Official magazine of the Government of Western Australia Department of Fire and Emergency Services

Issue 1, 2013

24seven

From the Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner

Magazine articles are welcome – please email 24seven Editor at DFES Media and Public Affairs: kristine.smith@dfes.wa.gov.au

Stories should be up to 500 words in length and submitted with accompanying images 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 9570.

Cover photo: Regional Volunteer Marine Rescue Services training exercise, Bremer BayManaging Editor: Michelle NeilEditor: Kristine SmithContributors: Todd Cardy, Allen Gale, Lauren Gardiner, Elena Kane, Glenn Knight, Fiona Mitchell, Natasha Thorson, Kristy WilsonDesign: Jemma Williams

Contents General News .......................... 3 – 26 Operational Incidents.............. 27 – 37Resources and Training .......... 38 – 43Awards and Recognition ......... 44 – 48Youth .................................... 49 – 52

The year 2013 is shaping up as a dynamic and progressive time for our new Department.

The restructure of our organisation, with a strong emphasis on frontline operations, has been the ideal building block. Having set our corporate compass in a new direction, we have now entered an exciting new phase.

My role of Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner allows me a privileged view of the high level of expertise, support and camaraderie that exists across the whole of the Department. Collaboration between agencies has also been at an all-time high, especially when responding to hazards, with beneficial results for the community.

Since 1 December 2012, career and volunteer firefighters have battled more than 2,100 bushfires across the State, ably supported by State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers and members of the Volunteer Emergency Service, as well as the Aerial Fleet.

The SES has been kept on its toes, dealing with unseasonal summer storms that impacted metropolitan and regional communities, as well as flooding. Four cyclones have also occurred along Western Australia’s North West coast.

In addition, SES volunteers have assisted WA Police on several high profile searches, some of which have had good outcomes. So far this year the Metropolitan region alone, has been involved in 15 searches.

Members of the Volunteer Marine Rescue Services are well into their most eventful time of year and have also been busy responding to requests for assistance from the boating public.

We cannot forget the important role of the Emergency Rescue Helicopter Service either, with RAC Rescue just experiencing its busiest year ever and recording a total of 3,000 missions since its inception in 2003.

The dedicated and talented personnel who work in the field and within the Department are what drives this organisation. This was brought home to me during the DFES service awards, where I never ceased to be impressed by the character of our people right across the board. There were so many examples of steadfast diligence, selflessness and strong community spirit.

DFES is committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of all firefighters. To this end, a commitment was made to firefighter safety and welfare by the State Government, to support firefighters who develop cancer likely to be linked to their work.

All volunteers will also be protected with an equitable level of insurance for those who operate under the various emergency services Acts, and there is a commitment to establish a volunteer hardship assistance scheme.

There have been great strides made in the area of increased crew protection, including a DFES allocation of $3.1million, with $12.3million pledged by the State Government to enhance the safety of career and volunteer firefighters.

DFES is already introducing personal protective fire blankets and heat radiant curtains in suitable bushfire firefighting appliances. In addition DFES has proposed a major project to further enhance the safety of firefighting appliances including new crew protection initiatives such as under cab protection, external sprinklers, in cabin air systems and GPS tracking devices.

Another project that aims to enhance operational effectiveness is the Legislation Review of the Fire Brigades Act 1942, the Bush Fire Act 1954 and the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1998. An Interagency Working Group was established to assess these acts, with the aim of creating a single comprehensive Emergency Services Act that will better support all of our emergency services workers into the future.

I believe that extensive consultation is essential to draw on the knowledge and experience of emergency services personnel across the State

to ensure the legislation is fully informed by the people who are key to making it work.

On the community safety front, Western Australia has adopted the nationwide Emergency Alert system which will deliver improvements in the capacity, flexibility and technology of distributing warnings to the community. It has now been used in several emergencies, and community feedback has been positive and appreciative.

Among our recent publications the New Beginnings 2024 is aimed at stakeholders and sets out the need for reform and how it will be achieved. It charts our journey towards better coordinated and more effective delivery of emergency services within WA, and focuses on Stage One of a Strategic Plan (2012-16) to guide the activities of our new Department.

In regard to Portal2Progress (P2P), which is running at 389 suggestions, you can now not only vote for your favourite, but also see a live count of how many votes an idea is receiving. This is a great new interactive feature and I encourage all DFES staff and volunteers to actively participate in submitting, commenting and voting on ideas.

While the first phase of the major reform process is behind us, there is still much to be done to complete the big picture. With your help and support I look forward to developing and implementing further innovations. A more effective and successful DFES equates to a better protected, more resilient community, and that is our ultimate goal.

Just as this issue of 24seven goes online, a new Emergency Services Minister has been announced. On behalf of DFES, I would like to thank our former Minister Hon. Troy Buswell MLA for working with us through a dynamic period of change and renewal for our new Department. I also welcome to the portfolio Hon. Joe Francis MLA, Member for Jandakot, and look forward to collaborating with him on initiatives that will further strengthen and enhance fire and emergency services across the State.

WAYNE GREGSON APM COMMISSIONER FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

“In the past 12 months the State’s emergency services have undergone significant change and restructure with a focus on enhancing community safety,” he said.

“It is now time to move further ahead and consolidate those positive changes, while also planning for the future.”

Mr Barnett added that the high tech facility accommodated the State Operations Centre as well as the triple zero Communications Centre, and would set a new standard for how emergency incidents are managed across the State.

The opening ceremony took place two days later, when both the WA Premier Hon Colin Barnett MLA and former Emergency Services Minister Hon Troy Buswell MLA, officially opened the modern purpose built facility and took the opportunity to inspect the new complex.

Mr Barnett announced that the State’s first Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner had been appointed, and presented Mr Wayne Gregson APM with epaulettes to complete his new uniform.

The Premier said as head of the new department, the Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner would be directly accountable to the Minister, the State Government and the people of Western Australia.

There was an air of excitement and anticipation at FESA House in the city as offices were finally cleared out and numerous green crates packed in readiness for moving to the new state of the art Emergency Services Complex.

Doors opened at Cockburn Central on Monday 29 October, and in a remarkably short time it was business as usual, with staff familiarising themselves with the building’s layout and features, and settling in.

Home sweet home at Cockburn Central

Photo courtesy of Martin Farquharson Photography.

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“For too long there has been a lack of clarity about insurance arrangements. Our Government will change this by amending the emergency services legislation to provide uniform insurance provisions for emergency services volunteers,” he said.

Mr Buswell said the package would also amend legislation to ensure a career or volunteer firefighter who developed a prescribed cancer, one of 12 cancers as scheduled in the Commonwealth legislation, would have greatly simplified workers compensation considerations.

“It has been established that firefighters are at an increased risk of developing certain cancers through exposure to carcinogens while performing lifesaving roles for the community,” he said.

“This legislation will provide cover for career and volunteer firefighters who predominantly undertake structural firefighting duties, and retrospectively

A widespread support package designed to assist career firefighters and volunteers was announced at the opening of the new Emergency Services Complex in Cockburn.

Former Emergency Services Minister Troy Buswell said the package was all about providing assistance to the people who work so hard to protect those in need.

“Our Government greatly values the support and commitment of both career firefighters and volunteers who perform a sometimes difficult and dangerous job protecting the people of WA,” he said.

Mr Buswell said one of the key aims was to address the inconsistencies regarding insurance for volunteers who were carrying out their duties.

The package will include:

Consistent insurance coverage for all volunteers operating under the emergency services Acts.

Compensation claims being simplified for career and volunteer firefighters who develop a prescribed cancer.

Establishment of an assistance scheme for emergency services volunteers experiencing financial hardship.

Support package announced for career firefighters and volunteers

take into account their past years of service.”

The arrangements also include provision of $1million to establish an assistance scheme managed by the volunteer associations to provide volunteers with an appropriate level of support.

“Our Government greatly values the support and commitment of both career firefighters and volunteers who perform a sometimes difficult and dangerous job protecting the people of WA.”

paramedics, and resuscitated at the scene.

“They revived me three or four times with paddles, then I was airlifted in a critical condition to Royal Perth Hospital by the RAC Rescue helicopter,” she said.

Her family were told to prepare for the worst as she was placed in an induced coma.

Miraculously, Tammy survived and while she continues to battle pain associated with the injuries she sustained in the crash, she is otherwise in good health.

Tammy is convinced that the ability of RAC Rescue to reach her quickly, and the tireless efforts of those at the scene, played a major role in ensuring her survival.

“I truly believe that if I was transferred to hospital by road in an ambulance, there is no way I would be alive today,” she said.

The State Government has promised to invest $19.2million in a second emergency rescue helicopter service to be based in the South West.

Premier Colin Barnett said the new helicopter would expand the current emergency service and ensure faster response times in the South West.

“Most of the helicopter’s emergency missions outside of the Perth metropolitan area have involved assisting people in inaccessible South West locations, where these accident victims would otherwise be waiting some time for an ambulance,” he said.

After being tasked to an incident by St John Ambulance, RAC Rescue must be airborne within 15 minutes of any call night or day.

Once at the scene, every member of the three strong crew of pilot, air crew officer and St John Ambulance critical care paramedic, springs into action.

Commissioner Gregson said that completing the 3,000th mission was a major achievement.

“The service continues to be vital for people in a critical condition following emergencies,” he said.

“RAC Rescue can access many areas of the State that would take ambulances longer to reach, and halving response times means patients are helped sooner, often saving lives.

“It is unfortunate that the need for RAC Rescue has continued to increase, but reassuring for the community to be able to rely on such a service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.”

Tammy Harrison is one person who knows firsthand just how valuable the service is, and she was the guest of honour at a recent event held at the DFES Jandakot Airport Base to mark the 3,000th mission.

Tammy was a first time mother of just three weeks back in March 2009 when the car she was travelling in was involved in a crash in Mundijong.

She has no recollection of the accident, but was told how she was removed from the vehicle by volunteer firefighters and

Recently RAC Rescue as it is known, reached a couple of significant milestones.

It recorded 416 rescue missions in 2012, the highest annual total since the service began, and completed its 3,000th mission in February 2013.

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Wayne Gregson said the service is supported by a huge team effort from committed professionals dedicated to saving lives and improving community safety.

“With nearly three quarters of the helicopter’s primary missions being in response to motor vehicle or motor cycle crashes, career or volunteer firefighters are often first on the scene,” he said.

“Working with paramedics, they help to free trapped people from their crashed vehicles and make the area safe.

“In search and rescues, which make up about a fifth of the missions, the orange uniforms of the department’s State Emergency Service volunteers are also a common sight.

“Additionally, members of the Volunteer Marine Rescue Services frequently provide assistance at ship to shore and other related emergencies.”

Before this stage is reached, however, the helicopter must be ready to fly, and this is the responsibility of the RAC Rescue crew and CHC Helicopters, the company contracted to provide the helicopter, flight crew and engineering staff.

Rescue helicopter missions

on the rise

Since being introduced in 2003, Western Australia’s Emergency Rescue Helicopter Service has made its mark, reducing the trauma of those in emergencies, and saving countless lives.

St John Ambulance Critical Care Paramedic Clinton Van Derwesthuyzen, former patient Tammy Harrison, RAC Rescue Pilot Mick Perren and former Emergency Services Minister Troy Buswell, at the 3,000th mission celebration.

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Lloyd praised the good work that the Rutherford family had done on their property, and urged others to do the same.

“Bushfires happen every year, they are a reality that we just cannot control,” he said.

“Anyone living in or near bushland, like the Rutherford family, has to accept responsibility for ensuring they are ready for the season by preparing their home and having a bushfire survival plan.

“Career and volunteer firefighters prepare for the season and they rely heavily on the community to help them by being proactive and maintaining their properties correctly.

“The Rutherfords are a great example of how prepared you need to be when you live in an area at risk of bushfire.”

Several community events took place in the lead up to and during the week, including Bushfire Safety Day on 27 December and Bush Fire Brigade open days, street meets, door knocks, displays and information stalls, as well as Bushfire Ready meetings.

Services Minister Troy Buswell and Operations Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey on a tour of her property.

“It’s inevitable that if you’re in an area like this, sooner or later you are going to be exposed to a fire,” Jenny said. “Accepting that is very important.”

As well as clearing a building protection zone around the property, cleaning gutters, burning off and installing firebreaks, the Rutherford’s have an independent water supply, generator and hoses, and a fire unit for putting out spot fires.

Their preparation work is maintained all year round.

Jenny said the family have also prepared two bushfire survival plans, one to stay and actively defend if her husband Kevin is home, and the other to leave if he is away.

She said that having a plan, plus a backup plan, was vital and helped her family feel they were fully prepared for the bushfire season.

“You feel more confident within yourself that your property is going to be protected and there is more chance of survival,” Jenny said.

The message from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services this bushfire season is be prepared and have a bushfire survival plan.

The community was urged to begin their preparations during Bushfire Action Week from October 21-28.

One community minded Paulls Valley family opened their home during the week in the hope that they could inspire others to take responsibility for their survival.

The Rutherford family is no stranger to living with the risk of bushfire, having been residents of the Hills suburb for the past six years.

Jenny and her husband Kevin have taken a number of steps in the lead up to summer to give their home and family the best chance of survival should a bushfire start.

Bushfire Action Week, which encourages the community to take action and prepare for bushfires, started with a media launch at Jenny’s home where she led former Emergency

Photo courtesy of Matt Hayes.

Community urged to get ready during Bushfire Action Week

MOU with Rio Tinto formalises mutual aid agreement

Rio Tinto and DFES recently signed off on a mutual aid arrangement to support rapid incident emergency response both on and off the company’s sites in the Pilbara.

The Memorandum of Understanding also outlined a framework for the establishment and operation of private fire brigades at Tom Price, Pannawonica and Paraburdoo.

Rio Tinto General Manager Port Operations Nick Serle said that access to additional resources was crucial to local communities, as it would improve safety practices and ensure timely and effective emergency services in line with Rio Tinto’s ongoing commitment to safety.

“We look forward to our continued partnership with DFES in developing resilient communities that work together to prevent, prepare, respond and recover from emergencies,” Mr Serle said.

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Wayne Gregson said partnerships such as this between DFES and Rio Tinto were important for regional communities, particularly in the developing Pilbara region.

“DFES is committed to working with the community and the private sector to build their capacity and capability to improve emergency management in Western Australia,” he said.

“We are pleased to formalise the agreement with Rio Tinto to strengthen the provision of emergency services in the Pilbara and safety of local communities.”

The transition has meant that a number of executive titles have changed in addition to the Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner role.

The former Chief Operations Officers have become Deputy Commissioners, while the Assistant Chief Operations Officers are now Assistant Commissioners:

Lloyd Bailey AFSM – Deputy Commissioner Operations

Stephen Fewster – Deputy Commissioner Capability

Chris Arnol – Assistant Commissioner Country Operations

Gary Gifford ESM – Assistant Commissioner Hazard Planning and Response

Darren Klemm – Assistant Commissioner Professional Development

Brad Stringer – Assistant Commissioner Metropolitan Operations

Graham Swift – Assistant Commissioner Operations Capability

Commissioner Gregson congratulated these staff, who together with Executive Director Government and Strategy David Caporn APM and Executive Director Corporate Services Frank Pasquale, form the DFES Corporate Leadership Team.

FESA officially ceased to exist, and the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) came into being on Thursday 1 November 2012.

New Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Wayne Gregson said it was a momentous achievement.

“The change to a department is significant and ushers in a fresh chapter for Fire and Emergency Services in Western Australia,” Commissioner Gregson said.

“The Department will now create its own history, and work to further develop and improve the essential services it provides to the Western Australian community.

“It was one of the key recomm-endations from the special inquiry into the Perth Hills bushfires, and was realised in a relatively short space of time.

“This was only possible with the cooperation, valued contribution and commitment of staff and volunteers across the organisation, and I am extremely grateful for the high level of support shown by all.”

D-day arrives

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services Corporate Leadership Team. Back row (l-r): Assistant Commissioner Operations Capability Graham Swift, Assistant Commissioner Metropolitan Operations Brad Stringer, Assistant Commissioner Country Operations Chris Arnol, Assistant Commissioner Hazard Planning and Response Gary Gifford ESM, Assistant Commissioner Professional Development Darren Klemm. Front row: Deputy Commissioner Capability Stephen Fewster, Deputy Commissioner Operations Lloyd Bailey AFSM, Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Wayne Gregson APM, Executive Director Corporate Services Frank Pasquale, Executive Director Government and Strategy David Caporn APM.

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unsuccessful, unfortunately so too were the Wildcats who failed to secure their first win at home in the ‘jungle’.

The week was also celebrated with a series of ‘thank you’ events held in the four metropolitan SES districts.

Operations Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey said hundreds of volunteers also came along to the Belmont, Bayswater, Kalamunda and Cockburn SES units for a casual get together and special medal presentations.

“Volunteers, their partners and families enjoyed an evening barbecue in a social setting, while a special video compilation was shown as a token of appreciation,” Lloyd said.

“We also presented volunteers and staff with citations issued by the Queensland Government, recognising their valuable contribution during that State’s devastating flood and cyclone events in 2010-11.

“It was the first time these local events have been held and volunteers really enjoyed the experience. In addition it gave us the chance to acknowledge their efforts over the past year and extend our gratitude on behalf of the WA community.”

Mills, jeweller Justin Linney and other media personalities a small taste of what SES volunteers do,” Will said.

“There were a few nerves as members of the group advanced to the edge, but with the help of trained vertical rescue team members, everyone landed safely on the pavement below, sporting a relieved smile.

“The celebrity abseil challenge is a great opportunity to highlight the 2,000 SES volunteers who dedicate their time to helping those in need all across the State.”

At the end of the week and across the other side of town, up to 100 SES volunteers converged on the new Perth Arena for the Wildcats first home game against the Adelaide 36ers.

The large block of orange in the stands contrasted with the army of fans in red, but they were not alone, with the players wearing orange socks to show their support for the service as part of the NBL community round.

In front of a record crowd of more than 11,000, one brave volunteer also took centre stage for an attempt at the half court shot and an opportunity to take away $5,000. While he was

It is lunchtime on a Wednesday in the heart of the city and crowds are bustling along the footpath, until someone stops and looks up.

What they see are two State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers, appearing as tiny orange dots high above the ground, scaling down the last 100 metres of the 24 level enex100 tower façade at 100 St Georges Terrace.

They are soon joined by five local personalities and several DFES personnel who are escorted down a smaller drop of 25 metres.

The activity highlighted National SES Week, held from November 12–18, and it was the third annual celebrity abseil challenge.

District Officer Will Blackshaw from SES South Coastal said Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day) on 14 November used a different abseil venue and involved a new challenge.

“This year we rigged up a multistorey building filled with hundreds of office workers, to give people like celebrity chef Theo Kalogeracos, artist Stormie

City sees orange as SES volunteers celebrated

model that addresses risk and vulnerability at a local level, whilst acknowledging the need to optimise available resources.

“Improved interoperability and cooperation with partner agencies, to ensure existing physical and human resources are used to their fullest potential, will support an aligned approach to future preparedness across our State,” he said.

“Engaging with local communities is also critical for building an understanding and acceptance of the shared responsibility all Western Australians have for preventing, preparing for and responding during emergencies.

“The New Beginnings 2024 document is also about sharing the Department’s vision and achieving transparency around strategic intentions with stakeholders to ensure we all play our part in improving community safety.”

The document is available online through the Department of Fire and Emergency Services website: www.dfes.wa.gov.au and internal portals.

The move to a Department saw the launch of a strategic document, New Beginnings 2024, that will shape the future of fire and emergency services in WA.

Commissioner Gregson explained that the purpose was to assist both internal and external stakeholders to understand the need for reform and how it will be achieved over the next four years.

“In broad terms, New Beginnings 2024 outlines the Department’s journey towards better coordinated and more effective delivery of emergency services within Western Australia,” he said.

“It lays the foundation for Stage One of a new Strategic Plan that will guide the activities of the new organisation.

“The document also explains what the changes mean for internal stakeholders and clarifies key strategic priorities.”

Commissioner Gregson said a major goal for the Department in the short term is to design a service delivery

New direction for fire and emergency services

Some of the changes to the Department’s direction include:

Improved interoperability and cooperation with other emergency service providers in relation to preparedness and response activities.

Improved engagement with community stakeholders to support increased community resilience.

Improved command and control arrangements during incidents.

More effective corporate leadership and governance.

Vision:Resilient Western Australian communities that work together to build capacity and capability to prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies.

Mission:To improve community safety practices and provide timely, quality and effective emergency services, in partnership with local communities and emergency service providers.

Values: Put the community first Work together as a committed team Respect and value each other Continuously improve our services Act with integrity and honesty Have open and honest two-way

communications Strive to keep ourselves and others safe

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Than

ksgivi

ngThanksgiving service shines light on emergency services

Then FESA Chief Executive Officer Wayne Gregson APM, read the first lesson from the scriptures during the service, which included a recital of the second lesson by WA Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services Association Executive Officer Max Osborn AFSM.

Chaplain Ron Wingate also addressed the congregation from the pulpit, focusing on the vital role of fire and emergency services in the community.

Mr Gregson said the timing was appropriate, with the State’s emergency services finalising plans in the lead up to the bushfire and cyclone seasons.

“It was a privilege to have this opportunity to express gratitude for the marvellous contribution made each year by our dedicated emergency services personnel,” he said.

“I was very pleased to see the service attended by many of our people and their families, whose valuable ongoing support was also acknowledged.”

Choral Evensong combines choral music, the reading of the Scriptures, prayer and teaching. In the Anglican tradition of worship, the beauty of music and the arts is valued as a means of experiencing both the force and the intimacy of all that is divine.

The splendour of historic St George’s Cathedral in the centre of Perth, combined with inspirational hymn singing, made it a memorable experience for those who attended a special Thanksgiving Service during Choral Evensong on Sunday 7 October.

Chaplain Ron Wingate, then FESA CEO Wayne Gregson APM, WA Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services Association Executive Officer Max Osborn AFSM and VMRWA Vice Commander Roger Martin, with SES volunteers at the Thanksgiving Service.

burns treatment and more testimonials from recent WA bushfire survivors,” Suellen said.

“We were able to place a human element against each stage of PAS by incorporating these defined processes within the publication to make it more user friendly.

“There is also an increased emphasis on Building Protection Zones, as well as the importance of bushfire survival plans, and defining the triggers for both leaving early and staying to actively defend.”

In addition, Media and Public Affairs undertook extensive design work on the publication to make it easier to read, and included more photos to reinforce key messages and modernise the look.

Hazard Planning and Response Assistant Commissioner Gary Gifford

The guide covers a number of key messages in relation to physical, mental and emotional preparedness, bushfire behaviour, bushfire warning systems including Emergency Alert, safer places, and returning home after the fire.

In reviewing PAS, Community Engagement undertook social research with unengaged community members living in high risk bushfire locations, and the findings have been addressed in the revision.

Director for Community Engagement Suellen Shea said the research tested people’s understanding of the material and formatting, how the publication impacted on attitudes and behavioural intentions, as well as issues around distribution and access.

“Feedback from this research informed the development of PAS version 4 and included decision making flow charts,

Fresh look for flagship bushfire publication

said that PAS forms the basis of the Department’s communications material, advising the community how to help themselves stay safe during bushfires and the importance of shared responsibility when it comes to preparation.

“Research participants indicated that on reflection they wished they had taken the time to look through the publication earlier, particularly as they were aware of it,” Gary said.

“The challenge we constantly face, along with Bush Fire Brigades, local governments and Bushfire Ready Groups, is how to get the community on board and ensure they actually read our material and take the initiative themselves to be bushfire aware and prepared.”

To order free hard copies of Prepare. Act. Survive visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au

Prepare. Act. Survive. (PAS), the Department’s essential guide to bushfire, has been revamped to reflect current advice and research.

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the community to the chemical fire and resulting smoke plume,” Gary said.

“The majority of feedback to DFES indicated people were extremely pleased to be advised via the service, and their comments were generally complimentary.”

Under Emergency Alert people can no longer register different addresses as the system does not have an opt in function. Former subscribers of StateAlert have been advised of the changes so they can make alternate plans.

Gary added that while the new system would greatly benefit DFES, it was not a substitute for current public information tools.

“In an emergency, people will continue to be reminded that they should not rely on receiving a message and need to be ready to act without a warning,” he said.

For more information on Emergency Alert, please visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au

Emergency Alert is used by emergency management agencies across the country and is similar to the previous StateAlert system, but offers DFES greater flexibility and improvement including the:

capacity and capability to send more messages to more people

ability to prioritise and target households and mobile phones closest to the area under direct threat

facility to send text messages on their mobile phones to people who are travelling through an area under threat.

Gary said location based text and telephone message warnings were used for the first time in WA to notify people about a bushfire threatening properties in Chidlow on 27 December last year.

The second time was during a hazardous materials incident at Canning Vale on 9 January.

“More than 290,000 messages were successfully sent alerting members of

World first technology that enables text message warnings to be sent to people based on their location during an emergency is now being used in Western Australia after it adopted the national Emergency Alert system.

Hazard Planning and Response Assistant Commissioner Gary Gifford said the system sent voice messages to landlines and text messages to mobile phones within a defined area about likely or actual emergencies. It can be used for any hazard including fire, flood or extreme weather events.

“Once a decision is made to warn a community using Emergency Alert, the responsible emergency service organisation, such as DFES or WA Police, will determine the defined area to be warned, which warning mediums to use and whether a telephone alert needs to be issued,” Gary said.

Emergency Alert telephone warning system adopted

Taking to the skies

Pilot Brenton Davis from HNZ Helicopters, the company contracted by the Federal National Aerial Firefighting Centre to provide Helitacs for the Western Australian Government, has provided this insider view of what is involved in aerial firefighting from the pilot’s perspective.

Experience really counts, and after many years of conducting Helitac operations in and around Perth, HNZ pilots and DFES crews know virtually all of the suitable water sources available.

Plotting of the fire in the mandatory job brief always identifies primary and secondary water sources before the crews even walk out the door. No amount of desk planning though can truly prepare the pilots for each and every contingency. As every firefighter knows, the fire is really controlled by the weather. Winds and temperatures define what will unfold as the job goes on.

The helicopter crews utilise those aspects of the weather to their best advantage. Strong winds may mean a rapidly moving fire front, but it can also equate to better loads of water, and more controllable speeds in their drop pattern.

The beauty of the AS350 B3 Squirrel Helitac is its speed and manoeuvrability. Being able to pull water from almost any pond or lake, the craft can draw up their 1,000 litres of water in only 45 seconds and climb out of the water to attack the nearby fire with a remarkably quick turnaround.

By staggering the helicopters in and out of the water, the pilots are able to effect repetitive drops onto the fire line sometimes up to one every minute. It is a remarkably effective tool. Working in tandem with the fire crews on the ground, the synergy of all involved results in a great aerial suppression attack on any given fire.

HNZ Helitac pilots keep very busy during the long, hot WA summer. It is the demanding nature of the work that brings such great job satisfaction.

The system itself is well refined, with a second pair of Helitacs being available to call in to take over duties, or the staggering of the refuel to keep at least one in the air. Helicopters are flexible and versatile by design, and this works perfectly in the very dynamic environment of firefighting. Forward refuelling points are planned for school ovals or public parks, whichever is closest and most convenient to the action of that particular fire.

Every fire is different though, and every job presents its own unique challenges. That is part of the attraction of this very specialised type of helicopter operation. Most aviation is pre-planned and well structured. Pilots generally know exactly where they are going, and when, and what is going to happen there, but this is not so with Helitacs.

Of course the actual profiles of drawing and dropping the water are well practiced under company procedures, as you would expect of any niche piloting operation. The game plan for each individual fire has to be formed, adapted and replanned as the event unfolds.

This dynamic environment, the ever changing scenario of saving houses and property, is what makes the role so interesting and rewarding. Any given job can see a pilot working in and around factors such as swinging winds, hidden powerlines, livestock in paddocks, and submerged pumps and cables in water holes.

Smoke and ash covering the windscreen, the glare of the setting sun and of course all of the other aircraft dancing around the skies during the fire, are all variables which the pilot deals with on the run whilst keeping his machine in the air. It is busy and it is very demanding, but it does make for a rewarding day of flying.

The early mornings are always peaceful. There is a light dew rolling off the body of the helicopter, and chilled water drips down your arm as you take the blade covers off, but the cool of the morning belies the possibilities of the summer day ahead. You already know the forecast and the soaring temperatures, and predicted gusty winds mean that more than likely you are in for a hectic afternoon.

Flying a Helitac for HNZ at Perth Airport involves a lot of sitting around waiting, occasionally interrupted by that crucial phone call, followed by a frenzy of activity. When that call does come though, it’s all hands on deck. Those are the calls we wait for. Those calls are the reason we love this job.

When a ground crew calls for aerial support, the Helitacs are put on standby. “Property under threat”, are the words that get the machines and Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) crews rolling into action.

Since early morning the helicopters have been carefully prepared, pilots and crews briefed by DFES Air Operations personnel, and everything put in place for the urgent departure. The machines are fuelled up for an hour and a half of action before they need to land for resupply. Any more fuel than this means less water in the tank to fight the fire.

At the same time as the helicopters depart, the fuel support truck also leaves the airport to rendezvous at a predetermined location. Generally, this plan allows the helicopters to do an hour or so of effective water bombing before needing to land.

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SES“The most important thing you can do to grow your unit is to make it something that people really want to be a part of.”

exercises, weekends away, smaller group training sessions and delegating specific roles to members to keep them busy during the quieter months.

“When you ask someone to give up so much of their personal life, which includes the time they spend with their family, friends or at work, you must be able to give something back.

“Attracting SES recruits is always going to be a challenge, but if you are willing to do whatever you can to keep them happy, then in return you will be rewarded with a higher retention rate.”

Recruiting volunteers Cockburn style

Thirty seven volunteers for one unit might sound a reasonable number, but not for Cockburn State Emergency Service.

Unit Manager Drew Devereux said the number represented a trough, but nine months later they had climbed out of it and registered 65 members, by far their highest ever.

“These are not just numbers on the books, they are enthusiastic members with great attendance and energy, and they are the future of our unit,” Drew said.

“The most important thing you can do to grow your unit is to make it something that people really want to be a part of.

“Make it fun, make it engaging, make it challenging. Get your culture right, and growth will take care of itself.”

Drew said that the dramatic increase could not strictly be attributed to a successful recruitment strategy.

“We did develop one at the start of 2012 and invested a lot of effort implementing it, but ended up achieving very little,” he said.

“A press advertisement got one response, and a sausage sizzle at Bunnings attracted one new member who did not stay on.

“In addition we worked to raise our media profile, and the local community newspaper even did a front page feature on us, but no new members resulted from that.

“Yet our numbers shot up all the same. You could well ask how that was possible, but it turns out we have actually been getting enough people through the door all along.

“The SES has a fantastic public image and a pretty high profile. The big difference for us is that we have learned how to keep them on board.”

Drew said from the moment a prospective new recruit made contact, it was recognised that the unit had a retention challenge. If met, it would ensure new members stayed and the unit grew.

“When we receive a lead on a prospective new member, we make contact promptly. If you have to make them wait, stay in touch and send the prospect some information,” he said.

“A must do is to make sure you give them an engaging induction process.

“We made the decision to only sign up new members on set intake nights, and follow up with a comprehensive all day induction course.”

very hard on has been retention and what they can do to prevent members from resigning because they either do not like it, or did not understand the commitment required.

“At Northshore our attendance requirements now form a critical part of the very backbone to our survival and over recent years these have not wavered,” Nick said.

“Without a doubt, the strict policy by which we operate has led to some members resigning, but what we are left with is a core of very solid, devoted and keen volunteers, all of whom put in the hours.”

As well as expecting a commitment from new members, Nick said that in turn the unit was willing to fulfil certain obligations to them.

“We ensure that there are worthwhile incentives for each and every volunteer,” he said.

“This includes social nights and barbecues before training or

“Without even so much as speaking to or seeing anyone face to face, we have already weeded out those applicants who do not read emails or follow basic instructions,” he said

“We are certainly not backward in coming forward at these nights, as it is our one opportunity to lay everything on the table.

“We paint a very realistic picture of the commitment expected from each volunteer.

“Admittedly this does lead to some people walking out the door, but better at this stage than later.

“The proof of this approach is the fact that our post induction drop out rate has plummeted since we introduced the policy.”

As with most other SES units, Northshore has experienced the highs of good volunteer numbers, along with the lows of almost being shut down with a membership in the single figures.

One element that the unit has worked

Many people have asked what it is that Northshore SES ‘put in the water’ that allows them to retain and attract new volunteers at such an impressive rate.

Local Manager Nick Elliott said he was happy to pass on secrets of the unit’s success.

“There is no magic formula, and what works for us may not be the same for others,” he said.

“Our website generates about 80 percent of membership enquiries, with another 15 percent or so coming through the DFES Volunteer Youth Services team, and the remaining five percent from elsewhere.

“All applicants, no matter who they are, are initially placed on our waiting list. They then receive an email from us advising them what will happen next and when.”

The Northshore Unit breaks the process down into four key sections:

getting a foot in the door

the information night

setting the standards

ongoing commitments

Nick said that to even get to the information night, unbeknown to them the applicants have already cleared some hurdles simply by responding to emails within the stipulated timeframes.

Retention strategies key as SES reveal tricks of the trade

Northshore SES volunteers respond to a car versus house callout in Claremont. Cockburn SES members Matt Wall, Erica Honey, Steve Wells, Kylie Griffin and Jamal Nobandi.

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DFES Commands. Information on Emergency Alert and Westplan Bushfire were also discussed.

“This is an important forum providing our emergency responders with the opportunity to learn about and be briefed on the latest developments that will improve our State’s response capabilities,” Commissioner Gregson said.

“The key focus for our Department and all involved agencies is working well together to better protect local communities.”

He emphasised that community safety during the bushfire and cyclone seasons was a shared responsibility, and urged people to prepare their properties and have a survival plan.

“Emergency services are doing all they can to be ready for the coming season, but everyone has their own role to play to keep their families and properties safe,” he said.

More than 100 key operational personnel from Western Australia’s fire and emergency service agencies gathered at the forum, including representatives from the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC), Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), WA Police and local governments.

DFES staff and external stakeholders briefed invited delegates on seasonal and operational forecasts and arrangements for the current bushfire and wet seasons.

State Operations Centre Meteorologist Brad Santos explained to attendees how recent upgrades within the BOM forecast system will provide more detailed forecasts and weather modelling information ahead of and throughout the bushfire and cyclone season.

Delegates were also informed of the latest developments within DEC, State Emergency Management Committee and the Office of Bushfire Risk Management, along with updates from

Forecasts for the current bushfire season outlined at November’s annual Seasonal Outlook briefing had Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Wayne Gregson highlighting the potential severity and issuing a stern warning to local communities.

Commissioner Gregson said the season could be a serious one, with emergency responders throughout the State already dealing with an increased number of major fires.

“A very dry winter has caused significant soil dryness and dry fuel loads which cause fast moving fires with high levels of intensity, and this is a very dangerous combination,” he said.

“There is potential for it to be another difficult season, but how we prepare and respond together as a community will make the difference between survival or disaster.”

Bushfires present serious threat

“A very dry winter has caused significant soil dryness and dry fuel loads which cause fast moving fires with high levels of intensity, and this is a very dangerous combination.”

“Agreed multiagency procedures and prior major incident training certainly made the response more streamlined,” he said.

“We had a strategic coordination centre already in place and when it counted, we were ready and able to deliver quality information sharing, strong and visible leadership, effective media management and committed firefighting personnel.”

Senior operations staff from within DFES, the Department of Environment and Conservation, Public Transport Authority, St John Ambulance, WA Police and other emergency management agencies had the opportunity to learn from these experiences.

Operations Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey said the comprehensive presentation was of great interest to the forum audience.

“Gary was in Australia at the invitation of AFAC as part of their Professional Development Event Series, with sponsorship provided by Motorola, and we are most grateful to both for their

Gary’s address gave some insight into how the London Fire Brigade (LFB) manages its operational and emergency planning and procedures, as well as health and safety.

He also spoke about the development of new response capabilities for terrorist threats, advising that the LFB operates a cadre of officers who are specifically trained in both conventional and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) terrorism, firearms related incidents, public disorder and crisis management.

“Among the many things we learnt from the major 2005 terrorist attack in London was that there was an over reliance on the use of mobile phones, and sub-surface communication was a problem,” Gary said.

“In addition we experienced difficulties in the area of operational mobilising due to some confusion with the specific address of the impacted underground train stations, and of course the traffic chaos that ensued.”

On the plus side, Gary said a lot of things went right.

Operations personnel hear from expert

support in bringing such a high profile international fire officer to Western Australia,” Lloyd said.

“His experiences in the London bombings and subsequent coronial enquiry, along with management of LFB planning for the London Olympics, and ideas on addressing the significant budget cuts imposed by Government, provided a broad range of interesting, challenging and innovative topics.

“While it was fascinating and very informative to hear firsthand from Gary how the terrorist incident was dealt with, at the same time it was also good to know that what we have accomplished in this specialist area at DFES is in line with world’s best practice.

“Whilst WA may not go forward with a specialist team of firefighters in bullet proof personal protective clothing, the innovative way the LFB has moved to address significant issues left all in attendance thinking about the way DFES may need to do business in the future.”

Keynote speaker at the 2012 Operations Forum, London Fire Brigade Director for Operational Resilience and Training Gary Reason, gave a thought provoking presentation on lessons learnt from the 2005 London terrorist bombings.Gary Reason, London Fire Brigade Director for Operational Resilience and Training.

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“A new voting feature will be provided for personnel who may not want to comment, but still wish to show support for an idea,” she said.

“This button will be activated to allow users a single vote on each idea, giving everyone the chance to see the volume of support received from the P2P community.”

Nicola said the idea submission form had also been updated and simplified.

“We are introducing an easier and more user friendly process for those submitting suggestions,” she said.

“Users will be asked to complete the sentence ‘My idea is…’ to continue the focus on solutions based innovation.”

The ‘Who will your idea benefit?’ section has also been enhanced to enable selection of specific areas within the DFES family.

“These small but important changes are the result of the P2P team listening to users,” Nicola said.

“P2P’s goal is to make it as easy as possible for you to contribute to the DFES vision of a leading, future focused emergency services organisation.”

For more information on P2P, email the team at portal2progress@dfes.wa.gov.au

The portal is still in its infancy and therefore the results of many of the ideas posted are yet to come to fruition.

As P2P continues to mature, so too will the results of the ideas posted and their impact on the way the Department does business.

Even so, out of all the ideas posted to date, 48 percent have contributed to existing initiatives leading to an increase in scope of projects, and another 19 percent have been fully implemented.

Professional Pathways Superintendent Brad Delavale said as a manager tasked with implementing change, P2P provided valuable information.

“Not only do we get visibility about issues and ideas we otherwise may not have considered, but key champions of our cause are also identified” he said.

“Getting these people on board helps us to tap into volumes of experience and knowledge we previously had not identified.”

Strategic Alignment Office Manager Nicola Joyce said the team was continually looking for ways to improve the portal and some new features were about to be implemented as a result of feedback from the P2P community.

The Portal2Progress (P2P) platform has been making a real difference to DFES with hundreds of ideas collected and acted on since it was launched in December 2011.

In just over 12 months, 958 users have registered for the system, posting 389 ideas covering a broad range of suggestions.

Governance and Strategy Executive Director David Caporn said that the Corporate Leadership Team is delighted with the valuable information coming through the portal.

“In particular, the nature and diversity of ideas that are ultimately adding value to many aspects of the way we do business is impressive,” David said.

“Ideas are continually being suggested, researched, implemented or integrated into existing projects.

“Big or small, all of the ideas that are posted are considered and sent to relevant business areas for advice.

“Importantly though, the Corporate Leadership Team themselves make the final decision as to whether an idea is implemented or not, so no single person can brush them under the carpet.”

Portal2Progress powers on

Next day many of the volunteer associations held key stakeholder and annual general meetings, further education sessions and demonstrations.

The conference provided an opportunity for volunteers, personnel and staff to gain further professional development and knowledge, and importantly to get to know and socialise with colleagues from all parts of Western Australia.

In total close to 500 delegates attended various components of the conference, with feedback indicating that overall it was a fruitful networking, fellowship and educational opportunity.

The conference increased and clarified my understanding of the changes that are occurring, particularly with the professional pathways and the proposed review of the Acts. VFRS/SES Delegate

The event provided interservice networking, a boost for enthusiasm, seeing how the changing face of emergency services in WA will impact on volunteers, and learning more about emergency management overall. SES Delegate

A point of difference for the 2012 program was the introduction of a number of practical demonstrations including scenarios based on a light aircraft crash, HAMZAT spill and road crash rescue.

Another aspect of the Conference was an exhibition that featured emergency service appliances and staffed booths promoting key DFES initiatives like the Portal to Progress and Reward and Recognition programs.

Conference keynote speaker Jason Clarke put the minds of delegates to work, challenging them to think differently. In particular, volunteers were encouraged to focus on how they could improve their strategic planning and engagement with younger brigade, group or unit members.

Highlights of the information sessions and topics that were well received included Working with the RAC Rescue Helicopter, Searches on land and sea from a Police perspective, and New rules for VMRS vessels.

The conference presents an excellent opportunity for delegates to network, and this is what they did at the Saturday night Cocktail Reception held in Perth’s Government House Ballroom.

The jam packed program held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, included the Seasonal Outlook Forum, two day volunteer conference program, cocktail reception, four award ceremonies and the Operations Forum.

This year’s conference theme Share, Learn, Prepare – coming together to protect our community, supported the future direction of the newly formed Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) and helped to shape the event program.

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Wayne Gregson said the theme reflected the vision of improving interoperability and continuing to build operational effectiveness.

“We are working to improve community outcomes across the emergency services sector,” he said. “The conference theme aligns with the wider reform programs being undertaken within DFES as we focus on changing attitudes and embrace new approaches.”

The two day volunteer part of the conference commenced on the Saturday and featured 43 speakers and 26 individual educational sessions. It delivered a wide range of topics specific to individual volunteer services, in addition to items of general interest.

Volunteers and emergency services personnel from across the State converged on Perth in early November to participate in a shared learning experience at the 2012 WA Fire and Emergency Services Conference.

Shared learning key to conference success

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Mark is more than pleased to have been made up to the Air Attack Supervisor rank.

“I am rapt to finally be endorsed in the role,” he said. “It’s very challenging but satisfying being able to apply aerial resources to assist ground based crews, and you get a pretty good feeling assisting them to save property or stop the fire from escalating.

“I also get to work with a great bunch of guys who collectively have tremendous experience in firefighting aviation.

“It’s been a lot of hard work to achieve this qualification, and I look forward to undertaking the role.”

Peter said seeing immediate results for effort was extremely gratifying.

“Being in a helicopter over fire with multiple aircraft around is very demanding and requires intense concentration,” he said.

“There is also no inflight service or air-conditioning!

“Observing a large fire from the air and being aware of the big picture is beneficial for me as an officer.

“At the end of the day, it’s really all about saving lives, property and the environment, and as a firefighter you can’t beat that.”

Adam added that newly qualified Air Attack Supervisors could be regionally deployed at short notice to perform the role in regional areas of the State.

demonstrating competency during live bushfire operations, Mike at Bold Park, Mark at Koondoola, and Peter at Dwellingup.

Then Chief Executive Officer Wayne Gregson was on hand to present each officer with the Air Attack Supervisor brevet.

“This is the highest qualification a fire officer can obtain in aerial suppression operations, and is only earned after a great deal of application and hard work,” Mr Gregson said.

“Doing the job well is critical to the overall success of the aerial fleet and firefighting efforts.

“As well as demonstrating proficiency in all aspects of operations, supervisors need to possess dedication, bravery, commitment and intelligence.

“Capabilities and qualities of this nature would be valuable to any employer, and I am extremely proud that these officers are part of our organisation.”

Mike said he really enjoyed his role as an Air Attack Supervisor.

“I find it very rewarding to coordinate aerial suppression resources over a bushfire to achieve a strategy,” he said.

“What I really like about the job is landing at the end of the day after a big fire and feeling like you’ve helped the troops out on the ground and made a difference.”

Gaining the competencies to become an air attack supervisor with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services may not be easy, but for the elite group who have, it is rewarding and well worth the effort.

Air Operations Acting Manager Adam Bannister said it could take up to five bushfire seasons and several years of commitment to achieve the qualification.

“These officers play a very important role in fire suppression, coordinating fire bombing operations involving both fixed wing and rotary aircraft in support of the Incident Controller,” Adam said.

“Their training is comprehensive, and includes live components and on the job endorsement.

“It is a pivotal responsibility that is not suited to everyone, requiring the ability to perform well under pressure, develop strategic plans for aerial suppression activites which complement the Incident Action Plan, demonstrate assertive decision making skills, and decisively assess the dynamic risks of the situation at hand.”

Station Officers Mike Stewart, Mark Norton and Peter Copeland have proven their commitment to the role.

They were endorsed during the 2011-12 bushfire season after

Best job in the world say air attack supervisors

Newly graduated Air Attack Supervisors Peter Copeland, Mike Stewart and Mark Norton with then CEO Mr Wayne Gregson.

“The primary function of the aircraft is to support the efforts of fire crews conducting suppression operations on the ground, and they can also assist firefighting in inaccessible terrain.

“The aerial fleet plays an invaluable role in the firefighting partnership, and is essential to enhancing community safety during the bushfire season.”

The complete aerial fleet consists of the Erickson S64E Aircrane, two Type 1 Helitacs, four Type 3 Helitacs, eight fixed wing water bombing aircraft, and the Aerial Intelligence helicopter.

Investment in WA’s aerial firefighting fleet, which is coordinated through DFES and Department of Environment and Conservation, is made in partnership with the Federal Government through the National Aerial Firefighting Centre.

on the ground, but they are one of our best tools in helping to control and contain a fire, particularly in the early stages of development.”

Already this season the aerial fleet has been deployed to more than 110 incidents, including numerous bushfires in regional areas of the State and many in or near the Perth metropolitan area.

The Aircrane’s first activation for the 2012-13 bushfire season was to a blaze in Bertram that threatened homes and burnt through 34 hectares.

The fire was eventually contained and controlled, thanks in no small part to the strategic efforts of the pilots and air attack supervisors.

“Aerial suppression operations involve getting to a fire within the first 30 minutes to prevent it from escalating, which allows ground crews to get in and attack it,” Peter said.

When the massive Erickson Aircrane water bombing helicopter arrived for its second season in Western Australia, the State’s aerial fleet was complete.

Aviation Services Acting Director Peter Saint said the capacity and success of the impressive Helitac last year had secured its return.

“The Aircrane is a large, versatile helicopter that can load very quickly, refill in 18-40 seconds and accurately release between 7,500 and 9,000 litres of water and foam per drop,” Peter said.

“It carries more than double the capacity of the Type 1 helicopters and seven times the amount of the smaller Type 3 Helitacs.

“Of course these machines do not replace essential firefighting resources

Photo courtesy of Matt Hayes.

Aerial firefighting soars to great heights

“The Aircrane is a large, versatile helicopter that can load very quickly, refill in 18-40 seconds and accurately release between 7,500 and 9,000 litres of water and foam per drop.”

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Anneliese advised that the DFES Wellness branch was working on a draft document for revitalising the Peer Support Program.

“It will take into account the 2012 Peer Support survey, together with current best practice resources that relate to peer support,” she said.

This includes the Guidelines on Peer Support by the Australian Centre for Post Traumatic Mental Health (University of Melbourne), the Employee Support Program Metropolitan Fire Brigade (Melbourne), and Embrace Program (State Emergency Service/Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland).

The Peer Support Survey will inform the new risk management project now underway. It looks at critical incident response, and takes into consideration findings from the Community Development and Justice Standing Committee in relation to the response by State Government Agencies to experiences of trauma by workers and volunteers arising from disasters.

If you would like a copy of the Peer Support Survey Report, email leon.fernandes@dfes.wa.gov.au or anneliese.smith@dfes.wa.gov.au

Fire and Rescue Service named the Chaplain or another service member as their first point of contact, with Peer Support in third place.

This result mirrored research done in 2007 which showed that career firefighters will primarily use each other as support, rather than any formal system.

Anneliese said that after combining the first, second and third rankings, it was clear that a trained peer supporter was the top option across all services and areas of DFES.

“With most people in DFES going to another service member as their first choice, it underlines the importance of mental health and critical incident training for everyone,” she said.

General themes from the comments made by participants centred mainly on better advertising of peer support services and systems, regular training for peer support, and information sessions on stations and at units.

This was followed by comments about more resources including financial, for Peer Support, Chaplaincy and Wellness.

Peer support has been under the microscope recently, with an online survey by the Department’s Wellness Branch gauging both interest in the program and its effectiveness.

Wellness Manager Anneliese Smith said approximately five percent of people in the organisation had shared their views.

“Main responders were from the metropolitan area, followed by the South West, with the majority being submitted by the Career Fire and Rescue Service and State Emergency Service,” she said.

“A significant response was that almost 94 percent of participants considered the program to be of value.

“Another 96 percent of people who have used the Peer Support Program would use it again, and 85 percent of survey responders would use the program if they required support.”

Participants were asked to rank from one to ten who they would go to for support if they needed it.

The majority of services rated a trained peer supporter as the person they would first approach, while the Career

Views canvassed on peer support

Sincere condolences go to the family, friends and colleagues of these personnel who have passed away recently.

Colin Burgess – Senior Firefighter at Geraldton Fire Station

Mark Claffey – Senior Firefighter at Daglish Fire Station

Grant Cowper – Senior Firefighter (retired) at Fremantle Fire Station

Mark Noormets – Member of Byford Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade

Norman Stagoll – Member of Bassendean Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service

The Capes will also benefit from an extra two new Area Officer positions to support the volunteers with training and response.

Former career firefighter and Community Fire Manager Andrew Thompson has accepted the role of Area Officer Leeuwin, and the Area Officer Geographe will be appointed in the near future.

Danny said these achievements would enhance the ability of fire and emergency services to deal with hazards on the urban-rural interface in this fast growing region.

“Everyone involved in the project is committed to ensuring improvements are delivered to the community, and the extra response capacity will be welcomed by firefighters who attend incidents in this challenging part of the State,” he said.

“While the changes are significant, it is important that we continue to communicate to all home owners that they need to take responsibility for the fuels on their own properties. We all need to work together when it comes to bushfire safety.”

implemented this season in high risk areas to ensure a rapid and coordinated effort to help minimise losses.

“In addition, the Capes region has established dedicated multiagency incident control centres in Margaret River and Busselton, providing fire agencies with the capacity to manage incidents locally.”

Bush Fire Service (BFS) brigades in Yallingup, Cowaramup, Prevelley/Gnarabup and Witchcliffe have now transitioned to dual registered BFS and Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) brigades to enhance structural firefighting capabilities.

These brigades have received additional specialist training and equipment to enable them to respond to structure fires, including 3.4 urban tankers with breathing apparatus. The new gear was soon put to the test at the Margaret River Dairy Company fire, as well as two local house fires.

More appliances are on their way for the Dunsborough BFS and VFRS, Margaret River VFRS and Busselton VFRS.

Significant progress has been made to ensure improved firefighting capacity and preparedness in the Capes area and provide a major boost to emergency services in this high fire risk region.

Capes District Officer Danny Mosconi said the Lower South West was well advanced with implementing the Capes Enhancement program.

“DFES regional staff have worked closely with local government, key stakeholders and volunteers, to develop strategies that will deliver greater community protection in the Capes and importantly support volunteers,” Danny said.

“A key initiative has been the establishment of expanded gazetted fire districts where DFES is responsible for coordinating the response to any bushfires or structural fires.

“A ‘zone’ response with a pre-determined automatic turnout of ground and aerial resources has also been

Targeted initiatives boost Capes service delivery

Lower South West Bush Fire Brigade volunteers undergo breathing apparatus and fire safety training.

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Tropical cyclone season arrives

the likelihood of around two coastal crossings, including a significant risk of at least one severe impact.

“It is usual for one or two WA towns to be cut off from essential services each season following damage caused by tropical cyclones, so it is vital that the right messages are communicated to people in key regions,” Rob said.

“To ensure that those in far flung cyclone prone areas were adequately prepared, DFES staff in the Kimberley conducted an additional awareness tour, visiting more than a dozen Indigenous communities identified at high risk, as well as mine sites across the region.”

People in the Pilbara had the opportunity to attend four public meetings, with additional sessions held in the remote towns of Marble Bar, Nullagine, Newman, Tom Price, Paraburdoo and Pannawonica.

Both the Kimberley and Pilbara regions also took the opportunity to host a series of local emergency management committee meetings.

In the Midwest Gascoyne, SES volunteers set up two shopping centre displays in Denham and Carnarvon to provide people with vital information and resources that also included specific messages about flood.

“These joint DFES and BOM regional tours and activities help empower local emergency service providers, communities and travellers to the North West with knowledge about what to do before, during and after a cyclone,” Rob said.

“The threat of cyclones is very real, and individuals must take responsibility for planning and preparing for the season.”

“The only impact was when wave action undermined parts of the rock face on the north western side of the marina and washed onto the road, leaving debris that had to be cleaned up.”

Following TC Narelle, a weak low formed in an active monsoon trough over land in the Kimberley during 20 January. Named TC Peta, it tracked to the south west and moved offshore near Bidyadanga the next day, before moving south and parallel to the Pilbara coastline.

After slowing, it then began to turn south west towards the Pilbara coast in the early hours of 23 January. Crossing the coast around 3pm east north east of Roebourne as a weak category one system, it rapidly weakened to a tropical low.

Severe Tropical Cyclone Rusty began to intensify on 23 February 2013, briefly reaching category 4 four days later. It crossed the coast on 27 February near Pardoo Station in the Pilbara, causing localised water and structural damage, flooding and stock loss. Port Hedland experienced only minor damage.

Road trip raises awarenessThe State’s current northern wet season campaign got a kick start when DFES staff and SES volunteers from the Kimberley, Pilbara and Midwest Gascoyne regions, in conjunction with the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), undertook a number of initiatives to educate communities.

Cyclone awareness tours in the form of a series of public meetings, Indigenous community briefings and information booths, were held in October to inform people and help them prepare.

North Region Chief Superintendent Rob Cox said that this season BOM forecast

Tropical Cyclone Mitchell was Western Australia’s first for the 2012-13 season and ended up being a short lived category 1 system located well off the coast. It happened in late December and had no significant impact before being downgraded below tropical cyclone strength.

The second severe tropical cyclone was Narelle which threatened the Pilbara and Gascoyne coasts and disrupted shipping and offshore industries, but remained far enough away not to directly impact the coast with gales. It peaked at category 4 level on 11 January north of Exmouth and travelled southwards off the west coast.

An associated tidal surge was recorded from Onslow around to Busselton as TC Narelle travelled parallel to the coast, the peak being 110 centimetres at Onslow and 84 centimetres at Exmouth on 13 January. The surge down the west coast reached 90 centimetres at Busselton and 78 centimetres at Fremantle on 16 January. This caused elevated tides and some inundation of low lying areas, but no major impact overall.

TC Narelle weakened on 15 January before decreasing to below cyclone intensity.

Exmouth SES Local Manager Russell Levine said that Exmouth was well prepared for TC Narelle, but the assistance of SES volunteers was not required.

“The storm surge in Exmouth was higher than some in previous years, but it did not cause damage to households or businesses,” Russell said.

Pilbara West District Officer Peter Cameron and Hedland Well Women’s Centre Program Coordinator Donna Lewis (right) discuss cyclone preparedness with community member Therese Taylor.

Project Manager Michelle Smith agreed, noting that changing legislation was not an easy task.

“This is a long term project, and it will be some time before the legislation is in place, but providing contemporary tools and clarity will be well worth it,” she said.

“We need a new Act to better support all of our emergency services personnel into the future and achieve our common goal of building community safety.

“The important information gathering phase of stakeholder consultation is well underway and closes at the end of April 2013.

“We are looking to key stakeholders such as our staff and volunteers to tell us whether current legislation is working, and what they see as major issues with the existing acts. If you have been involved with any aspect of emergency services legislation through either work or volunteering, we want to hear about your experiences.

The current review of the Emergency Services Acts aims to create a single comprehensive, clear and up to date Act that accurately reflects the way our emergency services organisations interact and rely on each other.

Legal and Legislative Services Director Terri Kurtis is looking to draw on the knowledge and expertise of emergency services staff and volunteers to identify areas of current legislation they consider require improvement.

“Currently the Department operates under three different acts, being the Fire Brigades Act 1942, the Bush Fires Act 1954 and the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1998,” Terri said.

“With more than seven decades passing since the establishment of the Fire Brigades Act and well over a half century since the Bush Fires Act, it is time for us to take another look at the legislation to make it more streamlined, relevant and practical.”

Input sought for review of Emergency Services Acts“The project team embarked on a road show earlier in the year and has visited regions and districts to conduct information forums on the review process and how to make submissions.”

DFES is encouraging people from all service delivery areas to share their thoughts and get involved in future emergency services legislation.

Project Administrator Taryn Boot said there were a few ways personnel could still contribute to the review.

“A web page for the legislation review is operational on the DFES Intranet and Volunteer Portal, and we are inviting people to share their views using the online comment form,” she said.

“Alternatively, you can simply email your ideas and suggestions to us at legislation@dfes.wa.gov.au, or post to DFES at PO Box P1174, Perth WA 6844.”

Information received by the project team during the first phase of the review will help to identify major issues and possible solutions which will then be set out in an Options Paper for further consideration by stakeholders.

PHASE 1 – PRELIMINARY CONSULTATIONThis is an information gathering phase. It is meant to identify the different ways that the current legislative landscape enables or hinders the ability of emergency services organisations to carry out their functions. Your submissions are how you can ensure we know what is important to you.

This phase runs from 5 November 2012 – 30 April 2013. Attend our road show presentations, call us or visit the volunteer portal to learn about the Review process and how you can participate. It is easier than you might think.

The second phase will occur from 1 May 2013 – 31 August 2013. Development will occur through detailed research and meetings with key stakeholder groups to identify the options relevant to their functions. We will be providing regular updates on the progress of this phase.

This phase will run from 1 September 2013 – 31 December 2013. Similar to the first phase, we will be consulting with stakeholders through further submissions, the volunteer portal, face-to-face meetings, telephone and email.

This stage will take the longest to complete as it involves a comprehensive and complex set of legislative activities. The anticipated completion date is December 2015, subject to Parliamentary approval. If approved, a variety of initiatives will be undertaken to help emergency services personnel transition to the new legislation.

PHASE 2 – DEVELOPING THE DRAFT OPTIONS PAPERThis is where we will analyse and amalgamate the submissions from phase 1. Then we will work closely with stakeholder groups, such as volunteer associations, agencies and local government, to develop viable and logical options for our future. This process results in the development of the Draft Options Paper addressing the various ways we can meet future challenges and opportunities.

PHASE 3 – DRAFT OPTIONS PAPER CONSULTATIONSIn this phase we will again call upon your respective knowledge and experience to understand whether the options will cover the relevant issues and function as they were intended. This time, your submissions will focus on the strengths and weaknesses of the proposed options and which you feel is the most beneficial to our communities.

PHASE 4 – PARLIAMENTARY DRAFTING PROCESSDuring this stage DFES will: Obtain certification from the Regulatory Gatekeeping Unit Prepare Drafting Instructions Seek Cabinet approval Assist Parliament Council’s Office with drafting the new Emergency Services Bill and Regulations Submit the Bill to Parliament Submit the Regulations to Executive Council If approved, arrange for publication of the Act and Regulations

Phases of legislation reform project

24 24seven Issue 1, 2013 24seven Issue 1, 2013 25

GENERAL NEWS

Pleasant Physiotherapy, we played the Bowl Quarter Final and beat the Singapore Wanderers 24-0. It was a strong result that placed the FRS into the Bowl Semi Final which we won 12-7 after finishing strongly from 7-0 down.

Three wins from the last three games meant confidence was at an all time high, with the chance of bringing home some silverware for the first time in three years.

Jakarta Komodo Red were our opponents in the Bowl Final and we were defeated 5-0. It was a painfully narrow loss in golden point extra time after scores were tied 0-0 at fulltime. We congratulated the victorious team who dedicated their win to six club members who lost their lives in the 2002 bombings.

Mr Ida Bagus Udiana organised a second visit to the Bangli Regency in the week after the tournament, when on behalf of the team I presented a further eight sets of PPC to government officials.

Overall the trip was a huge success both on and off the field. On field it was the best result we have had so far, and we were a little unlucky not to take out that Bowl final!

Off the field I think our meetings in Tabanan and Bangli were greatly appreciated. In particular, the visit to Bangli was timely as they had recently experienced a structure fire at the markets which were destroyed. Unfortunately both their appliances, old Mercedes, were out of commission at the time.

2013 Marquee Match v WA Police

The Club has been invited to play a curtain raiser against the WA Police in the Super Rugby Championships on 9 June 2013. It takes place before the Western Force versus NSW Waratahs and will be a huge event, with the main game kicking off at 2.05pm.

The Club is always looking for new players and social members. To find out more go to: http://www.facebook.com/pages/WA-Fire-Rescue-Service-Rugby-Union-Club or http://wafrsrugby.weebly.com/index.html

reciprocated with the gift of a Regency plaque and invited the entire FRS team to lunch.

Team jerseys were presented to club members on our return to Kuta. These have become a collector’s item and the envy of others in the competition due to their colourful design created by recently retired Station Officer Derrin Rodriguez and his team.

It also coincided with the purchase of tour shorts which are equally bright to match the jersey. In a somewhat superstitious tradition, they are always bought from local hawker Suzi Q, whose smile can be seen from the airport when she hears of our arrival.

In a surprise twist, the team was also joined by a late inclusion in the form of (now) Operations Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey, who was holidaying in Bali at the time. With very little persuasion Lloyd was convinced to join us in Canggu to watch our first game. We played Cottesloe and were defeated 15-5. Although it was a loss, we felt it was an admirable performance against a WA Premier Grade Club team that went on to win the Plate Final.

Lloyd was not content to just watch the game, and took the initiative to help with our bench and run water for the team. Anyone who has done any physical activity, let alone play rugby in the heat and humidity of Bali, would acknowledge what a huge support this was. He remained for the entire tournament and his encouragement and involvement were greatly appreciated by everyone.

Pool Game 2 saw us up against the Bush Turkeys from Darwin, Northern Territory and we were again defeated, this time 5-0. It was an extremely tough and close encounter against the team that went on to win the Cup.

Things began looking up when we won Pool Game 3 against Sumbawa Nagas,15-7. Confidence restored, we were placed in the Bowl/Shield Quarter finals on the Sunday of the competition against the fancied Singapore Wanderers.

After a quiet night and some restorative treatment from club physio Leigh Ray of Mt

Another purpose for their visit is to forge relationships with local fire services and donate firefighting clothing, equipment and training material.

Team Manager, Station Officer Michael Parker, tells the story of the Club’s most recent visit.

While our club keenly embraces the rugby union competition in Indonesia and the opportunity to play with teams from many parts of Asia, our members also give something back to the Bali community while they are there.

The trip has become the club’s traditional end of season tour, and meeting with Balinese Fire and Rescue personnel and government officials to exchange information and hand over equipment is a key part of it. We have established strong links with local emergency service officials and would like to explore ways of providing more comprehensive support over coming years.

In 2011 we donated a ‘Hooligan’ Tool and various training DVDs, and in 2012 the club met with two provisi