Watch the replay below:
The Q&A attracted some great questions, including the following:
“Mick, I guess the word on the tip of everyones tongue at the moment is the dreaded Budget word. Will we see funding under the service delivery model based on risk, brigades and effeciencies and the continuance of some of these great programs such as Home Bushfire Advice Service? Education as Dave said earlier is such an important part of what CFA does.” - Paul Verbeek
“Hi Mick, thanks for making the time tonight to discuss this important topic. Can you tell us your views on where the local community fits within the Bushfire preparedness program and do you believe a greater focus on community input in planning will assist with getting the message out.” - Mark Potter
“Are you going to come and visit each region and talk face to face? An important item such as this needs to be done in person as it has an ongoing effect on everyone. Stress levels are high at the moment, so a personal meeting would be more beneficial than an online forum.” - Kevin Sleep
“I live in Kinglake and I think CFA underestimates its 'reach'. I think people do 'get' the message. I'm not sure CFA should hold itself responsible if people don't act on the advice. Education long term is the key I reckon.” - Dave Williams
“Do you think we make it hard for people to focus on certain messages because we have so many of them? If you could only ask people to do one thing to keep them safe from fire, what would it be? (or top three)” - Deb Robieson
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Bushfire plans are too easy to put off until "tomorrow" (and I'm just as guilty as everyone). Life often gets in the way with more important things. One way to improve this could be to instill some urgency in it. Some ideas:
1. Have a "test the plan" day, either locally or across the state.
2. Work with the insurance industry to provide home insurance discounts for submitting written and tested plans.
I'm a firm believer that the more people with wildfire minimum skills in the community, the better. I don't care if people join the CFA, do minimum skills then quit, as that key knowledge is now out in the community. Maybe people might commit more if they are more involved in the process - offer a "certificate I" course in bushfire preparedness for community members to attend, say 4 nights over 4 weeks, with the course finishing with ndividual