2015 Edition

24seven
Official magazine of the Government of Western Australia Department of Fire and Emergency Services
2015
GENERAL NEWS
From the Fire and Emergency
Services Commissioner
First and foremost I would like to
thank everyone for their outstanding
hard work and the dedication that has
been shown throughout the last year.
We have been challenged by some
significant and protracted bushfires
such as those occurring in Northcliffe
and Lower Hotham, as well as Tropical
Cyclone Olwyn, a number of high profile
land and sea searches, and a range of
other incidents large and small.
We also continue to support your
Throughout these trials, as always,
both career and volunteer personnel
from across the State have pulled
together admirably to protect the
community. I never cease to be
amazed by the level of commitment
and courageousness displayed when
the going gets tough and the resilience
of impacted communities.
Shark Bay, while construction has
Your own individual wellbeing is of
paramount importance and I recognise
that attending a traumatic incident,
major life events and other stressors
can at times have a substantial impact.
For this reason, the Wellness branch
has revitalised the Peer Support
Program to provide support to DFES
employees, volunteers and your
families. The notion of a ‘mate helping
a mate’ is central to this initiative and
I strongly encourage you to draw
strength from each other and to take
up the help that is available if and when
you are in need.
and is designed to increase the
Contents
General News........................... 3 – 14
Operational Incidents.............. 15 – 22
Resources and Training........... 23 – 27
Awards and Recognition.......... 28 – 33
Youth..................................... 34 – 36
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24seven 2015
ongoing professionalism with the right
training and resources. The WA Fire
and Emergency Services Conference
will be held at Perth Convention Centre
in September and our Professional
Pathways program continues to be
rolled out across the State, ensuring
you get the highest standard of training.
New facilities are also operational in
Butler, Geraldton, Roebourne and
begun on a new station in Beckenham.
Last year we welcomed 46 new career
firefighters and 2705 volunteers into
the fold and began a new Aboriginal
Firefighter Cadetship training program
to help increase the representation of
Aboriginal people in the workforce.
The initiative is the first of its kind
competitiveness of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islanders’ applications
within the trainee firefighter recruitment
process. If your paths should intersect
please make our newest firefighters,
volunteers and Aboriginal firefighter
cadets feel welcome.
While the award recognises my
strategic leadership, credit for all
we have achieved belongs to you.
I continue to be humbled by your
support, loyalty and teamwork and my
sincere thanks go everyone who has
contributed to the huge volume of work
undertaken. I look forward to working
with you in the year ahead to advance
DFES even further.
Finally, as we look to the future,
DFES is committed to increasing the
recruitment and diversity of volunteers,
as well as improving volunteer
experiences and ensuring you have
the right tools to continue making an
enormous difference in WA. With this
in mind, the year ahead will be an
exciting one. Developing tomorrow’s
leaders will also be a key focus
and we will be embracing new and
innovative approaches, undertaking
genuine consultation and creating
greater transparency. I hope that you
will join us in these endeavours and
continue on the journey with DFES
as we become a leading emergency
services organisation.
I would like to express my appreciation
to you all for your continued efforts
in achieving our strategic vision. This
year I was named the 2015 Murdoch
University Leader of the Year in State or
Federal Government.
Cover photo: State Emergency Service
responds. Photo courtesy of Russell Barton.
Managing Editor: Ivana Oroz-Bootsma
Editor: Roslyn Mulcahy
Contributors: Lucy McLeod, Luke Russo,
Lynsey Brady, Nicole O’Callaghan, Shannan
Osrin, Tyler Worth, Nic Hatherly (photography).
Submissions are welcome and can be made
by emailing latestnews@dfes.wa.gov.au.
WAYNE GREGSON APM
COMMISSIONER
FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
Stories should be up to 500 words in length and
submitted with accompanying images and captions
wherever possible. Digital photographs are required
at high resolution (300dpi) to ensure acceptable quality
for printing.
For permission to use material in this publication, please
contact the Editor on (08) 9395 9588.
24seven magazine is fully funded by DFES. If you are
approached by anyone claiming to be selling advertising in
the magazine on DFES’ behalf, please do not provide them
with any payment or your financial details.
WinterSAFE
How to prepare
DFES urged people to prepare their homes for
dangerous weather during the winter months with
Storm Awareness Week earlier this year.
In the lead up to Storm Awareness
Week (11–18 May), State Emergency
Service (SES) volunteers from around
the metropolitan region met at DFES
Headquarters to get ready for the
storm season, but the public were
reminded they also had a role to play.
Metropolitan Operations Assistant
Commissioner Darren Klemm reminded
the Western Australian community
there were simple steps they could take
to get on the front foot to prevent storm
damage and stay safe.
“Before the season starts, you can
clean your gutters of leaves and debris,
tie down or remove loose items around
the home and trim tree branches to
stop them falling on your roof or car,”
Assistant Commissioner Klemm said.
“Storms cause millions of dollars in
damage to homes and businesses
each year, but some of it is preventable.
“Last year DFES responded to 91
storm incidents, with volunteers
spending more than 3,200 hours
helping people in need.
“Simple actions that people can take
while the weather is still clear can
prevent their homes from sustaining
major damage during winter.”
Throughout the season so far SES
units throughout the Metropolitan,
South West, Lower South West,
Midwest Gascoyne and Goldfields
Midlands regions have been busy
responding at all hours to requests for
assistance relating to roof damage,
fallen trees and flooding.
For more advice about storm safety visit
www.dfes.wa.gov.au/WinterSAFE.
Preparing your family and home for
a storm is your responsibility. If you
live in a storm prone area, you should
make it a priority between March
and May each year to get your home
ready inside and out. There are a
few simple steps that could help you
minimise damage.
• Check your roof and gutters for
damage or loose material.
• Clear gutters and downpipes of
leaves and blockages.
• Trim branches near your home and
hire a contractor to clear trees from
power lines.
• Clear rubbish from your yard,
balcony or patio and put away any
loose objects.
• Prepare an emergency kit with
portable radio, torch, spare
batteries, first aid kit and family
emergency plan.
• Ensure your family understand
storms and the risks.
• Prepare an emergency plan
including a relocation plan in case
your home becomes flooded.
Consider what you will do with your
pets and know how to turn off the
gas, electricity and water supplies.
• Display a list of emergency phone
numbers.
• Check you have adequate home
and contents insurance.
24seven 2015
3
GENERAL NEWS
Aboriginal Firefighter Cadets
already helping the community
Following the launch of the
DFES Aboriginal Firefighter
Cadetship Program earlier
this year, the cadets have
already started to put their
skills to the test.
During a visit to Medina Primary School
to take part in a National Aboriginal
and Islander Day Observance
Committee (NAIDOC) initiative,
cadets rose to the challenge when
a portion of a classroom ceiling
unexpectedly collapsed.
By reassuring distressed students
and teachers, closing off the room
and liaising with multiple emergency
services on their arrival, the recruits
demonstrated their ability to serve
the people of Western Australia and
provided a glimpse of their potential.
Although they have only completed
a few months of training, the cadets
are showing their confidence in
applying integral skills they have been
taught during the program to real
life situations, including leadership,
teamwork and communication.
Project Manager Heidi Mippy said
recruitment data from recent years
shows that DFES has only been
attracting a small number of applicants
from diverse groups with only
1.2 per cent of applicants identifying
as Aboriginal.
“
I have learnt more about
my culture and about being
proud of who I am, which
in turn has made me more
confident and professional in
everything I do.
Phillip
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”
Aboriginal Firefighter Cadets with (centre L-R) Commissioner Wayne Gregson APM, Project Manager
Heidi Mippy, and Emergency Services Minister Joe Francis MLA.
“
I have gained knowledge
of the mental and physical
requirements for being a
career firefighter. This program
has given me the opportunity
to improve my maths,
spelling, comprehension
and mechanical reasoning
knowledge, along with
developing my leadership
skills.
”
Jayden
“This program is a significant step in
the right direction and one that I am
confident will have a positive effect
on our workforce and the wider
community,” Heidi said.
“The newly formed training program is the
first of its kind and is designed to increase
the competitiveness of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islanders’ applications within
the trainee firefighter recruitment process,
which should lead to an increase in the
number of Aboriginal employees within
the fire service.
“Cadets are employed full time for
a year and provided with on the job
training and experience as well as a
personalised fitness schedule.”
Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey
said the 12 month cadetship was
an innovative program for potential
recruits.
“While it is highly challenging it is also
an extremely rewarding opportunity
with the fire and rescue services,
which includes both practical and
theoretical components with a focus on
essential skills,” Deputy Commissioner
Bailey said.
“Cadets receive personal guidance
and support from mentors and qualified
assessors, helping them in every way
possible to meet all the requirements
to become a trainee firefighter, and
therefore become more competitive
to be selected into a trainee firefighter
school.”
Amongst their many activities the
Aboriginal firefighter cadets have been
participating in various station drills,
assisting Medina Primary School and
Purnululu Independent Community
School with their NAIDOC art projects
and sporting activities, and participating
in Noongar traditional burning and
cultural enrichment programs.
The program is partly supported
through the Australian Government’s
Indigenous Advancement Strategy’s
“
I applied for the program to
get a first hand taste at what
being a firefighter is like. I saw
this opportunity as a chance
to get real world training and
to gain knowledge around a
profession I am passionate
about.
Sam
WAFES Conference –
putting community first
”
– Jobs, Land and Economy Program
with the aim of bolstering Aboriginal
employment opportunities in
Western Australia.
For more information on further cadetships
visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au/registerme
or contact Aboriginal Employment
Development Officer Heidi Mippy on
0403 849 015.
The fifth annual Western Australian Fire and
Emergency Services Conference takes over the Perth
Convention and Exhibition Centre from Friday 18 to
Sunday 20 September.
Cadets participated in Noongar Traditional
burning in Beverley with former firefighter
Oral McGuire.
I have expanded my
knowledge, skills and all
round actions as a person
in many different ways since
applying and becoming a
part of the cadet team. I have
more self confidence, general
motivation, awareness of
Aboriginal culture and a
clearer view of where my life
could take me.
Bradley
”
With its theme of ‘Putting Community
First’ the conference brings together
like-minded volunteers from across
the State and provides an opportunity
to network, acquire new skills, and
participate in a range of facility tours,
workshops and presentations.
DFES and the volunteer associations
have been working together to develop
an exciting program, which aims to
build on professional development for
volunteers, enabling delegates to share
and expand their knowledge.
The new exhibition hall provides the
chance for attendees to learn more
about the services, as well as the
equipment available to their service.
Exhibitors represent a broad mix of
commercial suppliers, DFES services
and partner agencies, who offer
goods and services to the emergency
services sector. A range of appliances
relevant to all volunteer services will
also be on display.
Always a popular feature, a range
of live practical demonstrations will
showcase the latest equipment and
techniques in a range of service
specific and multi agency emergency
response scenarios.
Throughout the weekend there is
plenty of opportunity to catch up with
fellow volunteers and meet new friends
from across WA, with events such as
the welcome sundowner, association
dinners and the annual award
ceremonies.
24seven 2015
5
GENERAL NEWS
Honouring fallen firefighters
The annual International Firefighters Day Memorial
Service was held at the Memorial Grove in Kings Park
on Sunday 3 May.
our DNA that sees us here today,
recognising and remembering
dedicated Australians who committed
their life to answering the call for help,
and in doing so, tragically made the
ultimate sacrifice.”
Concert Band
As the names of the fallen were called
and the brass bell sounded, the crowd
was in silent memory of their loved ones.
The ceremony was peaceful and
respectful, with Emergency Services
special guests laying wreaths in
their honour.
Families, friends and colleagues came
together to pay their respects and
honour firefighters who have fallen in
the line of duty.
The striking red of the vintage fire
trucks and appliances surrounded
the memorial and the newly formed
Western Australia Fire and Emergency
Services Concert Band began to play
as guests took their seats.
During the ceremony Fire and
Emergency Services Commissioner
Wayne Gregson recognised the
devotion firefighters have for the
community.
“Being on the emergency services
frontline brings a special kind of reward
to those who commit to it. And it
takes a special kind of person to make
that commitment to drop everything
when needed and to help others,”
Commissioner Gregson said.
“It is that selflessness and ‘can do’
spirit that is so deeply ingrained in
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Occupying a prestigious area of Kings
Park on Forrest Drive, the Firefighters’
Memorial Grove includes a granite arc
representing the base of a burnt out
tree and a ten tonne rock symbolising
a flame, which reflects the impact
and role of fire. Carved stone markers
are positioned within the grove to
map the constellation of the Southern
Cross, presenting an alignment with
the celestial sky.
In 2014 an impressive life size bronze
casting of two firefighters was added,
depicting a firefighter kneeling on
the ground, holding the helmet of a
fallen firefighter. His head is bowed
in mourning with the hand of his
firefighting companion placed on his
shoulder symbolising comfort, support
and an unspoken understanding.
The grove has more recently been
enhanced with new paving, and will
continue to be meticulously maintained
to ensure future generations can visit
and pay their respects.
The International Firefighters’ Day
Memorial was one of the newly
formed Western Australia Fire
and Emergency Services Concert
Band’s first public performances.
Formerly the Perth Concert Band,
the new evolution of the band had
its genesis with the signing of a
Memorandum of Understanding
between the Perth Concert Band
and DFES in January this year.
Band members range from students
to retirees and include current DFES
personnel and volunteers. They are
the current State A Grade Concert
Band Champions and National B
Grade Concert Band Champions.
New members are always welcome.
For further information contact
Ros Cleverley on 0408 949 230 or at
ros.cleverley@dfes.wa.gov.au.
Great dedication in
the Great Southern
After receiving the Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) WA
Award for Outstanding Group Operations in 2014, the
Albany VMR group have continued to demonstrate their
dedication to marine search and rescue.
Covering the breathtaking but often
treacherous coastline from west of
Bremer Bay to east of Denmark, the
group oversee a busy patch of the
Southern Ocean as well as two rivers,
two harbours and King George Sound.
The group has 40 active members,
including boat crews as well as base
radio operators, with many members
wearing multiple hats.
They have three vessels, ranging from
a 7.5 metre NIAID rigid hull inflatable
boat which is used for events close
to shore or on the river, through to
an 11.5 metre fibreglass twin inboard
diesel motor vessel which is utilised for
incidents further out to sea. Rescue 1,
an 8.5 metre NAIAD, is the matriarch
of the fast response fleet and is the
group’s principle rescue vessel.
Great Southern VMR Regional
Commander and Secretary of Albany
VMR Noel Francis said the group is
kept busy due to a number of factors.
“The ocean along our rugged coastline
is prone to large swells, as well as to
notorious king waves that can wash
people off the rocks in the blink of an
eye,” Noel said.
“Added to this is the tendency for
people in the area to be active in fishing
and boating pursuits, and the way that
the weather can sometimes come up
quickly with little warning.
Deputy Commissioner Steve Fewster
praised the volunteers for their passion
and commitment.
“The Great Southern coast line is
both beautiful and perilous in equal
measure, which sadly has resulted
in many people finding themselves
in danger over the years,” Deputy
Commissioner Fewster said.
“This year to date has been no different
with a number of high profile searches
in recent months, involving people who
have either fallen or been swept off of
rocks while sightseeing or fishing.”
“The groups’ efforts in these instances
have been extremely challenging for
them both physically and emotionally,
and they are to be commended.”
Albany VMR celebrate their 41st year
as a marine rescue group this year,
marking four decades of protecting their
community as well as visitors to the area.
“We responded to 41 incidents last
year and to 15 already so far this year.”
24seven 2015
7
GENERAL NEWS
School 48 – Keeping recruits in
the community
For many, joining the Fire
and Rescue Service (FRS)
is a lifelong dream. For
eight men in KalgoorlieBoulder, an innovative
program gave them an
opportunity to turn those
dreams into a reality,
while remaining in their
home town.
This year marks the fifteenth
anniversary of Training School 48.
The first of its kind to run outside of
Perth, eight recruits were selected for
the intensive 13 week course which
enabled them to develop the necessary
skills to become career firefighters.
Fresh faced recruits back in 2000 (L-R) Stephen Petersen, Peter Bleakley, Martin Cable, Clinton Hart,
Michael Lovell, Robert Hansen, Saul Hart and Timothy Crockett.
“
We cover an expansive area and respond to a wide
range of incidents, so no two days are the same.
Deputy Commissioner Steve Fewster
said the aim behind School 48 was to
attract members of the local KalgoorlieBoulder community, who would want to
remain living and working there.
“Another benefit of running School 48 in
Kalgoorlie was that the graduates had
the opportunity to become familiar with
working in the local environment during
their training,” Deputy Commissioner
Fewster said.
The course saw the students participate
in intensive theoretical and practical
training in line with recruit schools
run at the WA Fire and Emergency
Services Academy in Forrestfield. This
included general firefighting skills, pump
operation, using breathing apparatus,
vehicle rescue and driver training,
as well as placing an emphasis on
community liaison skills.
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24seven 2015
One of the local recruits and dux of
the class, Peter Bleakley, said he
applied for the program in the hopes
of fulfilling a long held ambition of being
a firefighter.
48 graduate Tim Crockett, while
“My acceptance into the program
not only enabled me to realise that
goal, but the fact that it was held in
Kalgoorlie meant that I was able to
remain at home and return to my family
at the end of the day,” Peter said.
“We cover an expansive area and
After graduating in May 2000, Peter
and his fellow graduates attained
Certificate II in Firefighting Operations.
Fifteen years later they are all still active
firefighters in Western Australia, with
four remaining in the Kalgoorlie-Boulder
community even now.
Peter has recently become a Senior
Firefighter along with fellow School
Martin Cable and Stephen Petersen
are Station Officers. Peter says his
experience with the Kalgoorlie-Boulder
FRS has been rewarding.
respond to a wide range of incidents,
so no two days are the same.
“Firefighters here also get to have
a high level of involvement with the
local community, through initiatives
such as school visits, programs for
seniors, and station visits from different
community groups.”
Conducted by then Manager of Career
Training (District Officer) Max Hore, the
school was supported by assistance
from Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold
Mines and Monadelphous Engineering.
Handmade toys help in time of need
Rockingham Senior Firefighter Stephen
Spiers said the four women with warm
hearts and busy hands are also helping
the firefighters themselves by providing
the toys.
“I have been a firefighter for 25 years
and as many firefighters would agree,
the hardest incidents for us to handle
emotionally are the emergencies that
involve young children,” Stephen said.
“When we have finished putting out the
fire or rescuing the children, we may
sometimes leave feeling we haven’t
done enough.
(L-R) Senior Firefighter (SFF) Stephen Spiers, Station Officer Simon Southen, Glenda, Dora, their carer
Leslie, Betty, SFF Serena Monks and SFF Ross Onions.
A knitting circle from the Shoalwater Nursing Home
in Rockingham has dedicated countless hours over
the last several years to the loving creation of woollen
firefighter teddies.
Glenda, Dora and Betty, along with
their carer Leslie, started knitting the
soft toys in 2010 and have now made
more than 250 of them.
Each one takes three days to knit but
the women consider it time well spent.
They donate the handmade toys
to their local Rockingham Fire and
Rescue Service Station and the
firefighters give them to children at the
scenes of traumatic incidents such as
house fires and road rescues, or any
instance where a child is distressed.
“Being able to give a child a lovingly
hand knitted firefighter teddy helps us
to personally connect with them and
to provide some comfort and cheer in
difficult circumstances.
“These women, who are in their
eighties, devote hours of their time
each week to doing something that
helps others in their time of need and
they do it without expecting any thanks
or recognition.
“We owe them a special thank you for
their efforts.”
Keen knitter Glenda said she feels
good about doing something to help
children when they are upset and
being able to provide some assistance
to the firefighters who are faced with
such situations.
“No two teddies are exactly the same
either,” Glenda said. “As each one
is handmade it gives them a subtle
difference or personality of their own.”
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Dora also knits patchwork rugs for
children with disabilities who are in
wheelchairs and said besides loving
to knit, she is proud to be helping a
good cause.
Rockingham Fire Station often passes
on any extra teddies to neighbouring
stations for them to also give out
at emergencies.
24seven 2015
9
GENERAL NEWS
Sky high support for firefighters
Aerial firefighting aircraft and crews were welcomed back to Western Australia for
the 2014/15 bushfire season with an official launch at Woodman Point in Perth on
Tuesday 23 December and were in demand throughout the summer months.
Instrumental in firefighting across the
State, the 22 strong fleet includes an
Erickson Aircrane, six Bell 214B Helitacs,
eight fixed wing water bombers, six Air
Attack Supervisor aircraft and one aerial
intelligence helicopter, with the roles of
the aircraft varying.
Aerial fire suppression or ‘water
bombing’ aircraft undertake the vital task
of attacking bushfires early to prevent
them from escalating before firefighters
on the ground can attend to them.
The high volume Erickson Aircrane
can fill in 18 seconds when utilising
the sea snorkel and can release over
7,000 litres in one drop, or spread
over several drops in various patterns,
making it a great asset.
The aerial intelligence helicopter also
plays a crucial role, providing fire
mapping information so that resources
can be placed where they are most vital.
The aircraft are strategically located
in Jandakot, Yangedi (SerpentineJarrahdale), Bunbury, Busselton,
Manjimup and Albany. They are jointly
managed by DFES and the Department
of Parks and Wildlife through the
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24seven 2015
State Operations Air Desk at the
DFES Emergency Services Complex
in Cockburn Central, to ensure that
the aircraft are based where they are
most needed.
The 2014/15 bushfire season was a
busy one for the aerial firefighting fleet
with aircraft routinely operating until last
light with very few days of respite. From
the start of November 2014 through
to the end of January 2015, the rotary
aircraft were activated a total of 305
times, including significant involvement
in both the Northcliffe and Boddington
(Lower Hotham) incidents.
Attending one of the aircrew’s daily
operations briefings, Assistant
Commissioner Gary Gifford expressed
the community’s appreciation to the
crews for their professionalism and
said their efforts were an integral part
of the State’s firefighting capabilities.
“Aerial support has played an important
role both in gathering intelligence and
fire suppression at fires at Whiteman
Park, Southern River, Nambeelup,
Pinjar, Roleystone, Bullsbrook and
Toodyay,” Assistant Commissioner
Gifford said.
“The recent Bullsbrook fire was
extremely challenging for the aerial
fleet and on the ground firefighters
due to the rapid fire spread, poor
visibility from the associated smoke
and numerous hazards such as power
lines and unexploded ordnance within
a military range.
“The support and rapid response of the
aerial fleet provided critical assistance
to fire crews, reinforcing firefighting
resources on the ground.
“They are one of our best tools in
helping to control and contain a
fire, particularly in the early stages
of development. They also assist
firefighting in inaccessible terrain.”
Deputy Commissioner Steve Fewster
said that while the aerial fleet makes an
invaluable contribution to community
safety, landowners also need to play
their part.
“Community members need to prepare
their properties ahead of the bushfire
season and have a bushfire survival
plan in place,” Deputy Commissioner
Fewster said.
Cycling challenge tests firefighters’ mettle
“It is safe to say that we never want to
see another corrugated road again but
the effort was well worth it, both for the
personal challenge and to raise money.”
David said cycling participants from
their team were all first time riders in the
event and they trained with numerous
weekend rides in the six months prior.
“It was definitely a challenge to
complete the whole 700 kilometres
as a relay but it was also a bit of an
adventure for us.
Ron, Andy and Garry at the Cockburn Range – the last hill of the challenge.
Two teams of firefighters felt the burn as they cycled
700 kilometres through the Kimberley for the Gibb River
Challenge earlier this year.
Hope Valley Station firefighters Andy
Wigmore and Ron Bailey participated
as a duo, whilst Kalamunda Bushfire
Brigade (BFB) firefighters David
Schwass, Mark Jackson, John Idland
and their friend Steve Lines entered
as a team.
Starting from Derby on 18 May, the
teams put their pedalling prowess to
the test in the team relay event, for
which proceeds primarily go to the Kyle
Andrews Foundation, established as a
legacy to a brave 11 year old Broome
boy who lost his battle with cancer.
For five punishing days the cyclists
took turns riding along the dusty Gibb
River Road, with friend Garry Bradley
as faithful support staff for Andy and
Ron, while firefighters Chris Grubba,
Mike Lennon and Jeff Haworth
provided support to the Kalamunda
BFB team. Riding from sun up to
sun down, they camped overnight at
various remote stations, and reached
their final destination at the El Questro
Wilderness Park on 22 May.
Andy said they were one of the few
teams to undertake the ride as a duo
and it was tough going.
“We trained as much as we could
and did get ourselves reasonably fit,
however the ride is quite unique so we
were limited in what we could do to
really prepare for it,” Andy said.
“It’s a great event that raises money
for a good cause and we are already
talking about participating again in the
years to come.”
Ron and Andy raised close to $4,000
as a duo, most of which will go to
the Foundation and they also intend
to donate a share of the funds to
fellow firefighter Ian Beard, who was
hit by a car while riding his bike.
The Kalamunda BFB team raised
$14,275 for the Foundation and
another $4,000 for the Royal Flying
Doctor Service.
The overall challenge raised more
than half a million dollars for the Kyle
Andrews Foundation.
Kalamunda BFB team at the finishing point. (L-R) Steve, Mark, David and John.
24seven 2015
11
GENERAL NEWS
Singapore success
A dedicated DFES team travelled to Singapore
late last year, earning victory in the Singapore
Global Firefighters and Paramedics Challenge.
Competing against 20 other teams
from across the world including
London, Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong and
Japan, our contingent took part in both
the team Rip it Off (RIO) Challenge and
the individual Braveheart Challenge.
The team were triumphant, coming in
first in the RIO event, a timed and team
based challenge where competitors
carry out road traffic accident
scenarios with an emphasis on safety.
Adding to this success, firefighter Josh
Caddy did DFES proud scoring a close
second in the Braveheart Challenge,
which saw competitors showcase their
speed and skills as they performed
strenuous firefighting and rescue
related tasks.
rescue and urban search and rescue
training. Participation also supports
regional relationship development,
particularly with the Singapore Civil
Defence Service whom DFES has a
Memorandum of Understanding with,
including a secondment arrangement.
Aside from the challenge events,
the week long gathering had a
strong educational element to it with
four days focussed on road crash
(L-R) Senior Firefighter (SFF) Regan Pownall,
Firefighter (FF) Dominic Ray, FF Josh Caddy,
St John Ambulance Special Operations
Paramedic Mark Hill and SFF Michael Burns.
Competition
heats up
It was a competitive weekend
at the 112th Volunteer Fire
and Rescue Services (VFRS)
Association Easter State
Championships, as volunteers
battled it out in a series of team
and individual challenges.
The championships saw 22 teams
across three divisions and some
individual competitors put their
skills to the test. An impressive 22
competitive events throughout the
weekend provided volunteers with
the chance to showcase their skills in
a variety of ways as they clashed to
claim the champion status.
At the end of a challenging day, the
Mandurah VFRS team emerged
victorious taking home the coveted
Champion Brigade title in A Class,
earning the respect of all attendees
and bragging rights for the next year.
12
24seven 2015
Mandurah 1 and Mandurah 2 were champions in A Class and joint champions in C Class.
South Hedland claimed first place
honours in B Class, while Mount
Magnet VFRS and the Mandurah 2
VFRS team came neck and neck,
drawing for the top spot in C Class.
Bassendean 2 proved themselves
triumphant in the Junior Class.
Competition was down to the wire,
with the last event deciding the
winners in all grades.
Meanwhile, Marc Papalia from
Bassendean VFRS continued his
domination of the championships,
earning Champion Firefighter for the
seventh consecutive time, and WA
defeated east coast rivals Victoria in
the interstate challenge also held as
part of the weekend event.
Competition aside, the annual
championships offered volunteers
an opportunity to collaborate and
undertake teamwork in a fun and
camaraderie filled environment. It also
provided a chance for volunteers to
come together and socialise after an
extremely busy bushfire season.
Firey’s 500
Proving that the
community is always
first in their hearts, 14
Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service (VFRS) members
and three community
members went above and
beyond by participating in
a 500 kilometre walk from
Geraldton to Perth, to raise
funds for a worthy cause.
The brainchild of Geraldton VFRS
member Ron Winstone, the Firey’s
500 Charity Walk kicked off at 6am
on Saturday 6 September from the
Geraldton VFRS station. The dedicated
group, accompanied by several DFES
personnel and three support vehicles,
walked twelve hours a day on average
Back row (L-R) Ron Winstone, Chief Superintendent Rob Cox, Chez McKeating, District Officer Gordon
Purvis and Assistant Commissioner Darren Klemm. Front row: (L-R) Laura McKeating, Tayla Renwick,
Natasha Browne, Vicki Pengelly, Belinda Dunn and Susan Lodge. The car pictured was provided by Kia
Australia, through volunteer firefighter Nicholas Geronimos, as a support vehicle.
and an exhausting 65 kilometres on
the first day alone.
Ron said he was motivated to organise
and undertake the lengthy charity walk
for a good cause.
“All proceeds went towards the
Emergency Services Hardship Fund
and to the Burns Unit at Princess
Margaret Children’s Hospital, via the
Fiona Wood Foundation,” Ron said.
“I’m grateful to everyone who put in
the hard yards to participate and those
who provided much needed support
throughout the walk.”
Despite the demanding nature of the trek,
six of the walkers managed to complete
the entire gruelling 500 kilometres
and arrived at the DFES Education
and Heritage Centre in Perth on 17
September. Others did their best and
completed significant parts of the walk.
“The walk was extremely physically
demanding but it was worth it as we
raised over $9,189 in donations.
Weekends on two wheels
Rescue Service and State Emergency
Service members, DFES staff,
Department of Parks and Wildlife and
Transfield firefighters. Partners are
also welcome.
With around 20 members currently
involved, the group often band together
to go on short rides and have even
ventured as far as Albany on a joint
expedition with the WA Police chapter.
The newly formed Emergency Services Motorcycle
Association Fire Chapter is extending the call for recruits
to join them on their two wheeled weekend exploits.
Formed on the basis of bringing like-minded people together to ride motorcycles,
socialise and encourage camaraderie, the club is open to all career and volunteer
firefighters, as well as Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services, Volunteer Marine
Members are encouraged to ride safely
and on occasion they undertake special
rides to raise funds for worthy causes.
A calendar of events is being developed
and more information can be found at
www.esma-fire.com.
24seven 2015
13
GENERAL NEWS
Putting the oar in awesome
Comprised of members from the
Broome Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service, Bush Fire Brigade and State
Emergency Service, along with DFES
personnel, the Fire Breathing Rubber
Duckies sliced through the water with
much enthusiasm. The team participated
in four heats with 16 manning the
oars for each race accompanied by a
drummer and a sweep.
The Broome Dragon Boat Regatta saw emergency
services volunteers banding together to achieve their
competitive best in the annual race, held at Town Beach
in September last year.
Despite capsizing several times and
being rescued by the ever reliable
Broome Volunteer Marine Rescue
Service, the team put in a fine effort
and made it through to the semi finals
before being ousted.
The event is held by the Broome
Rotary Club, with proceeds supporting
local and international Rotary projects
throughout the year.
© Office of the Official Secretary to the
Governor-General
A ‘generally’ unexpected visitor
While Albany firefighters were preparing for the influx of
tourists attracted by the Albany Convoy Commemorative
Event (ACCE), they were paid an impromptu visit by
the Governor-General, His Excellency General the
Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd).
The ACCE was held in remembrance of
the first convoy of ships that departed
Albany carrying Australian and New
Zealand troops to the First World War.
Held from 31 October to 2 November,
it marked the hundredth anniversary
and brought tens of thousands to the
coastal town.
The Governor-General travelled
to Albany for the occasion and
participated in many of the weekend’s
commemorative events, such as the
Troop March and the opening of the
National ANZAC Centre.
14
24seven 2015
On the day of the Commemorative
Service, His Excellency made an
unannounced appearance at the
Albany Fire Station. Senior Firefighter
(SFF) Nick Goodliffe was cleaning an
appliance at the time and said that
he and the rest of the crew put aside
what they were doing to get acquainted
with the Governor-General, who he
described as being very down to earth.
Great Southern Superintendent
Daniel Austin said regional personnel
undertook considerable preparations
for the ACCE.
(L-R) SFF Clint Bradford, SFF Mick Lovelle,
Leading FF Graham Niemann, Station Officer Andy
Sears and SFF Nick Goodliffe received a surprise
visit from the Governor-General of Australia.
“Due to the huge influx of visitors and
dignitaries, including a number of
heads of state into Albany and the road
closures in effect, it was necessary to
undertake a vast amount of planning,
for what was one of the biggest events
in the region’s history,” Daniel said.
“Thankfully, Albany turned on the
weather for the events making it
an enjoyable weekend spent in
commemoration of the ANZACs,
free of incidents.”
©Peter Bellingham
Free diver found
Following a large scale sea and air search off the Pilbara coast a missing free diver was
found by a crew from the West Pilbara Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) group.
After the 18 year old man, Steven
Saylor, was reported missing on
Monday 1 June, crews and vessels
from Port Walcott VMR, West Pilbara
VMR, the Department of Transport and
Rio Tinto joined the WA Police search
in the afternoon.
The quest to find the missing diver
continued throughout the long night but
with the light of day search numbers
were bolstered. Approximately 80
people with 25 local private vessels
attended muster at 5am, banding
together in their determination to
find Steven.
The extensive search effort finally bore
fruit at 6.40am, when West Pilbara
VMR spotted Steven on a beach
on Delambre Island, off the coast
of Wickham.
Craig Neil from West Pilbara VMR said
the crew on board were overjoyed to
find him.
“I think we were just as excited to see
him as he was to see us,” Craig said.
“We were very relieved when we got
him on the vessel that’s for sure. He’d
had a very harrowing experience and
was exhausted.”
and the Water Police their overall
After being brought to shore Steven
was transferred to St John Ambulance
care and taken for treatment and
observation.
power to the communication and
Steven said he had been diving with
friends but became separated from the
group. After getting his bearings he had
to swim for hours to reach the island,
he then dug a hole to sleep in to try
and prevent exposure to the wind.
Port Walcott VMR Commander and
Incident Coordinator Ian Anderton
commended all the crews involved
“
management of the search.
“There was a fantastic effort by the
night crew who suffered a loss of
electronic systems but managed to
carry out repairs and continue the
search,” Ian said.
“Thanks also go to the day crew who
were under substantial pressure due
to the size of the rescue fleet to be
coordinated.
“The response from the community
was overwhelming and it was great to
see everyone cooperating and doing
what they could do assist each other.”
The response from the community was overwhelming
and it was great to see everyone cooperating and
doing what they could do assist each other.
”
24seven 2015
15
OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS
When lightning strikes
Northcliffe and Lower Hotham bore the brunt of nature’s fury as severe thunderstorms
swept through parts of Western Australia in late January.
The sight of electrical storms against
the night sky dazzled onlookers with
raw displays of natural force. Sadly
the lightning left a trail of destruction in
its wake, igniting bushfires across the
State between 29 and 31 January.
Worst hit were the Lower South West,
South West and Great Southern
regions, with raging bushfires in
Northcliffe and Lower Hotham pushing
fire and emergency services personnel,
volunteers and the community to
their limits.
Fire and Emergency Services
Commissioner Wayne Gregson
said the Northcliffe bushfire, which
threatened the residents of Northcliffe
and Windy Harbour, was one of the
largest emergency incidents to ever hit
the region.
“It took a mammoth multi-agency,
multiservice and cross jurisdictional
response to protect the community
from the ferocity of this bushfire,”
Commissioner Gregson said.
16
24seven 2015
“The committed efforts of all involved,
to protect the lives and homes of these
communities in the south of this State,
has been remarkable, particularly as
fire and emergency services personnel
worked in the face of demanding
weather conditions and imposing
forest terrain.
“The sustained team effort saved
“Similarly, the bushfire in Lower Hotham
was not without its challenges. Burning
intensely in bushland and increasing in
size quickly due to unstable weather
conditions, the communities in the
Shires of Boddington, Collie and
Williams were confronted with a
major bushfire.”
three houses, a number of sheds and
While the bushfires devastated natural
bushland, burning with relentless
intensity through more than 98,000
hectares in the Northcliffe area and more
than 52,000 hectares in Lower Hotham,
structural losses were minimised.
Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey
said despite the many challenges, the
operational response and coordinated
management of the emergency events
was truly impressive.
many homes, safeguarded multiple
communities and protected numerous
assets and critical infrastructure in
the area,” Deputy Commissioner
Bailey said.
“Across the two incidents there were
one bridge lost. While these losses are
unfortunate, they are much less than
they could have been considering the
sheer magnitude of these bushfires.”
At the height of the response effort
each fire was attended by more than
200 firefighters from across the State,
including career Fire and Rescue
Service and Department of Parks and
Wildlife (DPAW) firefighters, as well as
volunteers from the Bush Fire Service,
Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service,
Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services
and the State Emergency Service.
Aerial support was also out in full force,
assisting crews on the ground with air
intelligence and fire suppression.
The response was also bolstered by
firefighters, incident management
and support staff from Victoria, New
South Wales, the Northern Territory
and Queensland, as well as two Air
Tankers from the Eastern States which
established retardant lines at the
Northcliffe fire.
Following easing weather conditions,
which enabled both fires to be brought
under control, the Northcliffe fire was
downgraded to advice level on the
morning of Monday 10 February and
the Boddington fire was finally declared
all clear on Friday 13 February.
Commissioner Gregson expressed
his thanks for volunteers across all
services and career staff for their
hard work.
“Their outstanding efforts, whether
battling the challenging conditions
on the fire ground or providing
important emergency response in
the area of operations, is recognised
and appreciated.
“Likewise, the work undertaken by
hundreds of personnel in the Regional,
Metropolitan and State Operations
Centres, as well as the efforts of our
combat and support partners are
valued and highly critical.
Manjimup and Boddington Local
Governments, WA Police, Water
Corporation, Western Power, the
Department for Child Protection and
Family Support, Bureau of Meteorology,
Red Cross, St John Ambulance and
the Salvation Army, were among many
agencies that provided expertise
throughout the incidents.
Rock face rescue
A team effort led to the rescue of a teenager who slipped
and fell 10 metres from Albany’s Natural Bridge to the
treacherous rocks below on Friday 17 October 2014.
The 18 year old was sightseeing at the
popular tourist spot with his grandfather
and brother, when he ignored safety
signs and strayed from the designated
path to get a better look.
Great Southern District Officer Gary
Logan said it took around three and a
half hours to rescue him as where he
had fallen was not easily accessible
by foot.
Responding to the call for help were
DFES career and volunteer personnel
from Albany State Emergency Service
(SES) and Albany Fire and Rescue
Service, who undertook a delicate
vertical rescue of the injured teen.
In addition, Albany Volunteer Marine
Rescue, St John Ambulance, WA Police
and the RAC Rescue helicopter all
contributed to the rescue.
“The team then had to raise him up the
cliff face with great care and then carry
him over some rocks back to the safety
of the path area,” Gary said.
With a suspected broken leg and hip
the teenager was unable to move
and lay bleeding just metres from the
rising swell.
©Rob Lake
“He was fortunate he wasn’t swept
away but it goes to show that the
signposted warnings are there for a
reason and need to be heeded.”
The teenager was later transported
to Albany Health Campus in a stable
condition.
24seven 2015
17
OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS
In Olwyn’s
wake
While Tropical Cyclone
Olwyn may be a fading
memory for many Western
Australians, the road to
recovery is a long one for
the coastal towns ravaged
by the cyclone’s forces.
However, it is a recovery that DFES
personnel and State Emergency
Service (SES) volunteers have
contributed to in a significant way.
Olwyn drew close to Exmouth in
the early hours of Friday 13 March
and tracked along the WA coast,
forcing residents to take shelter or
relocate as it continued its path of
destruction throughout Friday and
into Saturday morning.
The towns left battered and bruised in
its wake included Exmouth, Carnarvon,
Coral Bay, Shark Bay, Denham and
Useless Loop, with homes suffering
from widespread roof damage, downed
trees and damage to water mains in
Carnarvon and to power networks in
Exmouth, Denham and Carnarvon.
“Most of the damage was caused
by gusty winds but some homes
in southern Carnarvon were also
inundated by storm surge and
flash flooding.”
In addition to the local volunteer SES
Exmouth also experienced
considerable damage to a number of
structures and significant damage to
electrical infrastructure and vegetation.
Bush Fire Brigades and Volunteer Fire
Volunteers from Karratha and
Roebourne SES, a DFES Urban Search
and Rescue (USAR) team and Incident
Management team (IMT) personnel
from Perth and Karratha were first
deployed to Exmouth to assist local
volunteers and then travelled to Coral
bay to assist there as well.
time they had been deployed for a
Midwest Gascoyne District Officer
Tim Dalwood said Carnarvon and
Coral Bay bore the brunt of the tropical
cyclone’s savagery, with almost
300 requests for assistance.
“There was severe destruction of
banana plantations in Carnarvon and
three homes that were completely
destroyed, with many more suffering
damages,” Tim said.
“In Coral Bay there was damage to
almost every property in town, with two
completely destroyed and the shanty
town devastated.
USAR helping to clear fallen trees.
18
24seven 2015
units from Carnarvon, Coastal Districts,
Exmouth, Karratha, Roebourne, Shark
Bay and Useless Loop, the affected
communities were aided by the local
and Rescue Services.
DFES Community Liaison Unit staff
also assisted at the incident, the first
cyclone. They worked closely with the
Shire of Carnarvon to get information
out to the community via information
sheets and social media, and assisted
with organising a community meeting
which was attended by around
400 residents.
Midwest Gascoyne Superintendent
Kim Lambkin said the response effort
from volunteers was truly outstanding
in the face of the high number of calls
for assistance.
“Many of the volunteers were carrying
out repairs on other people’s homes
before their own, such is their
dedication and commitment to helping
their communities,” he said.
“A large contingent of SES volunteers
from the Perth Metropolitan, South
West and Lower South West regions
also pitched in to help out and put in
an exceptional effort.”
After non-local volunteers returned
home, local DFES personnel and
SES volunteers continued to provide
recovery support, primarily to local
members of the community including
the elderly and those with disabilities,
who required assistance with clean
up efforts.
Carnarvon SES continued to receive
requests for assistance for some time
after the cyclone struck, as temporarily
repaired homes were subject to
further bad weather and heavy rainfall.
This meant that local volunteers, with
assistance from Geraldton Greenough
SES, had to revisit a number of homes
to again affix or re-tarp the dwellings.
SES and USAR making temporary repairs to a damaged building.
“The Incident Management Team was
managed by both DFES personnel
and volunteers, who all worked very
well together to achieve a collaborative
effort and unified command,” Deputy
Commissioner Bailey said.
“Our volunteers cannot be thanked
enough for their tireless efforts and
the countless hours of hard work
they contributed.”
Other agencies involved in the response
and recovery effort include the WA
Police, Bureau of Meteorology, Horizon
Power, Water Corporation, Department
of Child Protection and Family Support,
Main Roads WA, Department of Food
and Agriculture WA, Department of
Health, Department of Education, Local
Governments, St John Ambulance,
Telstra, the State Emergency
Management Committee and the
Carnarvon Growers Association.
The Federal Government announced
that assistance will be provided to
the areas of Ashburton, Carnarvon,
Exmouth and Shark Bay through
the jointly funded CommonwealthState Natural Disaster Relief and
Recovery Arrangements. This assistance
will help families and communities in
the region to get back on their feet and
ensure that local industries are able to
recover as soon as possible.
In recognition of the hard work that was
put in, Carnarvon residents showed
their appreciation at a number of events
including a dinner at the Carnarvon
Motel for departing DFES personnel
and volunteers, and a barbecue at the
local festival grounds organised by two
local residents.
Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey said
that while the damage to coastal towns
was the worst seen in a long time, the
response effort was admirable.
Helicopter deployment of WAPOL, SES, DFES staff and USAR into Exmouth.
24seven 2015
19
OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS
Resourcefulness key in remote rollover
While others were already getting into the swing of their ANZAC Day long weekend, two
crews in the Midwest Gascoyne found themselves battling an increasingly complicated
set of circumstances to enable two men to get the medical attention they needed.
Around 7.30pm on Thursday 23 April,
Kalbarri Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service (VFRS) and Northampton
Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services
were advised of a single car rollover
involving five injured people. The
crash occurred in a remote location
105 kilometres north of Northampton
and 55 kilometres east of the North
West Coastal Highway, on a winding
gravel road.
850 metres long, with a surface in
After liaising with St John Ambulance,
the responding crews progressed to the
scene with one ambulance. A carnival
weekend had been organised at a
nearby station and a crowd had already
started to gather for the weekend,
some of whom were keen to help and
guided crews to the location. The other
ambulance diverted to the nearby
homestead where some of the injured
people had already been moved.
away in Kalbarri, so we soon put
Arriving at the destination it was evident
the driver had multiple serious injuries
and he was attended to by paramedics
while the Royal Flying Doctor Service
(RFDS) was activated.
create an 850 metre length, develop a
In order for the RFDS to land nearby
they required a well lit airstrip that was
vehicles, their own and the helpful
reasonable condition.
Captain Len Simmons from Kalbarri
VFRS said what they actually had
was a potential airstrip that was of
unknown length, unmaintained, with a
large boggy patch at one end and no
lighting in sight.
“The only other alternative was for the
plane to land some 130 kilometres
ourselves and the willing campers to
good use,” Len said.
“A shire grader had been working in the
area earlier that day so the operator,
who is also a volunteer, was located
camping nearby and quickly started
preparing the airstrip.
“Then we had to clear the strip of
debris, measure its length, grade it to
communications system for all parties
involved and convey the two most
injured patients to the location.”
Crews also had to assemble 16
“To further add to complications, we
were then advised that the station
manager was suffering an urgent
medical issue at the house and was in
need of attention himself, so our patient
priority list was revised.
“We managed to pull everything
together and the most injured rollover
casualty and the station owner were
airlifted around midnight that night and
taken to Royal Perth Hospital.”
Midwest Gascoyne Acting
Superintendent Gordon Purvis
commended the crews involved for all
that they accomplished in the face of
many challenges.
“They showed a great deal of initiative
and resourcefulness to overcome so
many complicating factors which, in
collaboration with St John Ambulance
and the RFDS, enabled the two men to
get the medical attention they needed.
“Well done to everyone involved,
including fire and emergency services
volunteers, paramedics, community
members and the grader driver for
their contribution.”
© RFDS
campers, every two hundred metres
on either side of the runway to light the
strip for the RFDS arrival and take off.
20
24seven 2015
Smoke on
the water
© Matt Hayes
A fire on board a livestock
carrier caused major
disruption to the operations
of Fremantle Port on the
morning of Thursday
9 October 2014.
Reported at 7.59am, the blaze broke
out in the crew accommodation area
on the Ocean Drover while it was
docked in the busy port.
point to reduce fatigue in the extremely
Around 60 career firefighters from 17
brigades and 48 DFES incident support
personnel from across the metropolitan
area were deployed to battle the fire,
which was limited to crew quarters but
made difficult to tackle by the confined
spaces on the ship.
cool the area. The fire was eventually
Firefighters on board the vessel donned
breathing apparatus and were reduced
to working in 10 minute cycles at one
but stable condition. A further 45 crew
hot environment. Other firefighters on
elevated work platforms hosed down
the outside of the ship in an attempt to
extinguished after 14 hours of solid
effort from all involved.
One crewman on board the vessel
suffered burns and was attended to
While the ship suffered millions of dollars
of damage, it was confined to the bridge
and the crew accommodation area and
fortunately there were no animals on
board at the time.
The cause of the fire was not able to be
determined and the matter was handed
over to the Australian Transport Safety
Bureau to investigate further.
by St John Ambulance paramedics
and transported to hospital in a critical
were treated for smoke inhalation after
being evacuated.
Two survive trail ride trials
© The West Australian
Two trail bike riders were found safe and well following
a successful land search by State Emergency Service
(SES) and Bush Fire Service (BFS) volunteers and
WA Police.
The 27 year old men were separated
Kalamunda, Bayswater, Bassendean
from their group while riding in dense
and Belmont SES units, Darling
bushland popular with trail bike riders
Range BFS, as well as DFES and
huddled together with their helmets
near The Lakes, Mundaring, after
Department of Parks and Wildlife
on to try and stay warm as the
running out of fuel. They were reported
career personnel were quick to
temperature plunged.
missing at around 6.45pm on Sunday
respond to the call for help, while
19 April and DFES assistance was
the Salvation Army provided welfare
requested by WA Police when the pair
support. The riders were located just
had not been located by midnight.
after 10am on Monday 20 April.
Fifty-five volunteers from Mundaring,
The fortunate pair reported that
Services Levy via the Local
Swan, Northshore, Mandurah,
they had spent the previous night
Government Grants Scheme.
The incident was the first search
operation to run out of the new
Mundaring Incident Control Vehicle,
which was funded by the Emergency
24seven 2015
21
OPERATIONAL INCIDENTS
An accidental
spark
An accidental spark from a
grinder and the relentless
January heat were all it
took to ignite an out of
control blaze that seared
through 7000 hectares of
bushland, menacing the
north metropolitan suburb
of Bullsbrook and its
neighbours.
Called in at 9.23am on Saturday
10 January, the bushfire started
between Railway Road and Gully
Road and quickly grew out of control,
necessitating a large scale response
and calls for residents to evacuate
the area. At the peak of the fire
more than 300 career and Volunteer
Fire and Rescue Service, Bush Fire
Service, Volunteer Fire and Emergency
Services and Department of Parks and
Wildlife firefighters were on the scene.
Firefighters were ably supported by
State Emergency Service volunteers
and aerial crews who were tackling the
fire from above.
Firefighters were dogged by issues at
every turn, such as the fire spreading
quickly in pine plantations, large areas
of boggy acid sulphate soils hindering
access and also being susceptible to
subsurface fires, strong south easterly
winds, ember attack, and areas of
unexploded ordnance around the
local military range, making the blaze
particularly difficult to contend with.
Waroona saved from blaze
©Patrick Templeman Twells
24seven 2015
Eventually, thanks to the courageous
and determined efforts of all involved,
the fire was brought under control
and the all clear issued an exhausting
nine days later on 18 January. The
dedicated hard work of responders
saved more than 100 homes in the
area, with the only losses being two
derelict houses and five sheds.
Reported early on Thursday
29 January, the bushfire was started
by a lightning strike and ignited in
unreachable terrain. The location,
combined with difficult weather
conditions and ember attack, meant the
fire was a challenging one to contain.
An unpredictable fire that raged for three days threatening
the township of Waroona and burning 385 hectares
was brought under control thanks to the hard work and
dedication of responding crews.
22
As the fire raged on, taskforces from
around the State were deployed to
assist, journeying from as far away as
the South West, Lower South West,
Midwest Gascoyne and Goldfield
Midlands regions, as well as firefighters
from Transfield (RAAF Pearce) and
Aviation Rescue and Fire Fighting.
Career firefighters and volunteers from
Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service,
Bush Fire Service, Volunteer Fire and
Emergency Services and the State
Emergency Service, as well as DFES
and Shire of Waroona personnel and
aerial support, were deployed from far
and wide to assist with bringing the
erratic blaze under control.
While one home was impacted, as
well as a number of cars, sheds
and equipment, the concentrated
efforts of fire and emergency services
responders saved the town centre and
many homes from destruction.
RESOURCES AND TRAINING
Vertical rescue skills elevated with
new training
“There has also been a fit out of a new
Vertical Rescue vehicle, to be based at
Perth Fire Station,” Jon said.
Kimberley Superintendent Grant Pipe
said that as part of the wider rollout
across the State, District Officers Tim
Dalwood and Adrian de Kleer from the
Midwest Gascoyne region travelled
to the Kimberley last year to conduct
training and familiarise volunteers with
the new equipment.
Fitzroy Crossing VFES volunteer Jarrod Sewart learning the ropes at Entrance Point in Broome.
Vertical rescue skills can be vital in the safe rescue of
people trapped or injured at either significant heights or
depths, often in hostile environments such as cliff faces
and crevices, high rise buildings and mine shafts.
In recognition of the skill and the
complexities involved in vertical rescue,
as well as the need for consistency
across different emergency services,
a new training packaged is being
progressively rolled out across the State.
Career firefighters from the Fire
and Rescue Service (FRS), State
Emergency Service (SES) and
Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services
(VFES) volunteers are all trained to
undertake vertical rescues, however
the training provided to the career
FRS and the volunteers has differed
in the past.
Deputy Commissioner Steve Fewster
said any gaps that had previously
existed in the training had been
identified and the new training would
ensure everyone was consistently
working off the same page.
“The new training package
commenced rollout in 2014 and
is an ongoing process,” Deputy
Commissioner Fewster said.
“Volunteers from Broome SES,
Kununurra SES and Fitzroy VFES took
part in various vertical rescue training
including Single Rope Rescue, Rope
Rescue Systems, Vertical Rescue
upgrade training and Advanced Vertical
Rescue,” Grant said.
“This introduced our volunteers to
new competencies and to the new
equipment now in service.
“All the training went very well and
it was great to see the volunteers
involved taking time out from their busy
schedules to attend.”
There were 18 vertical rescues
undertaken in 2014-15 across WA.
“New courses are being run for those
who require initial training and gap
training is being provided for others
who may only need to update their
rescue techniques.”
Three career FRS Vertical Rescue
courses and four Rope Rescue
Systems courses were completed
in the metropolitan area in 2014 and
two further Vertical Rescue courses in
2015, with the most recent taking place
in the Perth CBD in May.
Rescue Branch Manager (District
Officer) Jon Broomhall said new
purpose built and dynamic equipment
is also being rolled out, in conjunction
with the training, to make vertical
rescue easier for responders.
Perth Fire Station, Station Officer Neil Gibson training
at Allendale Square.
24seven 2015
23
RESOURCES AND TRAINING
Improved infrastructure for a growing WA
Fire and emergency
services personnel and
volunteers make a vital
contribution to our State,
with their work directly
affecting the safety and
wellbeing of the people
they serve.
Embodying a strong emphasis on
recruitment and training, the new
station has a large dedicated training
area for volunteers to further develop
their skills, as well as a road crash
rescue training pad. The new station
also features two large engine bay
rooms, a kitchen and meeting rooms.
Shark Bay
New and improved infrastructure
around Western Australia aims to
ensure responders are well equipped
to protect their local and surrounding
communities.
Facilitated by the State Government
through DFES, the introduction
of these new facilities is aimed at
adapting and changing in response
to the needs of West Australians as
the State’s population grows, and
communities disperse. New facilities
opened within the last year include the
Geraldton Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service (VFRS) station, the Shark
Bay Emergency Services Precinct,
the Butler Fire and Rescue Service
(FRS) station and Roebourne Districts
State Emergency Services (SES)
building. These provide increased
capability in their regions, helping to
ensure communities are prepared for
any emergency.
The new Shark Bay Emergency
Services Precinct promotes and fosters
the importance of community and
camaraderie. The new facility is home
not only to the local SES but also to St
John Ambulance volunteers and the
Shark Bay Volunteer Marine Rescue
Service, who all provide a valuable
service to the region. Officially opened
on 6 March 2015, the precinct was
jointly funded via a Lotterywest grant,
DFES and contributions from the Shire
of Shark Bay.
Butler
Geraldton
The Geraldton VFRS officially opened
their new $2 million premises on
22 November 2014.
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24seven 2015
The $7.5 million Butler Fire Station
is strategically located so firefighters
can respond to incidents in Butler and
surrounding areas, and it was designed
to accommodate additional strike
teams and resources to respond to
major incidents in the region.
Officially opened on 20 May 2015,
it features two large double appliance
bays, training and office areas, a
gymnasium, vehicle training pad, a
breathing apparatus servicing area
as well as increased accommodation
for future expansion. It also includes a
post incident wash down facility which
ensures firefighters are free of potential
contaminants when they return
from incidents.
Commissioner Wayne Gregson APM, Member
for Pilbara the Honourable Brendon Grylls MLA,
General Manager for Cape Lambert Rio Tinto
Jamie Robertson and City of Karratha Mayor
Peter Long.
Roebourne Districts
Opened on 10 May 2015, the
Roebourne Districts SES building
provides a new local headquarters for
the SES Unit and includes dedicated
administration, training and operations
facilities for members. The building also
has capacity to operate as an Incident
Control Centre, providing a vital
base for the command, control and
coordination of emergency response
within the region for incidents such as
storms, cyclones, floods, bushfires,
land and air searches. The dedicated
SES facility is located alongside the
Wickham St John Ambulance substation and was funded via DFES,
Rio Tinto and the City of Karratha.
Peer Support Program – prepare to care
A total of 62 people
throughout the State and
across all services have
now been appointed as
Peer Support Officers.
Attending a particularly traumatic incident, relationship
stress, busy lifestyles and major life events can have a
profound impact on our ability to cope effectively and at
times, some extra support is needed.
With this in mind, the DFES Wellness
Branch has established a suite of
support services, one of which is the
revitalised Peer Support Program.
The program offers appropriate,
individualised and confidential
support that is easily accessible to
all DFES employees, volunteers and
their partners and families across
Western Australia.
Underpinned by a key philosophy of
‘a mate helping a mate’ the program
relies on Peer Support Officers to
act as a port of call for those in need
of support.
Wellness Manager Anneliese Smith
said the program is designed to
enhance and support the psychological
and emotional resilience of the fire and
emergency services community.
“It achieves this by taking a relatable
and individualised approach,” Anneliese
said.
Wellness Programs Coordinator
Charlotte Hunter said that Peer
Support Officers undergo initial training
and annual refresher training so they
can provide helpful, practical and
confidential support.
“This enables them to act as a point of
contact for employees and volunteers,
as well as their partners and family
members who have requested, or have
been identified, as needing assistance.
“They are also able to offer information
to their colleagues on how to engage
with appropriate health and wellbeing
services.”
Recruitment of Peer Support Officers
took place from October to November
2014 with a call for expressions of
interest from employees and volunteers
from all service areas across the State.
The recruitment process consisted of
a variety of components to ensure the
right people were selected. Charlotte
said the Wellness Branch was very
happy with the level of interest from
employees and volunteers applying
for this program.
A total of 62 people throughout the
State and across all services have
now been appointed as Peer Support
Officers. Details for Peer Support
Officers (by region and by service) and
other information about the program
is available through:
• station/brigade/group/unit/
workplace noticeboards
• the DFES Intranet and Volunteer
Portal by clicking on the Peer
Support Program page (under
Wellness); and
• the Wellness Branch by calling
(08) 9395 9874.
Peer Support Officers can be identified
by wearing a DFES Peer Support
lapel badge.
It is envisaged that recruitment will
occur on an annual basis.
24seven 2015
25
RESOURCES AND TRAINING
Search and rescue refined on the
south coast
South coast Volunteer Marine Rescue groups came together off the coast of Walpole
on Sunday 19 April to put themselves to the test with the fourth annual Marine Search
and Rescue Exercise (MARSAREX).
“The MARSAREX 2015 trophy
was awarded to Walpole based on
their performance throughout the
day’s exercises, but all of the VMR
participants are to be applauded for
the skills they displayed and for their
commitment as volunteers,” Alex said.
Participants from the Denmark,
Peaceful Bay, Walpole and Windy
Harbour Volunteer Marine Rescue
(VMR) groups were all briefed before
undertaking individual search and
rescue exercises. These involved
using internationally recognised search
patterns, as well as practising their
CPR skills once the ‘unconscious
missing person’ was located.
All groups then worked together in
a multi vessel parallel track search
pattern to locate an overdue missing
boat in the waters off Nornalup Inlet,
with Peaceful Bay’s inshore rescue
boat playing the part of the lost vessel.
Deputy Commissioner Steve Fewster
commended the south coastal VMR
groups on their participation.
“Training exercises such as these
keep crews and their shore support
honed to respond to marine incidents,
particularly those involving the safety
of lives at sea,” Deputy Commissioner
Fewster said.
“MARSAREX also provides the groups
with a chance to practice multi vessel
search patterns, for which there
is a requirement for accuracy and
cooperation during incidents.
“It is great to see the crews
undertaking valuable joint training
exercises in addition to their individual
group training.”
Regional Commander for the
South Coast Region Alex Williams
coordinated the exercise and praised
the 30 volunteers who were involved.
Trophy presentation to (L-R) Walpole VMR members Bernie Clark, Deb Clark, Trevor Clark, Regional
Commander Alex Williams ESM, Commander Walpole VMR Louise Pickett, David Wall, David Gillbanks,
Tom Pickett and Rob Pernich.
26
24seven 2015
“The south coast groups are
responsible for the expansive marine
area from Bald Head, Albany, in the
east to Augusta in the west, and
have responded to 16 incidents in the
last year.
“I would encourage other community
members to get involved and give it a
try. In small communities any support
is welcome, even if it is just for a couple
of days or evenings a month.
“You don’t need to be an expert
on all things marine related, there
are many other important roles that
people can play and a number of our
volunteers are also members of other
emergency services.”
For further information on the South Coast
Volunteer Marine Rescue contact Alex at
SouthCoastRegion@vmrwa.org.au or by
calling (08) 9840 8626.
Piece of history restored
An American La France Turn Table Ladder (TTL)
appliance has been returned to its original mint condition
thanks to the painstaking efforts of the DFES Vintage
Restoration Team.
Housed at the North Fremantle
Station, the La France TTL was
decommissioned in 1976 at around
the time that the station closed. In
1978 it was discovered on a Jarrahdale
property by then Superintendent Ron
Harley. The appliance was subsequently
donated by the property owner to Ron
as he was establishing a museum.
“We owe our thanks to the volunteers
Acting Manager Education and Heritage
Centre, Heather McNamara, said the
appliance has since been refurbished a
number of times throughout the years
but broke down in 2013, prompting the
Vintage Restoration Team to embark on
a full restoration.
housed at the WA Fire and Emergency
“It is wonderful to see a piece of
Western Australian firefighting history
now returned to its former glory,”
Heather said.
and 1942, and one of only seven La
who put so much time and meticulous
effort into this transformation.
“All members of the team worked on
the La France in one way or another
and it is a testament to their skills,
dedication and attention to detail.”
The La France is currently being
The Vintage Restoration Team (back L-R) Bob Wigley and
Charlie Easter, (front L-R) Dick Prendergast, Darryl Hefron,
Frank Pratt, Bob Hawrylak and Bob Cook.
Services Academy and is used for
display purposes at Whiteman’s Park
and at various events.
A 1938 model, the appliance was
assembled in New York between 1941
Frances shipped to Australia in 1942 on
the USS Gold Star. It is the only one of
its kind in Western Australia.
The La France was one of only seven shipped to
Australia in 1942.
Service of Thanksgiving
DFES will again be hosting a special Thanksgiving
Prayer Service.
It is being held in recognition and appreciation of the vital
role that Western Australia’s fire and emergency services play in
protecting local communities.
The church service, which is open for community members
to attend, will also thank families and loved ones for their
wonderful support.
The service will be multi denominational and a unique
opportunity for everybody involved in the State’s emergency
services to join together and give thanks.
Date: Sunday 11 October 2015
Time: 5pm – 6pm
followed by a light supper
Location: St George’s Cathedral,
38 St Georges Terrace Perth
Dress:Dress uniform or smart
casual
RSVP: 5 October 2015
rsvp@dfes.wa.gov.au
Phone 9395 9520
24seven 2015
27
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Accolades for employers
Commissioner Wayne Gregson APM and Emergency Services Minister Joe Francis MLA (centre L-R) surrounded by VERA recipients.
Businesses from across Western Australia were recognised for their critical support of
emergency services volunteers in a ceremony at Government House in November 2014.
Emergency Services Minister
Joe Francis acknowledged the
crucial role of employers and self
employed volunteers in responding to
emergencies including fires, storms,
cyclones and road crash rescues.
“The annual Volunteer Employer
Recognition Awards (VERA) recognise
the outstanding support that employers
across Western Australia provide to fire
and emergency services volunteers,”
Mr Francis said.
“Without the essential support of their
employers, many of these committed
volunteers simply could not respond to
emergencies during work hours.
“The awards also recognise self
employed volunteers who often put
emergency services response before
their own livelihood.”
VERA recognises employers and
self employed volunteers in three
categories, according to their level of
support. In 2014 there were 33 gold,
16 silver and 17 bronze award
recipients.
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24seven 2015
Boorara Mechanical was among the
nine self employed award recipients,
receiving a gold award for business
owner Len Dickson’s commitment to
supporting the Northcliffe Volunteer
Fire and Rescue Service and Northcliffe
Bush Fire Brigade.
Lower South West Superintendent
John Tillman said Len has been a
dedicated volunteer for many years.
“He makes himself available to help the
community at the expense of his own
business, which is a truly generous
contribution.”
Notably, Rio Tinto was recognised
for its support of emergency services
volunteers across multiple regions,
receiving awards for supporting
employees of its operations in
Carnarvon, Paraburdoo and Tom Price.
“DFES coordinates these awards
as a way to shine a light on the vital
role played by employers and to say
thank you.”
More than 400 employers and self
employed volunteers have been
recognised by the awards program
to date. The awards are the first
of their kind in Australia to receive
formal accreditation.
VERA 2015
Thanks to everyone who put
forward nominations for the
VERA this year.
Fire and Emergency Services
Commissioner Wayne Gregson said
volunteers were a pivotal resource in
the State’s emergency response.
Successful nominees and their
nominators will receive an
invitation in the coming months,
for a special awards ceremony
to be held in November.
“Flexibility from their employers is
vital in allowing them to continue
their important commitment to
the community.
Any queries relating to VERA can be
directed to awards@dfes.wa.gov.au.
Another award to
recognise reporting
DFES has been recognised for excellence and
accountability in its annual reporting, earning a silver
award at the thirtieth annual WS Lonnie Awards.
Representatives from DFES attended the
Risk Planning and Reporting Director
ceremony on Friday 27 March 2015 at
Carole Dowd, who was instrumental in
the Hyatt Regency Perth, to accept the
putting the annual report together, said
award in the ‘Agencies with more than
the award was the result of a great job
1,000 full time equivalents’ category.
done by all involved and acknowledged
Silver awards are given to agencies
with annual reports that exceed
their ongoing commitment to producing
a quality product.
the criteria and are considered
“The Lonnie Awards are a validation
to demonstrate particularly good
of the high standards that we set
reporting and accountability.
ourselves for the annual report,”
This is the second consecutive year
that DFES has been recognised in the
Carole said. “To receive awards two
years in a row is wonderful.”
Lonnie Awards, receiving a gold award
Former Governance and Strategy
in the same category last year as well
Executive Director David Caporn
as three other awards out of a possible
thirteen. The awards recognise and
said substantial effort is involved in
the delivery of an accountable and
reward efforts to deliver accountable
transparent annual report.
and transparent annual reports in a
“Reporting needs to be concise and
succinct and independent way.
easily comprehensible, and must
also adhere to tight deadlines and
stringent reporting requirements,”
Mr Caporn said.
“The award is testament to the
outstanding work completed by
the Risk Planning and Reporting
Directorate in the coordination and
publication of the report.
“Many other agency contributors were
also involved in providing the necessary
content to tell our story, including
financial and statistical information.
“Last year Carole was the first
DFES employee to be recognised
with a Certificate of Distinction
for her outstanding leadership
and commitment to continuous
improvement of the Department’s
reporting. She has outdone herself
again this year.”
Sincere condolences go to the family, friends and colleagues
of these personnel who have passed away.
Kevin Corbey - Fremantle Fire Station Senior Firefighter
Stanley Dellar – Exmouth Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service
Emedio ‘Ed’ Demasi – Albany State Emergency Service
Rawson Donaldson – Upper Chittering Bush Fire Brigade (retired)
John Ford – Windy Harbour Volunteer Marine Rescue
Carl Hennings – Stirling State Emergency Service
Gary Holland – Toodyay Central Bush Fire Brigade
Mike Holmes – Port Denison Volunteer Marine Rescue
Richard Maslen OAM, AFSM – Chief Bushfire Control Officer, Shire of Greenough (retired)
John McMahon AFSM – Western Australian Fire and Rescue Service Chief Officer (retired)
Tom Palmer – Walpole Volunteer Marine Rescue
Maurie Parker – DFES Senior Building Fire Safety Officer
Salvation Army Major Daryl Rawlings – Chaplain (retired)
Dennis Tiggerdine – Kalamunda State Emergency Service
Troy Whitelaw – Manjimup Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service
24seven 2015
29
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Rapid response
rewarded
In recognition of their
efforts during a severe
traffic accident, Broome
Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service (VFRS) were
awarded with a Certificate
of Appreciation by St John
Ambulance on Wednesday
29 October 2014.
The dedicated VFRS group responded
to a call for assistance on 6 October,
when a car crash on Hunter Street
caused one car involved to roll and
the male driver became trapped in
the wreckage. On the scene with
fellow responders from WA Police and
St John Ambulance, the volunteer
firefighters worked quickly to peel back
(L-R) St John Regional Manager Will White, St John Ambulance volunteer Peter Worobec and
paramedic Jacqui Mackay, Broome VFRS volunteer Captain Phil Leach, Broome VFRS volunteers
Nick Joyce, Liam Reimer, Ross Patience and Superintendent Matthew Reimer.
the roof of the vehicle so the casualty
could be safely extricated. The man
was later flown to Perth for treatment.
In appreciation of their support, the
St John Ambulance regional manager
and the two St John responders
attended a Broome VFRS training
night to present the brigade with the
certificate.
Kimberley Superintendent Grant
Pipe said despite the unfortunate
circumstances, multi-agency incidents
such as these highlight the strong
working relationship between different
emergency services within the Broome
community.
Connections burn strong at
anniversary open day
The Donnybrook local community came out in force
to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Donnybrook
Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) on March
14, with around 200 people braving the wet weather to
celebrate the brigade’s longstanding contribution.
Children learned about what to do during a fire
at the open day.
The brigade has provided 50 years of
For their anniversary open day, the
the painstaking process to community
dedicated service to the Donnybrook-
VFRS hosted a range of fun activities at
members.
Balingup Shire, with this assistance
the station. Kids got to try their hand as
extending to areas such as Capel,
Bunbury, Bridgetown, Boyanup and
Boyup-Brook. The Donnybrook brigade
has also travelled long distances
to provide much needed support
a firefighter, crawling through a smoke
filled tunnel and putting out ‘flames’
in a house, before enjoying a sausage
sizzle as reward for their hard work.
The day concluded with a road crash
The community were also encouraged
to tour the station to learn about the
brigade’s history, see the old uniforms
on display and learn about home fire
safety and bushfire preparedness.
demonstration where two ‘casualties’
In the evening the celebrations continued
at fires such as those in Bullsbrook
were freed using the jaws of life, while
with all past and present volunteers
and Northcliffe.
Area Officer Pete Thomas explained
invited to share an evening of memories.
30
24seven 2015
Fire and Emergency Services
Commissioner honoured by
recognition
Fire and Emergency Services
Commissioner Wayne Gregson was
named the 2015 Murdoch University
Leader of the Year working in State or
Federal Government at the Institute
of Public Administration Australia WA
Awards in June.
The award recognises Commissioner
Gregson’s excellence in leadership
in public administration and his
achievements driving significant
strategic change at DFES.
Commissioner Gregson said he
was honoured to be recognised
and acknowledged the huge
volume of work being undertaken
by DFES personnel to achieve
widespread reforms.
“It is a tremendous honour to receive
this award which ultimately recognises
the work everyone at DFES is doing
to reshape our organisation and
better serve the Western Australian
community,” he said.
“I am privileged to be leading a team of
truly committed and dedicated people,
both staff and volunteers, who work
incredibly hard to protect and serve
our community.”
Commissioner Gregson was appointed
Chief Executive Officer of the former
Fire and Emergency Services Authority
(FESA) in September 2011 for a
12 month period. He was appointed
Commissioner upon the formation of
DFES on 1 November 2012.
Since then, Commissioner Gregson
has led a major reform program
beginning with a refocus towards
supporting frontline services, the
implementation of a 12 year strategic
plan and increasing transparency,
accountability and collaboration.
Commissioner Gregson was nominated
for the award by his colleagues for the
individual excellence he has displayed
in leading cultural and organisational
change at DFES.
Australian Honours and Awards
Australia Day Honours
Queen’s Birthday Honours
The Queen’s Birthday Honours List
was announced on Monday 8 June
2015 by the Governor General,
Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd).
The Honours List includes the
recipients of the prestigious Australian
Fire Service Medal (AFSM) and the
Emergency Services Medal.
Congratulations to Kalbarri Volunteer
Fire and Rescue Service volunteer
Leonard Simmons, Shire of Toodyay
Chief Bush Fire Control Officer Murray
McBride, Station Officer Stephen
Pope, and Bunbury Volunteer Fire and
Rescue Service volunteer and City
of Bunbury Chief Bush Fire Control
Officer John Kowal, on receiving
the AFSM.
The Australian Fire Service Medal and Emergency Services Medal recognise
distinguished service by volunteer or career members of an Australian fire or
emergency service. Only a limited number of these awards are conferred each year
and are presented by the Governor of Western Australia.
Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AO presented the medals at
the Government House Investiture Ceremony on Friday 27 March 2015 to the
following recipients.
Robert Papalia AFSM,
Brunswick and Busselton
Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service member and Vice
President of the WA Volunteer
Fire and Rescue Services
Association.
Joseph McLaughlin ESM, Shark
Bay State Emergency Service,
Shark Bay Volunteer Marine
Rescue Service and North
Dinninup Bush Fire Brigade
member.
Alexander Williams ESM, South
Coast Regional Commander
for Volunteer Marine Rescue
WA and Bush Fire Brigade
volunteer.
24seven 2015
31
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Commemorative Book released
A Commemorative Book was released last year to
honour past and present career firefighters who have
proudly served the community of Western Australia.
The book contains the details of all
graduating firefighters from the earlier
Roll Call years (1899 through to the
1960s), School 1 to School 77, and
lateral entry firefighters and officers.
Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey AFSM signing the book.
It has taken an extensive research
effort by Academy staff over the past
two years to ensure the correct data
has been recorded and thanks are
extended to those who have been
involved with this project.
All past and present firefighters
are welcome to view and sign the
Commemorative Book, which takes
pride of place in the WA Fire and
Emergency Services Academy
reception area.
In the future, firefighters will have
their details added upon graduation
and will have the opportunity to
sign the book prior to commencing
operational duties.
Frontline boost with new recruits
School 76.
The ranks of Western Australia’s
frontline fire service have swelled with
the addition of 46 new firefighters in the
last year.
Recruits from Firefighter Training
School No. 77 graduated on Friday
26 June, while School No. 76
completed their training in November
2014, in time to boost the service for
the busy bushfire season.
Fire and Emergency Services
Commissioner Wayne Gregson
said the graduates were a welcome
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24seven 2015
School 77.
addition to Western Australia’s fire and
emergency services.
“Our graduating firefighters join more
than 1100 career and approximately
29,000 volunteer firefighters and
emergency services personnel across
the State,” Commissioner Gregson said.
“They are a valuable addition to the
emergency services and will be
on active duty at metropolitan and
regional career fire stations, attending
structure fires, bushfires, road crashes
and undertaking other response and
preparation tasks.
“It is encouraging to see young men
and women stepping up to serve their
community with such maturity and
commitment.”
The graduates have all completed a
17 week career firefighting course,
under the guidance of experienced
instructors.
The training included road crash
rescue, structural and bush firefighting,
urban search and rescue, hazardous
materials and community safety.
Outstanding service applauded
The remarkable dedication of fire and emergency services personnel and volunteers was deservingly
celebrated at the annual award ceremonies held during the 2014 WA Fire and Emergency Services Conference.
Firefighting Awards
Murray Lang Bush Fire
Service of Western
Australia Award
Volunteer Fire and
Emergency Services
Award for Excellence
RECIPIENT:
RECIPIENT:
RECIPIENT:
RECIPIENT:
Emergency Services
Volunteers Association
Award for Outstanding
volunteer member
Garth Civil, Station Officer
at Perth Fire Station
Stephen Manning,
Cue Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service
Matthew Thompson,
Boddington Bush Fire Brigade
Kenn McLeod,
Fitzroy Crossing Volunteer
Emergency Service
Adrian Goh, Bullsbrook
Volunteer Fire Service
FINALISTS:
Shirley Oliver,
Baldivis Bush Fire Brigade
Gordon Temby,
Wallcliffe Bush Fire Brigade
Career Fire and Rescue
Service of Western
Australia Award
FINALISTS:
Simon Harrison,
Perth Fire Station
Ian Hemphill,
Butler Fire Station
Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Service of Western
Australia Award
Bruce Watts,
Exmouth Volunteer Fire and
Rescue Service
Ron Winstone,
Geraldton Volunteer Fire and
Rescue Service
FINALISTS:
RECIPIENT:
FINALISTS:
Stephen Bandy, MAPS WA
Volunteer Emergency Service
State Emergency Services Awards
Peter Keillor Award
Team Achievement Award
Youth Achievement Award
RECIPIENT:
RECIPIENT:
RECIPIENT:
Steve Cable,
Kalbarri State Emergency Service
Karratha and Roebourne State
Emergency Service
Meggan Miller,
Mandurah State Emergency Service
Kellie Bullen, Broome Volunteer Fire and
Rescue Service
FINALISTS:
FINALISTS:
FINALISTS:
Jane Campbell,
Bayswater State Emergency Service
Nick Elliott,
Northshore State Emergency Service
Kalbarri State Emergency Service
Tom Price and Newman State
Emergency Service
Rhys Cole,
Melville State Emergency Service
Michael Hall,
Exmouth State Emergency Service
Joshua Heath,
Bullsbrook Volunteer Fire Service
Matthew Holland,
Witchcliffe Bush Fire Brigade and Volunteer
Fire and Rescue Service
Mitchell Reid,
Three Springs Bush Fire Brigade
Youth Achievement Award
RECIPIENT:
FINALISTS:
Volunteer Marine Rescue Services Awards
DFES Award for
Outstanding Individual
Contribution
RECIPIENT:
Barry Kennewell,
Kalbarri Volunteer Marine
Rescue Service
Volunteer Marine
Rescue Service Award
for Outstanding Group
Operations
RECIPIENT:
Albany Volunteer Marine
Rescue Service
Paul Kimber Award
for Excellence
RECIPIENT:
Nigel and Vanessa Kelly,
Windy Harbour Volunteer
Marine Rescue Service
Commanders Award
RECIPIENT:
Geoff Brierley,
Naturaliste Volunteer Marine
Rescue Service
Department of Transport
Award for Excellence in
Marine Safety
RECIPIENT:
Coral Bay Volunteer Marine
Rescue Service
24seven 2015
33
YOUTH
Cadets learn to lead
The Tom Price Bush Fire Brigade (BFB) and State
Emergency Service (SES) have a renewed safety
education package for primary schools thanks to
the efforts of Tom Price Senior High School (SHS)
Emergency Services Cadets.
Likewise, Roleystone BFB and
Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service
(VFRS) have a new Facebook page
they can use to engage with their local
community, which was developed by
Roleystone cadets.
Cadets embarked on the initiatives as
part of the Certificate I in Leadership
Development for senior cadets run by
Challenger Institute of Technology, in
conjunction with their voyage on the
annual DFES chartered Leeuwin Sail.
This is the first time cadets have
undertaken the course, with 14
participating from the Catholic
Agricultural College Bindoon, Roleystone
BFB/VFRS, Shire of Serpentine
Jarrahdale BFB, Swan View SHS,
Tom Price SHS and Tranby College.
The course included a volunteer
component, ‘be an effective volunteer’,
with each cadet undertaking a project
with their local volunteer emergency
service brigade, group or unit.
Deputy Principal of Tom Price SHS and
local volunteer and cadet unit leader
Nicole Kelly mentored the cadets and
said they worked with the local SES
and volunteer firefighters to expand
on a safety initiative started by the
local fire brigade. The idea was to
also include a cyclone story book and
program that relates to local kids and
Aboriginal communities.
“The cadets identified the importance
of educating young children on safety
and saw the need for something to
be produced in relation to cyclones,”
she said.
“The ultimate aim for the cadets is to
have this program and story book used
in primary schools in cyclone affected
areas, and they are now looking at
ways to publish it.”
Roleystone BFB/VFRS’ lack of a
Facebook page was identified as
an interactive and engaging way
for the Roleystone cadets to use
their well honed technological
skills while leveraging off their own
online networks.
Tom Price SHS cadets (back row L-R) David
Moule, Kyle Bravington, Matthew Bond, (centre
L-R) Jack Lincoln, Brandon Walawski, (front row
L – R) Morgan O’Connell and Murray Adams.
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24seven 2015
Cadet Coordinator Bob Littman said
the cadets created a project proposal,
which they presented to the brigade
committee seeking feedback, before
building the online presence.
(L-R) Bob Littman, Ryan Sutherland (above),
cadets Bradd Hanley and Ben Gillam, and
Noel Plowman.
“Their aim was to build an online
community with photos, videos and
recaps of past events, recognising
those who were already volunteers and
showing potential volunteers what they
could expect,” he said.
The cadets were guided and mentored
by Bob Littman along with Roleystone
Captain Noel Plowman and volunteer
firefighter Ryan Sutherland. The social
media policy is currently awaiting
approval from the City of Armadale
before the Facebook page goes live.
Youth Development Coordinator
Jo Scardigno said cadets were
assessed on a number of different
elements throughout the course.
“The incorporation of the certificate
definitely added a new dimension to
the program and was an opportunity
for them to develop an understanding
of leadership in a variety of contexts,”
Jo said.
The Certificate is nationally recognised
and was delivered by Sail through Life
and Challenger Institute of Technology.
Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation
made scholarships of $200 available
with funding from the Department of
Local Government and Communities.
Students rise to the challenge
Students from Marmion
Primary School challenged
themselves for a good
cause, raising $20,500 last
year for the Jack Dunn
Foundation.
The 130 young fundraisers put
themselves through their paces in
the annual ‘Jack the Wagtail’ Physical
Challenge, held on 15 November
at Sorrento Beach, with the course
including two running stages, as well
as swimming, wading, paddling and an
obstacle course.
“All money raised by the students is sent
to the non-profit Foundation. A cheque
is then raised by the Foundation and
given to Professor Fiona Wood to be
used for burns research.”
Established in 2007, the event
is not a race but is designed for
primary school aged students to
challenge themselves. Each student’s
participation fee goes towards their
year round fundraising efforts.
At a special assembly held in December,
Marmion Deputy Principal Glenn
Buck said it is just one of the many
initiatives that students undertake to
raise money for the Foundation. ‘Jack
the Wagtail’ is a leadership group at the
school, established by Glenn in 2005
in memory of 16 year old Jack Dunn
who sadly passed away due to burns
related injuries.
Malcolm McCusker AC CVO QC also
“Other activities include sponsorship
from organisations and individuals
along with fundraising sales from pins,
hats, sausage sizzles, raffles and fetes,
as well as growing and selling plants,”
Glenn said.
“The children involved with the
leadership group are encouraged to
network, attend committee meetings
and come up with their own fundraising
ideas, all the while promoting
leadership qualities.
a cheque was presented to Royal Perth
Hospital Senior Burns Physiotherapist Dr
Dale Edgar on behalf of the Fiona Wood
Foundation (FWF). Former Governor
of Western Australia the Honourable
attended to present students with the
Champion Schools’ ‘Kids Who Give’
Award with a $1000 grant from his
McCusker Charitable Foundation, in
recognition of their efforts.
Dr Edgar said it was inspiring to see
students who were so enthusiastic
about raising money for a good cause.
“They have raised an amazing $167,500
over the 10 years that the Jack Dunn
Foundation has existed,” Dr Edgar said.
“This money has been awarded to
a nominated FWF researcher each
year to aid them financially whilst they
undertake valuable burns research.”
Other patrons of the Jack Dunn
Foundation include Professor Fiona
Wood, Bali bombing survivor Mr Peter
Hughes and cricketer Justin Langer.
(L-R) FWF Research Associate Lisa Martin, Marmion Deputy Principal Glenn Buck, DFES Metropolitan
Assistant Commissioner Bradley Stringer, Dr Dale Edgar, Senior Firefighter (SFF) Lee Walker, SFF
Jon Calabrese, Gary and Helen Dunn, former Governor of Western Australia the Honourable Malcolm
McCusker AC CVO QC, SFF Brett Pinnington, Station Officer Andrew Northern and SFF Kieran Mussen.
Firefighter contribution
Senior Firefighter and Secretary of the
WA Career Firefighters Fund (CFFC)
Kieran Mussen said CFFC was proud
to have been supporting the Jack Dunn
Foundation since 2007.
Aside from monetary and water bottle
donations over the years, firefighting
crews and appliances from Osborne
Park, Duncraig, Daglish and Perth
Fire Stations have also attended the
Physical Challenge to provide support.
“Firefighters have been contributing
towards the CFFC via pay deductions
for years and have given a total of
$8000. It is amazing what 1100
firefighters can achieve collectively over
time with just a small weekly donation.
“The CFFC exists first and
foremost to assist the children of
deceased firefighters by way of
educational scholarships but we have
also been able to provide funds over
the years for other relevant causes
such as Burnt Out grants for WA
children who have lost their belongings
to fire, as well as the Princess Margaret
Hospital Burns Camp.
“We are pleased to be able to
support the Jack Dunn Foundation
as we believe it is a worthy cause
and the issues around burns, their
treatment and research are so close to
our hearts and values.”
24seven 2015
35
YOUTH
Cadets muster up their skills
The Emergency Services Cadet Muster brought students together in Toodyay late
last year to develop their leadership, problem solving and interpersonal skills.
the school oval and giving cadets the
opportunity to talk to the crew and
have a look inside the helicopter.
©Michal Jasinski
Students also learnt how to make
damper, build shelter, and practice
using maps and compasses.
The event is an annual overnight camp
which is held alternatively by city and
country schools. This time the muster
was hosted by the Toodyay Emergency
Services Cadets and involved students
from the Catholic Agricultural College
Bindoon, Kingsway Christian College,
Lake Joondalup Baptist College,
Woodvale Secondary College and
Toodyay District High School.
In keeping with Toodyay’s history the
muster was themed around bushranger
Moondyne Joe and involved a number
of bush craft activities as well as a
range of emergency services drills.
Michal Jasinski, Teacher and Cadet
Unit Leader said that the first night gave
cadets the opportunity to learn about
history and local customs, as well as
participating in first aid scenarios at the
Memorial Hall and Toodyay St John
Ambulance Sub Centre.
“We also used two-way radios in an
activity where we learnt about Connor’s
Mill, while the gaol hosted a search and
rescue drill.
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24seven 2015
Cadets Coordinator Jo Scardigno
said the muster is intended to raise
awareness of volunteering and attract
young people to join local volunteer
emergency services brigades, groups
and units when they leave school.
“The support of local emergency
services and their involvement in the
activities is great as it provides a more
realistic experience for cadets,” Jo said.
This was followed by some acting in
the courtroom and a bush dance to
end the evening,” Michal said.
“Students are keen to participate in the
camps, which seem to be growing in
popularity each year.
Day two saw cadets work with local
organisations and volunteers, including
Bejoording, Coondle and Julimar Bush
Fire Brigades, Toodyay Volunteer Fire
and Rescue, Toodyay Community
Emergency Services Manager, St John
Ambulance and WA Police, practising
basic drills on their equipment.
“I understand the organisers received
much positive feedback about the
cadets and were very pleased with the
support of emergency services staff and
volunteers, as well as Toodyay Shire.”
The RAC Rescue helicopter proved
to be a main attraction, landing on
For more information about Emergency
Services Cadets, contact the Volunteer and
Youth Services Branch at
jo.scardigno@dfes.wa.gov.au
Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services
DFES is pleased to announce that the merger of the Volunteer Fire Service
and Volunteer Emergency Service, to form the Volunteer Fire and Emergency
Services, was formally approved in July 2015.
The change is in response to majority support from member brigades and
units for the adoption of the new name. It is anticipated that the naming
consolidation will help to provide greater clarity to members of the public about
the roles and responsibilities undertaken by these invaluable volunteer groups.
A program of replacement and replenishment of branded items will be
undertaken over time in line with this transition.