PRODUCED BY AND FOR THE VICTORIAN SES VOLUNTEERS
ISSUE 189 AUGUST 2017
Printpost Approved PP 100001634
DENIS BRAIN: A LIFETIME OF SERVICE VICSESÂ SORRENTO CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
Safe and clean seas, saving lives www.amsa.gov.au
CONTRIBUTIONS Letters to the editor If you have a point of view you feel would be of benefit to VicSESVA, 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.
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Contents 2
From the Chair
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Denis Brain: A Lifetime of Service
ESVS Grant - Mildura SES Power and Kitchen Upgrade
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NW Region Support Unit FOV Training and Member Awards
SES and CFA Steep Angle Rescue Course
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Aussies Urged to Support Breast Cancer Research
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Emergency Services Foundation Scholarship Awardee 2017
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Joining the SES
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15 to Float Campaign
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Greek Civil Protection Operations Centre Visit
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40 KPH Campaign
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Closing date for all PHOENIX material: August 2017 edition - Monday July 10 December 2017 edition - Monday November 6 February 2018 edition - Monday January 8
Order of Australia Medal Awarded to Des Smith
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Ron Fitch SES Life Member
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Send all articles to:
SES Volunteers Recognised in the North East
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VICSES Sorrento Celebrates 50 Years
Email: phoenixeditor@vesa.com.au
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National Raffle Major Prize Winner in Victoria
VicSESVA CONTACTS
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VICSES to Remain Major Provider of Road Crash Rescue
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Tarnishing the Golden Hour?
VicSESVA Phoenix Editor & Mailing List Enquiries To add, edit or delete members to mail list or password and technical support contact: directorcw@vesa.com.au
Bush NAV Day
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Skipton Community Sandbagging Facility
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VESA Shop
VicSESVA STATE BOARD EXECUTIVE & STATE BOARD OF DIRECTORS INDEPENDENT CHAIRPERSON Faye Bendrups
TREASURER & CENTRAL WEST DIRECTOR 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
SECRETARY AND 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 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).
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
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 State Emergency Service Volunteers Association (VicSESVA) 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 VicSESVA holds for its members is solely used for the production and distribution of Phoenix and associated products.
REPORTS
from the
CHAIR In this edition of Phoenix, some impressive milestones of service are featured. Members from the NE region totalled 530 years of community service. Nhill and Dimboola Unit Controller Des Smith was awarded an Order of Australia medal in the Queens’ Birthday honours list. In NW region, Swan Hill Controller Keith Blackman tallied up 35 years of service and in Central Region, congratulations are due to Denis Brain (45 years service, Footscray Unit) and Ron Fitch (25 years service, Chelsea Unit) who were made Life Members by VICSES at the 2017 Central Awards night. All these members exemplify one of the most important aspects of social life and community engagement in Australia: volunteering, often defined as long term, organised activities for the benefit of others, willingly given for the common good, without financial gain. All the dedicated members of VICSES Units are building strong communities by volunteering. This is often unseen and unsung, but may come to the fore when extreme weather events hit, as Victoria experienced on 29 July this year when SES received over 1,000 calls for help. The immediacy and drama of 100kph wind gusts, trees down and rooves blown away put SES and all emergency services in the spotlight. And members like Denis and Ron are there, as they have been through many decades of service, to respond to RFAs and
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“Volunteering has been estimated to be worth more than $25.4 billion to the Australian economy annually, but its value far exceeds economic worth.” galvanise their colleagues in a selfless spirit of community assistance. Volunteering has been estimated to be worth more than $25.4 billion to the Australian economy annually (Volunteering Australia Information Sheet, Key Facts, p8), but its value far exceeds economic worth. According to Volunteering Australia: • volunteers were much more likely to be involved in other aspects of community life than non-volunteers • Just a few hours of volunteer work makes a difference in happiness and mood
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Sustained volunteering is associated with better mental health • A strong correlation exists between the well-being, happiness, health, and longevity of people who are emotionally kind and compassionate in their charitable helping activities • The experience of helping others provides meaning, a sense of self-worth, a social role and health enhancement Volunteering involves ordinary members of the community driven by a commitment to serve others; to meet, learn, engage, talk, discover, support, help, befriend, mend, fix, advise, laugh, share, commiserate, tolerate, challenge, test each other on a constant continuum. This builds and strengthens communities and is a major contributor to social cohesion; the sense of belonging, social equity, participation, legitimacy and worth, and (corporately) creating and defending social networks and the social infrastructure underpinning those networks. Congratulations to all members who, like Denis and Ron, received service awards this year and thank you to all SES members for being people who contribute to social cohesion and strengthen local communities. Faye Bendrups Independent Chair, VicSESVA
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Ph: 03 9791 5909 Very proud to support the wonderful efforts of all our State Emergency Service Volunteers. The Life They Save May Be Yours
FEATURE
DENIS BRAIN:
A LIFETIME OF SERVICE AT THE 2017 CENTRAL AWARDS DINNER, VICSES FOOTSCRAY MEMBER DENIS BRAIN SET A NEW RECORD IN SES SERVICE; RECEIVING HIS 45 YEAR LONG SERVICE MEDAL. AS DENIS IS STILL AN ACTIVE OPERATIONAL MEMBER, SES ADVISES THIS MAKES HIM THE LONGEST CONTINUALLY SERVING SES VOLUNTEER IN VICTORIA WHO IS STILL OPERATIONALLY ACTIVE. AT THE AWARDS DINNER, DENIS WAS ALSO MADE A LIFE MEMBER OF VICSES, ALONG WITH RON FITCH OF THE CHELSEA UNIT.
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enis began skills training with the Footscray Civil Defence in 1968, taking courses in First Aid, Basic Rescue, Communications and Advanced Rescue. He was motivated to join up as a response member after the collapse of the West Gate Bridge in 1970 and in May 1971 became a registered member. He has now served over 46 continuous year with VICSES. But his commitment to the community started before his years with VICSES. Denis began his life of service as an army cadet at school. He volunteered for the YMCA for 6 years and was a volunteer firefighter in rural Tasmania. He joined
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the Citizens Military Forces 124 Signals Squadron Unit in Hobart in which he served for 6 years, including during the 1967 Tasmanian bush fires. In Denis’ early Civil Defence service during the Cold War, members trained to be ready for the threat of nuclear war, including procedures for dealing with nuclear fallout using special breathing apparatus and PPC, as well as firefighting and vertical rescue. Training was provided by SES members to the local community to enable them to look after themselves in a disaster. Home Nursing was especially popular (a local plan to have a ‘nurse’ in
“In Denis’ early Civil Defence service during the Cold War, members trained to be ready for the threat of nuclear war.” www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
every home, as in the event of war, hospitals would be overwhelmed). In his 46+ years with Civil Defence and VICSES Footscray, Denis has filled multiple unit positions; Deputy Controller, Section Leader Boating (current), Duty Officer (current), Training Officer, Staff Officer Rescue and has been steadfast in his commitment to remaining with and developing the Unit, even when times were difficult. Denis has developed the capacity of VICSES Footscray In many functions: planning, training, finance, community engagement. In particular, he has been instrumental in developing the Unit’s boating capacity. www.vesa.org.au
At a time of life when most people are enjoying retirement or extended R&R, Denis keeps on putting in. He is currently Unit Duty Officer and Section Leader Boating, and assists with training and mentoring new members. Denis regularly gains some of the highest votes for the Unit’s annual Steve Ashton Award from his peers. And he achieves among the greatest number of hours of service logged by members each year. In addition, he has led a small team of archivists who have spent one night a week for the last 18 months sorting though and cataloguing the decades of papers, books, photos, records and paraphernalia collected from past members so
“Denis regularly gains some of the highest votes for the Unit’s annual Steve Ashton Award from his peers.“ August 2017
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that the notable history of the Footscray Civil Defence and Footscray SES is not lost. Denis has been recognised by the local Maribyrnong council with citizen awards, the local Unit with Controller’s Awards and is a recipient of the National Medal. He has responded to all types of callouts; such as assisting the evacuees from Cyclone Tracy which hit Darwin on Christmas Day 1974, the major Maribyrnong River floods of 1974, the 1993 plane crash in Essendon, the 2009 Victorian bushfires. Denis Brain is an active example of commitment and dedication to SES; an example which is an inspiration to his colleagues at VICSES Footscray and the local community. Submitted by VICSES Footscray
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FEATURE
NW REGION SUPPORT UNIT FOV TRAINING AND MEMBER AWARDS
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unday 7 May 2017 was a beautiful autumn day; cool, crisp and clear, sunny skies. Eight members of the North West Region Support Unit (NW RSU) from Bendigo, two of whom manned the Field Operational Vehicle (FOV) drove to meet with four members from Swan Hill at the regional office in Rutherford Street for training. Since the FOV has arrived in the North West there has been a steady demand for RSU members to provide operational staff for it. Hence FOV training has been incorporated into the unit’s training program. We meet every six months to endorse new members and to refresh those already endorsed in the setup of the FOV. The setup is complicated and it is essential that everyone involved is competent to do so. The RSU has established step by step instructions for setup and standing down. The Unit is often called to man the FOV during operations and exercises where communications and administrative support are needed. During the day, Andrew Gill, Operations Manager, Manager Regional OperationsEmergency Management presented the following awards to the Controller and 2 members: • Keith Blackman, Controller from Swan Hill, received his second Clasp National
medal for 35 years of diligent service to the community, • Yvonne Penny, member from Swan Hill, received her 10 year SES long service award, and • Stan Hendy, member from Bendigo, received his 40 year SES long service award. The Unit has also said farewell to Yvonne Penny, who, after her 10
years of service has retired from the SES. We are sorry to see her go and say thank you for her involvement and contribution to the RSU and the SES. Submitted by Sue Stuart-Dent Administrative Officer, North West Region Support Unit
ORDER OF AUSTRALIA MEDAL AWARDED TO DES SMITH
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es Smith, Unit Controller of the Nhill and Dimboola Unit, received an Order of Australia Medal on the Queen’s Birthday in June 2017. He has been a valuable and well respected member of his community and with his VICSES peers since he first joined the organisation in 1987. In 1991, Des was appointed Unit Controller of the Nhill Unit and has also been the Unit Controller for the Dimboola Unit since 2014. Des has given almost 30 years to our fellow emergency service organisation, the Country Fire Authority and has also been involved for nearly 10 years with the
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organising committee for the Grampians Annual General Rescue Weekend. His ongoing commitment to VICSES is astounding. Des has received numerous acknowledgements over the years for his dedication and hard work, including a Life Member Medal, a National Medal in 2007 and an Emergency Recovery Award in 2013. From everyone at the Mid-West Region, congratulations Des and an award well deserved! Submitted by Lauren Hawkins Volunteer Support Officer, Mid-West Grampians Office
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FEATURE
RON FITCH SES LIFE MEMBER
A PIECE OF CHELSEA SES HISTORY WAS MADE AT THE RECENT VICSES CENTRAL REGION AWARDS PRESENTATIONS, AS UNIT CONTROLLER RON FITCH RECEIVED THE HIGHEST HONOUR AVAILABLE WHEN HE WAS INDUCTED AS A LIFE MEMBER OF THE VICTORIA STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE, THE FIRST EVER CHELSEA VOLUNTEER MEMBER TO RECEIVE THIS AWARD.
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017 sees Chelsea Controller Ron Fitch celebrate 25 years of commitment to VICSES. Ron became a volunteer member in 1992 and aside from a 2 year absence in 2006, has been Unit Controller since 1994, a role which he undertakes with great pride and passion. Ron has been involved with almost every deployment within the State and Interstate, including NSW and SA over the last 20 years including the Black Saturday fires, the Yallourn Power Station fire and most recently spent many weeks in Mildura as Divisional Commander. For over 10 years, Ron has been at the forefront of efforts to win funding for a new headquarters for Chelsea and its members. The 2017 State Budget saw Chelsea receive $2.8M to begin the process of making this dream a reality. This will involve State Government, local Council as well as SES management and support from many community groups, but Ron is as ever confident that this will be achieved, with the future for Chelsea being very positive indeed. Today, as always, Ron continues to lead the Chelsea Unit onto bigger and better times, with the new unit development yet another path to navigate and conquer. The application for Life Membership of SES was a unanimous, unit endorsed application and as a group, they felt that it was an honour that was both deserved and in some ways, overdue, to recognise the sweat, time, energy, commitment, passion and sometimes heartache, that Ron Fitch has given for both the Chelsea members and the community that he serves so proudly. After the presentation, an emotional Ron said “This is a total shock, but obviously a wonderful surprise. I am simply overwhelmed and will treasure this award, as well as this amazing night”. But the awards didn’t end there, Ron also received the Regional Managers top award for 2017 for his work with the City of Kingston, and the Victorian Government through his relationship with local Councillors, local State member, Tim Richardson and for the strengthening of
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the relationship between Chelsea SES and Edithvale CFA. Chelsea SES spokesman Phil Wall said, “Ron Fitch is the heart and soul of the Chelsea Unit and his commitment to his members can never be underestimated. I cannot think of a more worthy recipient for Life membership and on behalf of every member both current and past who have worked with Ron, we all say, good on ya mate for the amazing job you’ve done”.
“Ron has been involved with almost every deployment within the State and Interstate, including NSW and SA over the last 20 years.”
Submitted by Phil Wall www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
SES VOLUNTEERS RECOGNISED IN THE NORTH EAST
ON 24 JUNE, 24 VICTORIA STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE VOLUNTEERS AND ONE STAFF MEMBER WERE AWARDED SERVICE MEDALS IN THE NORTH EAST. TOGETHER THEY CONTRIBUTED AN INCREDIBLE 530 YEARS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE.
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heir remarkable efforts were acknowledged at VICSES North East Region’s annual awards ceremony. Medals were awarded for long service and included the national medal for countless hours dedicated to local communities. “We would like to take the time to recognise and celebrate our members as they have all demonstrated why SES volunteers are so highly valued and respected in our communities,” said Acting Assistant Chief Officer, Neil Payn. SES volunteers perform a wide range of tasks from cutting up dangerous trees felled by storms, sandbagging homes, businesses and community buildings to protect them from floods, to rescuing people who are stranded, lost or injured. Our volunteers also take the time to talk to their local community about how to better prepare for disasters, long before they strike. Between emergencies volunteers sharpen their skills through regular, accredited training. They also work tirelessly to fundraise and support community events. “Each award recipient has demonstrated outstanding commitment and dedicated www.vesa.org.au
countless hours to serving their local communities,” Neil said. “Our SES volunteers are there 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to assist people in times of need and their commitment to providing emergency services is appreciated by all those they help.” Neil added, “I would like to congratulate the 2017 recipients and make special mention to the families that allow these volunteers to make such a great contribution to their communities, along with all SES volunteers around the State, for their invaluable contribution to enhancing the safety of North East Victorians”. Our honoured members This year North East Region staff, Beechworth, Benalla, Cobram, Chiltern, Corryong, Euroa, Kilmore, Mansfield, Murchison, Mitta Mitta, Rutherglen, Wangaratta, Wodonga, Yarrawonga and Yackandandah unit members were presented with awards. Awards recipients included: • Wendy Tucknott, Cobram Unit • Luke Herezo, Cobram Unit
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Ian Partridge, Mansfield Unit Own Lord, Mitta Mitta Unit Di Farmer, Wangaratta Unit Dan Walton, Wangaratta Unit Warren Robertson, Wangaratta Unit Roland Vella, Mansfield Unit Julianne Simpson, Rutherglen Unit Carina Heppell, Wangaratta Unit Christine Mummery, Wangaratta Unit John Stava, Cobram Unit Joanne Barns, Euroa Unit George Mardikis, Euroa Unit Lincoln Wilson, Kilmore Unit David Wallace, Benalla Unit Debbie Dowell, Euroa Unit Margaret Foord, Murchison Unit Garry Dowell, Euroa Unit David Dowell, Euroa Unit Irene Cracknell, Rutherglen Unit Elizabeth McLaurin, Cobram Unit Geoffrey Webb, Mansfield Unit Robert Barns, Euroa Unit Martin Forber, North East Region Staff (awarded the 2nd Clasp National Medal), Frankston Unit and Myrtleford Unit
First published on ses.vic.gov.au 27th July, 2017 August 2017
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VICSES SORRENTO CELEBRATES 50 YEARS VICTORIA STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE SORRENTO UNIT CELEBRATED 50 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA COMMUNITY ON SATURDAY JUNE 17TH WITH A FORMAL DINNER AND AWARDS NIGHT.
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he VICSES Sorrento Unit first began as part of the Southern Peninsula Civil Defence Emergency Services Group back in 1967. After the disappearance of the then Prime Minister Harold Holt at Cheviot Beach, Portsea recognised the lack of emergency services on the Peninsula. In 1975 we had a name change to VICSES Flinders Unit, still working very closely with the Southern Peninsula Rescue Squad. We had been issued with an old truck which was nicknamed the Ice Cream Truck. In 1994 the Southern Peninsula Rescue Squad And VICSES Flinders Unit split and 4 members: Neville Lynch, Terry Goddard, Bill McNamara and Unit Controller Gordon Brown, went off to begin building
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the VICSES Sorrento Unit. Within a few years we had a couple of rescue trucks, a brand new F450 and around 27 volunteers. In 2001 Gordon Brown handed the reins to Terry Goddard who continued to move forward with VICSES Sorrento Unit until his sudden passing in 2005 when he had a sudden heart attack while doing his Controller duties. He is still remembered to this day through not only a memorial frame that we reinvented this year for our anniversary, but also the Terry Goddard Memorial Award for the member who most consistently demonstrates the organisational values: People, Commitment, Trust, Community Focus and Integrity. At the 50th Anniversary Dinner other awards were presented:
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Terry Goddard and Gordon Brown were initiated into the VICSES Sorrento Unit Life Membership along with Bill McNamara, Neville Lynch and Ken Watkins. The Terry Goddard Memorial Award was awarded to Peter LeBouef, our Unit Duty Officer and Membership Officer. The VICSES Sorrento Unit Controllers Award was awarded to Margaret Davis for all her hard work in making our community education what it is today. The Bill Cosimi Award for outstanding contribution to community was awarded to Eleanor Tweedie for her hard work with Community Education, Public Relations and Fundraising. www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
“After the disappearance of the then Prime Minister Harold Holt at Cheviot Beach, Portsea recognised the lack of emergency services on the Peninsula.”
The VICSES Sorrento Unit also have an award for the most understanding partner because as we all know, without our partners and families we wouldn’t be able to do what we love. This year it was awarded to Enid Lebouef for all those times having to put with the pager going off in the wee
hours of the morning and her husband Peter (Unit Duty Officer) having to get up and make all the phone calls he needs on all those disturbed nights. Four of our volunteers received their long service awards: David Archer, Bill Cosimi and Andrew Rogers (10 years) and Evan Rutherford
(5 years). Special thanks to our sponsors for the night Amcal Chemist Rosebud, Sports Power Rosebud, Peninsula Gas & Fuel, Rosebud Packaging and The Angel Op Shop Rosebud. Submitted by David Archer Controller, VICSES Sorrento
NATIONAL RAFFLE MAJOR PRIZE WINNER IN VICTORIA
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s members will be aware, the National SES Volunteers Association, of which VicSESVA is a member, conducts a national raffle campaign. The latest raffle has just been won by a Victorian for the first time: Mr Mark Powell of Warrnambool. VicSESVA Chair, Faye Bendrups, had the pleasure to present Mark with his prize and thank him for the support he has given to VICSES volunteer by purchasing tickets in the national raffle campaign. Funds raised in each State or Territory go to supporting State Emergency Service Volunteers in that State or Territory, such as with • Equipment Grants • Educational Scholarships • Funding Special Projects • Youth Programs • Welfare Support Frequently Asked Questions Q. What is the National SES Volunteers Association? A. The National SES Volunteers Association was formed in 2015 to represent the thousands of State and Territory Emergency Service Volunteers. The Association works to achieve nationally consistent www.vesa.org.au
goals that represent the interests of its volunteer members, advocating them when appropriate. Q. How does the National SES Volunteers Association raise funds? A. National SES Volunteers Association conducts a raffle as its main source of income, and engages a professional contact
centre, OneContact who also conducts similar work for other charities. For more information, please visit www.onecontact.com.au. Q. How can I support the National SES Volunteers Association on an ongoing basis? A. Supporters can participate in 3 or 6 raffles a year by joining our regular raffle club. Q. How can I learn more about National SES Volunteers Association? A. To learn more about what we do, please visit www.nsesva.org.au. Q. Cancellation and refund policy A. Once your payment has been processed and banked, the ticket numbers you have already received either via email or mail will be validated. Note that you will not receive another set of numbers. NSESVA do not provide returns or refunds after the draw date of the raffle. If you would like to cancel your support or verify your numbers, please call 1300 707 344. Q: How do I receive my tickets and pay for them? A: Once you have been contacted by us and pledge your support, you will either receive tickets in the post or via email. There are various options to pay for your tickets and via the website is one of them. August 2017
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VICSES TO REMAIN MAJOR PROVIDER OF ROAD CRASH RESCUE
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n Wednesday 7 June 2017, the Emergency Management Commissioner, Craig Lapsely, issued the following statement: Today there are media reports focused on the role of Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) in road crash rescues that are misleading and have potential to cause concern amongst volunteers. VICSES will remain the major provider of road crash rescue for Victoria operating 102 of the 132 road crash rescue units across the state. The changes to our fire services will not change the current or future role of SES in providing Road Crash Rescue services to Victoria. The change to the role of career firefighters to include first response support to road accidents will improve patient care. It will see career firefighters in outer metropolitan and regional centres being trained and equipped to gain access to a road accident patient critically allowing paramedics earlier access.
The key focus is to gain safe access to the patient earlier, enabling the paramedics to access the patient and commence medical treatment. This is a good community outcome, earlier access to a patient to be treated by paramedics is an improvement that utilises the skills of VICSES rescue workers and firefighters to get the best outcomes for the community. This currently occurs in Bendigo where CFA career firefighters and VICSES volunteers respond at the same time to road accidents. The CFA career firefighters can provide the first on scene role to gain access to the patient, allowing paramedics the
opportunity to assess the patients injuries and medical condition. Once SES are on scene - normally only minutes later - CFA then hand over to the VICSES volunteers to complete the rescue with their large rescue equipment and higher level training. This model is planned to be deployed across other outer metropolitan and regional centres. This new approach has been operating in Bendigo for over a decade and is planned to be implemented over the next 12 months. It will result in the 35 CFA career fire stations (integrated) providing first response support to road accidents. Their role will focus on safety and gaining initial access by stabilising the vehicle, making safe the accident scene, assisting paramedics to make an initial assessment and potentially stabilise the patient response before the larger SES rescue response arrives with significantly greater capabilities. Submitted by Craig Lapsley PSM Emergency Management Commissioner
SKIPTON COMMUNITY SANDBAGGING FACILITY THE SKIPTON COMMUNITY WILL NOW HAVE ENHANCED CAPABILITY TO RESPOND TO FLOODING INCIDENTS, THANKS TO A NEW SANDBAGGING FACILITY INSTALLED BY VICSES AT THE SKIPTON CFA STATION.
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ismore VICSES Unit Controller Colin Pickering put forward the successful application to Emergency Management Victoria as part of their Emergency Services Volunteer Sustainability Grants program, that invests in equipment and facilities to ensure emergency management volunteers can continue to deliver a high level of service to help keep Victorians safe. “During the Mount Emu Creek flooding at Skipton in October 2016, the difficult access and safety concern for volunteers and community members collecting sandbagging resources from the previous location was the motivation behind our application,” he said. The facility’s previous roadside location was on an uneven surface and lacked secure dry storage. This required all equipment to be brought in, stored under tarpaulins and
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removed after a flooding event. The uneven surface quickly churned to mud in the wet, which significantly limited access and capacity, due to forklifts being unable to operate in the area. “The installation of a permanent, purpose built sandbagging area with all associated requirements will greatly enhance our operational capability and decrease response times to flooding incidents” said Colin. In the event of flooding, sandbagging can be used in conjunction with other preventative measures to block doorways, drains and other openings into a property. Mr Pickering also paid tribute to Skipton CFA for hosting the community sandbagging facility: “the CFA has the needs and safety of the community at heart and were very accommodating throughout the whole installation process.”
Requiring only the delivery of sand to begin operations, the new hard stand shipping container facility will be stocked with sandbags, sandbag filling devices, shovels and other items to enable a safer, faster response. Submitted by Jake Johnson Community Resilience Coordinator, SW Region www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
ESVS GRANT - MILDURA SES POWER AND KITCHEN UPGRADE
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n Remembrance Day, 11th November 2016, a severe storm with high winds and hail hit the Sunraysia area affecting an area up to 80 kms from Mildura in all directions including the towns of Werrimull, Mildura, Merbein, Irymple, Cardross, Red Cliffs and Nangiloc/Colignan. The Merbein township was hit the hardest for wind damage with over 20 homes or commercial buildings with major roof damage and removal while Cardross and Red Cliffs received most of the hail damage to hundreds of cars and causing millions of dollars damage to the local grape crops for dried, fresh and winery supply. The Mildura VICSES Unit received over 600 calls with over 300 in the first hour, which started at 1820 hours at Werrimull about 70 kms away and affected many areas with major power blackouts that lasted for days in some areas. The Mildura Unit also lost power for 24 hours so were operating on a generator connected to 3 power outlets and a few lights fitted in 1983 as a backup power source which did not allow for the current systems like phone, internet, computers, air conditioning requirements of today. We had to run power leads around the floor to provide the vital equipment like phones and computers to assist with the operational functions which ended up with up to 100 people from SES, CFA, MFB, DELWP and Parks Vic etc. arriving to assist with the massive clean-up job ahead of us which was greatly appreciated and welcomed. This incident prompted the unit to look at a better backup power solution for the future and when the ESVS Grant was announced our regional staff at Bendigo saw this as an opportunity for an upgrade, which we followed. The 12 kva generator was easy as this came from the VICSES equipment catalogue but It was 2 days before local businesses closed for Christmas so getting quotes for the install www.vesa.org.au
was a rush but we managed to obtained a quote for the electrical install including main switchboard upgrade from 1983 to 2017 specifications with RCD protection included. We also decided to upgrade our outdated 1983 style kitchen that was old and dark and was beginning to show its age with two old electric stoves so a quote was obtained to replace the kitchen cabinets with brighter units that are more modern so the application was submitted to NW Bendigo office. The Unit was successful with the grant application so all was looking up for the Unit but as we discussed the kitchen layout and some future ideas we changed the design dramatically from just replacing what we had to a new design with new appliance and hot water system. To brighten up the area we have plastered over the red brick walls with white tiled splash back and added a new stainless 90cm oven with natural gas cooktop, matching dishwasher and microwave oven as well as installed natural gas instant hot water system to supply the kitchen, toilets and shower. While the grant did not cover all of the project as the submission was done quickly we feel the unit funds for the additional appliances and gas hot water have enhanced the area greatly and is money well spent for a brighter and more functional kitchen that will serve the unit for many years to come. We still need to paint the kitchen walls and finish removal of the old floor covering but this is a big improvement on what we had. The electrical, plumbing and kitchen were installed with local businesses and tradespeople completing work with coordination by Unit management. SES unit members removed the old kitchen and other works, which saved the unit money and time to allow the works by qualified tradespeople to be completed in a timely manner.
“To brighten up the area we have plastered over the red brick walls with white tiled splash back and added a new stainless 90cm oven with natural gas cooktop.” I would like to thank North West Regional staff for their support and approval of this project as well as the Mildura Unit members for the support, understanding and assistance during the building works with no kitchen, and at times a messy area but all agree it was worth the effort. The unit will host some information sessions by VHO staff in August so will be the ideal time to put the new appliances to work. Submitted by Michael Hellwege Controller, VICSES Mildura August 2017
PHOENIX 15
FEATURE
SES AND CFA STEEP ANGLE RESCUE COURSE
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www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
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ith EMV’s mantra of ‘We work as one’ being a guiding principle for emergency service organisations in Victoria, the best way to achieve this is to share skills, knowledge and resources across the state. An example of this took place in Bright recently where a Steep Angle Rescue course for SES and CFA volunteers was run over two weekends. The course was funded by VICSES’s North East Region, the first time it has done so. Twelve participants from VICSES Bright Unit and Mount Beauty CFA took part, with instructors coming from VICSES (Andrew Feagan and Bill Rouse) and CFA (Mark Sharrock and Adrian Gutsche). The participants spent the first weekend at the Bright SES LHQ. Day one involved learning the theory of Steep Angle rescue and being introduced to the specialised items of equipment involved in this form of rescue. The second day had them out in the nearby environment practising the technical details; knots, anchors, calls, and procedures. In between the two weekends, participants practised their new skills at their own facilities and also had a combined session at Bright. The second weekend took www.vesa.org.au
them out into the hills around Bright to practise their new skills in more realistic situations. This included drills/scenarios of bringing casualties both up and down slopes. “I’ve been really impressed by the commitment of this group to their learning,” said Andrew Feagan, VICSES Steep Angle instructor, “They arranged several practice nights in the fortnight between the weekends, both in their own facilities and together again at Bright.” “This is a fantastic program,” said Inspector Paul Hargreaves, REMI for Hume Region, “VICPOL is developing a database of resources – equipment and personnel - that can be called upon in emergencies, particularly in the Alps over winter. To have a group such as this, trained and available with equipment on hand, will provide great support for us if anything occurs”. Senior Sergeant Doug Incoll of Bright Police can see that this training will reduce response times to incidents: “One of the major concerns we have with emergency responses in this area is the tyranny of distance,” he said, “When there’s a call for a paraglider or an abseiler rescue, we have to wait for the Search & Rescue [SAR] squad to send a team, which can take up to four hours. Having these blokes locally
with the cache of equipment means we can start a rescue instantly rather than waiting for SAR”. Russell Bowring, of Mount Beauty CFA, felt that he gained much from the course: “It was very satisfying having been able to train alongside another agency learning the same skills and using the same equipment. The instructors from both agencies shared knowledge and scenarios taken from their own personal experiences, making our training more realistic”, explained Russell. Barrett Higman, of Bright SES, shared Russell’s sentiments: “The relationships built between the two groups during this course have increased our mutual respect. I feel that this will create a flow-on effect to other Units and Brigades, and into our communities in the different valleys. What we have achieved in this course will provide benefits for this area for many years,” said Barrett. With the completion of the course, VICSES has placed a cache of High Angle Operator rescue equipment at Bright SES to pair with the Steep Angle cache at Mount Beauty CFA. Bright SES and Mount Beauty CFA will be able to provide integrated teams to steep angle rescue incidents. August 2017
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FEATURE
AUSSIES URGED TO SUPPORT BREAST CANCER RESEARCH IN OCTOBER BY HOSTING A PINK RIBBON BREAKFAST It’s Simple. It’s Social. It Saves Lives THE NATIONAL BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION (NBCF) IS ENCOURAGING AUSTRALIANS TO GET TOGETHER WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY AND WORK COLLEAGUES TO SUPPORT LIFE-CHANGING BREAST CANCER RESEARCH THROUGH ITS PINK RIBBON BREAKFAST CAMPAIGN THIS OCTOBER DURING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH.
“By hosting a Pink Ribbon Breakfast for the National Breast Cancer Foundation, you are ensuring that we can continue to fund the very best cancer research in Australia.”
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his year’s Pink Ribbon Breakfast marks the 14th year of NBCF’s most iconic campaign. Whilst inspiring Australians to host a fun event and enjoy time with friends, family and colleagues – Pink Ribbon Breakfast also has a serious call to action: to raise much-needed funds for research to help stop deaths from breast cancer. The 2017 campaign focuses the lens on metastatic breast cancer, or breast cancer which has spread beyond the breast. The main cause of death from breast cancer, a third of women with breast cancer will develop metastatic breast cancer later in lifeI. Whilst the five year survival rate for breast cancer is currently at 90 per cent, the five year survival rate for women that have metastatic breast cancer is alarmingly low at 40 per centII. The lack of effective and targeted treatments for this stage of breast cancer highlights the crucial need for targeted and robust research. “Metastatic breast cancer is the biggest killer for patients with this condition and is a major area of focus for the National Breast Cancer Foundation,” said Dr Alessandra
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Muntoni, Director of Research Investment at NBCF. “Right now, researchers are tackling metastatic breast cancer from many angles and each has the potential to make a life-changing difference for women in Australia and across the globe. We are doing our part, with 50 per cent of the projects funded by NBCF in 2017 focusing on metastatic breast cancer,” continued Dr Muntoni. By hosting a Pink Ribbon Breakfast this October, Australians will help NBCF fund research like Dr Kylie Wagstaff’s from Monash University in Victoria, whose work has the potential to develop new and more effective treatments for metastatic breast cancer. Right now, the standard treatments currently available for women with metastatic breast cancer can prolong life, but ultimately do not prevent death. These treatments include toxic chemotherapy which, although initially effective at killing cancer cells, simultaneously attacks some healthy cells and causes unpleasant side effects.
Dr Wagstaff’s work is focused on finding a specific biomarker that differentiates healthy cells from cancer cells. This discovery could firstly lead to easier and more accurate detection of metastatic breast cancer and, secondly, aid the development of drugs that recognise and target only cancer cells. “Research is the key to everything. Better diagnosis, better treatment and better outcomes. Without understanding of the core workings of the disease we can’t progress towards better treatment,” added Dr Wagstaff. Each Pink Ribbon Breakfast event will contribute to NBCF’s collective goal of $2 million for the campaign. This could help NBCF invest in research for far more effective treatments, such as immunotherapy, for metastatic breast cancer. With up to a third of women and men diagnosed with breast cancer likely to experience a relapse later in life this has the potential to save thousands of lives. There are many ways that Australians can host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast event: a morning tea with friend’s workmates at the www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE office, a Pink Ribbon trivia night, dinner party or even a sports event. The only limit is imagination! “By hosting a Pink Ribbon Breakfast for the National Breast Cancer Foundation, you are ensuring that we can continue to fund the very best cancer research in Australia,” said Professor Sarah Hosking, CEO of NBCF. “On behalf of everyone at NBCF and all the women and men affected by breast cancer, thank you so much for your support. Your commitment makes a huge difference,” she continued. NBCF is the only national body that funds life-changing breast cancer research with money raised entirely by the Australian public. Through its 2017 Pink Ribbon Breakfast campaign, NBCF hopes to raise more than $2 million through community and corporate support, to fund breast cancer research. Register now to host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast this October for NBCF: pinkribbonbreakfast.org.au
I Global Status of Advanced / Metastatic Breast Cancer, 2005-2015 Decade Report, March 2016.
II Cancer Australia. Report to the nation - breast cancer 2012, Cancer Australia, Surry Hills, NSW, 2012.
This October, Pink Up to help families experiencing breast cancer. The McGrath Foundation makes life that little bit easier for families experiencing breast cancer, by placing specialist McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities across Australia.
*June 2017
Learn how you can support at www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au
www.vesa.org.au
We believe that women and men diagnosed with breast cancer, and their families, need consistent, compassionate and expert support throughout their experience – wherever they live, for free.
August 2017
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FEATURE
EMERGENCY SERVICES FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP AWARDEE 2017
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believe that if you’re willing to try something in life no matter how hard it seems you should have a go, as you’ll never know unless you give it a go. These are some of the words that were spoken to me at last year’s ESF Volunteers leadership forum. It was here that I learnt about the Emergency Services Foundation (ESF) Scholarship Grants program. The scholarships on offer provide a stipend so that recipients from Emergency Service Agencies in Victoria whether paid or volunteer can travel overseas or interstate to visit organisations and communities to learn from them about innovative ideas that could be utilised in communities and other Emergency Service Agencies in Victoria. This really interested me as I am very passionate about Community preparedness response and recovery. So, I decided to go for it. Firstly, I attended an information evening at the Metropolitan Fire Brigade and for any future recipients note that they pay particular interest to those who attend and ask plenty of questions. I then started talking to past applicants about how you go about writing up your application.
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I picked a topic and began. My chosen topic was to try to: “Identify whether people who live in different environments prepare, respond and recover differently to emergencies and why?” I believed that if we knew how people from different environments prepared, responded and recovered, that we could benefit greatly not just in our own communities but to help other Emergency Agencies too. Whether it be the natural environment from bushland to floodplains, the cultural environment of different cultures and religions or the generational environment from up brings, to age and gender. Some of the benefits I discovered when speaking to other Emergency Agencies included: Victoria Police – They believed that the data gained could be used to build intelligence tools to better decide decisions in planning. Country Fire Authority – They believe that with the correct information, it could help us to identify and understand
risk, and where the most vulnerable areas are. Department of Health and Human Services -Believed that this may help to assist local governments to better understand planning and recovery services and could help us to understand the make-up of our communities including things like economic growth, vulnerable areas, geographical disasters and those communities that would be most at risk or struggle to recover. In my application, I also picked where I wanted to go and why, made contacts with people in those places and did a lot of preliminary research as into why we needed this. I had to show the evidence. I choose to keep my study tour in the bounds of Australia as I believed that we should learn from ourselves first and see what we can offer to each other, share our knowledge so to speak, but also because my topics environments would not be the same as those we have in Australia therefore how relevant would my topic be if I did go overseas, the only beneficiary would be www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
me and the fact that I want to go overseas. So, I found four locations around NSW to visit based on their type of environment these were: Wagga Wagga, Kapooka Army Base, The Rock, Forbes, Bedgerebong, Parkes, Singleton, Maitland, Cessnock, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Sydney, Gooloogong and Cowra. And placed in my project objectives which were to: 1. Visit communities that have various hazard risk issues, have experienced recent emergencies or have identified “successful” programs and discover how they prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies. – Build Capacity. 2. Discover how Emergency Agencies assist and connect with these communities and whether preparation, response and recovery differs depending on where they are situated. – Increase Collaboration. 3. Research whether personal views of individuals or communities differ to emergencies based on culture, age, gender and habitation. – Foster Connections. www.vesa.org.au
4. Determine if “hazard education” and/or community led programs used in these communities could be transferable to benefit and improve Victorian emergency service agencies and its communities in becoming a more resilient and robust state. – Increase Collaboration. Then in January of this year I handed in my application to the Scholarship Board and in March they rang to inform me that I had obtained an interview with the Scholarship Board to further discuss my Scholarship ideas. The interview was held at the VICSES Headquarters towards the end of April, here I was told that I was one of seven people to make it into the interview stage, but the only volunteer from all the Emergency Service Agencies in Victoria. That I believed was an amazing accomplishment considering the fact that they had 40 applications for the Scholarship this year. The interview went well and I was told a few hours later that I had obtained a Scholarship, I would be representing all Volunteers and Staff at VICSES, all my hard work had paid
off, now I had the fun part of organising and confirming all my scheduled visits, accommodation and car hire. On the evening of July 11th at the Emergency Management Conference Dinner I was presented with my Scholarship Award and Alumni Pin. I was also able to meet the other 5 applicants that had also obtained a scholarship. So far it has been my greatest adventure and I look forward to embarking on this research tour. I leave for 4 weeks at the end of September and cannot wait to network with the NSW Community. For anyone who has ever thought of going for a ESF Scholarship it is the most rewarding experience, even if unsuccessful you will meet new people, learn new skills and gain a knowledge for your own community and Unit that you didn’t have before. “For if we try and continue to try we shall never fail, yet simply learn to succeed”. Submittted by Carina Heppell Wangaratta SES Volunteer ESF Scholarship Awardee 2017 August 2017
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JOINING THE SES
“I
am joining the SES”, that was what I said to myself early this year. The brochures make it sound really interesting and exciting. That’s not the only reason I joined, like many before I wanted to give back to the community that supported me. The first day and after going through the administration and issuing of uniforms, we -I am one of 7 newbies- get an introduction to SES training. Our instructor welcomes us and says “we will teach you everything from the basics, we will even teach you to climb a ladder”. Well, he kept his promise. After the first evening I thought, what did I get myself into? Each Monday It felt that all we did was repetition in training, the truck checks, and then debriefing, you speak to the seasoned crew and leaders who keep you motivated to see it through the initial fundamentals training. After a number of weeks the newbies are reduced to 5 (the dedicated), and I start to see the reason for the repetition and the constant truck checks. We learn the ropes, the knots, the SOP, the wrong way and the SES way. I see that you need to be part of a well-oiled machine where each member of the team is dependent on each other. The last thing I would like is to have a team member getting injured because I did not follow the process. I made it through fundamentals with my mind and pride intact.
Manningham newbies: Chat Attanayake, Michael Heatherley, Robert Wuestenenk and Helen O’Shea.
After months of training and checks your get the OK to go on call and you get issued your pager and helmet, a rite of passage, welcome to the SES on call family. The first week on call can be unsettling; it’s all new, you wait for the page and when it does, you make your way to LHQ and get ready. The crew leader puts you at ease and gives you the run-down of what going to happen.
You do the job and get back to HQ and debrief. Well I did not make a mess of it, “hey the training works”. Over the time that I have been in the SES it has been fun, educational, challenging and more. Submitted by Robert Wuestenek VICSES Manningham
NEW CAMPAIGN: 15 TO FLOAT LAUNCHED 19 JUNE
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id you know that it can take as little as 15cm for a car to float? That’s the size of an average pen! Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) launched a media campaign to warn Victorians about the dangers of driving in floodwater with the message “it only takes 15 to float”. In the past nine months alone VICSES has responded to over 100 requests for assistance related to vehicles that have become stranded in water. “In 2016, VICSES responded to 126 call outs regarding vehicles trapped in floodwater,” said Tim Wiebusch, Deputy Chief Officer Operations. “We’ve seen incidents already this year that just shouldn’t be occurring.” “Vehicles that become stranded in water place our SES volunteer crews and other responders at risk,” he adds. “That’s why we are launching the
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15 to float campaign, to highlight just how easy it is for a vehicle to become stranded in water.” Research conducted by UNSW demonstrates that as little as 15cm of water is enough for a vehicle to start to float, reducing the drivers control and endangering occupants. “We achieved over 1.1 million views through non-paid news media on the first day of launch,” said Kelvin Jewell,
VICSES Campaign Adviser. “And other states, including New South Wales and the Northern Territory, have expressed interest in adapting the campaign for their audience.” For more information on the ‘15 to float’ campaign and to see your vehicles float point – visit 15tofloat.com.au. Submitted by VICSES Media www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
GREEK CIVIL PROTECTION OPERATIONS CENTRE VISIT
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hilst on a recent European vacation, Bruthen Unit Controller Nick Antonopoulos was a guest of the Greek Civil Protection Operations Centre in Chalandri Athens. The centre coordinates civil protection and humanitarian aid operations across Greece. It’s also part of the EU framework that offers international support to other nations in response to major natural and technological disasters. By activating EU mechanisms participating states can provide assistance to each other in the form of specialist teams and equipment. Nick was shown the detailed workings of the centre and was informed of the many challenges faced by his Greek counterparts. Greece is prone to earthquakes and wildfires. 2017 saw a severe earthquake in southwest of Mytilene on the Greek Island of Lesvos whilst wildfires broke out across the Mani Peninsula in the Peloponnese and on the outskirts of Athens. Helicopters provide a critical emergency response role across Greece. With over 6,500 inhabited islands across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, helicopters are used to reach remote areas and undertake fire suppression, supply drops and medical evacuation. In recent times, Greece has experienced an unprecedented influx of refugees and migrants. In 2016 alone nearly 172,000 arrived by seaalone.
Fire Lieutenant Colonel Marios Dasopoulos, Nick Antonopoulos and Police Major John Favvatos.
The centre has been instrumental in managing the crisis situation and coordinating material support to help cope with the influx. On reflection Nick stated, “It’s always interesting to see how other nations prepare and manage emergency events.
We have much in common which includes our commitment to help others during emergency situations”. Submitted by Nick Antonopoulos Unit Controller, Bruthen
40 KPH CAMPAIGN Local Emergency Services And Their Families Ask You To Slow Down The state government has introduced new road rules to protect emergency services workers on our roads at incidents. From July 1, drivers must safely slow to 40km/h when passing a stationary or slow-moving emergency vehicle that is responding to an emergency with flashing lights or a siren sounding. After passing the vehicle, drivers should not increase speed again until reaching a safe distance from the scene, so that emergency workers can do their job without fear of being hit by passing traffic. Emergency services workers and volunteers are often called to respond to incidents on or near roads and freeways. These incidents present a heightened risk to www.vesa.org.au
our workers with fast moving traffic, debris and other hazards and also don’t have the benefit of traffic control planning that you would find in areas such as designated road works. Whilst our members are attending these incidents our focus and attention is on offering assistance to those involved and we ask for your assistance to slow to 40kph to reduce the risk to our workers. “It’s a simple message – when you see flashing lights ahead slow to 40 to keep our emergency workers safe so the we can return to our family and friends. It might mean you arrive at your destination a little later, but it could save a life” Submitted by Di Dale Deputy Controller Operations, VICSES Gisborne
“drivers must safely slow to 40km/h when passing a stationary or slow-moving emergency vehicle.” August 2017
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TARNISHING THE GOLDEN HOUR?
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n both General Rescue and Road Crash Rescue training, SES members learn that time is life: the quicker a casualty can be safely taken from a position of danger and handed to paramedics, the better their chances of survival and recovery. However, a recent court decision from California has underlined the need not to overemphasize speed. It will be worthwhile for SES members to consider this decision in assessing the need to work quickly and to drive EVS to incidents. Case Study Sanchez v Kern On Friday 2 October 2009 Abraham Sanchez sustained a head injury during a high school football game. He was taken to hospital and underwent surgery but sustained a significant brain injury. The chain of events was broadly agreed between the parties as follows 2 October 2009 Uncertain – Sanchez sustains a head injury while playing football. 2123 – Sanchez’s coach calls for the standby ambulance crew attending the game. 2125 – Standby ambulance paramedics begin examination of Sanchez, who is assessed at a Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) of 15. They recommend he go to hospital anyway. 2130 – Standby ambulance paramedics radio for a backup ambulance (“transport ambulance”) to transport Sanchez to hospital Code 2 (immediate response but without lights or sirens). The standby paramedics apply spinal precautions, load Sanchez into a standby ambulance and drive to the northeast corner of the playing field to meet the transport ambulance. 2134 – Transport ambulance arrives at the playing field. 2138 – Transport ambulance crew makes contact with Sanchez. 2142 – Transport ambulance departs with Sanchez on board. 2145 – At or about this time Sanchez deteriorates significantly. 2148 – Transport ambulance upgrades the
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callout to a Code 3 emergency and proceeds to Kern Medical Centre under lights and sirens. 2213 – Transport ambulance hands Sanchez over to the emergency room at Kern Medical Centre. Following a CT scan a right sided subdural haematoma is diagnosed. 2234 – CT Scan performed of Sanchez’s head; no posterior cerebral artery stroke identified. 2300 – Mannitol is administered to reduce brain swelling. 2342 – Sanchez transferred to operating theatre. 3 October 2009 0035 – Craniotomy commenced to relieve Sanchez’s brain haemorrhage. 0258 – Craniotomy completed. 0809 – CT Scan performed of Sanchez’s head; no posterior cerebral artery stroke identified. 8 October 2009 1003 – CT Scan performed of Sanchez’s head; posterior cerebral artery stroke identified. Sanchez alleged that the ambulance service attending the game was grossly negligent, causing him to sustain a worse outcome than would otherwise have been the case. Litigation The California Health & Safety Code provides (at §1799.106(a)) that an emergency responder – “who renders emergency medical services at the scene of an emergency or during an emergency … ambulance transport shall only be liable in civil damages for acts or omissions performed in a grossly negligent manner or acts or omissions not performed in good faith”. ‘Gross negligence’ is defined in Californian law as a lack of even slight care or an extreme departure from the ordinary course of conduct1. Sanchez alleged that
“Because every minute is essential to the recovery of a patient experiencing head trauma, the first hour, otherwise known as the ‘golden hour’ immediately following the brain injury is the most critical to the patient’s ultimate recovery.” the standby ambulance crew were grossly negligent in not properly assessing his condition or immediately transporting him to hospital in the standby ambulance. He relied on an expert opinion from a neurosurgeon. The defendant responded that there was no evidence of gross negligence or that its crew had caused no damage. Sanchez’s claim was dismissed by the trial judge2. Sanchez appealed and his appeal was also dismissed3. Discussion The case turned on Sanchez’s neurosurgeon’s opinion. He said that: “Because every minute is essential to the recovery of a patient experiencing head trauma, the first hour, otherwise known as the ‘golden hour’ immediately following the brain injury is the most critical to the patient’s ultimate recovery. The delay jeopardized the recovery because it led to ischemia…. The quicker a subdural hematoma patient gets to the hospital, the better the outcome. Because Moses did not transport Abraham Sanchez to the hospital immediately that delay not only contributed to a more severe brain injury than Abraham Sanchez would have suffered had he been taken to the hospital quicker, but also jeopardized Abraham’s overall recovery… Abraham arrived at Kern Medical Center at 10:16 p.m., at which [time] www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
“The ‘golden hour’ referred to by the neurosurgeon is often referred to in SES training. It remains broadly supported in emergency response.” Abraham was rushed into a CT scan. Shortly thereafter, Abraham was administered Mannitol to decrease his brain swelling. Had Abraham been transported immediately upon Moses’s initial contact at 9:25 p.m., there would have been a decrease in brain swelling, and thereby pressure, because the administration of Mannitol would have occurred much sooner”. The ‘golden hour’ referred to by the neurosurgeon is often referred to in SES training. It remains broadly supported in emergency response. Ian Dunbar notes that although the ‘hour’ period has been questioned, delay must be minimized in managing a time critical casualty4. In the same vein, the Red Cross advises that a person who appears to be affected by a significant blow to the head should be handed over to medical care rapidly5. The defendant’s evidence in opposition was that – • Patient outcomes are not affected by delays of under four hours before surgical treatment of a subdural hematoma. • A ‘faster is better’ approach in subdural haematoma cases does not improve patient outcomes. However, it is probably better for patients with this condition to get to an operating theatre within 4 hours6.
•
There is no evidence that a difference of up to 30 minutes in arrival time will make a difference to the casualty’s outcome. The defendant’s response seems to have been shaped by the principles of Evidence Based Medicine, which have been convincingly proposed as the best available method of identifying scientific fact7. The Court of Appeal was persuaded and concluded that “the defense experts … showed the assumptions on which [the neurosurgeon’s] opinions were founded were not valid, according to the medical literature”
Conclusion The ‘golden hour’ remains a standard principle in SES training. It is clear, easy to remember, and matches the natural drive to work swiftly. Sanchez v Kern indicates that in cases of subdural haematoma, however, it will not help the casualty. In such cases, SES members would be justified in taking a more measured approach to responding (for instance, driving under lights and sirens may not be warranted). It may be best to place other priorities ahead of speed in these cases.
City of Santa Barbara v Superior Court (2007) 41 Cal.4th 747 at 754. Emergency responders should however note that ‘gross negligence’ has a remarkably fluid range of meaning: Stephen Tuck, ‘A recent decision of the Florida DCA on gradations of negligence’ [Winter 2014] Amer. Bar Assoc. Commercial Transp. Litigation Comm. News 10. 2 Abraham Sanchez v Kern Emergency Medical Transportation Corporation (Judge Chapin, Kern County Superior Court, 9 May 2015, unreported). 3 Sanchez v Kern Emergency Medical Transp’n Corp. (2017) __ Cal.App.4th __. 4 IAN DUNBAR, VEHICLE EXTRICATION TECHNIQUES (Holmatro: n.p., n.d.) at 103-4 5 AMERICAN RED CROSS, WILDERNESS AND REMOTE FIRST AID (Krames StayWell: n.p., 2014) at 50 6 The mere existence of a subdural haematoma is in general a predictor of a poor outcome, and rapid treatment is not thought to be able to alter this although hospital treatment is advised: Jack Hubbard MD, Samuel D. Hodge and Stavroula Kotrotsios, ‘A Traumatic Brain Injury is a Headache in both Medical and Legal Circles’ (2015) 50 Tort Trial & Ins. Prac. L.J. 809 at 819 and 821. 7 Terence Davidson MD and Christopher Guzelian, ‘Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM): The (Only) Means for Distinguishing Knowledge of Medical Causation from Expert Opinion in the Courtroom’ (2012) 47 Tort Trial & Ins. Prac. L.J. 741. 1
Submitted by Stephen Tuck Controller, VICSES Tatura
BUSH NAV DAY SUNDAY NOVEMBER 19TH 2017
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or those of you unfamiliar, as it has been a while, Bush Nav Day is a rogain type event hosted by us for the entire VICSES volunteer (and some staff) cohort. We will pit you against each other in a competition unlike all others to earn ultimate bragging rights over all other teams. For 6 hours, you will trudge wearily search for checkpoints with enthusiasm through undulating, forested terrain, somewhere in Victoria.
www.vesa.org.au
If you are interested, please keep the date free and prepare to sign up when we call for your nominations! Recruits, you are most welcome! Alex Courtney alexander.courtney@members.ses.vic.gov.au www.whitehorseses.org.au facebook.com/WhitehorseSES Submitted by Alex Courtney, Deputy Controller Operations, VICSES Whitehorse
August 2017
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VicSESVA SHOP
VicSESVA Shop Catalogue For pricing and ordering details please contact VicSESVA Shop Manager Chris Patton at vesashop@vesa.com.au or phone 0409 550 892
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STYLE: VS3638 DESCRIPTION: Mens Long Sleeve End on End Shirt FABRIC: 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton COLOUR: Royal Blue SIZES: 38, 39, 41, 42, 43, 46, 48
STYLE: VS3636 DESCRIPTION: Ladies Short Sleeve Shirt with Epaulettes FABRIC: P oly Cotton COLOUR: Sky Blue SIZES: 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24
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VicSESVA SHOP
STYLE: 4/GFL/AN DESCRIPTION: Basecamp Anorak Jacket FABRIC: Nylon Ottoman Shell with Self Coloured Anti-pill Polar Fleece Lining COLOUR: Navy/Pumpkin SIZES: XXS, XS, S, M, L, 2XL, 3XL STYLE: VS4419 DESCRIPTION: Soft Shell Security Jacket FABRIC: 1 00% Bonded Polyester, Soft Shell COLOUR: Navy SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL
STYLE: 4/WS/PF01 DESCRIPTION: Unisex Half Zip Polar Fleece FABRIC: Anti-Pill Polar Fleece 320gsm - 100% Polyester COLOUR: Navy SIZES: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL
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STYLE: 4/WS/PF07 DESCRIPTION: Mens Full Zip Bonded Fleece Jacket FABRIC: Bonded Polar Fleece 350gsm - 100% Polyester COLOUR: Navy SIZES: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL
STYLE: 4/WS/PF08 DESCRIPTION: Ladies Full Zip Bonded Fleece Jacket FABRIC: Bonded Polar Fleece 350gsm - 100% Polyester COLOUR: Navy SIZES: 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18
August 2017
PHOENIX 27
VicSESVA SHOP
STYLE: VS9306 DESCRIPTION: Wool Roll Up Beanie SIZES: One size fits all
STYLE: VS9307 DESCRIPTION: Polar Fleece Roll Up Beanie SIZES: One size fits all
STYLE: 4/WS/PF10 DESCRIPTION: Ladies Full Zip Bonded Fleece Vest FABRIC: Bonded Polar Fleece 350gsm - 100% Polyester COLOUR: Navy SIZES: 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18
STYLE: VS1037 DESCRIPTION: Mens Cargo Shorts FABRIC: Cotton Blend with Permasize. Wrinkle Resistant COLOUR: Navy SIZES: 77, 82, 87, 92, 97, 102, 107, 112, 117, 122, 127
STYLE: VS1254 DESCRIPTION: Mens Cargo Workpants with Double knees FABRIC: Cotton Blend with Permasize. Wrinkle Resistant COLOUR: Navy SIZES: 77, 82, 87, 92, 97, 102, 107, 112, 117, 122, 127
STYLE: 4/WS/PF09 DESCRIPTION: Mens Full Zip Bonded Fleece Vest FABRIC: Bonded Polar Fleece 350gsm - 100% Polyester COLOUR: Navy SIZES: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL
28 PHOENIX
August 2017
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A QUICK GUIDE TO VicSESVA Victoria State Emergency Service Volunteers Association
WHAT IS VicSESVA? VicSESVA works to advocate for VICSES volunteers, actively supporting Unit leadership teams and engaging cooperatively with VICSES management and Government. • VicSESVA is a non-profit organisation which exists to further the interests of VICSES volunteer members. • VicSESVA 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 VicSESVA is an Association not a Union. VicSESVA 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 VicSESVA? VicSESVA is wholly staffed by VICSES volunteers and is funded by VICSES Units. VicSESVA is comprised of all VICSES Units – two Delegates are selected to represent each Unit, Regional Councils and a State Board.
VicSESVA’s MISSION To be pro-active in the pursuit of excellence in service delivery for VicSESVA membership and to maintain an effective communication and interaction with all emergency and support agencies.
VicSESVA’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.
VicSESVA’s STRUCTURE VicSESVA 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 VicSESVA State Board.
Unit Delegates Each member Unit of VicSESVA 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 VicSESVA State Board. The Regional Councils raise issues relevant to VICSES Volunteers to be presented to the VicSESVA 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
VicSESVA Board The structure of VicSESVA 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.
VicSESVA Board Positions • Chairperson • Vice Chairperson • Secretary • Treasurer • Board Member • Board Member • Board Member
PHOENIX MAGAZINE VicSESVA publishes the Phoenix magazine for VICSES volunteers. Phoenix is published four 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 VicSESVA 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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The APAC Xtreme Industrial Fire & Hazard Training is back! Rayong, Thailand
15 - 18 January 2018
Limited slots available, book yours today at www.williamsfire.com/APAC2018 When faced with fires at petroleum, oil or gas facilities we have learned that it is experience that makes the difference and this course can be the perfect opportunity to gain that experience. Chauncey Naylor
Director, Training & Emergency Response Operations, Williams Fire & Hazard Control
www.williamsfire.com
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