PRODUCED BY AND FOR THE VICTORIAN SES VOLUNTEERS
ISSUE 184 AUGUST 2016
Printpost Approved PP 100001634
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CONTRIBUTIONS Letters to the editor If you have a point of view you feel would be of benefit to VICSES, or a request for any article which other members may be able to help source, mail it to PHOENIX. If your Unit has a need to publicise an event or Unit activity, send it to PHOENIX. Content for Phoenix Photography should only be supplied digitally or as original prints (please supply stamped, self-addressed envelope for returning). Please avoid scanning of any type. Text should be supplied electronically as a Microsoft Word document. Closing date for all PHOENIX material: October 2016 edition – Monday September 12 December 2016 edition – Monday November 7 February 2017 edition – Monday January 9 April 2017 edition – Monday March 6 August 2017 edition – Monday July 10
www.vesa.org.au Contents 2
From the Chair
12
3
Respect, Responsibility, Responsiveness
North east tops 1,435 years of service
13
6
National SES Volunteers Association meeting in Darwin
Whorouly flood safe community day
14
Stepping up for health
16
AAMI Grants in action
7
Building safer and more resilient communities
18
Orange gives to Red
8
Quick reference guide to resilience models
20
Driver Reviver in Stratford
22
10
Benalla Unit presentation night
2016 Australasian Police and Emergency Service Games
Send all articles to:
Email: phoenixeditor@vesa.com.au Address: PO Box 1085, Craigieburn, VIC 3064
VESA CONTACTS VESA Phoenix Editor & Mailing List Enquiries To add, edit or delete members to mail list or password and technical support contact: PHOENIX EDITOR Ellen Lawes E: phoenixeditor@vesa.com.au
24 Letters
VESA STATE BOARD EXECUTIVE & STATE BOARD OF DIRECTORS INDEPENDENT CHAIRPERSON Faye Bendrups
TREASURER, SECRETARY & DIRECTOR CENTRAL WEST Mr Chris Patton
M: 0435 964 455 E: fayebendrups@hotmail.com
M: 0407 310 555 E: secretary@vesa.com.au E: director.cw@vesa.com.au
DIRECTOR NORTH EAST REGION Mr Chris Brown
ALTERNATE DIRECTOR OF CENTRAL EAST REGION David Rowlands
M: 0417 550 076 E: c.brown10@bigpond.com
M: 0423 777 633 E: director.ce@vesa.com.au
DIRECTOR SOUTH WEST REGION Vacant
DIRECTOR NORTH WEST REGION Mr Pat Torney E: pat_torney@hotmail.com
Advertisers Alert Countrywide Austral is appointed by the Victoria Emergency Service Association as the authorised publisher of PHOENIX. For enquiries re advertising in this magazine, please contact the printers and publishers:
DIRECTOR MID-WEST REGION Vacant
DIRECTOR EAST REGION Mr Bob Aisbett M: 0427 532 093 E: director.er@vesa.com.au
VICSES PEER SUPPORT COUNTRYWIDE AUSTRAL Level 2, 310 King St, Melbourne GPO Box 2466, Melbourne 3001 Ph: (03) 9937 0200 Fax: (03) 9937 0201 E-mail: admin@cwaustral.com.au ACN: 30 086 202 093 Design/Layout Jason Jeffery & Kathryn Steel
Peer Support can be accessed at any time by ringing 1800 899 927 and asking for SES Peer Support (EAS Paging). Peter Kueffer Clinical Director can be contacted on mobile 0417 565 927 or by ringing 1800 899 927 (EAS Paging).
CHAPLAINS CONTACT DETAILS CENTRAL REGION Major Arthur Ford
NORTH WEST REGION Rev David Mills
EAST REGION Judy McLeod
SOUTH WEST REGION Rev Denise Naish
SOUTH WEST REGION Rev David Thompson
CENTRAL REGION Vacant
MID-WEST REGION Fr David Turner
CENTRAL REGION Rev Max Woolcock
M: 0416 085 634
M: 0427 383 538
M: 0425 708 730
M: 0417 347 821
M: 0407 466 356
M: 0407 128 077
M: 0418 517 685
Disclaimer Countrywide Austral (“Publisher”) advises that the contents of this publication are at the sole discretion of the Victoria Emergency Service Association Inc. (VESA) and the publication is offered for background information purposes only. The publication has been formulated in good faith and the Publisher believes its contents to be accurate, however, the contents do not amount to a recommendation (either expressly or by implication) and should not be relied upon in lieu of specific professional advice. The Publisher disclaims all responsibility for any loss or damage which may be incurred by any reader relying upon the information contained in the publication whether that loss or damage is caused by any fault or negligence on the part of the publisher, its directors and employees. Copyright All advertisements appearing in this publication are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced except with the consent of the owner of the copyright. Advertising Advertisements in this journal are solicited from organisations and businesses on the understanding that no special considerations other than those normally accepted in respect of commercial dealings, will be given to any advertiser.
The data that VESA holds for its members is solely used for the production and distribution of Phoenix and associated products.
REPORTS
from the
CHAIR IN RECENT WEEKS, ACROSS MULTIPLE EM AGENCIES, THE COMMUNITY AND GOVERNMENT, THERE HAS BEEN ROBUST DISCUSSION ABOUT THE VALUE OF VOLUNTEERS. The discussion around paid firefighters is ongoing, the matter of council funding for SES has been raised as a front page issue in the media, there has been a federal election and undertakings made about supporting volunteers. There has been a level of uncertainty about future roles for SES Units leading to some understandable distress and loss of confidence among volunteers. VESA has been a committed advocate for SES volunteers through this period. Where do we go from here? To borrow from an article written by Deputy Chief Officer David Baker in the last issue of Phoenix: “‘We’ is not VHO, regions, units and members working in isolation. It is all of us collectively focused on ensuring we deliver”. These are positive words and ones which resonate with volunteers across the State. SES members have, for more than 40 years, worked collaboratively with the agency to provide a skilled and professional service to the community. They have always been ready to work positively with the paid staff but have not always felt that this was reciprocated. This was
2 PHOENIX
August 2016
“We encourage all members to become active participants in the type of constructive and open debates about matters that affect them.” highlighted in the 2015 VESA Welfare and Efficiency Survey, hosted by VFBV (the current survey is now online until August 29 at www.vfbv.com.au). I refer the reader also to an article by Lilydale member Jacob Krul in this edition of Phoenix. Jacob makes valid comments about corporate values such as respect and balance of interests. In contemporary business practice, it is generally agreed that best corporate governance is developed by adhering to principles such as an ethical approach, an equal concern for all parties, accountability and transparency, a decisionmaking process which gives due weight to all stakeholders, and a culture where
everyone plays their part and different needs are harmonised. Times change, people change, institutions change. It is the position of VESA that we are a positive part of that change, working with our agency to reinforce the value of our volunteers, advocating for their interests and driving the resolution of issues that affect them. We encourage all members to become active participants in the type of constructive and open debates about matters that affect them. VESA is your association, it is your voice. Faye Bendrups Independent Chair, VESA
www.vesa.org.au
REPORTS
RESPECT, RESPONSIBILITY, RESPONSIVENESS RESPONSE TO FEATURE ARTICLE IN PHOENIX JUNE 2016 BY DEPUTY CHIEF OFFICER OPERATIONS CAPABILITY DAVID BAKER, BY JACOB KRUL, SECTION LEADER ADMINISTRATION, LILYDALE UNIT.
W
ith interest I read the article “Improving our vehicles, equipment and clothing”. The most important word herein was found in the last paragraph: respect. Indeed the key issue in the relationship between the organisation and its volunteers is respect. Successful organisations thrive when the right balance between people’s interest and organisational requirements is achieved. Sure, not all decisions made at the top will be appreciated, but if there’s a respectful equal exchange of thoughts, it makes the acceptance of a decision palatable. That does not make all decisions correct; some are blatantly wrong. Acknowledging a wrong decision does not automatically indicate unsuitability for a position; it merely establishes a framework for revisiting that decision. Ignoring the tens of thousands of hours of practical experience by volunteers as well as the technical expertise that resides among the thousands of volunteers, is a recipe for conflict. Raising expectations of valid arguments being taken into consideration and not being followed up, is quite
www.vesa.org.au
disingenuous. It amplifies the disparity between professional staff and volunteers. There may be valid reasons why certain decisions are made, but sweeping aside valuable suggestions for the sake of uniformity or by assumed knowledge, without foundation or proper explanation, gives the impression of: take it or leave it. And this aspect goes to heart of the matter: it shows a lack of respect and, disturbingly and unacceptably, in some instances had serious undertones of bullying. This has absolutely no place in a relationship between professional staff and volunteers. As Cesar Chavez noted: preservation of one’s own culture does not require contempt or disrespect for the other. I appreciate the positive attitude that is noticeable in the feature article by David Baker. Past experience however, suggests that one must remain guarded. It remains to be seen if the announced changes will result in a more constructive collaboration. One can only be positive and time will tell.
Comment from the VESA Chair, Faye Bendrups Jacob raises an issue that has been an ongoing concern of many volunteers. David Baker’s article is a significant and welcome addition to this matter and of particular note is his aim to strengthen volunteer involvement in committees, to ensure meetings and communications are volunteerfriendly, and that volunteer end users are involved in projects from the design stage rather than pre-implementation stage.
Submitted by Jacob Krul Section Leader Administration, Lilydale Unit
August 2016
PHOENIX 3
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FEATURE
NATIONAL SES VOLUNTEERS ASSOCIATION MEETING IN DARWIN
T
he National SES Volunteers Association continues to develop as a representative organisation for SES members from across Australia. After a formal beginning only some months ago, the Association is advancing its vision and values to advocate on behalf
of SES volunteers nationally, who number around 43,000. The Association held a planning meeting in Darwin from July 15-17 to consolidate its mission, vision, objectives, values and strategies. VESA was represented by Faye Bendrups and David Rowlands. The participants agreed that a
fundamental aspect of the Association is to lead and influence change in matters affecting State emergency services. A strategic plan is under development, to be released later this year. Submitted by Faye Bendrups and David Rowlands
National SES Volunteers Association group meeting.
NSW delegates Peter Lalor and Andrew Edwards.
6 PHOENIX
August 2016
Visit to Darwin Unit, inspecting flat–bottomed boats used in crocodile infested waters. www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
Left to right: Warrnambool VICSES Unit Controller Giorgio Palmeri, Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino and VICSES CEO Stephen Griffin.
BUILDING SAFER AND MORE RESILIENT COMMUNITIES IN JULY, THE MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES JAMES MERLINO LAUNCHED THE VICSES COMMUNITY RESILIENCE STRATEGY AT THE WARRNAMBOOL SES HEADQUARTERS.
T
he strategy is a three-year blueprint to build disaster resilience in Victorian communities, which was brought to life through volunteer contributions at workshops, forums and project groups. Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino said the strategy will help VICSES create and deliver the programs and resources that are needed to build safer and more resilient communities across Victoria. It’s the first strategy of its kind for any Australian state emergency service and will guide Victorian SES members on how best to work with communities to better prepare them before, during and after an emergency. There are more than 260 languages spoken across Victoria’s diverse community, which means there is no one-size-fits-all approach to preparing people for disaster. VICSES Chief Executive Officer Stephen Griffin said communities were changing in all ways - demographically, socially and in terms of needs and expectations. “The resilience strategy outlines the way VICSES will work with communities to achieve more aware, informed and prepared Victorians. www.vesa.org.au
“Community resilience is not a new buzz phrase. It is part of what VICSES has always done and is a primary value that drives our volunteers,” he said. Similarly, George Haitidis Controller at the Monash Unit, said while the term community resilience may be new to us, the actions around it were already well underway. “We already engage with the community by doing school fetes, visits and even local community events. “My unit will specifically recruit for members who can build networks and increase community engagement,” he said. The strategy will help guide Victorian SES members on how to deliver education programs that are community driven, so that locals are less reliant on emergency services when a disaster hits and are better prepared to take ownership of the community’s priorities and actions. As part of the strategy, VICSES will deliver education programs and services to schools, industry, councils, churches, local sports clubs, neighbourhood houses,
tourism networks and other emergency services agencies. This includes practical programs such as working with teachers to help them educate their students about how they can increase their awareness and safety during an emergency, or working with local community groups to develop flood plans. Kelvin Jewell, Controller at the State Support Unit, said he was excited about the move towards a more community education focused approach. “We’re quite excited about developing this potential resource pool to expand our capability capacity beyond our incident management response during operations, to also include community education and engagement before and after operations,” he said. Disaster resilience is everyone’s responsibility and this strategy enables VICSES members to support all communities to prepare for emergencies in a way that is meaningful to them. To view the strategy, jump online and visit www.ses.vic.gov.au/get-ready/resilience or contact your regional office for a hardcopy. August 2016
PHOENIX 7
Quick reference guide to resilience models VICSES has developed a series of resilience models that are an integral part of the Community Resilience Strategy 2016-2019 (the strategy). Under our three pillars of Capacity, Collaboration and Connections the models provide the framework to test our underlying assumptions and to measure our success against our strategic objectives.
fl
in d
ve
in t
ati
Ma
n ov
Focus community preparedness and response activities that can be undertaken in bite size steps
Key performance Indicator: 15% increase in activities that directly engage with the community
Explore interactive engagement methods, including social media, technology and community groups to provide messages
ing
Community participation in preparedness and response initiatives
Better connected communities that are able to adapt for future emergency events
l at
mp
Our People will have the skills to support their local
te
l at
mp te
Co n
Data collection processes for Our People to record and measure VICSES activity and impact with the community
Co n
Ma
an in
VICSES is
in t
an
ing
e
er
wh ps
ing
t
e
l at
o
chang
mp
t in
iour
te
om
h av
Co n
pr
be
in t
nd
te d
Promote community events of all sizes that to discuss safety, preparation and the role of VICSES
ion
Capacity
ya
ve
en
an
No
ce
Preparing
Preparing
vit
ac t
Build and maintain media relationships to promote the service and deliver tailored emergency information
e c ti
Preparedness assessment tools to identify additional actions people need to undertake
Taking
Take advantage of networking, recruitment, training, access to shared resources and amplifying key messages
and s o lutions
ion
Work with others to broaden program reach in delivery preparedness programs before, during and after emergencies
r s co m m u n i t y co n n
es
Map, build and join community networks that can distribute information in an emergency
tiv itie s
Key performance Indicator: 12% increase in programs that partner with others to engage the community
f os te
iti
t
d ac
Program and service delivery with others is collaborative, integrated and community centred
hat
os
t in
y le
Ma
u
er t
er
shi
le w
a
en
l tia
d lea
sp
no
en
nit
integration of VICSES programs
to
mu
Promote and use teachable moments that share community experiences with others
Public campaigns use community and stakeholder networks to assist
on
m
en
an
No
ce
ati
ac t
ion
Talk to homeowners met during response and engagement activities about how to prepare
Targeted key messages and activities for people to personalise their risk
cip
Foster corporate partnerships to leverage shared value projects that foster resilience actions in preparing and responding
Taking
ac t
Local business and commerce encouraged to undertake business continuity planning to build self-reliance.
ar ti
co
e ve n t s
Deliver messages in bite sizes and encourage quick wins
acilit ate inclusive p
te d
rgenc y
Make risk information accessible and written in simple language consistent with the interest level and expertise of the intended audience
and f
es
eme
Key performance Indicator: 8% increase in the number of people who are aware of their risk
e
rate
er
om
Individuals, households and businesses believe that preparing for future emergency events is important
w
c
bo
e
t
r fr
t in
te d
Engage at-risk properties providing meaningful information that leads to planning and action
a
ve
e
n na
No
ce
to
c an
a o ll
te
of plans and processes through exercising
co
yk
d
re
nit
on
es
co m
sp
er
mu
r, r e
Maintenance reminders to build on
Taking
Preparing
Collaboration
Connections
The following provides an overview to the design build of the VICSES resilience models:
k il
l
r t co m m u n i ti e s p r e p a r
r, r e
sp
on
d
to
a
w
d w
le
r t co m m u n i ti e s p r e p a r
no
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Taking
e ve n t s
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VICSES builds
No
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Strategic Goal
e
n na
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er
om
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no
ppo
ve
nit
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ls t
re
ve
yk
co
co m
ge
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il sk
nd
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Strategic Goal
Attitudinal themes e fo
Co n
te
mp
ion
lat
ac t
ing
ds
ppo
le
ge
an
su s to
2. Five attitudinal themes capture community attitudes from Not interested, Contemplating, Preparing, Taking action to Maintenance illustrating the varied attitudes towards risks and where the importance of being prepared and degree of preparedness vary. (see page 13 of the strategy)
nd
d
1. Outer layer represents the strategic goal for each of the strategic objectives – 1) Build Capacity, 2) Increase Collaborations and 3) Foster Connections as outlined in the strategy (see page 6 of the strategy)
VICSES builds
VICSES builds
e fo
ner
r t co m m u n i ti e s p r e p a r
par t
ppo
h a s e f f e c t i ve
o su
VICSES
ls t
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The models also provide guidance in the future design and development of our programs and resources and by which VICSES will invest effort in the delivery and evaluation of these services to the community and our partners.
Preparing
8  PHOENIX 
August 2016
www.vesa.org.au
ed
wl no
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Ma in
t
ni t mu
nt
Make risk informatio on acce essible and written n in simplle langu uage consisten nt with the e intere est level and d expertisse of the e intend ded audie ence
Deliver messages in n bite sizes and enccourage qu uick wins
in g
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Talk to homeowners ers met during nd engagement nt response and ties about how to prepare pre activities
Targeted d key messages and actiivitties for peop ple to personalise their risk
te
l at
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te Co n
Local business and commerce en ncouraged to un ndertake busin nesss continuity plan anning to build d selff reliance.
Co n
t Ma in
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V I C S E S bu i l d s
wl no
yk
o
Preparing
Preparing
Initiative logic
a
nt
Individuals, households and businesses believe that preparing for future emergency events is important
Local business an nd commerce en ncouraged to un ndertake busin nesss continuity plan nni n ng to build d selff reliance. Targete ed key messages and actiivitie es for pe eople to personalise their riskk
Co n
Deliver messages in n bite ssizes and enccourage qu uick w wins
lat
Key performance Indicator: 8% increase in the number of people who are aware of their risk
Make risk in i formation n acccessible and writte en in simple e lang guage consisten nt with the interrest level and d expertise e of th he intend ded audien nce
ing
in t Ma
ti
T lk to homeown Ta ners met during response and engagement ac tivities about how to prep pare
mp
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IC S ES bu i lds
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Eng gage at-risk prop perties providin ng meaningful information that leaads to o planning g and action
Taking
T lk to homeown Ta ners met during response and engagement ac tivities about how to prep pare
e ve n t s
ion
Targete ed key messages and actiivitie es for pe eople to personalise their riskk
r g e nc y
ac t Local business an nd commerce en ncouraged to un ndertake busin nesss continuity plan nni n ng to build d selff reliance.
sp
of plans and processes through exercising
om
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Deliver messages in n bite sizes and enccourage qu uick wins
for , re
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Make risk in i formation n acccessible and writte en in simple e lang guage consisten nt with the interrest level and d expertise e of th he intend ded audien nce
pa re
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Individuals, households and businesses believe that preparing for future emergency events is important
mu n it i e s p re
Maintenance reminders to build on
es
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Eng gage at-risk prop perties providin ng meaningful information that leaads to o planning g and action
a
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Maintenance reminders to build on
Taking
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Strategic outcome
5. There are three Key Performance Indicators in the strategy that will support VICSES in assessing whether we are on or off target as we work towards realising our strategic intent. Operational partners, external stakeholders and academia will be engaged to explore how to best define and develop key indicators/markers that measure our achievements and to help identify and embed best practice (see pages 18,19 & 23 of the strategy)
Co n
4. Our Strategic Outcomes set the frame in how VICSES will quantify our performance and assess the success of the initiatives introduced during the lifetime of the strategy in shaping community attitude and awareness in relation to the relevance of, and in believing that preparing for future emergencies is important (see pages 6 & 15 of the strategy).
Preparing
Preparing
Key performance indicator
We welcome your feedback and input to assist us in the implementation, delivery and evaluation of the strategy. You can contact us at resilience@ses.vic.gov.au or through your local VICSES regional office.
www.vesa.org.au
August 2016 
PHOENIX  9
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3. Inititative Logic will inform decisions and positively influence the focus and direction of what VICSES has committed to in the design and development of programs and resources. They will help us find innovative solutions to address the various challenges faced by VICSES and community aligned to attitudinal themes in better understanding community attitudes, key drivers and barriers (see pages 12-13 and 18-20 of the strategy).
FEATURE
BENALLA UNIT PRESENTATION NIGHT
BENALLA SES UNIT MEMBERS CELEBRATED COLIN CROXFORD’S MAJOR ACHIEVEMENT OF BEING UNIT CONTROLLER FOR 20 YEARS.
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olin has been dedicated to VICSES for the past 40 years. Over this time he has inspired and led the Unit to tackle any situation head on with pride and professionalism. Colin has inspired and mentored Unit members to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Colin has been on numerous taskforces and often travelled to Melbourne for late night meetings and always made himself available to assist when required. Colin took on the role of Divisional and Sector commander at numerous emergency events locally and across the state and has built strong working relationships between all the local emergency services. Colin stepped into the position of Controller of Wangaratta Unit for a little while to help the Unit get back on their feet. At one point, Colin was duel Controller of Benalla and Wangaratta Unit. Colin put in many hours leading and implementing processes to help the Wangaratta Unit get back on their feet. Colin was awarded the SES CEO award in recognition of his hard work and dedication. Trevor White, Chief Officer of Operations at VICSES, attended the celebration, highlighted Colin’s achievements over the past 20 years as Unit Controller and 40 years as a VICSES Volunteer and presented Colin with a plaque. Councillor Barbara Alexander, representing the Mayor from Benalla Rural City Council, presented Colin with a certificate of appreciation and highlighted the hard work Colin has put in over the years to ensure a strong working relationship with Council. Graeme Hooper, ex-Benalla Unit Controller, attended and provided everyone with an insight into Colin before he took over the reins. The night was the Unit’s way of thanking Colin for his commitment over the years.
10 PHOENIX
August 2016
www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
August 2016
PHOENIX 11
FEATURE
NORTH EAST TOPS 1,435 YEARS OF SERVICE AN IMPRESSIVE TOTAL OF 1,435 YEARS OF STATE AND NATIONAL SERVICE WAS RECENTLY AWARDED TO 74 BENALLA UNIT MEMBERS – WELL DONE TEAM!
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ore than 70 members were awarded for their state and national service, while 67 of those received long service medals for having completed 10 to 45 years of service to the SES. Another seven members received the National Medal or a first or second clasp. These recognise long and diligent service by members of recognised government and voluntary organisations who risk their lives or safety to protect or assist the community
in enforcement of the law or in times of emergency or natural disaster. North East Regional Manager Keith O’Brien said the awards ceremony was an occasion to recognise the hard work, commitment and sacrifices our volunteers and staff made to serve their communities.
“Our volunteers provide an integral role providing emergency response, incident management and planning for flood, storm and road accident rescue incidents in the North East Region,” he said. Congratulations to our North East members, this is a huge achievement.
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12 PHOENIX
August 2016
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FEATURE
WHOROULY FLOOD SAFE COMMUNITY DAY ON SUNDAY, MAY 15, A FLOOD SAFE COMMUNITY DAY WAS HELD AT WHOROULY PRIMARY SCHOOL. THE DAY WAS AN IDEA THAT ORIGINATED FROM A PROJECT THAT I HAD TO COMPLETE TO GET MY COMPETENCY AS A COMMUNITY EDUCATION FACILITATOR.
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horouly was chosen as it is a flood prone town, that is often forgotten about, has been flooded many times in recent years and is in an ideal location between two regions. As this was the case the Wangaratta and Myrtleford SES Units joined forces to put together this very successful event. The target was set to get 100 people there and we managed to get just under 120 people. They came far and wide to see what the north east of Victoria had to offer for flood, storm and fire preparedness. The sandbagging arena, kids’ games, vehicle displays, the free sausage sizzle, chocolate stall and workshops were the biggest draw cards, with many people gobsmacked at how much the SES has to offer and how many different roles we play. Some of the games included dressing up in orange, the dirty water game and back to basics first aid. There were lucky door prizes with the major prize going to a volunteer from the Lion’s Club of Wangaratta and eight smaller prizes were given out as runner-up prizes. www.vesa.org.au
This day was also a fundraiser for the local community to improve their flood safety projects. Just over $406 was raised, which the community was extremely grateful to receive. Fellow emergency agencies participated including CFA, VCC, SS&RS, Lions,
CWA, Council, Victoria Police, and Red Cross. Thank you to all attending SES units: Wangaratta, Chiltern, Tallangatta, Bright, Wodonga, Regional Support and Myrtleford, and to our partners from Shepparton Search and Rescue Squad and the Country Fire Authority; Whorouly, Milawa and Region support HQ 23.
Thanks to event photographers Graham Gales from (Bright Unit) and Michael Guanine (Wangaratta Unit), and to our event sponsors - Uncle Toby’s, Steve and Linda’s IGA, Speedy Gutter Cleaning, Bunnings Warehouse and the Wangaratta Council. Special thanks to our guest speakers and visitors: Keith O’Brien, Craig Lapsley, Jamie McCaffrey, Cathy McGowan, Tim McCurdy, Trevor White and Marty Carboy. I never dreamed that this small idea could have turned into something so large; I am so very grateful to all helpers, sponsors and community members for allowing me to express my ideas and visions through you. A big thank you also to the Whorouly Primary School for hosting the event. Thank you for making my dream into a reality. And as I’ve said before “If you never try, you’ll never know”. The opportunities are endless, embrace it, believe in it and you will do it. Submitted by Carina Heppell Wangaratta State Emergency Service August 2016
PHOENIX 13
FEATURE
STEPPING UP FOR HEALTH
FEATURE
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 12 MEMBERS OF THE FOOTSCRAY UNIT WHO PARTICIPATED IN THE 2016 STADIUM STOMP AT THE MCG TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE LEUKAEMIA FOUNDATION.
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ootscray Unit Controller, Faye Bendrups, said the Stadium Stomp was Australia’s largest stair climbing challenge. “The full course covers 7,343 stairs and finishes with a half lap of the boundary. The day started with mid-winter chill before the sun came out around midday. “The SES team was acknowledged by the organisers and the crowd. Participants run (or walk or crawl) up and down between all the seating blocks in the lower and upper levels of the MCG. “The upper level stairs in the MCC Members Reserve and the Olympic Stand are particularly steep. All SES participants completed the full course in personal best times and recovered with a massage in the MCG Massage Room at the end of the run,” she said. If this sounds like you, you might be interested in the Step it up! challenge. Good physical and mental health is important for our general wellbeing and performance as VICSES volunteers.
STEP IT UP!
In August, Step it up! is back. It’s a pedometerbased exercise program that aims to ignite healthy competition among units in a five week state-wide challenge. Teams compete to achieve high step counts and participation rates, earning weekly points. The team with the most points at the end of the five-week competition will be featured in Phoenix and along with the individual with the highest average weekly step count, will be awarded prizes. Pedometers are available and the Health and Safety team is also working to get discounts from Garmin and other activity monitor providers if you would like to purchase your own. For more information or to register a team, contact the Health and Wellbeing Team at safety@ses.vic.gov.au.
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August 2016
PHOENIX 15
FEATURE
AAMI GRANTS IN ACTION DURING THE RECENT AAMI GRANTS PROCESS, WHITEHORSE SES DECIDED ON TWO OF THE PELICAN 9490 REMOTE AREA LIGHTING SYSTEMS.
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August 2016
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FEATURE
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fter collection on Monday, August 1, the Unit received a tree down traffic hazard RFA for a substantial branch blocking the road. The crew in attendance took the opportunity to road test the new lights, which had been delivered to the depot not two hours earlier. Upon arrival at the scene the first vehicle was able to provide an immediate setup of the lights; this was a great aid to the initial DRA process, in contrast to the former halogen or compact florescent lighting. Setup time couldn’t have been more different. Aside from not needing the setup of a generator, power cords and mast, the LED lights provide a white and clearer light to work under. Throughout the operation the two lights were extremely easy to move with the chainsaw operators around the branch and car, ensuring that at all times there was exceptional light on the area of work. Although possible with the older lights in our fleet, moving is awkward to achieve, both due to the cords and the limited flexibility of the light heads. These two lights from the AAMI grants will be extensively used in future operations and expected applications will include rooftop, and indoor operations, areas where traditional lighting tools have struggled. There’s little doubt that these will be just the first two of these units, or similar in the Whitehorse toolbox.
Adam Downes Section Leader – Operational Readiness Victoria State Emergency Service – Whitehorse Unit www.vesa.org.au
August 2016
PHOENIX 17
FEATURE
ORANGE GIVES TO
RED
It only takes an hour to donate blood, but it could change someone’s life. 18 PHOENIX
August 2016
Tess and Pam donating blood. www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
Members of the Footscray Unit at the Blood Bank.
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ne in three Australians will need blood. The Australian Red Cross Blood Service supplies it. The service is funded by the federal, state and territory governments of Australia to supply the community with safe, high quality blood and blood products, as well as organ and bone marrow services for transplantation. This important work is only possible through the incredible donations of over half a million unpaid voluntary donors. On Monday, July 25, members of VICSES Footscray donned the orange at the Melbourne CBD Red Cross Blood Service as part of the Red25 campaign, the Emergency Services Blood Bank Challenge. Every year, Australia’s emergency services compete by state to donate the
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most blood during the Emergency Services Blood Challenge, open until August 31. Last year, they made 7,189 donations. Giving up their valuable time and blood, the SES team braved the pinch and were treated to refreshments on the other side. It was a great effort by all but especially for a number of first timers in the team that were eager to contribute and made it through relatively unscathed. They are now encouraging other Unit members to become blood donors and continue to give as a group. The donations come at a time of year where regular donor numbers are impacted by the cold and flu season, serving as a timely reminder to everyone that every donation counts. Submitted by Christian Camilleri August 2016
PHOENIX 19
FEATURE
The barista who attended and provided ‘real’ coffee.
DRIVER REVIVER IN STRATFORD
ON THE FRIDAY NIGHT PRECEDING THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY LONG WEEKEND, STRATFORD SES UNIT, IN CONJUNCTION WITH TAC, HOSTED A DRIVER REVIVER SITE AT THE STRATFORD MEMORIAL PARK ON THE PRINCES HIGHWAY. 20 PHOENIX
August 2016
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FEATURE
David Smith from the Stratford Unit serving up a sausage to a visitor to the site.
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ith a record attendance it was estimated more than 500 people Stopped, Revived and Survived at the Stratford Driver Reviver Site. This was the second occasion Stratford SES and TAC had combined to run the event which proved to be an outstanding success with some attendees having previously enjoyed the stopover whilst travelling through Stratford on Easter Friday. One attendee had intentionally scheduled their trip to include the site for their dinner break, as at Easter time the whole family had enjoyed the stopover so much. www.vesa.org.au
Mandy Wilson from TAC in the photo booth.
“… the atmosphere at the site was warm and inviting … “ Stratford SES and TAC ran numerous activities catering for young and old, some of which included: outdoor jenga, onsite barista, photo booth, barbecue, handball competition and an acoustic sing along while people circulated and drank their tea and coffee. Another attendee paid tribute to the Driver Reviver site saying “the atmosphere
at the site was warm and inviting, people weren’t just stopping for a quick coffee, they were relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere and having a decent break and the barista coffee was equivalent to what you could expect to find at a top café.” George Kircos, the Unit Controller of Stratford Unit, said, “It was fun and we were so happy to see over 500 people taking the time to have a break with many people enjoying the activities and staying a lot longer than the usual 15 minutes to drink their tea or coffee.” A 15 minute break can be all it takes to save lives. August 2016
PHOENIX 21
FEATURE
2016 AUSTRALASIAN POLICE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES GAMES SINCE 1984, POLICE SERVICE PERSONNEL THROUGHOUT AUSTRALIA HAVE GATHERED UNDER THE UMBRELLA OF THE AUSTRALASIAN POLICE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES GAMES (AP&ES GAMES).
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he event is a biennial games which offers approximately forty plus sporting events for competitors of all ages and abilities (see below). The AP&ES Games create the opportunity for men and women who share a common bond through law enforcement and emergency service to build camaraderie and promote healthy living. The 2016 Australasian Police and Emergency Services Games is to be held at the Sunshine Coast from Saturday, October 8, 2016 to Saturday, October 15, 2016.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
AFL 9’s ANGLING - Fresh AQUATHLON BADMINTON BASKETBALL BOXING CRICKET - Indoor CRICKET - T20 CROSS COUNTRY CROSSFIT CUE SPORTS - Billiards CUE SPORTS - Snooker CYCLING DARTS DRAGON BOATS DUATHLON EQUESTRIAN
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August 2016
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Who can participate VICSES members (volunteers and staff) may compete, however you must have at least 12 months continuous active voluntary service or be a current staff member to be eligible. Retired members must have completed 10 years of service to participate. All entries must be lodged by 23 September 2016. Further information regarding the games is available on the games website (see below). Information For more information please contact Gerry Sheridan, Operations Officer, at head office for further information or if you have any questions, Gerry can be contacted via email at emergencyservicesgames@ses.vic.gov.au. Please note the following important information: • entry fees are the competitors’ responsibility • entries can be lodged via the website • travel and accommodation costs are the competitor’s responsibility. This is a great opportunity for all our volunteers and staff to participate in the Games and to help raise the profile of VICSES. So come along and join other members by representing Team VICSES. For all AP&ES Games information and information on all other sports please: • visit the website: http://www.apandesgames.com.au • email: APESGames2016@police.qld.gov.au • follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ apandesgames2016/
GOLF HOCKEY - Field LAWN BOWLS LEAGUE 9’s MARTIAL ARTS MOUNTAIN BIKE NETBALL OUTRIGGING OZTAG ROAD RACE (Half Marathon & 10km) ROWING - Indoor RUGBY 7’s SHOOTING - Full Bore SHOOTING - Small Bore SHOOTING - Pistol SHOOTING - Skeet
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SHOOTING - Trap SOCCER - Field SOCCER - Indoor SOFTBALL SQUASH STAND UP PADDLEBOARD SURF LIFE SAVING SURFING SWIMMING - Open Water SWIMMING - Pool TENNIS TENPIN BOWLING TOUCH FOOTBALL TRACK AND FIELD TRIATHLON VOLLEYBALL - Beach VOLLEYBALL - Indoor
www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
“This is a great opportunity for all our volunteers and staff to participate in the Games and to help raise the profile of VICSES.”
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August 2016
PHOENIX 23
LETTERS
LETTERS Hi My name is Mark Lyszczarz and I am a paramedic from Bacchus Marsh. On April 20, 2016, we needed the services of the local Bacchus Marsh SES team. We were on scene but unable to get to the patient, due to a river in between the patient’s house and us. I would like to say thank you to the Bacchus Marsh SES team that came out and helped us. They were very quick in responding to my call. However, the main thing that impressed me was how polite and professional they were. They worked with us helping to take myself and two other people across the water with all our gear. On scene they came into the house to make sure everything was fine and without me or my partner asking they then went outside and gave the patient and his family some privacy, which I thought was amazing. Once we stabilised the patient the SES team worked well with us – getting the patient out of the house and back into the 4wd which Bacchus Marsh SES supplied, to take every one back across the river to the ambulance. I would just like to say thank you so much to the crew of SES volunteers that turned up, as their professionalism was greatly appreciated. Mark Lyszczarz Bacchus Marsh Ambulance Paramedic
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August 2016
www.vesa.org.au
A QUICK GUIDE TO VESA VICTORIA EMERGENCY SERVICE ASSOCIATION
WHAT IS VESA? VESA works to advocate for VICSES volunteers, actively supporting Unit leadership teams and engaging cooperatively with VICSES management and Government. • VESA is a non-profit organisation which exists to further the interests of VICSES volunteer members. • VESA uses its dedicated focus on volunteers to select and drive the resolution of issues that impact on skills, safety and how VICSES volunteers undertake their duties. It is important to note that VESA is an Association not a Union. VESA does not engage in adversarial campaigns but it does seek to further the interests of VICSES volunteers, and the public they serve, by promoting appropriate standards in training, equipment and ethics in VICSES.
WHO IS VESA? VESA is wholly staffed by VICSES volunteers and is funded by VICSES Units. VESA is comprised of all VICSES Units – two Delegates are selected to represent each Unit, Regional Councils and a State Board.
VESA’s MISSION To be pro-active in the pursuit of excellence in service delivery for VESA membership and to maintain an effective communication and interaction with all emergency and support agencies.
VESA’s VISION To ensure that the highest level of skills training is available to the volunteers of VICSES. To ensure that the resources available to volunteers are applicable to the respective operational requirements.
VESA’s STRUCTURE VESA is broken up into 7 Regions: South West, Central West, Central East, North West, North East, Mid-West and East. Each Region has a Regional Council which seeks input from local Units, meets and discusses the issues identified and selects issues for escalation to the VESA State Board.
Unit Delegates Each member Unit of VESA elects two delegates who convey the thoughts and feelings of their Unit and its members to the Regional Council. The time spent on this important duty can be as much as the Delegate wants to put in or as little as the Delegate needs to. Each Unit is different and the Units’ Delegates will need to put in the effort that their Unit expects from them. It is a responsible position but not an overly onerous or laborious one.
VICSES Regional Manager and reporting issues and the outcomes to the respective Units and the VESA State Board. The Regional Councils raise issues relevant to VICSES Volunteers to be presented to the VESA State Board for the formulation of policy on the issues they perceive need to be addressed, and to further advocate an outcome with the VICSES CEO or VICSES Board for action.
Regional Council Positions Each Council elects members to undertake the following roles: • President • Secretary • Director • Alternate Director
VESA Board The structure of VESA was recently streamlined to involve Regional Councils to assist Units and Volunteers in the presentation of their local issues to the Regional Manager. This will enable the majority of local issues to be dealt with directly by those most affected by and able to rectify the issue. Regional Councils, via their elected Directors, minutes of meetings and unit reports will be able to keep the State Board informed of those issues so that the Board can recognise and monitor any wide ranging issues as they develop. If appropriate, the board will present them to the respective VICSES Management stream for resolution.
VESA Board Positions • Chairperson • Vice Chairperson • Secretary • Treasurer • Board Member • Board Member • Board Member
PHOENIX MAGAZINE VESA publishes the Phoenix magazine for VICSES volunteers. Phoenix is published six times a year and features articles and photos of interest, submitted by volunteers and staff.
WANT TO GET INVOLVED? As a VICSES volunteer, you are welcome to participate in a VESA Regional Council. Meetings are held once a quarter at various Unit LHQs. The discussion is very informative and presents a great opportunity to network and share best practices across Units.
Regional Councils The elected delegates of the Units from within the region form their Regional Council. When units have been unsuccessful in raising issues themselves with their Regional Manager the Regional Council is charged with addressing those local issues with their respective
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DONATE BLOOD AND YOU’LL SAVE THREE LIVES.
AND GET THE BEST BISCUIT EVER. When you give blood, you save three lives. No wonder the biscuit you eat afterwards is so satisfying. To donate, call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au because giving blood feels good.