PRODUCED BY AND FOR THE VICTORIAN SES VOLUNTEERS
ISSUE 181 FEBRUARY 2016
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NATIONAL DISASTER RESCUE CHALLENGE SPIRIT OF THE COUNTRY • VOLUNTEER SUPPORT
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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: February 2016 edition – Monday January 11 April 2016 edition – Monday March 7 August 2016 edition – Friday July 8 October 2016 edition – Monday September 12 December 2016 edition – Monday November 7
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
www.vesa.org.au Contents 2
From the Chair
2
From the Editor
6
Frankston SES turns 50!
7
Bacchus Marsh Unit honours Life Long Members
8
SES fit for task project
9
Swifts Creek SES Unit reaches a 50 year milestone
10 11
VICSES draft volunteer strategy launched
11
Robinvale local flood guide launched in six languages
12
Volunteer Support
14
Volunteer Consultative Forum
17
Bellarine's Polaris (ATV) in action
18
Wear Orange Wednesday
20
Rub-a-dub-dub, three men in a tub
23
Thunderstorm activity increases during summer months
Mobile Command Centre
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 Graham Thurley
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 106 672
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 VESA welcomes in 2016 with a clear focus on various matters affecting VICSES volunteers. In the past three months, VICSES volunteers have attended more than 5,000 requests for assistance. These have included working collaboratively with other agencies such as CFA to support bushfire management in Wye River, or other locations such as the Somerton tip fire. VICSES Ararat High Angle Rescue team worked successfully with CFA, AV and VICPOL to rescue a trapped excavator driver in Warrak. Many volunteers worked tirelessly through the Christmas break to make our communities safer; continuing to be a reliable volunteer workforce which serves with commitment and distinction. How are we valued? It is clear from recent surveys that the community sees us as trustworthy, skilled and helpful, and anecdotal reports from volunteers in the field reinforce this view. However, many volunteers feel that VICSES staff do not understand the nature of volunteering,
the sacrifices that are made and the scale of work that is done. This is an issue that VESA will continue to raise with VICSES to ensure that the volunteer experience is better understood. VESA maintains representation in VICSES committees or reviews such as Health and Well-Being, Fitness for Task, WH&S, Fleet, etc. VESA appreciates that forums such as these continue to be open and consultative where the voice of volunteers is welcomed and considered. VESA will also continue to raise the matter of VICSES units with local and state government. There remains a degree of uncertainty within units about funding and support from government. Some local government support has been withdrawn from units, and other levels of support are in doubt. There are units that continue to train in sub-standard facilities and most fund many equipment and resource purchases from their own fundraising activities. For an organisation that delivers an unmatched community service, is this
equitable and sustainable? How many tin rattles must units run to make up for inadequate funding? Representation about this to local and state government will be a primary focus for VESA in 2016. VICSES volunteers are, in a way, a quiet and modest workforce; motivated by the desire to serve and build better communities, to help others in need, without fanfare, industrial action or publicity-seeking. But now is the time to speak up, to promote what we do, to raise the profile of volunteers. It is time to communicate the value of VICSES to local councillors, members of state government, local business associations, other community groups, agencies and individuals. This matter will be a priority on VESA’s ‘to-do’ list for 2016.
Faye Bendrups Independent Chair, VESA
from the
EDITOR HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope you and your families enjoyed your break but I must say it is great to be back. I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for your articles and support that we received in 2015. All your dedication and hard work submitting your articles makes this magazine a success and everyone of you should give yourselves a pat on the back. I’ve already seen and heard of many events that Units have already attended, so please let us know what your Unit is up to because even though you may not think it’s what people want to read about, maybe your ideas and how you may of informed your community might help another Unit do the same. Ellen Lawes Phoenix Editor
2 PHOENIX
February 2016
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Australian Public Service Benevolent Society Ltd
Level 1, 16 - 20 Howard Street (PO Box 326) North Melbourne VIC 3051 Phone (03) 9322 2000 • 1300 131 809 • Fax (03) 8637 8200 info@apsbs.com.au • www.apsbs.com.au ABN 64 077 846 809
AFSL No. 244115
DISCLOSURE INFORMATION: Membership of APS Benefits automatically entitles you to a funeral benefit issued by APS Benefits. You should consider the Combined Product Disclosure Statement & Financial Services Guide (available from APS Benefits or our web site on www.apsbs.com.au) before making a decision to become a member of APS Benefits or buy any products offered by APS Benefits. Financial services provided by Australian Public Service Benevolent Society Ltd are provided under its AFSL No. 244115. APS Financial Planning and its advisers are authorised representatives of Fortrum Private Wealth Pty Ltd ABN 54 139 889 535 AFSL 357306 trading as Financial Planning Services Australia. Financial services provided by APS Financial Planning Pty Ltd are provided under Fortnum’s AFSL No. 357306. *APS Savings Disclaimer: This is not a bank product, it is an unlisted APS Note. No independent assessment has been made about the risk to investors losing any of their principal investment. Applications for APS Notes can only be made on the Investment Application Form which accompanies the prospectus issued by APS Savings Ltd. Please read the prospectus carefully before deciding whether to make an investment. APS Will & Estates: Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
THE POWER OF a not for profit
THE POWER OF a co-operative
The Australian Public Service Benevolent Society (APS Benefits) is a not for profit co-operative that provides a wide range of financial and personal services to all current and ex-government department employees and contractors, their families and friends. Having been in existence for over 100 years, the APS Benefits family has earned the trust of over 29,000 members and clients now offering the following financial and professional services listed. APS Tax & Accounting
Richard Ferraro at APS Tax, Accounting and Business Services is an experienced CPA taxation accountant. Whether it is setting up a business, managing your superannuation fund or just obtaining quality service, Richard can help you.
APS Financial Planning
Timothy Foster provides access to advice and information on the important financial decisions we all face, whether it be superannuation, investments, pre and post retirement planning, life insurance, gearing, disability and trauma insurance, managed funds or savings plans.
APS Mortgage Broking
Sam Athans treats every mortgage as if it were his own. He has access to 20 mortgage lenders and has over 40 years experience in banking. Let us do the leg work for you.
APS Insurance (General Insurance Broking)
Danielle Rowe heads up our insurance broking team and has access to products that include home and contents, motor vehicle, boat/caravan, landlord, public liability, income protection, life, disability & trauma insurance. The next time you receive your insurance renewal notice or want insurance for the first time, call Danielle on 1300 131 809. The APS Benefits personal loans team can assist members to obtain an unsecured loan, or they can apply online at www.apsbs.com.au. Either way, loans can be approved within 24 hours.
APS Personal Loans
APS Funeral Cover. Adult & Child Cover Available.
APS Benefits Membership Coordinator Jesse Clarke can assist members to gain immediate funeral cover up to $20,000 for adults and $7,000 for dependent children (aged 2 to 15 next birthday). Do you have cover in the greatest time of need?
APS Savings
APS Savings Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of APS Benefits and offers a Fixed Term Investment product. Ask Sam Athans about the interest rate on offer and you will be pleasantly suprised. The term can be 6 months, 12 months or 24 months.
APS Wills & Estates
Phil Lambourne from APS Wills & Estates has over 25 years experience as a lawyer. Phil can help you with wills, powers of attorney, probate and estate administration. Is your will up-to-date? Have you reviewed your will recently? It affects more than just you!
APS Benevolent Foundation
Recently launched, the Foundation is a registered charity and a deductible gift recipient. Donations above $2 are tax deductible. The Foundation will enable the Society to expand our level of benevolence.
Further to this, APS is owned by its members, so any profits are channelled back to members. Help spread the word by introducing new members and APS will send you, your nominated charity or your staff social club $50 for each new member you nominate.
For more information call us on 1300 131 809 or visit www.apsbs.com.au Australian Public Service Benevolent Society Ltd
Level 1, 16 - 20 Howard Street (PO Box 326) North Melbourne VIC 3051 Phone (03) 9322 2000 • 1300 131 809 • Fax (03) 8637 8200 • info@apsbs.com.au • www.apsbs.com.au ABN 64 077 846 809 • AFSL No. 244115
FEATURE
FRANKSTON SES TURNS
50!
2015 WAS A MILESTONE IN THE HISTORY BOOKS FOR THE FRANKSTON UNIT, WHERE WE CELEBRATED 50 YEARS OF ASSISTING THE COMMUNITY AND ITS SURROUNDS DURING THEIR TIME OF NEED.
O
n Sunday, October 18, Controller Philip Holt along with his management team and members hosted a showcase of history events including operational activities such as crime scene searches during the Frankston murders which gained the most media throughout Australia. Frankstons oldest (in volunteer years) member Brett Neve gave an informal but indepth run down of how the Frankston Unit became one of the biggest and busiest Units in Victoria. His presentation also showed some of the oldest photos ever seen, and there were a few that no one had ever seen before. The event was attended by the Frankston City Mayor Sandra Meyer along with Federal Member Bruce Billson, along with VICSES CEO Stephen Griffin, Chief Officer Operations Trevor White and Assistant Chief Officer Ray Jasper who added the icing on the 50th Birthday cake when Stephen presented Controller Philip Holt with a CEO award for his assistance with neighbouring Units Greater Dandenong and Sorrento over a 2 year period, with operational support, Unit Management and leadership. The afternoon event was not only about the Unit turning 50, but was an appreciation to volunteer members and their families for continued support to the community. Here’s to the next 50 years of serving our community well. Submitted by Priscilla Grimme
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FEATURE
BACCHUS MARSH UNIT HONOURS LIFE LONG MEMBERS AT A LOCAL RESTAURANT ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, A WARM WELCOME WAS EXTENDED BY CONTROLLER, DAVID LAMBRICK, TO THE MEMBERS, FAMILIES AND FRIENDS WHO ATTENDED THE FIRST OFFICIAL DINNER TO CONGRATULATE AND CELEBRATE FOUR VERY SPECIAL VOLUNTEERS WHO WERE AWARDED LIFE MEMBERSHIPS.
T
he Chief Officer, Trevor White presented the life memberships honouring the achievements and selflessness, officially recognising those that have gone well above and beyond what it means to be an SES volunteer Russel Wells – founding member, joined in 1981 Controller and Deputy Controller over 12 years Peter Olthof – joined in 1986, controller and Deputy Controller for over 9 years David Lambrick – joined the service in 1983, Controller Broadmeadows and Bacchus Marsh Unit Denis Purcell – joined the service in 1977, Deputy Controller of Nhill, Controller and Deputy Warracknabeal for over and Bacchus Marsh A true testament to their leadership and commitment to servicing their community. The night also recognised two long service certificates and medal. Regional Manager, Stephen Warren, presented Craig Mayhew with his 5 year certificate and Norma Trotter with her 10 year certificate and medal. David also thanked the families of the Bacchus Marsh Volunteers, who without their support would not make the Unit the success it is today. The evening was a great success and we all look forward to honouring our volunteers at this annual event. Submitted by Marisha Patton Photos by Rob Kerr
Life Member Denis Purcell & Trevor White. www.vesa.org.au
Stephen Warren presenting Norma Trotter with her 10 year certificate.
Stephen Warren presenting Craig Mayhew with his 5 year certificate.
Life Members Stephen Warren, Russel Wells with Trevor White.
Life Member David Lambrick & Trevor White. February 2016
PHOENIX 7
FEATURE
SES FIT FOR TASK PROJECT DEAKIN UNIVERSITY AS PART OF A 4-YEAR NATIONAL PROJECT, RESEARCHERS FROM DEAKIN UNIVERSITY AND HUMAN PERFORMANCE SCIENCE ARE INVESTIGATING THE PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF SES JOB ROLES. IN THE CURRENT RESEARCH PHASE, RESEARCHERS WILL BE MEASURING THE PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF TASKS WHILST SES PERSONNEL PERFORM THEM.
V
ictoria, NSW, ACT and SA State Emergency Services all have members participating in the field trials that commenced in October and will be finalised in midNovember. The outcomes of this research will provide the first insight into the physical demands of SES tasks. Currently, this data only belong to other types of
emergency services such as firefighting and police work. The first field trials were on October 17 at Lake Eildon. The focus of this was Flood Boat Rescue. Members from the Mansfield and Wangaratta Units volunteered their time and from all reports had a great day! Photos below show the investigators setting up the scientific equipment and
Invesitgators and SES setting up.
fitting measurement devices (including heart rate, oxygen mask, GPS unit) which tracked the demands of the task whilst they were being performed. Following the field trials, Deakin University and Human Performance Science will analyse the data and provide SES with information regarding the physical requirements for the tasks tested.
Tom T being fit out with measurement devices.
Mansfield and Wangaratta Units in action.
HEALTHWATCH
Happy New Year: As the end of the holiday break approaches we are gearing up for Healthwatch visits in 2016. Prior to Christmas the team had a chance to visit some Units for the very first time which was wonderful. The Healthwatch team hope to visit all VICSES Units over the next 12 months, ensuring we allow all our members to have the opppurtunity have a free confidential health check. Contact Health & Safety on 9256 9059,
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February 2016
email health&safety@ses.vic.gov.au or logon to http://esohealthwatch.gov.au/contact to book a Helathwatch session for your Unit. The 2016 Victoria Police & Emergency Services Games are being held this year on April 8-17, 2016. Registration is now open for all events please log onto www.emergencyservicesgames.org.au for further information and registering your eagerness to participate.
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FEATURE
SWIFTS CREEK SES UNIT REACHES A 50 YEAR MILESTONE ON DECEMBER 17, 2015, THE VICTORIA STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (VICSES) SWIFTS CREEK UNIT CELEBRATED AN ASTOUNDING 50 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITIES OF THE TAMBO VALLEY IN EASTERN VICTORIA.
T
his was not the only milestone that the Swift’s Creek SES Unit reached. The Unit was also able to recognise and reward a number of their loyal members who have served their communities for a combined total of 180 years, servicing the townships of Ensay, Swift’s Creek, Omeo and Benambra, as well as the wider farming communities and those visiting the high country. Earlier this year John Cook, one of the founding members of the Swifts Creek Unit, attended the East Region Awards Ceremony and was recognised for his lifetime of service to his local community and VICSES in particular, for 45 years of service. John was in attendance to support and celebrate the outstanding accomplishment of his fellow unit members and that of the unit on its 50 year milestone. VICSES is currently celebrating its own 40 year milestone and a decade since becoming a statutory authority. The Swifts Creek Unit even pre-dates VICSES as it started out as a Civil Defence Unit in 1965, having been established under the old Omeo Shire jurisdiction. While Unit members were recogonised for their ongoing support, a presentation was made to the Mayor of East Gippsland, Councillor Marianne Pelz, by Ken Bodinnar, Swifts Creek Unit Controller, on behalf of the Unit, as a thank you for their past and current support, vital to the ongoing operation of the Swift’s Creek Unit in servicing the communities of the Tambo Valley. Submitted by Merryn Cook Community Resilience Coordinator www.vesa.org.au
February 2016
PHOENIX 9
FEATURE
VICSES DRAFT VOLUNTEER STRATEGY LAUNCHED THE VICSES BOARD RECENTLY APPROVED THE DRAFT VOLUNTEER STRATEGY. THE DRAFT STRATEGY IS AVAILABLE ON THE VICSES WEBSITE AND FEEDBACK IS BEING SOUGHT FROM VOLUNTEERS AND STAFF BEFORE IT IS FINALISED IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS.
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he Volunteer Strategy has been developed as a corporate tool for the organisation to ensure our Volunteers have the skills, competencies, support and structure in place to meet our current needs, but to be positioned to meet our future needs in an environment that is in a state of transition. It is also a communication tool to share with our volunteers to demonstrate that we hear what they have been saying to us and we have a shared vision of what volunteering in 2018 will look like. The Corporate Plan and the Service Delivery Strategy has guided the development of the Volunteer Strategy. The People and Culture and Service Delivery strategy from the Corporate Plan and the
Capability and Capacity objective from the Service Delivery Strategy have had a direct influence in the development of this document All direct feedback from volunteers in the form of exit interviews, surveys, conference summaries have informed the development of the strategic objectives to support Volunteers to be successful at what we are asking them to do and to increase the average amount of time that they stay as volunteers The People Strategy Framework with its 7 people dimensions have been reinforced in the Volunteer Strategy and used to identify the Key Activities and the high level Measures for each Activity. The seven people dimensions are:
COMMUNITY RESILIENCE STRATEGY DIRECTORATE BUSINESS PLANS
• •
Designing and Planning our workforce High Performing and Well Managed People • Learning and Development • Develop and Promote a Leadership Culture • Ensuring Health and Wellbeing • Engaging with Our People, and • Recognising and Rewarding Achievement Visit ses.vic.gov.au/volunteer Strategy 2015-2018 to download a PDF version. Any feedback is welcome. Please contact myself via email at deborah.harrison@ses.vic.gov.au Submitted by Deborah Harrison Project Manager, Human Resources
OUR PEOPLE STRATEGY SERVICE DELIVERY STRATEGY
VICSES CORPORATE PLAN REGIONAL BUSINESS PLANS
ASSETS STRATEGY VOLUNTEER STRATEGY
UNIT BUSINESS PLANS
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FEATURE
MOBILE COMMAND CENTRE SORRENTO STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE PURCHASED SPRINGVALE/GREATER DANDENONG UNITS OLD CARAVAN IN 2013.
O
ver past 2 years the members of Sorrento Unit have been bringing it into the modern era, adding a few extra features and enough technology to help with any operations as required. The use our mobile command centre is only just beginning it was used to assist police in late 2014 after a fatal accident on the Mornington Peninsula freeway, it also had to run to Chelsea to assist our
colleagues at Chelsea Unit with the Rose Batty Run For Change other that these couple of events we have used it as our event command centre at 2 of our family fun days, Australia Day Rye and New Years Eve Rye. We are open to our mobile command centre being used by other agencies, SES Units and even council. To request the use of Sorrento Units Mobile Command Centre you will need
to go through the Central Duty officer who will then page the Unit. We are happy if we have the crew available to bring it to you and operate it otherwise we are also happy to complete a formal hand over for units to operate it themselves. Submitted by David Archer Controller, Sorrento Unit
ROBINVALE LOCAL FLOOD GUIDE LAUNCHED IN 6 LANGUAGES
ON OCTOBER 22, VICTORIA STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (VICSES) IN CONJUNCTION WITH ROBINVALE NETWORK HOUSE WILL BE LAUNCHING THE FIRST EVER MULTICULTURAL LOCAL FLOOD GUIDE TRANSLATED INTO SIX DIFFERENT LANGUAGES!
R
obinvale has a population of just over 2000 as per the 2011 Australian Census, however this is known by locals to fluctuate significantly due to seasonal employment. Of these 2000 people, only 52.2% of the population speak English at home. While researching the town during the development phase of the Local Flood Guide, VICSES Community Resilience Coordinator Gavin Quinn became aware of the high percentage of languages other than English spoken within the town including Tongan, Vietnamese, Italian, Khmer and Fijian. “It didn’t make a lot of sense to produce educational material that only half the population would be able to read” he said. “Robinvale is at risk of flooding, it is up to the community to plan, prepare and understand their risk. The Robinvale Local Flood Guide gives people the tools they need to do this”. Victoria State Emergency has published more than 60 Local Flood Guides for communities across Victoria that have a high risk of flooding. As Robinvale is located on the banks of the Murray, it has experience a number of significant floods and is likely to see more in the future. The town is also susceptible to flash flooding which can come with little warnings and become dangerous in a short period of time.
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The guides were translated with help from the Robinvale Network house and community that use its services. The guide and can be collected from Robinvale Network house or downloaded on the VICSES website ses.vic.gov.au/your-localflood-information
February 2016
PHOENIX 11
FEATURE
VOLUNTEER SUPPORT
IN THE DECEMBER EDITION OF PHOENIX I SPOKE ABOUT A NUMBER OF PROJECTS THAT WERE UNDERWAY AND IN THE PROCESS OF BEING DEVELOPED. I AM HAPPY TO ANNOUNCE THAT SINCE THE RELEASE OF THE DECEMBER EDITION THE FOLLOWING HAS BEEN COMPLETED AND RELEASED.
Information for Employers of SES Volunteers brochures Does your employer know and understand what you do as a VICSES volunteer? Are they aware of the benefits that you bring to the business? The financial benefits including payroll tax exemptions that are applicable to emergency service volunAn admission from brad on Volunteer supportteers? Or even the leave types available for emergency volunteers. To assist you in discussing volunteering benefits with your current or even future employer. VICSES in consultation with other volunteer emergency service organisations, Not for profits and Volunteer advocacy groups has developed a brochure that provides you with information relating to: Benefits to your employer Your employer receives many benefits, including: • Improved community perception • Demonstrated corporate citizenship activities • Increase in employee engagement • Increase in retention and employee satisfaction
• •
Employees receive nationally recognised and endorsed training Financial compensation through payroll tax exceptions
Entitlements for Employers of Emergency Service volunteers The Fair Work Act 2009 provides guidance to the National Employment Standards (NES) including entitlements for employers for emergency service volunteers. Community service leave is applicable to emergency service volunteers who undertake emergency service activities for the time that the employee is engaged in the eligible activity, including reasonable travel time and rest time immediately following the activity. To be entitled to Community service leave, an employee must advise their employer as soon as practicable relating to the absence period. An employee who has requested community service leave must (if requested) provide written evidence to support the leave application. Discussing volunteering and leave
arrangements with your employer is vital and should be undertaken at the commencement of joining VICSES or at earliest time possible. Any arrangements that you and employer enter into should be formalised and document in accordance with your employers individual requirements The extranet has been updated (My State > People > Volunteers> Information for employers of SES volunteers) to support the brochure and provide further information. Brochures will be available from your unit early in the New Year. Speak with your Unit Controller/Regional office to get further information relating to resupply or even an ETA on receiving your copy Your employer can seek further information and advice can be sought by contacting the Fair Work Info line on 13 1394 or visit www.fairwork.gov.au.
Volunteer Recruiting manual In December the first edition of the Volunteer recruitment manual was released and is available in soft copy from the extranet. Created after significant consultation with many organisations, emergency Service, Not for profit and volunteer advocacy groups the manual provides information, tools, and template and links to help you • Plan your recruitment campaign • Recruit effectively • On-board new members • Retain new members Available on the extranet under My State > People > Volunteers > Volunteer recruitment it can be downloaded either as a complete manual or sections based upon indivdual needs. Available or your use is resources/tools including:
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• •
Recruiting plans Media releases º Unit open days º Recruitment drives º Information nights º Not taking members at present • Information night presentations (templates) • New member surveys (self-calculating) • Interview questions and how to guides • Regional available resources º Pull up banners º Recruiting packs This manual is only scratching the surface and requires your input into future editions by typing https://members.ses.vic.gov.au/ fv/r/7070800047/1265 into your internet browser of selecting the link under My State > People > Volunteers > Volunteer recruitment.
www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
Volunteer enquiry form (Public webpage) On January 16, 2016 the online volunteer enquiry form is twelve months old. During this period VICSES has received over 3500 volunteer enquiries state wide. The charts below reflect total number of: • Volunteer enquires receiver via the Public webpage º Enquires in Junior age bracket • Total enquires converted into VICSES members º Enquires in Junior age bracket converted into VICSES members These figures do not represent the total number of new members who joined VICSES (regardless of demographic) within the period on January 16, 2015 to January 07, 2016. Based upon the feedback received relating to the online enquiry process we have implemented a blocker that restricts an individual from lodging multiple enquires. This period of constraint is 10 days. This will eradicate the number of enquires lodged in quick succession. If your unit would like a breakdown on any statistics relating to new members, exited members and tenure over a period of time please drop me an email, ensuring that you copy your region into the communication.
Volunteer Enquiries
3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0 Series 1
Central 2563
East 104
Nth East Nth West Mid West Sth West 118 165 113 205
Period January 16 2015 – January 07 2016
Junior Age Bracket
400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Series 1
Central 372
East 16
Nth East Nth West Mid West Sth West 25 23 19 25
Period January 16 2015 – January 07 2016 (figures are taken from Volunteer enquiry chart)
Enquiries Converted into Membership 160 120 80 40 0 Series 1
Central 176
East 27
Nth East Nth West Mid West Sth West 15 15 11 32
Reporting period January 16 2015 – January 07 2016
Juniors Converted
2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 Submited by Brad Dalgleish Volunteerism Project Officer
www.vesa.org.au
Series 1
Central 2
East 2
Nth East Nth West Mid West Sth West 1 0 1 0
February 2016
PHOENIX 13
FEATURE
VOLUNTEER CONSULTATIVE FORUM THE VOLUNTEER CONSULTATIVE FORUM (VCF) WAS ESTABLISHED IN 2013 TO FACILITATE THE VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO CONSULT AND ENGAGE WITH VOLUNTEERS AND THEIR REPRESENTATIVE BODIES ON MATTERS THAT AFFECT THEM AND ABOUT THE REFORM OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AS OUTLINED IN THE VICTORIAN EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT REFORM WHITE PAPER.
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articipating volunteers and agency representatives at the quarterly forums are Ambulance Victoria, Australian Volunteer Coast Guard, Country Fire Authority, Life Saving Victoria, Red Cross, Salvation Army, St John Ambulance, Victoria State Emergency Service, Victorian Council of Churchs, the Victoria Emergency Service Association (VESA), and Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria. The forum provides advice to the Minister for Emergency Services and input into issues related to volunteering, volunteers and volunteerism in Victoria’s emergency management sector. The Minister is supported by the Emergence Management Commissioner, Craig Lapsley (also the Chair of the VCF) and Emergency Management Victoria in fulfilling the government’s commitment to the VCF. The Emergency Management Act 2013 sets out the expectations of the
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Emergency Management Commissioner and Emergency Management Victoria “to have regard to the fundamental importance of the role that volunteers play in the performance of emergency management functions in Victoria”. The VCF participants have developed agreed strategic priorities that relate to volunteering in emergency management that contain common themes that address the common needs in each agency: • Training Skills development, acquisition and maintenance • Recognition, respect and valuing of volunteering • Systems, policy and process • Youth engagement • Workforce design • Employers • Funding VICSES has taken action on each of these themes and has incorporated them into the 2015/16 corporate plan and will
continue over the coming years and when funding becomes available other options will be reviewed. The process of identifying common themes is a more strategic and shared focus towards sustainability and the fundamental importance of volunteers to the delivery of emergency management. VCF has focused on the strategic needs and issues that are important to a sustainable emergency management system and to developing a motivated, valued and engaged volunteer capability. Actions taken by VICSES to date to address the needs of and value volunteers have identified in the following chart. If you have any questions about this forum please contact your VESA representative or if you have any questions about the actions taken by VICSES please feel free to contact Katrina Bahen Director, Human Resources on 03 9256 9006.
www.vesa.org.au
Systems, policy and process
Recognition, respect and valuing of volunteering
Training, skills development, acquisition and maintenance
Systems, policy and process
Recognition, respect and valuing of volunteering
Training, skills development, acquisition and maintenance
FEATURE
Better access to training, induction and information including the use of online systems/tools.
It will be easier for volunteers to undertake training at a time convenient to them, and will remove the need for travel to a location. This will reduce the time commitment for volunteers, and will increase opportunities to enhance effective delivery by agencies and organisations to share systems or design resources.
Broader and structured development pathways and plans for volunteers.
Volunteers are enabled to expand their knowledge and experience within their agency, within the community or across the sector leading to greater personal challenge,
Transportability of skills and accreditations between emergency management organisations.
Streamlining and simplifying will reduce the burden on volunteers needing to re-train while enabling transfer to another agency more suitable to lifestyle, choice, location or available time. The significant initial investment in training volunteers in one agency can then be applied to another agency without losing skills, knowledge and experience.
A modern and robust strategy to enhance community, government and business knowledge, understanding and respect for EM Volunteers while strengthening Victoria’s culture of emergency volunteering and community service.
The community will have a better understanding and appreciation of the fundamental importance and essential nature of volunteering before, during and after emergencies in Victoria, and will increase their support, recognition and investment in volunteering. The community will have increased confidence in the service provided by volunteers.
Modern and effective recruitment systems, services and processes that are timely, two way, cost effective and efficient for potential volunteers.
Efficient ways for people to express interest and seek information about EM volunteering, with more people receiving the information they need to make a decision to progress or opt out, and data captured to inform continuous improvement
Systems, processes and leadership tools and arrangements to enable better use of the volunteer’s time and capability, through flexible service delivery and modern two-way engagement channels.
Volunteer’s time is used more effectively by designing more flexible ways for the volunteers, based on their needs, to be tasked, trained, supported, rostered, activated, surveyed and communicated with.
Policy, systems and processes to reduce out-of-pocket expenses on volunteers.
The tools, resources and support for emergency management volunteers should not come at a financial cost to an individual volunteer.
Better access to training, induction and information including the use of online systems/tools.
The implementation of the new student/learning management system will provide access to training on an array of devices. The corporate induction will be carried out online thus reducing what Units need to do to ensure compliance. This is due for go live at the end of 2016
Broader and structured development pathways and plans for volunteers.
The role and training pathway project is due for completion by December 2015. This will include all roles within Units.
Transportability of skills and accreditations between emergency management organisations.
VICSES engaged a multiagency First Aid training provider who will provide any skills gap training with the CPR upgrade. All courses will be mapped to assist the recognition process without reducing the quality of the training
A modern and robust strategy to enhance community, government and business knowledge, understanding and respect for EM Volunteers while strengthening Victoria’s culture of emergency volunteering and community service.
VICSES is providing tools to Units that promote volunteering opportunities. The promotions are future focused, not only in response but working with communities to build their own resilience and who is better placed but volunteers who have local knowledge and understand the consequence of specific hazards
Modern and effective recruitment systems, services and processes that are timely, two way, cost effective and efficient for potential volunteers.
Introduced the online portal for potential volunteers that links directly to specific local Units reflecting contemporary recruitment applications
Systems, processes and leadership tools and arrangements to enable better use of the volunteer’s time and capability, through flexible service delivery and modern two-way engagement channels.
In the past 5 years VICSES has introduced OIMs Lite, Buy on line, SES Link and at the end of 2016 there will be a statewide availability roster for VICSES volunteers. VICSES is delivering a Cert IV course for Unit Leaders
Policy, systems and processes to reduce out-of-pocket expenses on volunteers.
Minimizing out of pocket expenses is a continuing focus for VICSES when reviewing policy and process.
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February 2016
PHOENIX 15
An increase in youth engagement and involvement through propositions to youth that reflect their specific needs and how they will gain value from volunteering.
Flexible volunteering models that offer different roles to suit an individual’s changing needs and lifestyle, and emerging categories of potential volunteers.
People are increasingly looking for organisations with flexible opportunities where volunteering can be integrated with work, study, family and recreation. Access and use of digital and mobile products offer enormous benefit in enabling volunteers to integrate volunteering into their lifestyle and for agencies and organisations to design smart products and services to support them and use their time wisely.
Casual volunteers trained to provide additional support for significant or extended emergencies, in roles appropriate to their skills and experience level.
Designing new roles to integrate into the service delivery arrangements adds overall capability and capacity and supports the workload drain on first responders.
Modern workforce management arrangements consistent with the needs of volunteers.
Aligning the role definition, capability frameworks, role statements, organisational design principles, performance management systems and training of paid staff with the need to support empower and ef fectively utilise volunteers, ensuring their skill and training is fully recognised.
Employees
Effective arrangements to reduce the impact on employers when their people are engaged in emergency volunteering.
A better understanding and appreciation of what employers of volunteers contribute to emergency management is critical to recognising, valuing and supporting employers to continue to release volunteers.
Sustainable funding and investment toward the community-based service delivery model that operates before, during and after emergencies
Investment will be required to support agencies, communities and volunteers to plan for and execute strategic and organisational change, and prepare for the needs of new groups of people that want to volunteer. Taking advantage of emerging types/ groups of volunteers and trends in volunteering will assist to successfully navigate challenges and build a sustainable foundation for service delivery in communities.
Strategic and future focussed plans for the recruitment and retention of youth.
Simplifying the recruitment and training for all potential members, including youth supported by modern technology. Ensuring we respect what all members can bring to VICSES.
Flexible volunteering models that offer diff erent roles to suit an individua l’s changing needs and lifestyle, and emerging categori es of potential volunteers.
The student/learning management system will support members’ ability to learn anywhere. Once fully operational it will reduce some of the face to face weekend training. Members can learn in their own time when it suits them. Skills maintenance and corporate induction can be done on line using any mobile device.
Casual volunteers trained to provide additional support for significant or extended emergencies, in roles appropriate to their skills and experience level.
VICSES is reviewing the structures in the Unit Management Manual following consultation during the Service Delivery review. Supported by the Role and Training Pathway project members will be able to work safely with spontaneous volunteers during large scale floods
Modern workforce management arrangem ents consistent with the needs of volunteers.
The Unit Management roles all have role statements. Role and Training pathways project will provide role statements for each role. The Unit Leadership training emphasizes the importance providing feedback to members in the Unit and tools are continuing to be developed to support this.
Effective arrangements to reduce the impact on employers when their people are engaged in emergency volunteering.
Employer engagement is a key priority this financial year.
Sustainable funding and investment toward the community-based service delivery model that operates before, during and after emergencies
VICSES is continuing to work with Local Government and the State government to achieve a sustainable funding model.
Youth engagement
Funding
Workforce design
Youth engagement
Workforce design
Strategic and future focussed plans for the recruitment and retention of youth.
Funding
Youth engagement
FEATURE
16 PHOENIX
February 2016
www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
BELLARINE’S POLARIS (ATV) IN ACTION ON JANUARY 29, THE BELLARINE SES UNIT WAS CALLED TO SEARCH FOR A MISSING PERSON AFTER A PLANE CRASH. THE PLANE HAD CRASHED INTO THE OCEAN APPROXIMATELY TWO KILOMETRES OFF SHORE AT OCEAN GROVE. TO ASSIST IN THE SEARCH THEY USED THE POLARIS (ATV).
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February 2016
PHOENIX 17
FEATURE
THE WANGARATTA COMMUNITY SHOWS SUPPORT TO THE SES FOR Crossfit Wangaratta
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St Bernards Primary School
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tudents and staff from grades 3 and 4 worked hard for the week leading up to WOW day making posters and stories about what they believed that SES was all about. On Friday, November 13, myself and 5 other Wangaratta SES Volunteers took the truck and Paddy down to the school to get a photo with the students and their work. It was amazing to see just how much work they had put in, so much was captured about what we do. The students were amazing and made us all feel like rock stars, they wanted photos with us, our autographs and wanted to her our story. All students and staff dressed in orange for the occasion and we even landed a spot in the local paper to promote and share with the Wangaratta Community our history, story and thanks for all the appreciation shown throughout the day. It was an amazing few hours, very exhilarating it made you realise just how much they see. Thank you to St Bernards Primary School for hosting us for a few hours and to the Wangaratta Community for showing us their continued support, for it has not gone unnoticed.
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February 2016
e were approached by owner of Crossfit Wangaratta James Mawson to see if they could show their support on WOW day by performing a Hero Workout for volunteers that have served. For those of you that don’t know a Hero Workout is an intensively hard workout that is aimed at honouring men and women who have served and died whilst on duty. This workout was designed to honour Ronald King who was killed in an accident in 2003. He had served 18 years with the Yarra Vally SES. Volunteers from our unit then started to organise a few things, we were able to talk to the border mail about what we were trying to achieve and to specify what this day meant not only to Volunteers across the nation, but to this particular Volunteer who had been tragically taken whilst serving his community. On Wear Orange Wednesay the whole training facility and its members dressed in orange along side myself. However I took it one step further and decided to do this workout in my full SES Overalls as my way of honouring not only those that have and are serving, but the Volunteer that this workout was based around. The whole day was exchasuting as much work went into organising it. We would like to thank Crossfit Members whom raised over $200 to go towards the Wangaratta Unit to buy new equipment, and a mention on the local news. It was amazing to see the level of commitment that people were willing to put in to honour those who came before us. Thankyou. Next came our >
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FEATURE
“WEAR ORANGE WEDNESDAY” 2015 Presentation Evening For Community Supporters
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e then got to show our support to those that helped us in a presentation evening where we presented Crossfit Wangaratta Owner James Mawson and St. Bernard’s Primary School grade 3 & 4 teacher Leanne Honybun certificates of appreciation for their efforts and support for us. We learned as a unit that “a resilient community is a strong community”. And from what I have seen over the last few weeks we have a strong community and we are all proud to be a part of it.
WANGARATTA SES TEAM – SO PROUD OF YOU ALL THANKYOU TO MY FELLOW SES VOLUNTEERS AND THE WANGARATTA COMMUNITY WE LOOK FORWARD TO OUR FUTURE TOGETHER This whole event was amazing to see not only from our own community but from those all over the nation. We would like to thank; The Border Mail, The Wangaratta Chronicle and WIN Local News for their contributions in helping us to spread the word, to my fellow Volunteers for all their hard work leading us to WOW Day and to Crossfit Wangaratta Members. THANK YOU Carina Heppell Wangaratta SES, Event Organiser
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February 2016
PHOENIX 19
FEATURE
CESS’ DREADFUL STORIES
RUB-A-DUB-DUB, THREE MEN IN A TUB The story written below is from a SES volunteer of the Kerang Unit. Bob Heddle is in his seventies and despite his lasting injuries from a near fatal accident five years ago and now his diagnosis of Alzheimer’s he stills shows up to his Units meetings every Monday to support his unit members. It’s my honour to be able to show case his stories over the next couple of editions. He began writing these stories to amuse his Kerang Unit members. Of course Bob was apprehensive that his stories may be received in a negative light but after seeing that his stories gave his members a laugh, he made his stories into a little book to be able to give many others a little laugh and cheer. So please enjoy his first story called Rub-A-Dub-Dub Three Men In A Tub, I know I had a good laugh.
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ere’s a Report from Cess of the SES. This is a true story that happened last year as told by a senior Kerang’s SES rookie. For those who haven’t read or heard about it, the search and rescue training exercise at Gunbower Island on Sunday May 29 was a combined effort by police, SES units, fire brigades, and ambulances from Cohuna, Kerang, Barham, and Koondrook. It was a resounding success. Good media reports were ensured by the great accounts and self-praise at the end of it by all who had participated. Despite this, I feel the most important part, that is, the heroic achievement of the Kerang SES unit, was grossly understated. Now, here’s the truth, the real story. Four staunch and courageous Kerang SES members accepted the challenge. They were Barry, Greg, Geoff, and me. The morning was cold and frosty when, along with various other units, we gathered around the briefing point in the main street of Koondrook. The police helicopter was on its way. While we waited for it we all stood chatting in the middle of the street, heedless of the frustrated motorists trying to get by. Numerous press reporters were at the scene, photographers were everywhere, and no doubt there’d be the odd sharp politician lurking about seeking a bit of mileage from it all. The atmosphere was electrifying! Barry had brought along his Land Rover, and Geoff and Greg had towed our unit’s boat and trailer there with the new 4-wheel drive. Expecting to be foot -slogging through the forest for miles, I had decked myself out in a wide brimmed hat, walking gear and a backpack. I’d even
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practiced a bit of walking the day before, some yodelling too in case it was called for. Eventually the helicopter arrived, and we received an extensive but thorough briefing from our commander, police superintendent Greg Grundy. We were to find a missing 51-year-old person called Ray “Hasty” Harrower, presumed dead or nearly so because he’d been out overnight in the frost wearing light clothing, His car, boat trailer, and “tinnie” boat were also missing. For the benefit of the young, that is, anyone under 50 who might get upset reading this story, it was an exercise only. There was a real man out there, but he was a fake, he was alive and well, and not dead or hurt or anything; just pretending. Got it? So don’t be alarmed, OK? Because Barry was our sort of leader, he was required to take his Land Rover onto the island so he could hob knob with the top brass. This left only two to man the boat. As the minimum number required is three, my walking gear and hat were discarded in favour of sneakers, helmet, and goggles, all borrowed from Geoff. I was now a boat crew member. We were given the name of “Unit 29” and told to take the boat to the Gunbower Creek. “We sent you off
first so you can get there quick!” said the Commanding Officer. Understanding fully the urgency of the situation, we zoomed off! The white
I had decked myself out in a wide brimmed hat, walking gear and a backpack. I’d even practiced a bit of walking the day before, some yodelling too in case it was called for. posts at the side of the road flashed by like a picket fence. We quickly launched the boat. It was efficiency plus! Until the motor refused to start due to the flat battery. Captain Greg muttered something about the cold weather causing it and that it had worked the day before, but there are no excuses for inefficiencies in our unit. We sat in the boat for about ten minutes and waited for a solution to present itself. None came. I attempted a joke – “We’re up the creek now” – but it didn’t work. We sat for another 10 minutes, and then started thinking. “Could we push-start the boat?” I suggested. Captain Greg shook his head. “I’ve heard the Irish push-start their submarines.” The skipper shook his head again. www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE “Calling unit 29!” A voice came over the radio. It was the Commander! Quick as a flash Geoff whipped his radio out of its holster like a wild western gunslinger. “Yeah 29 here, reading you loud and clear!” “What’s happening? Where are you?” “Err…We’re up the creek…” “OK, over and out!” Eventually one of us – might’ve been Geoff – had a brainwave. We jump-started the motor with leads from the 4-wheel drive on the bank, and we were off! Rub-a-dub-dub, three men in a tub – highly esteemed Captain Greg, able seaman Geoff, and me, a mature (pension) aged SES student. We were an alert and fit crew, and capable of anything, except that I could feel one of my chronic backaches coming on, Geoff had a headache, and with the motor roaring right next to Greg’s ears, he was all but totally deaf. The good thing about getting on in years is that you learn how to deal with aches and pains. I told Geoff that the best cure is action, plenty of action, and for headaches you need drama as well. To relieve my back I would stand up in the boat every few minutes and bend down to touch my toes several times – One – and – two – and – “Ow!” – one– and – “Owl” two. Shortly afterward there was another radio call – “Calling 209.” This time I answered it, “Yeah, 29 ‘ere”. “I’m calling 209, the Barham police.” “Oh!” My job was to be the navigator and course plotter. It was a piece of cake! There was only one way we could go, along the creek. I asked Geoff if we were supposed to wear gloves to read a map. He looked at me as though I was silly or something. “Where do they want us to go?” I asked again. “Dunno, up the creek I suppose.” “I’ll call up the commander”. I said as I picked up the radio. “109 ‘ere.” I said. No answer. 109 didn’t sound right, maybe it was 19, I was having one of my “Senior’s moments.” “Its 29,” said Geoff. “Yeah, ‘course it is!” Suddenly there was a jarring thump. The boat had hit a snag. “Watch where you’re drivin’” shouted Geoff. “That must’ve been a sunken boat,” Captain Greg shouted back. “I can usually tell where the snags will be, but not sunken boats.” There are lots of sunken boats in the Gunbower Creek; we hit at least 10 within the next hour. It was no drama though, because Geoff still had his headache. Wild ducks were everywhere, but we didn’t have a gun and they all got away. I was too busy navigating to worry about them, and I’m not a duck-shooter anyway. I had taken note of the time, but I wasn’t sure of our speed. Speed times time equals mileage you see. www.vesa.org.au
“I reckon we’d be doing about 20 knots,” I said to Geoff. “More like four,” he replied. I split the difference and made it 12, then calculated exactly where we should be on the map. The radio cackled: “Calling 29! What’s holding you up?”. I let Geoff answer because he’s a better talker than me. “We’ve had – err – mechanical problems.” “Well can you hurry up a bit, we’ve located the man’s vehicle and the helicopter has spotted his boat, but it’s inaccessible by land.” Greg realised we’d left the ropes, ascenders, and the gear for pulling bodies out of the water back at the car. “Won’t need ‘em,” said Geoff. “Why?” “Can you imagine our pretended casualty lying in this freezing water? Course not!” “Yeah!” I agreed. “We would’ve needed an ice pick to get the grappling hooks into ‘im!” A voice came over the radio. “Do you read me 29? What is your position?” It was Barry. I grabbed the radio, “McCutchell Bend,” I replied. “No you’re not, you’re at Canoe Trail.” I looked at the map again. Canoe Trail! That’s only half way to Mc Cutchell Bend! “Can’t be!” I replied. “My map says different!” “You’re at Canoe trail” said Barry. “Because that’s where I am and I can see you. Also, everybody else is waiting for you well this side of Mc Cutchell Bend.” Half way! I thought, how could I have made such a mistake? Suddenly the answer struck me. Ah! Yes! Our map must’ve been duplicated on a smaller printer. It’s obviously only half the size of Barry’s! I was in the middle of my toe touching exercise when we rounded a bend. And there they were – the Chief, the ambulance, the firefighters, the police helicopter – everybody. I quickly stopped my exercises. My backache had gone anyway. “What took you so long?” somebody asked as we landed. With the motor at idling speed Captain Greg was able to hear again. “Snags in the creek,” he replied. Two Ambulance Officers, a man and a woman whose names I can’t remember, came on board. They carried lots of boxes of medical gear such as scalpels and stuff.
I figured they must be surgeons, and it seemed to me their talent would be wasted if the casualty were already dead. “What if he’s dead?” I asked. “What if he’s still alive?” “Well, if he’s died on us he probably won’t try it again.” As we speculated about the casualty’s condition, the commanding officer’s voice
We were an alert and fit crew, and capable of anything, except that I could feel one of my chronic backaches coming on, Geoff had a headache, and with the motor roaring right next to Greg’s ears, he was all but totally deaf. came over the radio again: “The helicopter has spotted the casualty. It will show you where to go.” The helicopter flew overhead. All our eyes were focused upon it. First it went westward. We followed it. Then it went eastward. We turned around and followed it that way. Then it flew to the north. Around we turned again, ending up back at the starting point. We asked the people on shore which way we should go. Smilingly, they pointed in both directions. “Typical!” I thought. ”Nobody knows right from left – just like our recent Anzac Day march when everyone was out of step except me.” Around we turned again and sailed further upstream. I looked at the map. Eureka I’d worked out the answer! The Gunbower Creek at that point takes a great big horseshoe bend – nearly a full circle. To travel east you have to go west! That’s what the helicopter was trying to tell us!! “Full steam ahead!” I yelled to our captain hoping he could hear. We’re right on course! We could by now see the helicopter circling tightly a little bit further upstream! Soon we spotted the tinnie. It was on the far side of the creek where Hastie must have padded it, but our courageous (and deaf) captain hadn’t seen it. 200 metres later our shouting and pointing finally got through to him. (There are two pieces of equipment badly needed in this boat: a crank handle and a loud speaker.) Around went the continued on page 22 February 2016
PHOENIX 21
FEATURE continued from page 21 boat yet again. We attempted to berth it beside the tinnie. Problems arose. The creek was too shallow at that point for us to land. We got stuck in the mud, and the propeller became entangled in cat weed, but fortunately there was a log protruding out through some cumbungi closeby. I climbed out of the boat, and with berthing rope in hand balanced along the log to the shore, being very careful not to fall off. I had two reasons for not falling into the water: (a) I have no desire to become a section cheerleader, and (b) I’d had a shower only a week ago. I crashed through the cumbungi to the dry land. There, sitting on top of a large rabbit warren like a buck rabbit was our man! If you feel any sympathy for this man, just remember, he’s the one who’d caused all the fuss. “I’ve found ‘im!” I shouted over the top of the reeds. The man didn’t speak, but the silly look he gave me said “Struth! It’s Dad’s Army!” (Cheeky young cub, he needs a clip over the ears!). “Are you dead?” I asked. “’Course I am,” he replied with a grin. “Can’t you tell?” “Can you see any angels?” I asked. “No.”
“Devils?” “Nope!” “You’re not dead then, you’re just foxing!” “More like rabbiting!” Again he grinned cheekily. “How is he?” the voice of one of the surgeons came from the other side of the reeds. “Pretty crook,” I replied. “His brain’s gone; he thinks he’s a rabbit!”
Sometimes, when Hasty was tossed forward his boat would sort of nose dive and almost throw him into the drink. It looked great! Very soon the surgeons and Geoff had walked along the log and were standing beside me. They’d brought a stretcher. Captain Greg had stayed with the boat. He was busy untangling the cat weed from around the propeller, and still trying to pole the boat off the mud with its oars. “How are you old chap?” The surgeons began to ease the casualty onto the stretcher; “We’ll have to carry you about 300 metres upstream to where the boat can land.” The radio crackled again “Do you read me 29?” It was the Big Chief. “Call the search off and return to base. Don’t forget to bring the casualty and his boat. There’s a
barbecue waiting for us at Koondrook. It’s getting late and I’m hungry. See you there.” The causality, ‘Hasty', decided it would be better for everyone if he sat in his own boat while we towed it home, so he did. But he hadn’t realised the potential hazards, neither had we. With his tinnie sashaying about on the single rope like a white water raft, and at the speed we were travelling, each time he shifted his weight inside his boat, the V made by the side and bottom of it would act like a keel and send it careering wildly off in a different direction just like a surfboard. Then the rope would pull tight and jerk it back again. Sometimes, when Hasty was tossed forward his boat would sort of nose dive and almost throw him into the drink. It looked great! I took part in my first surfing competition (it was also the last due to the embarrassment) when I was Hasty’s age, so I know something about surfing. I reckon with a bit of coaching Hasty could manage this situation. If he couldn’t we’d be able to have a real life rescue and make all the fuss worthwhile. I began shouting encouragement to him. Our fun was soon spoiled. After the third and worst nosedive, Captain Greg stopped the motor to enable the shocked and shaking Hasty to scramble into our boat. Geoff by now was on high alert and his headache suddenly disappeared. Finally it was back to the barbie. After the barbie Geoff and I got a ride in the helicopter. My grandkids will be green with envy when I tell them about that! Eventually everyone made peace with each other, and we all went home. Bob Heddie, alias Cess of the SES
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February 2016
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FEATURE
THUNDERSTORM ACTIVITY INCREASES DURING SUMMER MONTHS VICTORIA STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (VICSES) IS WARNING ALL VICTORIANS TO REMAIN VIGILANT AND PREPARED FOR THE POSSIBILITY OF SEVERE STORMS AND FLOODING DURING WHAT HAS BEEN PREDICTED TO BE A LONG, HOT SUMMER.
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hile the danger of bushfires and heatwaves are on the forefront of most Victorians minds during the summer period, it is easy to dismiss dangers associated and severe thunderstorm activity that has also been shown to peak during the summer period. Bureau of Meteorology severe thunderstorm archive data (2000-2015) shows a marked increase of severe storm activity in Victoria during the summer months (see Figure 1). Already this summer (November 2015January 2016) has seen landslips, tornadoes, destructive winds and the tragic death of a Seymour man as a result of flash flooding. VICSES volunteers have responded to
almost 5000 request for assistance due to storm or flood related damage in just over two months. Rain may seem like welcome relief during long, hot summers especially on fireaffected land, however the loss of vegetation due to drought or bushfire can significantly affect how floods behave. Rocks and soil are more easily dislodged with the potential to trigger landslips, and debris collecting in dry river beds can create significant damage to roads and bridges. Many of Victoria’s more significant and damaging storm activity occurred during the summer months including: • 6 March 2010: Largest hailstone event in Melbourne’s history, with VICSES volunteers working through
over 7800 request for assistance over a single weekend • Christmas Day 2011: Melbourne was subjected to a number of severe and dangerous thunderstorm with wind exceeding 120 km/h and hail greater than 5cm • 12 Jan and 10 Feb 2011: VICSES managed the most significant flood event on record in Victoria with almost 50% of Victoria Local Government Areas affected. As Victoria moves towards a stronger vision of all-hazards, all-agency emergency management and planning, it’s worth taking the time to think about how you and your family will respond to all natural emergencies.
140
100
80
60
40
January
February
August
September
October
Wind
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
July
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
June
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
May
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
April
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
March
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
Tornadoes
Hail
Rain
Wind
Tornadoes
0
Hail
20
Rain
Number of severe thunderstorm events
120
November December
Figure 1. Monthly distribution of severe thunderstorm events in Victoria from July 2000 to November 2015 (data provided by BoM). www.vesa.org.au
February 2016
PHOENIX 23
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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