Rural Fires Bulletin

Transcription

March 2007
Issue 44
Official Newsletter of the Rural Fire Service, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service
Contents
❚ NSW Deployments . .............. Page 3
❚ Regional Updates ................. Page 4
❚ Grants .................................. Page 10
❚ Arson Research..................... Page 12
❚ What’s New .......................... Page 13
See Page 15 for more details
❚ Assistant Commissioner’s Message
❚ Interstate Deployments:
December 2006 saw our volunteers rise to the challenge once
again when QFRS was requested to assist the NSW Rural Fire
Service into the Narrabri area. Over a four week period we
deployed four support forces into the Palleroo and Kerringle
forested areas and apart from the first support force the
remaining deployments were, in essence, entirely made of QFRS
Rural Operations staff and rural fire service volunteers who didn’t let NSW down.
We have always been mindful that deployments need to be able to ‘stand alone’ if
required when interstate and, as such, our support force comprises not only QFRS
staff and volunteers, who provide the on ground firefighting strength, but we also
deploy QAS ambulance paramedics, radio technicians, communication officers,
mechanics, support crews and on this occasion, for the first time, SES volunteers
and staff also joined the campaign. These deployments operated under two x 12
hour shifts providing full 24 hour operations although conditional changes altered
some evening shifts. This approach of operating ‘around the clock’ fire suppression
and mitigation strategies was a first for the organisation and from all accounts went
❚ Continued on page 2
RURAL FIRE SERVICE
GPO Box 1425, Brisbane QLD 4001. Web: www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au PP: 433383/00015 Ph: 07 3247 8130
❚ Australia Day Honour............ Page 14
❚ Rural Research
and Training ......................... Page 15
❚ Our Volunteers
Our Brigades ........................ Page 20
See Page 22 for more details
❚ Extras . ................................. Page 23
❚ Contact Details ..................... Page 24
NSW Deployments
❚ Continued from page 1
extremely well. During this period we were also asked to
deploy Incident Management Team and GIS personnel into
Victoria to assist the CFA. Congratulations to all involved on
a ‘job well done’.
provide a second set of PPC for volunteers in the more active
brigades or those that engage in the deployment register
and an additional $1.5M to develop a more robust radio
communications network.
Back at home, the un-seasonal fire season saw a reduction
in number and magnitude of fire activity within the State
albeit for some large fast moving fires within the Caloundra
and Bundaberg areas. The crews who attended these blazes
should be proud of the way they managed these incidents
and how they worked in with other agencies and community
members to bring them under control. The outlook for
the next quarter sees conditions easing in the North due
to wet conditions, and collectively across the State the
average drought factor and grass curing rates are slowly
decreasing. In any given year history tells us this quarter
is normally our busiest for unwanted wildfires, however,
due to unprecedented continued coastal showers it has
been without doubt one of the quietest wildfire seasons
within the north of the State. At this point, most of the
State is experiencing low to moderate fire danger ratings
for grasslands and, on average, high levels for forests. The
question we must all continually ask ourselves is what will
next year bring us and how well are we prepared from both
brigade and State levels?
Sharing with EMQ will see funding channelled towards
more trainers (EMQ staffing), the development of on-line
training materials, the development of a volunteer database
and additional regional communications staff. All in all,
the funding injection will allow us to progress some very
significant issues.
❚ Enhancement Package:
We have now completed the rollout of the Enhancement
Package with the appointment of the Brigade Training and
Support Officers. Of these eleven positions, seven have
come from the volunteer ranks with the remainder either
having experience with external fire training companies
or other volunteer organisations. Similarly, three of the
Area Training and Support Officers have also come from
the volunteer ranks, reinforcing the intent of the structural
enhancements, that was to provide an opportunity for
volunteers to enter the organisation and provide them with a
career path within QFRS.
❚ Australia Day Awards:
Finally, I would like to recognise and congratulate Paul
Adcock, Director Rural Operations and Len Jeavons, Gold
Coast Group Officer, Chairman of the Lower Beechmont RFB
and the Training Officer for the Lower Beechmont RFB, on
being the recipients of the Australian Fire Service Medal
(AFSM) recently announced on the Australia Day honours
and awards listing. On this day we also saw a number of
staff and volunteers recognised for their contribution to their
brigades, communities or the organisation via the awarding
of the Australia Day medallion. Well done to all who were
recognised for their hard work and dedication.
❚ Full force may be just
the beginning
The recent taskforce deployments of more than 350 Queensland
rural and urban and support personnel firefighters to NSW may
not be the last this summer.
Continued dry weather conditions in NSW, Victoria, South
Australia and Tasmania mean further deployments to relieve
exhausted crews and management teams in other states may be
requested.
“It’s certainly possible given the continued drought and the fact
that the southern states are coming into what is their traditional
fire season,” said Rural Operational Director Paul Adcock.
Until next time, be safe and take care.
Regards
“We have a structure in place to respond to requests from other
states depending on their level of requirement.”
Steve Rothwell AFSM
Assistant Commissioner Rural Operations
Queensland Fire and Rescue Service
The four Queensland taskforces included rural and urban
firefighters, communications officers, mechanics, incident
management specialists, QAS paramedics and EMQ support staff.
The taskforces – which totalled 354 DES personnel - rotated
through the western NSW region surrounding Narrabri during
December.
Each taskforce consisted of a complete firefighting and support
force with liaison officers operating from the NSW Rural Fire
Service Headquarters at Homebush near Sydney.
firefighters and there was excellent integration and teamwork.
Wayne Waltisbuhl, Regional Manager, Rural Operations (South
West Region) and senior member of the first taskforce reported
that the type of forest environment in that area is very volatile
“The work we carried out was often difficult and mundane
- monitoring patrol lines and lighting up a bit more forest – which
is pretty tough over long hours.
“Then the weather would turn and on at least one occasion we
had to move crews out of the forest back to safe anchor points.”
NSW Rural Fire Service Regional Operations Officer, Inspector Allyn
Purkiss passed on glowing reports of the Queensland efforts.
“They stopped a large spotover, and protected a bark hut from
being destroyed,” Allyn said in a message to QFRS Liaison Officer
Andrew Hopkins, at RFS Homebush headquarters.
“[Qld firefighters] have had excellent reports from the fireground
bosses on the effort that the guys are putting in, and they said
they would work with them anytime.”
According to Andrew, there was plenty of high praise for the
Queenslander’s involvement.
“There was recognition by the NSW Rural Fire Service that the
Queensland deployment can operate as an independent group
under their structure,” he said.
”Our crews are well respected and can be set tasks on the fire
scene and accomplish those tasks skillfully.”
❚ Additional Funding:
Support teams operating from the State Operations Co-ordination
Centre at Kedron Park were also in activation.
The December taskforce deployment was also the first to include
Emergency Management Queensland support crews.
Rural Operations is set to advance a number of strategies
with additional funding being allocated towards us as
part of the election process under the banner of ‘Training,
Equipment and Communications Package for SES and Rural
Fire Volunteers’. As this title suggest, the funding and any
staff enhancements will be co-managed and shared by
Rural Operations and Emergency Management Queensland
on behalf of the SES. This funding injection will see $52
million being channelled across a five year period and from
a Rural Operations perspective we will see an additional
$3.1M to enhance our training programs utilising casual
trainers; an additional $2.54M for PPC which will allow us to
The first taskforce was deployed on 30 November 2006.
Regional Manager of Rural Operations (North Coast) Peter Hollier
was formerly a member of the NSW Rural Fire Service and led the
fourth taskforce deployment.
Headed up by QFRS Assistant Commissioner (Northern Region)
Ron Twomey and led on the ground by Regional Manager Rural
Operations (Northern Region) Trevor Howard, the taskforce
consisted of 167 emergency services personnel.
“The Rural Fire Service in New South Wales had a good structure
in place and we were able to slot straight into their operations,”
said Trevor.
“They welcomed us because we were a complete firefighting and
support force with our own mechanics, communications officers
and equipment, management teams, paramedics and support staff.
“Our taskforce had a 50-50 split between rural and urban
Page Rural Fires Bulletin
March 2007
“We have different fire conditions in Queensland, but this was an
opportunity for our firefighters to be exposed to the type of fire
that is common in NSW,” said Peter.
“It’s a very good learning environment and all personnel handled
the conditions safely and extremely well.
“Having a full support force including Queensland Ambulance
Service, who understand our systems and requirements, added
to the safety of our crews, and that’s always a number one priority
on any fire ground - whether it be in Queensland or interstate.”
Page Regional Updates
❚ Brisbane Region Update
❚ Bernard Trembath –
Regional Manager
Bernie will be known to many volunteers from his previous role
as Area Director Ipswich and prior to that as Rural Operations
Equipment Manager. He has also worked with many Caboolture
Area volunteers during interstate deployments
As Area Director Ipswich, he implemented the introduction
of rural fire levies and the establishment of Rural Fire Brigade
Groups within each Local Authority Area. He also established
the active role of the Group Officer within the Area Command
Structure.
Bernie has worked closely with the Assistant Commissioner
Ian Mitchell during his time in the South East Region and will
continue that successful partnership (in Brisbane Region), to
forge closer operational relationships. One of the key areas will
be fostering the participation of volunteers in the Fire-fighter
Games
The changes resulting from the Rural Enhancement Package
have set the platform for an exciting and challenging future
for the organisation and the people within it. As the Regional
Manger, Bernie believes the Caboolture Area is ideally placed
to lead the way in challenging accepted practices
and implementing innovation at all levels
❚ Eric Lanham, Area Training and
Support Officer for Caboolture Area,
Brisbane Region
Eric is currently Acting/Manager Rural Training – Products.
As part of that role he has been tasked by the Assistant
Commissioner Rural Operations to develop an induction course
and an ongoing training programme for the newly appointed
Brigade Training and Support Officers. Eric joined the Rural Fire Service as a District Training Officer
in March 2004. Prior to that, he had served with the Australian
Regular Army and then as a Criminal Analyst with the Australian
Federal Police. In 1991, during his time with the AFP, Eric joined
the RFS as a volunteer firefighter. He remains a member of his
local brigade and has served in a variety of positions including
Group Officer and 1st Officer. As well as his training role, Eric
is also a qualified Air Observer and Air Attack Supervisor with
QFRS.
❚ Wayne Ford, A/Area Training
and Support Office, Caboolture
Wayne is presently based at Caboolture acting in the position of
Area Training and Support Officer. He has a trade background in
engineering with additional qualifications in Boiler Management
and Refrigeration.
He is looking forward to working with staff and volunteers, Local
Authorities and other agencies to clearly plan for and address
the future political and environmental challenges that confront
QFRS and the wider community
Wayne has been a Volunteer for over nine years and has held
various positions in the brigade and Group. He has been
employed as a Training Officer for four years and has relieved
in Training Officer and Support Officer Positions in Caboolture,
Ipswich and Mackay Districts.
❚ Mark Welsh, Inspector
Caboolture Area
In January 2000 he joined the Kilcoy Auxiliary Brigade and
was an Auxiliary Firefighter until December 2005. Wayne has a
Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
Mark has had a long and varied career, starting in the Royal
Australian Navy, the Airport Fire Service in Sydney and Canberra
and the ACT Fire Brigade. In 1994 he began his time with the
QFRS in the South East Region. Mark has a strong background
in training and has achieved tertiary qualifications in that field.
He was awarded an Australia Day Medal in 2005 for his
significant contributions to supporting the Regional
Management roles of planning and community safety in South
Eastern Region.
Mark is keen to apply his skills to assist the volunteers within
the Caboolture Area to continue to provide the high level of
prevention and protection to their local communities. He also
is looking to benefit from the knowledge and experience of the
brigade members and to use that information to provide higher
levels of support from the area office, to the volunteers and the
community.
Page ❚ Far Northern Region
Update
Heavy rain recorded across the region in January brought a
close to a busy fire season. Brigades and property owners were
kept busy with fires on the tablelands. Fire crews working under
adverse conditions were successful in reducing property damage
at numerous fire outbreaks. The only significant property loss
was to two sheds destroyed at a fast running fire in Watsonville,
and this occurred before the Brigades arrived on the scene.
Unfortunately the majority of fires were deliberately lit and work
has commenced with the iZone officer to increase community
awareness and planning for first response arrangements.
Two volunteers were presented with National Medals. John
Thomson, a long serving member with Speewah RFB, Clohesy
Group officer, and active member of the Area Training team
and William Brown, Fire Warden and long serving member with
Shaggy Creek RFB. Ms Kelly Gutter, Admin Officer and Jamie
Haskell, ATSO from Cairns Area Office were also recognised for
their service to the organisation, receiving Australia Day Awards.
A request for out of area support to the fires in NSW saw 15
volunteers nominate to participate. Fortunately for NSW the
fire ground received some rain and a full contingent was not
required with only Brendan Ridgewell, ATSO Innisfail, required
to accompany volunteers from SE to NSW. Thank you to all those
volunteers that agreed to participate, especially given it was
Christmas and harvest time. While it would have been great
experience to send a contingent from the region we should be
appreciative that fire conditions in NSW abated enough that we
were not required. A register is maintained in the Area Office for
future deployments outside of the region. Interested volunteers
should contact the Area Office for application forms.
As part of the Rural Enhancement Package three new staff
members have commenced in the region.
❚
Ian Atherton
Ian commenced as Area Director (AD), Innisfail, coming from AD
Emerald. Ian has been with the organisation since 1999 and has
held many roles throughout rural Queensland including District
Inspector, District Training Officer and Casual Training Officer in
Mackay, Charters Towers, Cloncurry and Emerald. Prior
to joining QFRS, Ian had extensive experience with the sugar
cane industry, having managed a 7500 ton assignment cane
farm and delivered National Accredited training in the sugar
cane industry. Ian holds numerous qualifications in business
management and training.
❚
Bernie Grech
Bernie was successful for the position of Brigade Training &
Support Officer (BTSO), Innisfail. Bernie has been working as
Acting BTSO since 2006 and with 17 years experience with
North Millstream RFB holding 1st officer and other positions
he is well respected amongst the local Brigades. Prior to
joining Rural Operations, Bernie had an extensive background
in sales working with various companies delivering training,
administrative and sales support and has qualifications in
workplace training.
❚
Brett Weston
Brett was successful for the position of BTSO, Cairns Peninsula.
Brett is presently an auxiliary fire-fighter with Kooralbyn and has
10 years experience as a fire-fighter with CFA, as a volunteer and
as a permanent appointee with the Royal Australian Air Force
Fire Service. He is currently employed as Training Consultant
with Trimevac Pty Ltd. and holds skills with QFRS Air Operations
related activities and has qualifications in workplace training.
March 2007
Finally the Commissioner has approved a request from Bryan
Cifuentes, Area Director Rural Operations, Cairns Peninsula, to
take 12 months leave without pay for the period commencing
Monday 5 February 2007 to Friday 4 February 2008. During this
period Bryan will be using his extensive fire management skills
and knowledge of the Cape, working for the Cape York Peninsula
Development Association in the position of coordinating the
“Rangelands Fire Project” for northern, central, western and
part of southern Queensland. The basis of the project is to
capture knowledge through historical mapping considering the
economic and environmental impact to grazing or crops through
fire and fire fighting. Issues such as loss of productivity
through woody plant thickening, weed encroachment brought
about by a combination of lack of fire, inappropriate grazing
pressure and climatic extremes will also be considered. An
Expression of Interest has been called to fill the vacancy during
Bryan’s absence.
❚ North Coast Region
Update
The North Coast Region (NCR) covers the coastal areas of
Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, the Sunshine Coast, and includes
the Burnett hinterland. Hervey Bay and the Sunshine Coast
are among the fastest growing urban areas in Australia and
attracts significant numbers of tourists throughout the year.
The Region’s Fire Communications Centre is located at Kawana,
on the Sunshine Coast.
The NCR has 44 urban fire stations staffed by 188 full-time
and 450 auxiliary fire officers. Rural fire management and
suppression in the Region is serviced by three Rural Area
Directors based in Bundaberg (105 brigades), Maryborough
(76 brigades) and Caloundra (60 brigades), comprising the
241 rural fire brigades.
❚
Regional Manager based in the Regional Office
Maryborough is:
Regional Manager Rural Operations: Peter Hollier
Contact Number: 07 4190 4836
❚
Staff based in Bundaberg Rural Area Office are:
Area Director: Tony Johnstone
Area Training and Support Officer: Phil Williams
Brigade Training and Support Officer: Simon Sievers
Area Administration Officer: Kathy Pole
❚
Staff based in Caloundra Rural Area Office are:
Area Director: Garry Seaman
Area Training and Support Officer: Neil Kelso
Brigade Training and Support Officer: Andrew Allan
Area Administration Officer: Vacant
❚
Staff based in Maryborough Rural Area Office are:
Area Director: Warren Edwards
Area Training and Support Officer: Brian Dale
Brigade Training and Support Officer: Wayne Ford (currently Bob
Maxwell is acting BTSO until Wayne commences as Wayne is
currently acting in Caloundra)
Area Administration Officer: Margaret Walker
❚ Under new management
The new Townsville Area is now open for business. Created
out of parts of the old Charters Towers, Innisfail and Mackay
Districts, the new area covers the coastal strip in Northern
Region. The area is dominated by cane producing regions in the
Herbert and Lower Burdekin, with a fair chunk of dry tropics in
the middle.
Coastal towns and cities in the area are growing rapidly on the
back of tourism and the mining boom. Inevitably this means
that some people will seek a rural lifestyle outside urban areas.
Small towns and hamlets around Townsville, Ingham, Ayr and
Bowen have developed into class 2 and 3 brigade areas with
a keen membership, eager to provide an essential service to
their communities. Of course there are also a large number
of traditional class 1 brigades involved in protecting the rural
industries.
The Unit provided communications, welfare and incident
management support over a three week period at East
Palmerston, crewed by members of the Thuringowa Group on
a rotation. Since its baptism of fire, so to speak, the unit has
been refitted to provide a host of services both operational
and educational to assist across the Northern Region.
Thuringowa Group Secretary, Rod Girvan said “the ESU
has been fitted with operational support equipment
including, VHF and UHF radios with extendable aerials to
improve coverage, white boards and incident management
equipment. It also has been fitted with a generator and
lighting, welfare supplies and carries some firefighting
equipment to assist at an incident”.
The vehicle was donated to the group after a short life as
a QAS support vehicle. It was fitted with a high capacity
winch, all bodywork and even space for the generator by its
previous owners. The Group have also utilised the space
on the vehicle to stow and transport promotional materials
such as display and spider boards, brochures and stickers to
assist with Rural Fire Service promotions wherever required.
Thuringowa Group are keen to promote the capabilities
this new vehicle brings to RFS and to offer the use of the
vehicle, crewed by group members, at any event within
reasonable travel distance. Rod said “ We can provide
support to operations in the form of incident management
facilities, staging area management, and welfare, regardless
of the type of incident. We even have the capability to
communicate with aircraft engaged in observation or
firebombing”.
The new Area team of Ewan Cayzer (ADRO), Denise Cheffins (AO)
and Rosemary Kavanagh (A/ATSO) are settling in to their office,
collocated with the Northern Regional office at Wickham St.
Townsville.
❚ South East Region
Update
Ewan said “There is a lot to do when creating a new Area,
everything from the office space to the tea club needs to be
organised. Fortunately the former Regional Inspector – Northern
staff and the Kedron staff had prepared much of the resources,
allowing the Area team to concentrate on getting down to work”.
September 4 2006 was the date I (Steve Crouch)
commenced with the Rural Fire Service after 26 years
employed by varied arms of fire service in Queensland.
Being appointed to the position of Regional Manager Rural
Operations has certainly been the highlight of my career and
I must thank all rural fire service volunteers and staff who
have assisted in making the transition both painless and
enjoyable. I am in awe of the commitment provided by the
volunteers of this organisation.
Townsville Area extends a welcome to any RFS people travelling
through Townsville to drop in and pay them a visit.
❚ Thuringowa Group Emergency
support Unit
Thuringowa’s Emergency Support Unit (ESU) is ready for action.
The 4WD Isuzu vehicle was donated to the Group only days
before cyclone Larry crossed the coast, but the Thuringowa
Group managed to have the vehicle ready to provide support to
the cyclone Larry recovery efforts.
Page Upon commencement I had hoped to have the opportunity
to interact with many of the volunteers in the South East
Region but due to the rapid implementation of the Rural
Operations Enhancement Package, dry conditions and
project involvement on a state prospective there are
many people I must still meet. As staff are now gradually
adjusting to their new roles, the opportunities for South East
Volunteers to meet new staff will eventuate.
Below is a brief introduction to the staff in South East Region
Rural Operations:
❚ Toowoomba Area
Superintendent Steve Crouch – Regional Manager Rural
Operations located at Regional Headquarters Beenleigh.
❚
Inspector Craig Smith – Area Director Rural Operations located
at Area Office Thornton Street Raceview.
Area Training Support Officers Tony Wood and Kaye Healing
located at Area Office Thornton Street Raceview.
Brigade Training Support Officer Brian Smith commencing early
March at Area Office Thornton Street Raceview.
Regional Administration Officer – Still to be filled at Regional
Headquarters.
Area Administration Officers Marilyn Sentinella and Bernadette
Spittal located at Area Office Thornton Street Raceview.
The role of all the Rural Operational staff is to support all the
volunteers both operationally and administratively ensuring all
are appropriately trained and resourced to safely perform their
duties and roles. Remember always look ahead but never forget
the past.
I would also like to congratulate Len Jeavons on his Australian
Fire Service Medal announced in the Australia Day Awards
of 2007. His strategic thinking and commitment to the Gold
Coast Group and Lower Beechmont Rural Fire Brigade has
been exemplary over a long period of time. Well done Len you
thoroughly deserve the honour.
In conclusion please don’t hesitate in contacting any of the
regional staff to clarify and queries regarding rural operations
in the South East Region and together we can all provide an
improved community service.
❚ South West Region
Update
❚ Regional Office
❚
Wayne Waltisbuhl
Wayne was appointed as Regional Manager in September 2006.
Wayne joined the organisation in 1998 as a training officer in
the Caboolture District after working with Forestry and Parks for
a period of 22 years. He was appointed to the position of District
Inspector Caboolture in 2004 after a long period of relieving in
this position.
❚
Elissa Woodcroft.
Elissa has just commenced duties as the Regional
Administrative Officer. Prior to this she was with Telstra for 10
years.
March 2007
Bruce Ehrlich
Bruce was appointed as Area Director Toowoomba in December
2006. Bruce was the Training officer at Miles prior to this
appointment, and has relieved in many positions around the
southern part of the State. He joined the organisation in 1997 as
one of the first groups of training officers appointed to Districts.
Bruce has a background in Forestry and Parks.
❚
Brian Cook
Brian was appointed to the position of Area Training and
Support officer, Toowoomba in January 2007. Brian has been
acting in this position for 3 ½ years and prior to this had a
long career with Forestry. Brian has been employed with AAA
engineering for a short time, assisting with the assembly of our
rural appliances.
❚
Paul Storrs
Paul has recently been appointed as Brigade Training and
Support Officer in Toowoomba. Paul has been a Group
Administrative and Training Officer with the Warwick Rural Fire
Brigade Group and has also been employed with us as a Casual
Training Officer for the past two years. Paul has also been an
Officer in his local brigade.
❚
Annette Lamb
Annette has been the Administrative Officer in the Toowoomba
Office for the past 11 years. Prior to this she was a full-time Mum
and this position was the start of her re-joining the workforce
and has enjoyed working with us ever since.
❚ Miles-Roma
❚
Mike Smith
Mike was appointed to his current position of Area Director
Miles/Roma in January 2007 and after being employed as a
District Inspector Miles for a period of nine years. Prior to joining
the Rural Fire Service, Mike worked in the IT industry and was
the First officer of his local brigade on the coast prior to moving
west.
❚
Michael Patch
Michael was appointed as Area Training and Support Officer,
Miles in January 2007. He has been supporting training delivery
in the Toowoomba area as a casual training officer for the past
couple of years and has been a fire warden and first officer of
his local brigade.
❚
Tracey Gibson
Tracey is the Administrative Officer at Miles Office, a position
she has held for the past nine years.
❚
Chris Artiemiew
Chris was appointed as Training Officer, Roma in 2002, which
is the position he currently holds. Prior to this he held many
position with Parks around Queensland and Ayres Rock and
was a police dog handler with Australia Defense Force before
this. Chris has also worked in Aboriginal communities around
Queensland.
❚
Col Neal
Col has recently been appointed as Brigade Training and
Support Officer Roma. He has been acting in this position, as
well as Training Officer positions in Miles and Roma over the
past 12 months. Col is an Auxiliary Fire fighter at Roma and prior
to Col joining Rural Operations he was employed at Marinoa
Rural Management as a financial councilor.
❚ Crows Nest Joint Operation Centre
The Honourable Pat Purcell MP Minister for Emergency Services
officially opened the Crows Nest Joint Operations Centre on the
2nd December 2006.
This facility is a purpose built centre that will act as a local
Incident Management Centre. The centre will be utilised by
all Emergency Service personal in the shire for any type of
emergency incident. Funds came from numerous community
members and local businesses, Crows Nest and Toowoomba
City Councils.
The Minister also presented the following medals and clasps.
National Medal & 1st Clasp – Neale Maddern, Pierces & Lower
Emu Creek RFB
National Medal – David Parton, Pierces & Lower Emu Creek RFB
National Medal & 1st Clasp – Michael Patch, Pierces & Lower
Emu Creek RFB
3rd Clasp – Geoffrey Patch, Pierces & Lower Emu Creek RFB
❚ Central Region Update
As is the case with many of the Regions, the Rural Operations
Enhancement Package has provided us with the opportunity to
bring on board many new members of the team. The new faces
in Central Region are:
❚
John Fisher Regional Manager, Central Region
John has been a fire fighter in Victoria, NSW and the ACT over
more than 25 years and most recently was the Deputy Chief
Officer for the ACT RFS. Before that John held operational and
management roles in NSW Forests, NSW NPWS and the Victorian
Department of Conservation and Environment. CFA, Victoria, however prior to that, Gavin was in RFS and
has relieved as the District Inspector and District Training
Officer in Maryborough. Gavin has extensive experience in the
management of major fire incidents. Gavin was the 1st Officer
of the Glastonbury Rural Fire Brigade for 20 years and has
qualifications in training and business.
With the engagement of two new administrative staff in
Rockhampton the full team will be in place for Central Region. Already the level of activity and engagement with volunteers
and Brigades has increased. The enhancement package will
allow Rural Operations to seriously improve the support to Rural
Brigades in Rockie, Emerald, Barcaldine and Mackay Areas.
❚
❚ Andrew Allan –
Brigade Training and Support Officer
❚ Naomi Scott –
❚ Paul Storrs –
❚ Anthony Stroud –
Fiona Quirk, Brigade Training and Support Officer,
Mackay
❚ Neil Kelso –
Area Training and Support Officer
❚ Graham Andrew –
Naomi Scott, Brigade Training and Support Officer,
Rockhampton
Naomi has been a QFRS volunteer firefighter since 1996 and
is actively involved in the Cooberrie Rural Fire Brigade where
her father Steve is the First Officer. In her role as a volunteer
firefighter, Naomi has regularly assisted to deliver training
within the Cooberrie Rural Fire Brigade and has earnt the respect
of staff and volunteers through her skill and dedication. Naomi
is actively involved in community events, including activities
such as the Annual Yeppoon and District Show and has a
Bachelor qualification of Biomedical Science and is currently
studying a major in Veterinary Technology through the Central
Queensland University.
Rural operations are pleased to welcome onboard:
Fiona has been Acting Brigade Training and Support Officer
in Mackay since November 2006. Fiona commenced with the
organisation in 2003 and held the position of Administrative
Officer in Mackay and has good knowledge and rapport with the
brigade members already. Fiona has previously worked as an
Associate Pastor, a Teachers Aide and an Insurance Broker and
brings a great deal of enthusiasm and energy to the job. ❚
As a result of the Rural Operations Enhancement Package,
Rural Operations has had the opportunity to appoint many of
our volunteers to positions within the organisation. Not only
do these employees bring with them a range of backgrounds
and experience, but they also bring a strong knowledge of our
brigades and volunteers.
❚ Wayne Ford –
John has been actively engaged in large and small incident
management including oils spill response, whale strandings
and wildfires. He has been actively engaged in fire research,
on public and private land, developing ecologically sustainable
fire management regimes, new fire fighting technologies using
aircraft, compressed air foam and remote area teams. He has
also been responsible for sending teams from NSW and the ACT
to the USA as part of the ANZ_USA International deployments
and has led a number teams on these tours himself.
❚
❚ Volunteers to Staff
❚ Michael Patch –
❚ A great example of Fire Education, this banner was created by
children at Parkhurst State School to reflect a talk given to them
by 3rd officer of the Nerimbera Rural Fire Brigade Trevor Caunt.
❚ Gavin Fryer –
Gavin Fryer, Area Training and Support Officer,
Rockhampton
Gavin is currently the Acting Manager Community Safety with
Page Rural Fires Bulletin
March 2007
Page Grants
❚ Technology Survival
Skills Grant
Ipswich Group Rural Fire Brigade has been successful in the
their second hand computers, therefore training in the use
last funding round for the Technology Survival Skills Grant
of the equipment is a vital part of the routine maintenance
funded through the Department of Works, Queensland.
for this asset.
The aim of the grant is to increase the level of information
We encourage all other Groups out there to look at the next
and communication technology (ICT) skills within
round of grants in 2007 as grants are up to $10,000. Reports
Queensland by providing funding to support non-profit
are a prerequisite of the application and all volunteers
organisations in delivering projects that enhance ICT skills
taking part in the training will be required to take part in a
of people in the community who are disadvantaged in their
training evaluation form. Our project will be pretty tight in
access to ICT training. This disadvantage may be due to,
the training field this year, but once initial two volunteers
but is not limited to, income level, location, age, gender or
have gained their Certificate IV in Workplace Training and
disability.
Assessment, the sessions will be ongoing yearly and part of
Ipswich Group applied with the objective of up skilling
volunteers in Information Technology, especially those rural
volunteers who do not have ready access to computers and
the Group Training program. At this point in time the trainers
will come from the members of Brigades who already have
Certificates in Information Technology.
the Internet. Part of the grant will subsidise two volunteers,
who have previous Information Technology Certificates, to
undertake Certificate IV Workplace Training and Assessing.
Ipswich Group
Admin Officer
to embark on a series of introductory lessons of both
computers and the internet, to the Brigade volunteers in
the nine rural brigades which make up Ipswich Group.
These sessions will be available for both active and support
valuable members for the IMT and ICC areas once trained in
a speciality area.
been expended. The skills development will also cover the
familiarisation of the computer generated forms used in the
Incident Control Centre.
Bushfires are no newcomer to the Australian landscape but only
in recent years have fire and land management agencies worked
closely with researchers in a coordinated effort to better manage
the bushfire risk.
The Gambling Community Benefit Fund is one grant that assists
Queensland-based community organisations to provide services
and activities within the local community. The purpose of this grant
is to develop, strengthen and enhance the capacity of community
organisations to provide community services and activities through
one-off grants.
All brigades are eligible to apply to the Fund. The Fund requires
brigades to forward applications through QFRS Rural Operations,
with the support of the Assistant Commissioner, Rural Operations,
as a sponsor. Before you apply for a grant through the Gambling
Community Benefit Fund it is important you review the relevant
Rural Fire Brigade Manual for further details.
The fund has four funding rounds per year with closing dates
for applications being 31 March, 30 June, 30 September and
31 December. For more information on the Gambling Community
Benefit Fund and for information on how to apply
visit www.gcbf.qld.gov.au
Unlink the Gaming Community Benefit Fund (GCBF), Jupiters deals
directly with brigades. QFRS Rural Operations’ only role is to support
the application and deal with any difficulties that arise after a grant
is made. Once again it is important brigades review the relevant
Rural Fire Brigade Manual, before applying for the grant.
The contact address for the grant:
Senior Project Officer
Technology Survival Skills Program
Queensland Government Chief Information Officer
Another grant that is particularly useful for Rural Fire Brigades is
the Volunteer Small Equipment Grant. This grant provides up to
$3,000 (GST inclusive) to help community organisations purchase
equipment that directly supports volunteers whose work contributes
to encouraging stronger families and communities.
Department of Public Works
This grant was applied for after talking with many of the
GPO Box 2457
Brigade members who do not have access to a home
Brisbane Qld 4001
computer and do not feel comfortable using one, so we saw
this grant as a positive step to assist brigade members to
Timing of the next Volunteer Small Equipment Grants round has yet
to be confirmed however, more information is available at http://
www.facsia.gov.au/internet/facsinternet.nsf/aboutfacs/programs/
communities-volunteering.htm
become computer savvy.
Ipswich Group has previously resourced Brigades with
second hand computers donated through Council and
The Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre is a partnership
between 30 organisations across Australia and New Zealand.
Queensland Fire and Rescue Service is a partner of the
Bushfire CRC – along with fire and land management agencies,
universities and Australian Federal Government agencies.
Bushfire CRC researchers are working within communities from
Victoria’s western districts to Far North Queensland, the alpine
regions of New South Wales and Victoria, to the Tasmanian
forest regions, South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula and the tropical
savannas of the north.
Since 2003 the Bushfire CRC has been looking at a broad range
of topics including fire behaviour and suppression, fire as
part of the natural landscape, fire weather, community selfsufficiency, firefighter safety and building protection.
Bushfire CRC chief executive officer Mr Kevin O’Loughlin said
the formation of the CRC was a major step by the fire and land
management agencies and research partners in Australia and
New Zealand.
“It was a move towards a better understanding of the complex
social, economic and environmental aspects of bushfires.
The combination of partner resources and the Australian
Government’s grant through the CRC program is a substantial
investment in bushfire research.
“And already, this investment is having an impact. New
decision support tools are being used in areas such as smoke
management, aerial suppression, prescribed burning and fire
weather forecasting. Important research has started on the role
of fire in the high country. In tandem with researchers, fire and
land agencies are gaining an insight into the way people face
the bushfire threat.
“And industry is looking to the CRC for advice on better
materials for building houses and other structures.”
The Bushfire CRC also has a responsibility to educate the
general community as well as the next generation of fire
researchers through training, knowledge networking, technology
transfer, short courses, workshops and public forums.
Find out more about the Bushfire CRC at www.bushfirecrc.com
Other grants are available through both the Federal and State
Governments. For more information on the variety of grants
available visit http://grantslink.gov.au
or http://www.qld.gov.au/grants
Government and recently many brigades have upgraded
Page 10
There are currently a number of grants available through government
and private sector that Rural Fire Brigades are eligible to apply
for to assist them in providing their services to the community.
The JCCBF provides one-off grants to approved non-profit
organisations. Guidelines and dates for the next round of grants
have yet to be finalised however, more information is available
at http://www.jccbf.org.au.
members as we have proved the support members can be
internet skills being delivered after the initial grant has
❚ A Joint Approach
to Bushfire Research
The Jupiters Casino Community Benefit Fund (JCCBF) is another
grant program rural fire brigades are eligible to apply for.
The object of this Fund is to assist community organisations
to maintain properties and premises and acquire essential
equipment to help in their service delivery.
Once qualified they will join with the Group Training Team
Skill sessions will be ongoing with advanced computer and
❚ How grants can help your
Rural Fire Brigade
March 2007
Page 11
Arson Research
❚ Bushfire Arson CRC
An investigation into bushfire arson: researchers are finding
out how to reduce the deliberate lighting of bushfires
Bushfires can be started by a range of causes. Some are
natural, some accidental and some are deliberately lit for
malicious reasons.
The Bushfire CRC’s Bushfire Arson Project aims to provide
the research outputs that will help reduce deliberate and
negligent fire lighting in Australian bushland environments.
The project is being conducted by researchers at the
Australian Institute of Criminology in conjunction with
the ACT Department of Justice and Community Safety. The
project has produced the report Bushfire Arson: A Review of
the Literature, and continues to a produce monthly Bushfire
Arson Bulletin, a concise one-page summary of current
issues in arson.
❚ Current Projects
The Bushfire Arson Project is engaged in a number of
research activities focusing on specific areas of arson.
Current research projects include:
❚
A spatial and temporal analysis of bushfires
in Australia.
Data on bushfires over a number of years have been
collected from agencies in each jurisdiction, in order to
identify trends in fires, and to put bushfires into context.
Some initial findings from these analyses have been
presented at Bushfire CRC conferences in 2006, however a
considerably more detailed report is due to be published in
early 2007.
Early findings include:
·
It is likely that 30-50% of all fires are the result of
deliberate fire setting, although in some areas it may
be as high as 80%.
·
Bushfires are more likely to be deliberately lit on
a weekend rather than a weekday.
·
Most fires occur in daylight hours, with deliberately
lit fires peaking between 3-4pm.
·
There is an additional spike in arson around midnight,
mostly Friday and Saturday night.
·
Regions that incorporate a metropolitan or major
regional centre have a higher frequency of deliberate
lightings.
What’s New
❚
A survey of arson prevention and intervention
programs in Australia.
Researchers are currently conducting a survey of Australian
programs that target deliberate fire-setting in order to
determine how they operate, who they target, and how well
they work. The aim is to develop a database of programs
to improve networking and knowledge-sharing among
practitioners and those involved in preventing such crimes.
❚
Identifying Best Practice in Bushfire Arson
investigation
The initial phase, a National Roundtable with bushfire
arson investigators, was held in Canberra in October 2006.
In attendance were representatives from fire and police
services and land management agencies. The aim of the
roundtable was to highlight future areas for research.
❚
Further Research
A number of additional research activities are planned,
including:
·
An examination of the offending histories
and characteristics of those charged with arson;
·
A survey of policies and procedures of fire services
for identifying applicants who are at risk of being
arsonists, with a view to developing best-practice
guidelines; and
·
Initial work on economic modelling of arson.
❚
About the project
The Bushfire Arson Project (Project C3) is being conducted
by Damon Muller and Colleen Bryant at the Australian
Institute of Criminology, in conjunction with the ACT
Department of Justice and Community Safety.
The Bushfire Arson Bulletin, the Bushfire Arson literature
review, conference
❚ Don’t be a fool – change
your smoke alarm battery
Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) and Duracell
have joined forces in a major campaign to remind
householders to regularly change their smoke alarm
batteries.
Householders were reminded that the loud warning sound
from a smoke alarm was often the difference between a
devastating fire or family safety.
QFRS research shows that some 34 percent of householders
in country areas are at risk of dying in a house fire because
they do not have smoke alarms. Other households install
the warning devices but do not maintain them.
Campaign organisers suggest householders choose an
anniversary such as April 1 with their theme: “Don’t be a fool
– change your smoke alarm battery on April 1”.
QFRS, Rural Operations, Assistant Commissioner Steve
Rothwell said, “If occupants are asleep in their home, fires
can start quietly and spread quickly. People will not hear or
smell a fire and if they breathe in the smoke, they may never
wake up.
“Our message is simple: only working smoke alarms save
lives and that means changing the battery once a year and
testing and cleaning alarms on a regular basis,” he said.
This year’s campaign comes with a significant change to
state legislation requiring all homes and units throughout
Queensland to be fitted with at least one smoke alarm by
1 July 2007.
One factor leading to the legislative decision was the
research showing only 64.1 percent of people living in rural
Queensland had operational smoke alarms. The state’s
overall figure was 76 percent.
Be Alarmed!
presentations and research posters on this project can be
found at: www.bushfirecrc.com
Don’t be a fool!
Change your smoke
alarm battery.
Sunday 1st of April,
April Fools’ Day.
Only working smoke alarms save lives!
Smoke Alarms Compulsory 1 July 2007
A community safety message from
Page 12
March 2007
www.changeyourbattery.com.au
❚ Equipment update
Any staff or volunteers undertaking community education
sessions or providing information to residents on installation
of new water tanks should be aware that the best option for
residents who are installing a cam lock on their tanks for use by
Rural Brigades, is to install a male cam lock, as it is compatible
with hoses on the new trucks.
Residents who already have a female cam lock on their tanks
will not need to replace it as most brigades carry adaptors
however male cam locks are recommended for any new tanks.
❚ What’s New
❚ Fire Investigation and Research
The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service has over 110 Fire Scene
Examiners trained to investigate fire scenes and determine the
causes of fires - both accidental and malicious.
This process includes testing any electrical/gas appliances
or other items that are believed to be responsible for starting
fires. Information on how fires start is used to help prevent
recurrence of fires by educating the community and helping to
remove dangerous products from the market.
The Fire Investigation Bulletin Board has been established
to provide information on products considered to pose a fire
hazard. To view this information simply visit http://www.fire.
qld.gov.au/about/bb.asp
❚ Current Research Projects Fire Database
The Fire Investigation and Research Section is currently involved
in a major new research project set to reduce the number of fire
deaths and injuries in Queensland.
The project will mean the QFRS has comprehensive and
accurate information regarding how and why fires started,
and how injuries, deaths and property loss could have been
avoided.
The project will investigate events leading up to major fires,
such as what people were doing when the fire started and
whether they had previously installed smoke alarms, as well as
details about people involved in the fire, such as age, ethnicity,
and living arrangements.
This research will enable the us to better assess fire safety
programs and determine improvements that can be made.
The new research program has been developed with assistance
from the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety Queensland.
Page 13
Australia Day Honour
Rural Research and Training
❚ RFS Volunteer honoured
with the Australian Fire
Service Medal
“Particularly at the moment when we are experiencing
extreme drought and climate change. Besides, one day the
house Len saves might be mine.”
On Australia Day 2007, Rural Fire Brigade volunteer Len
Jeavons was awarded with Australian Fire Service Medal, which
recognises distinguished services by members of Australian
fire services.
“Fortunately, the way the company runs means it is standard
practice to make time available for people not being here
for sick leave etc. Because of this we are able to cover Len’s
absences when he is called out for an emergency.
Len received this award for outstanding dedication and
commitment to protecting Gold Coast communities from the
impacts of bushfire. To receive this award as a volunteer is
a huge feat. Each year one award is given for each 5,000
volunteer or auxiliary members of the fire service or combined
fire services of each state. This year, there were only three
recipients from Queensland and Len was the only volunteer to
receive the honour.
“It is only something we need to consider during peak fire
season, which is three or four months of the year.”
This award was a truly deserved honour for Len, who has over
35 years experience with rural brigades, having begun his
association in NSW, and continuing it with the RFS after moving
to Queensland.
Len has been the Chairman of the Lower Beechmont Rural
Brigade for 20 years, the Group Officer of the Gold Coast for 7
years and has been heavily involved in volunteer training for 13.
As group officer for Gold Coast Len is responsible for
coordinating the rural brigades response to fires. Experience
such as Len’s is invaluable when fighting fires however, he also
plays an essential role in coordinating resources and people.
Not only is Len responsible for coordinating the response to
fires, he is responsible for many of the administrative issues
such as reviewing the disbursement of rural fire levies amongst
Gold Coast Brigades and volunteer recruitment.
Len has also played a pivotal role in the development of the
Gold Coast Bushfire Management Strategy and works with other
Emergency Response organisations to provide assistance to the
local community in times of need.
“I always say to people you can put in what you can put in. You
can put in 50 hours or you can put in two.
❚ Head Office / Kedron - Rural Research & Training Team Structure
Mark said from an organisational perspective, they are able
to manage Len’s commitment to the RFS very well.
ACRO
Steve Rothwell
King Springs understands the important role Len plays in
these incidents and believes the commitment the company
is making is small in the grand scheme of things.
Director RR&T
(Previously
Tim McGuffog)
Admin Support
Kaylene Sticklen
Manager Research
& Development
Fergus Adrian
Manager Rural
Training – Delivery
Winston Williams
Manager Rural
Training – Product
Development
Andrew Hopkins
Training Resource
Officer
Murray Drain
Training Resource
Officer
Corey Bock
Desktop Publisher
(Previously Jenny
Webster-Hancock)
“A lot of people don’t realise the people in these brigades
are volunteers, most of whom have full-time jobs. They give
up their weekends and evenings to not only undergo the
necessary training requirements, but to run the brigades as
well.
“There are a huge amount of administrative issues to deal
with and most brigades receive only a small amount of their
necessary funding from council levies and subsidies. Most
of the money they require comes from their own fundraising.
“Compared to this it is not a big ask for a company to give up
a few days when volunteers are putting so much on the line
and giving so much of their own time. Obviously for smaller
businesses there is a financial burden that comes with
letting staff go for several days however, there are also a lot
of benefits in having employees involved with volunteering
organisations such as RFB.
“For example Len has received qualifications in leadership
and management as part of his work with the Rural
Fire Brigades, and naturally this benefits him and our
organisation.
“We are proud to be able to support Len in his work.
Obviously he is doing great things, as is evidenced by him
receiving the Australian Fire Service Medal.”
“Obviously most of our volunteers work full-time, so their
available time is limited.
“The only way I have been able to contribute to the community
in this capacity is with the support of my employer King
Springs.”
Congratulations & best wishes to;
Tim McGuffog – now Deputy Chief of ACT Rural
His employer Mark King, Managing Director of King Springs,
has always been happy to support Len, understanding the
importance of what he does.
Jenny Webster-Hancock – now enjoying “active“ retirement
Tania Phillps – also enjoying “active” retirement
“The service provided by Rural Fire Brigades benefits the whole
community” Mark said.
Page 14
Thank you each for your wonderful contribution to the QFRS Rural Operations and to the Volunteers
March 2007
Page 15
❚ Incident Controller – Crew
Leader – Level 1 Wildfire
❚ New Training Trailer
and Fire Simulator
Last year saw the introduction of the Role Based Training
package “Incident Controller – Crew Leader – Level 1 Wildfire”
course. The feedback from the members to the Minister
indicated that it has been very well received.
In the last edition of the bulletin, I was able to inform
you of the development of a fire simulator and a trailer.
The development of both the simulator and the trailer is
almost complete. With the engineering expertise of AAA
engineering, the simulator is now mounted on a trolley,
making it very easy to transport and move around. The
trolley carries all of the tools and equipment you need to
operate the simulator, so that it can be taken out of the
trailer and pushed hundreds of meters away (if needed) to
the location where the demonstration will be conducted.
The course (covers a range of topics) starts on a Friday
night and concludes Sunday afternoon. Essentially it
covers everything from the moment an alarm is raised, to
working through the process of managing the incident, to
recommissioning the equipment used. A few extras are
thrown in for good measure just to keep it realistic and improve
relevance.
The Trailer has also been improved so it now has three
distinct functions. Firstly, and most importantly, it is the
trailer that will transport the simulator around. It also has
the ability to be a fully self sufficient training trailer, so
that the trailer can be towed to the training event and the
PowerPoint or the video can be played from the trailer. And
last but not least, we have designed it so that it can be taken
to shopping centres, local shows or fund raising events,
and be used as a promotional trailer that includes brochure
displays and a full PA system.
Management strategies and tactics concentrate on utilizing
tools and resources to manage a level 1 incident – these
processes were applied during the Cyclone Larry Deployment
in 2006. The course program fills each day with periods of
delivery and tabletop scenario exercises along with field based
practical activities; the days seem long (and they are) however
nearly all participants report that the results have been well
worth the effort.
Some of the things done on the Incident Controller – Crew
Leader - Level 1 Wildfire Course
We are now developing a training video to assist in the use
of the trailer and creating some scenarios for the simulator.
It is expected that there will be a trailer and simulator made
for each area (district) over the next 12 months, so that it
can be made available for staff and volunteer firefighters to
utilise to enhance their current training and understanding
of wildfires.
Corey Bock
A/Manager Planning and Research
Page 16
March 2007
Page 17
❚ Planning and Research
The planning and research area has been very busy and
currently has three major projects underway to ensure that
Rural Operations stays at the forefront of the industry. The three
projects are:
·
Fire Warden Review
·
Curing Project
·
FDRG Enhancement
❚ Fire Warden Review
The object of the review is to place QFRS as the lead agency in
control of the use of fire and to ensure that the responsible use
of fire is maintained for the future with consideration to local,
national and global influences and challenges. The review will
bring the Fire Warden, Permit to Light Fire process and use of
fire to the forefront and provide inspiration for future long-term
directions.
Two workshops involving Fire Wardens, Government fire agency
personnel, RFBAQ and QRFS operational staff were conducted
and the outcomes used to develop the review’s framework.
The topics being addressed are;
·
Communication Systems and Support
·
Land use associated with fire
·
Community Education and Interaction
·
Fire Use and Alternatives
·
Legislation
·
Permit to Light Fire process
·
Fire Bans/Fire Restrictions
The review time frames are;
·
January to June 2007 (25 weeks) – Research, findings and
recommendations
·
July to December 2007 (26 weeks) – Review and
Development of manuals, knowledge reference network
(CRC Knowledge Network) – Enhancement of training
resource kits (TRK’s) delivery methodologies and up
skilling of Rural Operation Training delivery staff and
community education content.
·
January to June 2008 (26 weeks) – Roll out of training to
Fire Warden/Chief Fire warden – based on prioritory risk
and development of community education awareness
programs with different presentation formats.
As a part of the vital research that needs to be carried out, a
fire warden survey is currently being developed. The survey
is expected to be sent to all fire wardens – and will be
conducted in partnership with the Bushfire CRC Program D
Page 18
– Enhancing Volunteerism. The survey is aimed towards
the changing interaction between the fire warden, the
brigade, the community, QFRS, legislative requirements and
reviewing ongoing challenges for the role. Rural Operations
encourages all fire wardens to participate in the survey
so that accurate information can be captured to assist in
developing processes, programs and community education
material that meets the needs of our people.
❚ Curing Project
The FDRG is also intended to assist Fire Wardens in knowing
about the forthcoming weather each day, so the information will
assist in determining the appropriate conditions on the permit
or give sound advise to landholders.
The FDRG has an outlook over the next four days so that it
gives fire agencies sufficient warning of the weather ahead of
time. Currently the map is created by down loading weather
information from the Bureau of Meteorology across 33 weather
stations around the state. In December last year, we were
able to obtain weather information from a further 48 weather
stations, enabling information to come from a total of 81 sites
across the state. Part of the enhancement is to fully automate
the graphic display so that the information is automatically
gathered and turned into a map and a spread sheet, so that
it can be accurately displayed on the web the same time each
day. Currently the map is created manually, and is very time
consuming.
Rural Operations are able to assist the Bureau of
Meteorology each week by providing them with accurate
information about the fuel curing rates around Queensland.
This information is vital to all fire agencies as it is a key
component in calculating a fire danger index which in turn
assists firefighters in managing fire in Queensland.
In partnership with the Bushfire CRC, we are currently
conducting trials in measuring fuel curing rates that
incorporates different species of grasses using new
scientific methods. The new method requires a testing site
that is no less than 1km square in size that represents an
average fuel loading and fuel type throughout the area. Pegs
are placed in the ground and fuel curing measurements are
conducted on the site every two weeks. The information is
then tabled and sent to scientists and the site is plotted on
an aerial satellite map. Conceptually the colour on the map
is then registered as representing a given percentage cured
that was identified by on site measuring.
If this process is able to accurately represent the curing
rate of vegetation, eventually we will be able to identify the
curing rates by an identified colour on a map. This will assist
us in identifying high risk areas and enable us to develop a
risk management strategy prior to the event occurring. For
this research to be effective, we are required to measure the
curing rate over several areas across Queensland.
We are looking for Fire Wardens / Firefighters to assist us
in measuring the curing rate of grass lands in areas across
Queensland. It will involve a little bit of training and some
equipment, however this contribution will assist all fire
fighting and land management agencies across Queensland.
If you would like to be a part of this new research, please
contact the Manager Planning and Research on 3247 8121.
❚ Fire Danger Rating Graphics
(FDRG) Enhancement:
The Fire Danger Rating Graphics (FDRG) is a collective visual
illustration, that was produced for the last fire season,
to quickly show the Fire Danger Rating for each shire in
Queensland. The FDRG has become one of the instruments
that helps determine the Wildfire Alert Level (WAL) in
each region. The illustration is in the form of a map and is
published on the Rural Fires website each day.
March 2007
Page 19
Our Volunteers Our Brigades
❚ Narrabri Taskforce
I am currently a support member of Marburg District Rural Fire
Brigade and have been for nearly five years.
❚ The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service were proud to recently honour the three surviving founding members of the Cedar Creek Wolffdene Rural Fire Brigade. Royce
Watt, Jim Davison and Cliff Buchbach were honoured for their contribution to the Brigade, which was gazetted in 1964, by having a truck named after each of them.
In 2005 I attended Incident Management Training (IMT)
provided by Ipswich Group Rural Fire Brigade. As my area of
skill is administrative rather than active fire fighting, IMT has
allowed me to be more involved in brigade activities other than
administrative duties.
❚ Hodzic Road light attack
vehicle presentation
Previously I was able to use my IMT skills in Cairns, assisting in
the aftermath of Cyclone Larry, and more recently I was thrilled
to be part of Taskforce 72, that was sent to Narrabri in December
2006.
It is Saturday the 16th of September. I leave Cairns, head up
the Kuranda Range winding my way to the top. I continue on
towards Mareeba. After passing through Mareeba I feel like
I am on my way to the Cape. Past the ‘burbs and into the
hinterlands. As the tell tale signs of society disappear I am
getting nearer to my destination. A dirt road veers off to the
right marked by a street sign, possibly to make the residents
feel like they are a part of the neighbouring town, (which they
are). How do I know this? Well I have had the pleasure of joining
the local brigade on several occasions battling the wildfires that
annually erupt in the Mareeba and surrounding areas.
Being part of the Taskforce was a fantastic experience. I met
some wonderful people and I continue to maintain contact with
some of those new found friends. Not only was it an opportunity
to put into practice the skills I had learnt at IMT, as logistic
administrative support for the Queensland rural fire fighters, it
was also an opportunity to work alongside others with a wide
range of skills and experience.
The Queensland logistics team consisted of myself and the
Team Leader Steve Hallam, and together we liaised with
personnel from NSW Fires as well as Parks and Wildlife, we
supported and liaised on behalf of the Queensland contingent
and SOCC through SMEACS, provided reports and other
administrative process and conducted the ‘hot’ debrief on the
return coach journey.
Is Hodzic Road RFB an ordinary brigade I ask myself? Yes, it is
like so many others, in that it’s many constituents devote their
little bit of spare time helping their communities be a safer
place, sacrificing time which would normally be spent with
family and friends. But not only are they ordinary they are extra
ordinary as well. When I first made contact with this brigade
they had a few rakes, some PPE and a few run down jalopies,
which were used as fire appliances. The local urban service
relies heavily on this brigade to battle the wild fires from year
to year. The Hodzic Rurals also access resources from the urban
service such as, gaining assistance when fire is a threat to
rural structures. ‘You scratch my back I’ll scratch yours’ is an
understanding that has served this community well.
As part of the taskforce I heard daily about the fire risks and the
skills of the fire fighters and I continue to be impressed by their
abilities.
IMT is an opportunity for support members to be actively
involved in their brigade without being an active fire fighter. It is
great to be part of a team working towards a common goal.
For anyone who may be considering it, I can only say how
pleased I am to have become IMT trained and be able to put
those skills and support into action. Thanks to everyone who
made the Taskforce an experience to remember and I look
forward to seeing you on other occasions.
Dana Farrell
Treasurer
Marburg District Rural Fire Brigade
Page 20
❚ The Mt Mee Rural Fire Brigade and the Mt Mee Craft Club organised
a special Christmas treat for the kids in the district, who received
a surprise visit from Santa and Blazer.
belong to this part of the world and most important is the
little yellow truck, shinny and brand spanking new, glowing
with the pride of the brigade.
I am greeted with smiles and handshakes, laughter and
speech. The Mayor, councillors, distinguished guests but
most importantly the volunteer officers, the Secretary,
Treasurer, Chairperson, fundraisers and members all as
important as each other, all cogs in the wheel. The wheel
will turn smoothly this is why all are there. Proud, so they
should be, because without each and every one of them the
Rural Fire Service would be unable to operate. The ceremony
is short and sweet, tea, coffee, scones and a bit of social
interaction. I leave the truck hand over with a warm feeling,
that I have been treated like family, a friend not just another
bureaucrat. I feel honoured to have joined this brigade this
Saturday and will never forget each and every one of our
volunteers. They are such a vital resource, so should be
treated with utmost esteem and respect.
Jamie Haskell
ATSIC Training Officer
Cairns
I turn down the dusty track and start to read the ever familiar
rural markers that mark the drive ways. I continue down
Hodzic Rd. past the venue. I am early so I want to breathe in
the familiar sites. I return to the drive marked 546, turning in I
notice the vehicles. There are the distinguished shinny vehicles
which must be the local dignitaries, there are the marked cars
of QFRS, there are the everyday vehicles covered in dust which
March 2007
Page 21
Our Volunteers Our Brigades
❚ Joint QPWS and RFS fire
exercise
On the weekend of 26 & 27 August 2006 a joint fire exercise was
conducted between the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
(QPWS) and RFS (Rural Fire Service, Thuringowa Group).
The burn proposal involved 1,600 hectares of national park
surrounding Mount Kinduro, approximately five kilometres north
of Rollingstone (Rollingstone is approximately 60 kilometres
north of Townsville). This area of park was chosen because it
provided a range of useful training opportunities, it involved
burning near residential structures, telecommunications
infrastructure, grazing land, the Bruce Highway and the nearby
community of Rollingstone.
The exercise had the following objectives:
·
Introduce, train and familiarise QPWS staff and RFS
volunteers with the Incident Management System (IMS)
in accordance with the Australasian Inter-Service Incident
Management System (AIIMS).
·
Establish and operate an Incident Management Team
(IMT).
·
Strengthen communication and professional links
between RFS and QPWS personnel.
·
Work on an interagency basis on a real fire situation.
·
Provide training and assessment opportunities for RFS
and QPWS staff in a range of fire fighting activities.
·
Complete an approved fire proposal for Paluma Range
National Park.
An Incident Management Team (IMT) was established about
ten kilometres from the fire ground at the Mutarnee Community
Centre. A level three IMT was established. The burn area was
divided into Western Division and Eastern Division, each with a
Extras
Divisional Commander, appropriate sectors within the Divisions
were established with allied sector commanders.
❚ March Edition 07
❚ Useful Websites
Four QPWS light response units (400 litre), two medium
response units (1000 litre) and one heavy response (3000 litre)
were in attendance throughout the exercise, additional QPWS
staff were allocated to IMT duties. Up to ten RFS units and
allied fire fighters were present during the exercise. These units
were a combination of light and medium attack vehicles. RFS
also supplied an Emergency Support Unit (ESU) vehicle, which
provided excellent radio communications equipment. The ESU
also provided other equipment in support of the functions of
the IMT. A Jet Ranger helicopter was used for aerial incendiary
work in remote areas of the Park during the early ignition stages
of the exercise.
Important Dates and Upcoming Community Events
QFRS Regional Firefighting Competitions
2007 Australasian Education and Fire Awareness
Conference in May visit:
www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
24th and 25th March – Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre
www.bushfirecrc.com
QFRS Brisbane Regional
Firefighting Competition
31st March and 1st April – QFRS South West Regional
Gambling Community Benefit Fund
www.gcbf.qld.gov.au
21st and 22nd April – QFRS North Coast Regional
Jupiters Casino Benefit Fund
www.jccbf.org.au
28th and 29th April – QFRS South East Regional
The exercise provided an excellent opportunity for Parks
staff to use and be involved in the operation of the Incident
Management System. Many Parks personnel in the Savanna
district have only a theoretical knowledge of the System and
few have been involved in its practical application on a fire or
other emergency situation. One of the values of an exercise
such as Mount Kinduro is that staff can become involved
in the Incident Management Team in a way that maximises
learning and experience opportunities whilst operating in the
reasonably controlled environment of a prescribed burn activity.
12th and 13th May – QFRS Northern Regional
Department of Families, Community Services and
Indigenous Affairs
www.facsia.gov.au
19th and 20th May – QFRS Far Northern Regional
26th and 27th May – QFRS Central Regional
Interaction amongst QPWS and RFS members was an important
element of the exercise. The exchange of information,
techniques and ideas between the organisations was a feature
of the operation of the IMT and of general fire ground activities.
QPWS acknowledges the significant support received from the
RFS (Thuringowa Group) during this exercise and during other
fire management activities throughout Paluma Range National
Park in the past.
❚ Other important community dates
Tim Devlin
Ranger in Charge
Paluma Range National Park
(for more information on the regional firefighting competitions
visit www.fire.qld.gov.au/news/whatson/qfc/ )
14 April – National Youth Week
http://www.youthweek.com/
29 April – Heart Week
http://www.heartfoundation.com.au/index.cfm?page=243
1 May - Jelly Baby Month
(Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation)
http://www.jdrf.org.au/JellyBabyMonth.html
11 May – Loud Shirt Day
(Deaf Children’s Charities across Australia)
http://www.loudshirtday.com.au/
Volunteering Queensland
www.volqld.org.au
❚ Feedback
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Jade Adams and I recently started with Rural
Operations in the Role of Marketing and Promotions
Officer. One of the aims of Rural Operations in 2007
is to try and make our Bulletin magazine more of a resource
for you, our volunteers.
To help us achieve this, it would be great to get your
feedback on the magazine, to find out what you want
or need from the magazine to assist you in your role. You may have suggestions for articles or suggestions for
regular sections and updates or, you may believe there
is information currently being published is not of value
to you in your role as a rural brigade member.
Feedback can be provided to me on email
[email protected] or by phoning 3247 8126.
I look forward to hearing from you.
14 – 20 May – National Volunteering Week
http://www.volunteeringaustralia.org/html/s02_article/article_
view.asp?id=2455&nav_cat_id=-1&nav_top_id=-1
24 May – Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea
http://www.biggestmorningtea.com.au/content.
cfm?randid=588063
3 – 10 June – Queensland Week
http://www.premiers.qld.gov.au/awardsevents/events/
queenslandweek/
29 June – Red Nose Day
http://www.rednoseday.com.au/
26, 27, 28 July – 2007 Queensland Firefighter Championships
Page 22
March 2007
Page 23
Contact Details for District Offices
OFFICE
PHONE
FAX
Maryborough Area Office
Ph: 4190 4840
Fax: 4190 4853
Bundaberg Area Office
Ph: 4153 3244
Fax: 4151 2166
Caloundra Area Office
Ph: 5420 1333
Fax: 5420 1339
Toowoomba Area Office
Ph: 4616 1572
Fax: 4616 1595
Miles Area Office
Ph: 4627 1658
Fax: 4627 1709
Roma Area Office
Ph: 4622 2074
Fax: 4622 1451
Ph: 3202 1444
Fax: 3202 1449
Ph: 5420 1333
Fax: 5420 1339
Cairns Area Office
Ph: 4039 8240
Fax: 4039 8647
Innisfail Area Office
Ph: 4061 0650
Fax: 4061 0651
Townsville Area Office
Ph: 4799 7183
Fax: 4799 7184
Charters Towers Area Office
Ph: 4787 8213
Fax: 4787 4708
Cloncurry Area Office
Ph: 4742 2358
Fax: 4742 2359
Mackay Area Office
Ph: 4965 6645
Fax: 4965 6640
Barcaldine Area Office
Ph: 4651 1190
Fax: 4651 1803
Emerald Area Office
Ph: 4892 0001
Fax: 4982 0411
Rockhampton Area Office
Ph: 4938 4736
Fax: 4922 2768
Northern Region
South West Region
South East Region
Ipswich Area Office
Brisbane Region
Caboolture Area Office
Far Northern Region
Northern Region
Central Region
❚ Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the RFS Bulletin are not necessarily those of the QFRS, which does not necessarily endorse products and/or services
advertised. The attention of advertisers is drawn to the Trade Practices Act, 1974, and the provisions in the Act which apply to advertising. The QFRS reserves the
right to refuse any advertisement without stating a reason.
Page 24

Rural Fires Bulletin

Transcription

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