you, no matter how large or how small
basis that have been responded to in a timely and professional indigenous plant species recommended by a local botanist based
your involvement, I extend my sincere thanks.
manner. As usual, CFA members have worked magnificently with at nearby Ballan. In addition, hundreds of native trees and shrubs
The summer of 2014 will go down in history
our counterparts from MFB, DEPI, Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water, are being planted along the newly-created channel. These upgrades
as one of great risk, significant activity,
SES, VicPol, Coast Guard and Ambulance Victoria. will not only improve the ecology of Fiskville, but also beautify this
and great achievement. Job well done!
previously barren part of the training site, creating habitats for local
At the Morwell mine fire, we’ve seen fire agencies from Queensland, On 11 March, the Premier and Deputy birds, frogs and other aquatic species.
New South Wales, ACT, South Australia, Tasmania, the Australian Premier announced an independent
Defence Force and the Aviation Rescue and Firefighting Service. CEO Mick Bourke said the engineering works address key
inquiry into the Morwell mine fire.
In Gippsland, we have seen interstate and New Zealand crews recommendations made by environmental consultants Cardno Lane
The inquiry will be headed by the
working shoulder to shoulder. I’ve met many of you on the fireground, Piper in its assessment reports and are an important component of
Hon Bernard Teague AO. The
at air bases, staging areas, divisional command and operations the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) clean-up plan.
Board of Inquiry has been
points, incident control centres, regional control centres and at the asked to submit its report to “Once again, the management and staff of Fiskville have done
State Control Centre. Government by the end of an outstanding job in the supervision of this construction phase,”
Sadly, I have spoken to and met some who have lost their homes, August 2014. Broadly, it will Mick said. “It’s a credit to them and the highly-professional team
their property and their stock. Some have been injured during examine the regulatory provided by the local earth works and landscaping contractors
operations. To those facing recovery, we wish you better fortune. regime which applied that this major engineering project has been essentially completed
I have seen the purposeful dedication in the eyes of men and women to Morwell mine; inside four months.
working together in conditions of stress, challenge and uncertainty. the adequacy and Major civil engineering works at Fiskville have moved a step closer “These latest improvements at Fiskville will give our members
I have seen the satisfaction of success and achievement. I have effectiveness of the to completion. Since January, a fleet of earth movers, trucks and confidence that they have access to one of the best training facilities
seen the despair when goals haven’t been met and when ground, emergency response; other heavy construction equipment has been digging, scraping, in Australia which has appropriate risk controls in place for a safe
hard won, has been lost in a capricious turn of weather. I have seen how the fire started and and back filling around the perimeter of Lake Fiskville and the training environment. These upgrades to the site have been reviewed
you, time and time again, head out the door to do your best, even spread into the mine; four dams linked to the lake. by an independent EPA statutory auditor, as well as being monitored
when the odds have been stacked against you. I have seen the gritty and the adequacy of by the independent Fiskville Monitor, former Victoria Police Deputy
optimism you have maintained when some around you may have information to and support The program of engineering works includes the construction of Commissioner Kieran Walshe.
been expressing doubt about our efforts. I have seen the hope that for the affected communities. a channel to divert the Beremboke Creek around Lake Fiskville,
“This oversight provides assurance to our members and the
you have inspired in communities that have been threatened by fire CFA has established a small and the installation of improved drainage systems on the hot fire
public that CFA is effectively implementing the recommendations
and uncertainty. team to support the inquiry. training practical area drill (PAD) to divert stormwater from the
and initiatives to which it committed in its response to Professor
dams and Lake Fiskville.
Joy’s report, Understanding the Past to Inform the Future.
New embankments (bunds) have also been built to increase the
“In the near future, we will begin to assess solution options for the
capacity of the dams and Lake Fiskville for storing training water.
next stage of works at Fiskville, which will include the remediation
The four dams were installed by CFA many years ago to treat the of the surface waters and sediments in the dams and Lake Fiskville,”
water from CFA’s hot fire training activities. The dams and Lake Mick added.
Fiskville are all hydraulically connected by a series of overland
The transition to digital dispatch swales and underground pipes. STORY DARREN GREVIS-JAMES
On 2 April 2014, District 12 transitioned to Talkgroup 512, really perfect. Previously, we’ve had a lot of areas with dead spots but
making it the first regional CFA district to transition to the now with digital dispatch, it’s not a problem. It’s perfect.”
digital radio dispatch service. All remaining districts are scheduled to transition progressively over
District 12’s transition was followed by District 15’s successful the coming months. The hard work of all those involved (including
operational staff, brigade management teams, CFA members, VicFire
transition to Talkgroup 515 on 13 April. District 15’s transition also
and the Regional Radio Dispatch Service project team) continues
marked the realignment of the Bacchus Marsh Group boundary
to pave the way for a smooth and successful transition to the digital
as part of District 15. District 2 followed three days later, where radio dispatch service. Background:
the quote of the night was from District 2 Elphinstone Fire Station,
Part of the water
“VicFire, Elphinstone Station reading you loud and clear and For more information, contact your district office or go to channel diversion works
I now believe in the Easter Bunny.” cfaonline.cfa.vic.gov.au > Fire & Emergencies > Communications >
Regional Radio Dispatch Service Project. You can also contact the
The digital radio dispatch service delivers significant improvements
project team with any questions or feedback by emailing Above:
in audio quality and coverage. District 12 put this claim to the test at a Putting native plants
rrds@cfa.vic.gov.au.
structure fire at Eildon two hours after the district’s transition. Incident in the wetlands area
Controller and Second Lieutenant Len Timmins said, “The audio was STORY AMY CHEMAY PHOTOS: MARTYN BONA
10 Statewide News Brigade winter 2014 news.cfa.vic.gov.au Statewide News 11
“The medium pumper working party has set a new standard
for collaboration and consultation and is an excellent model
Supporting volunteers –
for the future,” Adam said. “We’re really testing new ground
with some of the innovations and design concepts which
have been based on practical member feedback.”
Leading Firefighter Col Chapman, who’s worked with
medium pumpers across the state as a volunteer and career
firefighter since 1985, is project managing the new design
at the heart of all we do
and has played a crucial role in getting the prototype off the
As part of the 2013-14 Annual Plan and the upcoming 2014-15 Together with SES, CFA has also started to develop a volunteer
ground. He talked us through the design.
Plan, CFA is focusing on supporting and growing volunteerism. strategy focused on the key themes flowing from the reports, which
include culture and leadership to empower and support volunteerism,
Cab chassis One way CFA is doing this is by introducing a structured way for recruitment, retention, recognition and utilisation of volunteers;
One feature that the proposed medium pumper borrows volunteerism projects to get off the ground and reach the people they strengthening the volunteer base and integrated service delivery;
from the heavy pumper is a larger cab chassis. This are meant to benefit most. A program team has been set up to focus improved support for brigades and communities; and training
Prototype
incorporates seating designed to accommodate firefighters on implementing recommendations from the 2011 Report of Inquiry development and assessment.
wearing breathing apparatus (BA), so they can get out of into the Effect of Arrangements Made by CFA on its Volunteers by
This work will have a significant impact on CFA’s volunteer support
the pumper with BA on their backs and get straight to work. His Honour David Jones, and the 2014 Victorian Auditor-General’s
medium pumper
capability and so will lead to a better outcome for Victorian communities.
Office report Managing Emergency Services Volunteers.
Pump and pump panel This is just the beginning, as we roll out many more initiatives focused
This team will receive strategic advice and direction from a steering on supporting our volunteers.
takes shape
The pump is a Godiva P1 rated at 4,000 litres a minute committee, which includes members of CFA, Volunteer Fire Brigades
at 1000 KPA and is a single-stage centrifugal-type pump Victoria and the Department of Justice. STORY CHRIS RIVIERE
filled with automatic priming. Using this pump means CFA
can interchange pump parts between heavy pumpers and
the new medium pumper, with obvious benefits to district
mechanical officers.
CFA has awarded SEM Fire and Rescue in Ballarat a
A lot of thought has gone into creating a highly-functional
Above: contract to build a prototype medium pumper, following
pump panel. The panel incorporates a foam screen, pump
Leading Firefighter a design process aimed at creating a more user-friendly
Col Chapman is project governor screen, and a pump display screen that shows
vehicle with improved water and foam capacity.
various operating pressures and flows, while monitoring
Help for wildlife injured in fires
managing the new design
PHOTO: KEITH PAKENHAM It’s expected that the first prototype will be completed by the engine performance of the vehicle.
December 2014. From January next year it will go through
initial shakedown trials before being taken around the state Water and foam
leadership
for firefighter feedback. Water capacity on the prototype will be 2,500 litres −
Operations Manager Ross Sullivan said that a focus of the an increase of 500 litres compared with the current model. Bushfire has devastating effects on wildlife. Anyone who lives close to a fireground
design process was to find simple, evidence-based solutions Capacity for B-class foam will be increased to 300 litres from will have seen wildlife trying to escape the flames.
that maximised effectiveness. the current 200 litres. To ensure that foam is dosed more
accurately, the prototype design incorporates a post-pump Every year, untold numbers of native animals perish during fires, and many more
“One great example of the practical improvements we’ve
injection foam system, a change from the current system succumb after the incident to injuries caused by fire, smoke inhalation, dehydration
Collaborate and looked at is a light panel on the side of the truck that lets
and starvation. Sadly, firefighters are often firsthand witnesses to the impacts
communicate you see from as far as 90 metres away how much water of round-the-pump foam proportioning. An inbuilt training
function (operated from the pump panel) will also allow fire has on paws, tails, feathers and fur.
effectively: you’ve got left,” Ross said.
be focused on water to be used in place of foam for training purposes. Whenever firefighting crews report injured animals on the fireground, a process
“The ease of use inherent in the pump panel design means
your team and is activated to help search for and rescue the wildlife. These procedures also
that you can walk back to this truck after being away for a Hose reel system
building strong kick in if local knowledge suggests that wildlife may be impacted by fire. Under
period of time, and have no hesitation about what to do. The
relationships The prototype uses a dead hose reel system as opposed to the Protocols for Volunteers Involved in Wildlife Rescue Operations, wildlife rescue
aim is to reduce the time needed for training and refreshers.
the live hose reel system currently in use. Rigorous testing teams are deployed to the fireground to find, treat and release or relocate
“The body and cab chassis are based on years of research injured animals to shelters.
has shown that over 45 metres, the dead reel system is four
and consultation with VFBV as well as CFA volunteer and
times quicker to deploy and has a better flow rate. There are These protocols operate within the Australasian Inter-Service Incident Management
staff members.”
also proven benefits for firefighters’ health. CFA Health and System (AIIMS) and ensure that fire agencies, wildlife organisations and wildlife
VFBV Executive Officer Adam Barnett spoke very highly about Safety Officer Peter Langridge carried out trials comparing rescuers work together in a safe and coordinated way during incidents. When
the design and consultation process, which involved a major the impact of the two systems on core body temperature, activated by the incident controller, the protocols give fire agency staff access
review into the cab chassis and locker configurations, as well heart rate and shoulder muscle activity – the results favoured to a statewide network of 150 accredited wildlife rescuers and 1,500 wildlife carers.
as the small gear to be supplied as minimum stowage. the dead reel system. Many CFA members support the work of wildlife organisations or are registered
wildlife rescuers and carers. During and after the recent fires around Gisborne,
Equipment District 14 staff raised money to supply much-needed antibiotics and other
Equipment supplied with the medium pumper will be the most medicines to Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network carers. They also provided
up-to-date available. Standard on this truck will be all-LED torches and delivered feed to the fireground for several months following the incident.
and remote area light panels, hand-operated combi tools, CFA member Fiona Mallia helps deliver feed to animals on the fireground.
five-bar nozzles and positive pressure ventilation (PPV) fan. “Those who volunteer to rescue and care for our native wildlife are in effect their
If you have any questions about the new prototype or would guardians,” she said. “This work empowers me to ensure they are looked after.” Sharon Bonnici from
Macedon Ranges Wildlife
like to find out more, email mediumpumper@cfa.vic.gov.au After fires, injured wildlife often move on to farms, properties and along roadsides Network holding a darted
or use the search function on Brigades Online to find looking for food, water or shelter. If you come across injured or orphaned wildlife, kangaroo with burnt feet
detailed specifications. call Wildlife Victoria on 1300 094 535 for emergency response and care. following the Wallan fire
in February 2014
STORY SONIA MACLEAN STORY DARLENE PENTLAND PHOTO: SUE ANDERSON
12 Statewide News Brigade winter 2014 news.cfa.vic.gov.au Statewide News 13
Thanks CFA
PHOTO: JOSH DAVIS
leadership
Every year, there are many individuals, groups, businesses Woolworths/Safeway Caltex was one of many businesses on
and organisations who support CFA through generous board the fundraising effort, with 150 stores across Victoria
donations and various fundraising activities. and Tasmania taking part. In total, they raised more than
$86,660 for CFA in a month.
But during the 2013-14 fire season, we noticed a huge
increase in offers of help for CFA throughout Victoria. Shepparton Safeway Caltex petrol station joined forces with
Shepparton and Shepparton East brigades to raise around Be self-aware:
Whether at a local or state level, the funds raised have understand
$450. The Shepparton tanker parked at the petrol station
totalled an enormous amount, which will go a long way and CFA members rattled tins while Safeway staff served your strengths,
to help our people continue their work to protect lives snacks and drinks and offered to clean windscreens and challenges
and property. put fuel in cars. and motivations
From caravan sales to the donation of supermarket vouchers An Aussie Day Community barbecue held by Bunnings
to brigades, the support for CFA has come in all shapes raised more than $71,900 for various brigades and a
and sizes, and shows the community’s appreciation for Dominos ‘Doughraiser’ held in December saw more
the thousands of CFA members who play a crucial role than $11,000 donated to CFA.
Bomberos for CFA
in keeping Victorians safe – whether fighting fires on the
front-line or taking on the many important support roles. But the support wasn’t just about monetary donations.
Dimboola CFA members received a letter of thanks from
National Red Balloon Day Event Director Jody Hardiman their local Ambulance Victoria members following a road
fronted one of the many groups that held a fundraising event accident they attended in Antwerp in February this year.
for CFA. Over five weeks, Jody and her team sold balloons, Below left:
Part of the letter said, “We are extremely grateful for your Shepparton brigade
with proceeds from each state going to local fire services.
Operational Training and Volunteerism is excited to be working As with CFA, Chilean firefighters are highly trained, experienced team’s professional approach to the incident and their members Brian O’Mahony,
This was ahead of National Red Balloon Day held on
closely with the Consulate-General of Chile in Melbourne to and have very stringent demands placed on them. For example, active involvement went a long way to ensuring [the patient] Anthony Deith and Ben
28 February where people could display their red balloons Linnet and Shepparton East
develop the 'Bomberos for CFA' project. Bomberos volunteers live at the station during their rostered period, survived. We are immensely appreciative of the involvement
in a show of support for fireys. The Victorian event raised member Emily Marsland
their performance is carefully assessed, and their training programs of all Dimboola CFA team members.” with Safeway Caltex petrol
This project aims to promote diversity in CFA by harnessing the around $14,000 for CFA and MFB and $20,490 nationally.
and manuals are very similar to CFA's. Also, Chile and Victoria share These fundraising events, donations and letters of thanks station manager Lil Caine
opportunities Victoria’s multiculturalism provides for emergency similarities of geography, weather and fire conditions. Jody said the idea had stemmed from a similar locally-led are just a sample of the amazing support CFA received this PHOTO: TANYA DEITH
services agencies. We’ve already received around 80 expressions fundraiser in Geelong and had exceeded their expectations. fire season. There were many more activities held at a local
In mid-April, Chile suffered its worst fire in the beautiful port city
of interest from community members from 27 countries who speak “The support was overwhelming,” she said. “It started off as level in partnership with brigades and there are many events
of Valparaiso. It destroyed around 3,000 homes, killed at least Below:
25 different languages, who would like to volunteer with CFA in both 15 people and injured hundreds. idea where I was inviting my own friends to take part and it which are held on an ongoing basis to support brigades. Red Balloon Day was the
operational and non-operational roles. just snowballed – everyone wanted to help and say thanks communities’ opportunity
The Bomberos for CFA project has already received significant to their local firefighters.” STORY KAYLA MASKELL to thank CFA volunteers
Bomberos for CFA was initiated to commemorate Chile’s bicentenary
support from the public, the Victorian Multicultural Commission,
and the Chilean Bomberos’ (firefighters) countrywide volunteer
SBS and senior Victorian Government officials. If you’d like more
culture. Chile has a proud and distinguished history of volunteer information, contact josh.davis@cfa.vic.gov.au.
firefighting dating back to the 1850s. The Bomberos are all
volunteers and are the most respected institution in Chile. STORY JOSH DAVIS
Research to drive change
The Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) is taking an Topics covered include community safety, next-generation fire modelling,
important step to make sure research findings from the past three extreme fire behaviour, firefighter health and safety, ecology,
years are accessible to a range of audiences. incident management and economics to help decision-making.
It is producing a number of documentary-style videos and conducting The online forums are a practical approach that will enable as many
online forums for CFA members and other agencies around Australia agency staff, volunteers and researchers to participate as possible.
and New Zealand, to stimulate discussion and raise awareness of the Importantly, each video and forum will be accessible in the future,
along with Bushfire CRC’s Fire Notes newsletter and more in-depth
various projects and their outcomes. The forums began in May and will
research reports, leaving a strong legacy.
continue until September. In the forums, researchers will present their
findings, and participants can ask questions by typing in a chat box. The Bushfire CRC is excited to communicate this important body of
work, and believes it’s an important step in achieving the recognition
To see the forum schedule, go to bushfirecrc.com. You can also the science deserves. See bushfirecrc.com for more information.
replay previous forums on this website, view the new videos and
access other useful information. STORY NATHAN MADDOCK
14 Statewide News Brigade winter 2014 news.cfa.vic.gov.au Statewide News 15
Wear your
honours with pride Identifying suspicious fires
CFA’s Fire Investigation team has two representatives working as
The Operational Training and Volunteerism team is pleased to liaison officers with Victoria Police’s Arson and Explosives Squad.
announce the new Wearing Honours and Awards booklet, The strong connection between the two organisations has led
which is included with this issue of Brigade magazine. to good progress in identifying suspicious fire trends and
arson-related fires in structures, vehicles and bushfires.
The booklet gives members up-to-date and consistent information about
wearing honours and awards. The Fire Investigation team’s work to identify suspicious fire trends
Honours and awards help define, encourage and reinforce aspirations, and hotspots was updated in 2013 so that hotspots could be
ideals and standards by identifying role models. CFA recommends and displayed in map form based on local government areas. These
gives honours and awards to recognise, celebrate and say thank you to maps have been distributed to district fire investigation coordinators
those who have given their time to serve others and those who achieve across the state to help develop the working relationship between
their best for CFA and the community. CFA and local Victoria Police criminal investigation units and Victoria
Honours and awards fall into two broad categories − those that form part Police Bushfire, Arson and Explosives liaison officers. This will ensure
of the Australian System of Honours and Awards or their predecessors that new or developing hotspots are investigated further.
(the Imperial Honours system) and those issued by organisations and For more information email State Fire Investigation Coordinator
other countries. Nicole Harvey at fireinvestigation@cfa.vic.gov.au.
Recipients of awards are granted insignia as a visual expression of the
STORY LISA MARIE JACKSON
honour conferred on them. For those members who’ve received more
than one award, there’s an established order of precedence for wearing
them. All medals and other insignia must be worn according to the
schedules contained in the new Wearing Honours and Awards booklet.
PHOTO: WARREN AND JULIE MITCHELSON
The schedules include all relevant CFA honours and awards and those
awards within the Australian System of Honours and Awards that are
most likely to have been awarded to CFA members.
To access an online version of Wearing Honours and Awards, go to
Brigades Online (cfaonline.cfa.vic.gov.au). For information about the
criteria, how to apply and nomination process, please read the CFA
Honours and Awards Manual (Brigades Online > Brigade > Service
History & Awards > About the Awards) or email cfa-awards@cfa.vic.gov.au.
STORY BELINDA GILLESPIE
Keep in touch online There are very many CFA members around the state who’d like
to read your stories, and the fastest way to share your news
is by posting on our News & Media website (news.cfa.vic.gov.au).
This winter, we’d love you to tell us what you’re up to with your Make sure you take photos and upload them too, as they’ll bring
brigade. Do you have a great fundraising initiative? Have you your story to life.
recently done some interesting training? Have you celebrated You can also join the conversation online with our dedicated CFA
a special milestone? Have you been involved in community members’ social media channels. The CFA members’ Facebook page
education, or received the keys to a new tanker or fire station? is your place to hear from your fellow members and share your thoughts
about the latest CFA news and initiatives. You can also keep updated
Wellbeing Pilot launches
with @CFA_Members on twitter, which tweets all stories posted to
News & Media and other timely member information. Join now at Above:
The newly-established
facebook.com/cfamembers and twitter.com/CFA_members Wellbeing Pilot team
Last year, we were excited to launch an electronic version of Brigade Brigades will be better supported to manage the impacts targeted assistance such as early intervention and education PHOTO: TANYA Di MICHELE
magazine. You can view this interactive emag at cfa.vic.gov.au/ of mental health and relationship issues through a new to ensure longer-term positive outcomes in brigades.
brigademag. The emag is a great way to read Brigade magazine wellbeing pilot which started in April.
because it draws you into the stories with videos of incidents and The Wellbeing Pilot team will work closely with existing
events, image libraries and pop-up images. It also has useful search welfare services, such as the peer network, in addition
The pilot team consists of 10 professionals with experience
and navigation functions. to catchment teams, so brigades can maintain a safe and
in mental health and relationship management who will be
supportive environment.
We encourage you to cancel your paper copy of Brigade and read working across the state.
only the online version. To do this, go to Update your details > The team will offer CFA members education and support in CFA members will continue to hear about the pilot and
Manage Subscriptions at cfaonline.cfa.vic.gov.au. available services now that the team is established.
relation to mental health and safety and relationship issues
For more information or to access the service contact
STORY DUNCAN RUSSELL which include bullying, harassment and victimisation. They
the wellbeing intake officer on 9262 8409.
will be available to address immediate wellbeing issues,
including informal and formal complaints, as well as providing STORY MICHELLE TAYLOR
16 Statewide News Brigade winter 2014 news.cfa.vic.gov.au INCIDENT CONTROL CENTRES 17
Your team, your choice, your future
How brigade hub
“We certainly don’t have all the answers, but there are some innovative
ideas and approaches taking shape in brigades and groups who just
need support to develop their initiatives,” continued Steve. “This pilot
models help small
intends to give brigades the flexibility to organise and set up their
membership structures and approaches to meet both brigade needs
and their community needs in the future.”
communities
The pilot, led by the Fire and Emergency Management (F&EM)
team, will work collaboratively with catchment teams, districts and
regions to directly support brigades to identify any immediate viability
issues they may have, and/or possible viability issues in the near future.
Some brigades and communities are getting smaller and their
Together with catchment teams and districts, priorities will be set to population is ageing. This means the pool of people available
develop local initiatives, strategies and possible solutions to improve to volunteer is getting smaller. To mitigate the impact of these
What will your
brigade viability. changes, Warracknabeal Group in District 17 came up with
This pilot will help brigades effectively meet the needs of the the idea of an administrative hub for the group which was
communities they serve, as well as provide a volunteer membership initially set up as a trial.
brigade look
structure that caters to the varied and changing nature of our
The aim of the trial was to demonstrate the benefits of
communities and modern volunteerism. To do this, a new team of
administrative resource sharing in rural communities, where
21 staff members is beginning to work with regional leadership teams
like in 2025?
volunteer numbers and demographics are presenting challenges
and district teams to identify gaps, find solutions, build networks and
for brigade viability. In other words, several brigades would have
start some scoping for the tasks that lie ahead. The team started
the same treasurer, for example. This is called a hub model.
in late April with a seven-day induction to prepare them for the next The main changes were:
12 months.
• a single secretary
Areas of support, prioritised by districts and catchment teams, include:
• a single treasurer
Imagine your brigade in 10, 20 or 30 years from now. Will it was to launch a campaign to re-engage existing members. • supporting brigades that want help with the new membership
Above: look like it does today? Will people still volunteer in the same The elements in the diagram (below) allow brigades to drill classification •o ne bank account with each entity having sole access to
BMT members of way as they do today? Will we fight fires in the same way? down to examine the real issues that affect their viability, and balances and monies
Maryborough brigade,
explore new and creative solutions with the support of staff. • giving brigade members the skills and approaches needed
along with Operations Communities are changing; the structure of our brigades is • consolidated term deposit investments
to engage with diverse communities
Officer Chris Jacobsen,
changing and the way people want to volunteer is changing. “Predicting where we’ll be and what our communities will • debit card purchasing facility
going through the look like in the next decade is a complex challenge,” said • support tools and approaches to brigades dealing with
process of electing To ensure our brigades remain sustainable and volunteering membership decline •the use of Combiz Business Banking facility through the
the new membership continues to grow, many brigades are opening their minds Deputy Chief Officer Steve Warrington. “This is why we see
Commonwealth Bank
classification roles the Brigade Sustainability Pilot as an important and exciting • support for brigades dealing with transient populations
to new and innovative ways of doing things. • online accounting software (Xero)
PHOTO: Raelene Williams
project. It’s all about working together to seek solutions to and rapid growth
help us plan and prepare to face these challenges head on.” • implementation of contemporary business practices.
The Brigade Sustainability Pilot • support to establish retention approaches such as mentoring
With the launch of the new Brigade Sustainability Pilot, there or leadership programs. Thirteen brigades and four associated entities (group, auxiliary,
leadership has been much discussion about the key areas that impact social club and juniors) are a part of this trial. At a meeting held at
How Membership Classification fits in
7 Key Elements of
brigade viability and how the planning we do today affects Warracknabeal Fire Station in March attended by representatives
a brigade’s viability in the future. We tend to look at brigade The decision was made earlier this year to make membership from all participating brigades, the feedback confirmed that the
Brigade Viability
viability through an operational lens using tools such as the classification a sub-project of the Brigade Sustainability Pilot, because trial had been successful and brigades have implemented the
Build capacity: Section 29, but we know it’s a lot more than that. model on an ongoing basis.
member classification is seen as one of the key tools to help brigades
support and “We certainly don’t have all the answers sorted out yet, but there
develop your Over the years, many tools have been developed by regions, strengthen their viability. Many brigades are keen to move to the new
districts and brigades, such as brigade health checks, External drivers and structure, which is a positive step considering it’s only optional for have been a lot of benefits within the Warracknabeal hub model,
team, create such as relieving the load on brigade members across the
opportunities to help us look deeper to identify the key areas that affect key environmental risks brigades up for election in 2014.
a brigade’s viability. The diagram (right) outlines one group,” said Warracknabeal Group Officer Colin Newell.
for learning There is a lot of support available to help brigades including:
and build way of thinking about the different elements that affect Infrastructure Leadership “Each brigade retains its own identity and equipment and
a brigade’s viability. • thirty-two new brigade role descriptions available on Brigades Online
capacity for and equipment and management this is a very important element of the hub model because
and CFA Online. often the only thing remaining in small communities is the
the future
Factors affecting brigade viability • brigade management team (BMT) structure booklets displaying fire brigade.”
In a basic sense, each of the elements in the diagram needs a range of real-life BMT structures available on Brigades Online The Warracknabeal hub model is one variation of a hub model
Community BRIGADEs Training
and CFA Online.
to be strong and present in every brigade, to different that may very much become the way of the future. Many
degrees, for a brigade to be viable. However, our brigades • regular updates provided through Brigades Online, The Fireman brigades and groups are already developing creative initiatives,
are very diverse and the external societal trends impacting Finance Capacity and Brigade magazine such as a training hub and training cluster models. The aim
on them (such as community growth or decline, economic and admin to deliver • information sessions outlining the key changes and the mandated roles. of the Brigade Sustainability Pilot is to work collaboratively with
or community risks) can be vastly different. This means that People brigades, groups and catchment teams to further develop
the focus to strengthen brigade sustainability will vary from • dedicated email to respond to members’ enquiries:
• Health and safety •S ocial interaction and share hub model solutions across the state in the coming
brigade to brigade. memberclassification@cfa.vic.gov.au 12 months.
• Recruitment •M anaging
Recently, a brigade recognised it had an issue with daytime • Retention challenging people • access to support teams who can help brigades make the changes.
For more information about the Warracknabeal hub model,
response – a common problem for many brigades – and • HR/welfare • Recognition For more information about the Brigade Sustainability Pilot, contact phone Warracknabeal Group Officer Colin Newell on
the popular solution is to recruit new members. However, • Diversity Ali Martin, Brigade Sustainability Project Manager: a.martin@cfa.vic.gov.au 0417 505 799.
a closer look at this issue revealed that there were more
than 80 current brigade members and the best solution STORY ALI MARTIN
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