February 2012
Preparedness
The "Think like a volunteer" TV ad campaign by VFBV has been very well received by the public.
As a result of a recommendation from the Bushfires Royal Commission, some power distribution equipment has been adjusted so it does not automatically reclose in the event of a problem. These lines will stay off if they trip until they are inspected and manually turned back on. Equipment will be switched back to normal at the end of February.
Preparedness levels for our IMTs are determined by the Forest FDI at
New radios in sub bases are being done this month and new portables are starting to appear also.
A training video on how to use an Automated External Defibrillator is now on brigades on Line.
Details on the “Landscaping for Bushfire” publication and tool can be found on the CFA website.
As we enter into planning for Championships and Easter parades, brigade captains are reminded that they should ensure that their brigade district is adequately covered by reserving their second or a neighbouring appliance and crew whilst attending these functions.
Staging area manuals have now been completed by OO Tim Fitzgerald and are being distributed. Thanks to Tim and all those who helped him complete this important work.
Recent incidents both here and elsewhere have reinforced how important the last 2 Operations bulletins on working in heat and working in floods are. Please make sure that your trucks have a box of water (not just a few bottles) and 10 packs of rations on board and that drivers establish floodway depths before attempting any crossings.
Avian Flu has caused quarantine of a poultry farm at New Gisborne which reminds me that a lot of protection from many nasties is offered by our simple P2 dust mask when worn.
Fires and incidents
CFA and DSE resources controlled a “dirty little” 6 Ha fire caused by workers recently at Huntly.
Goldfields Group brigades attended a plane crash and fire at Maryborough airfield last week. The incident involved a Tiger Moth taking off and unfortunately resulted in the death of the pilot and his passenger.
Buildings
Brigades are moving out temporarily at Harcourt and Newham for new stations. Sutton Grange new station is commencing also.
Work has commenced on the fitout of the new headquarters for Goldfields Group and office for BASO and OO at Maryborough. This adjoins the DSE office and LCF.
CFA PEOPLE NEWS
Six days after receiving his 65 year medal in December ex Heathcote Captain and local legend Kevin “Cappy” McCarthy passed away. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.
OO Chris Jacobsen is having the first week of February off. Tim Fitzgerald is acting in his position.
Leading Fire Fighter Hugh Kelly is doing some work in Feb on Municipal Bushfire response plans.
Congratulations to DSE's Les Vearing on his Oz day AFSM (he is also a volunteer at Campbells Creek). Les has significantly changed firefighting in this part of the world and it is great to see him recognised for all his work.
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