PRODUCED BY AND FOR THE VICTORIAN SES VOLUNTEERS
ISSUE 187 FEBRUARY 2017
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BOURKE STREET TRAGEDY VOLUNTEERING WITH ADVANCED SKILLS • HELPOUT
When you front up, we’ve got your back. Who has your back when you front up to a job few people could ever understand, let alone perform? Emergency Services Health. A new health fund backed by Police Health. For over 80 years Police Health has been run by police, for police. We know what it takes to support people across emergency services. So it’s not surprising that workers and volunteers in emergency services have asked us for the same straightforward and comprehensive cover that police and their families enjoy. Emergency Services Health. A national, not-for-profit private health insurer that’s now here for you and your family - when you need us most. Who has your back? We do.
For more information visit eshealth.com.au, follow us on Facebook or call us on 1300 703 703. Emergency Services Health Pty Ltd ABN 98 131 093 877
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. Closing date for all PHOENIX material: April 2017 edition – Monday March 6 August 2017 edition – Monday July 10 October 2017 edition – Monday September 18 December 2017 edition – Monday November 6 February 2018 edition – Monday January 8
Send all articles to:
Email: phoenixeditor@vesa.com.au Address: PO Box 1085, Craigieburn, VIC 3064
VicSESVA CONTACTS VicSESVA Phoenix Editor & Mailing List Enquiries To add, edit or delete members to mail list or password and technical support contact:
www.vesa.org.au Contents 2
From the Chair
12
Bourke Street tragedy
3
Letter from the CEO
16
6
Volunteering with advanced skills
SES volunteers receive Premier’s Champions Awards
17
Volunteers HelpOUT storm affected residents in the Yarra Ranges
18
SES and dragon boat racing
20
AFAC Conference 2017 call for abstracts
21
VESA Shop
8
Assets & infrastructure
10
Download the VicEmergency App
11
National fundraising campaign for all SES Associations
11
VICSESVA to meet with Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino
VicSESVA 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 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 2017 BEGAN WITH VICSES MEMBERS DEMONSTRATING THEIR INTEGRAL PLACE IN VICTORIAN COMMUNITIES. OVER THE CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR BREAK, UNITS REMAINED INVOLVED IN RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES AS WELL AS LOCAL EVENTS LIKE NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS, NEIGHBOURHOOD FESTIVALS, AUSTRALIA DAY EVENTS, PRIDE MARCH AND MORE.
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ut it was the tragic CBD incident of January 20 which brought to the fore the dedication and care shown by volunteers and was a reminder of why we are all here; to help the community, to build resilience, to act when action is needed. In the middle of a beautiful Melbourne summer’s day, with thousands of tourists visiting the city, children on school holidays on outings with parents and people going about their regular routines, a senseless attack took place which left six people dead and scores injured. VICSES was called to assist police on the day of the attack with Units asked to provide resources such as tarps, marquees, lighting and personnel. Units from Port Phillip, Footscray, Northcote Brimbank and Wyndham provided material resources and members throughout Friday and Saturday, and again the following week to assist with re-positioning the floral tributes which had spilled over into the Bourke St Mall. SES was also called by the City of Melbourne to assist with subsequent removal of the floral tributes as they deteriorated.
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“Throughout the various tasks, VICSES members received compliments on their professionalism, sensitivity and respect. The incident will never be forgotten, and the contribution of VICSES volunteers played a valuable part in response and recovery.” It was a multi-agency response, with Red Cross and Victorian Council of Churches also stationed in the mall, providing psychological first aid. VICSES peer support was also available. Throughout the various tasks, VICSES members received compliments on their professionalism, sensitivity and respect. The incident will never
be forgotten, and the contribution of VICSES volunteers played a valuable part in response and recovery.
Faye Bendrups Independent Chair, VicSESVA
www.vesa.org.au
REPORTS
Letter from the CEO Monday 23 January 2017
Dear volunteers and staff RE: Friday tragedy I would like to acknowledge my sadness and shock at the incident which occurred in the Bourke Street Mall on Friday 20 January 2017. My thoughts and emotions are with the families of those injured or killed and I hope in time that the healing process will begin. I would like to thank our volunteers and staff who attended the scene or supported Victoria Police and other emergency services throughout this event. There are many people across VICSES who responded and supported our fellow community members in what was a most difficult and emotional time. I particularly want to thank the Brimbank, Port Phillip, Northcote, Wyndham and Footscray units for their rapid response. Over the next few weeks we will visit units to personally thank them and the staff who were involved. It is also important to remember that Peer Support and EAP services are available to any staff member or volunteer who may require assistance. Call 1800 899 927 for Peer Support and 1300 361 008 for EAP.* Please don’t hesitate to avail yourself of these services. Again, thank you all for your commitment and support in this tragic circumstance. Yours sincerely Stephen Griffin CEO Victoria State Emergency Service
*Access more information about Peer Support and EAP via The Hub: hub.ses.vic.gov.au/my-state/health-andwellbeing/mental-wellbeing
www.vesa.org.au
February 2017
PHOENIX 3
REPORTS
VOLUNTEERING WITH ADVANCED SKILLS THIS QUESTION HAS COME UP TIME AND AGAIN. THIS TIME IT’S FROM A LIFE SAVER IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA WHO SAYS: I’m employed by St John Ambulance (WA) as an Event Medic and I also volunteer for them from time to time in a similar role. Additionally, I volunteer at a surf club. As a paid/qualified Emergency First Aid provider, when volunteering for either organisation can I be held to account given the higher level of skills I’m trained and employed to use or does the Good Samaritan Act apply at the times I’m volunteering? (Our qualification is Cert IV in Ambulance Care equivalent).
For some earlier, related posts, see: Student Doctors and Scope of Practice (May 15, 2016) Victorian Paramedic and CFA Volunteer Assisting with Patient Care (August 25, 2016) NSW Paramedic and Fire Fighter – When Does One Role Start and Finish? (July 8, 2015) Good Samaritan legislation and scope of practice (March 27, 2015) Doctor as volunteer Life Saver and scope of practice (February 6, 2015) ALS Paramedic as volunteer with St John (WA) (April 5, 2014) ‘Just Ridiculous’? When is a MICA Paramedic a MICA Paramedic? (March 28, 2013)
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he answer is, if you’re providing care to someone, you know what you know and you can do what you can do. No-one, certainly not the patient or a judge, is going to reward you for pretending that today, you don’t know, or can’t do something that clearly you can. And certainly they’re not going to reward you for saying ‘I didn’t do everything I could do because I was afraid of my legal exposure or the exposure of your organisation – that I was putting everyone’s interests ahead of the person in need of care’. A person is entitled to expect ‘reasonable care’, what is reasonable depends on the person’s level of training and knowledge. If there is something you
If you don’t use it do you think anyone is going to thank you for not doing what you could have done? If you do use it is anyone going to sue you? (And if they do sue, whether you use it or not, it won’t be you but the organisation for which you volunteer that will wear that burden. But remember, there are NO cases of law suits in these situations.) The reality is you are much more likely to be sued for not doing it because here was a person in need, you were providing some care and there was something you could have done but didn’t. The good Samaritan legislation won’t help with a decision not to act if your motivation is ‘but today I’m a surf lifesaver’ because you are not acting ‘in good faith’
“A person is entitled to expect ‘reasonable care’, what is reasonable depends on the person’s level of training and knowledge.”
Treatment outside the protocol (April 2, 2012) Medical care and medical emergencies (December 30, 2012) Volunteer nurses and their skills (December 12, 2012)
6 PHOENIX
February 2017
can do and you identify that it needs to be done, then it would be reasonable do to it. Imagine the counter example, assume for example you know how to use an epipen and to recognise the need for it. A patient is having an anaphylactic episode and would benefit from the treatment. There is an epipen to hand. But assume you are, at that time, acting as a volunteer surf lifesavers and the use of an epipen is not part of the life saving training. Do you use it or not?
for the benefit of the patient, but to cover your own backside. This discussion is only relevant if you don’t need special equipment or you have what you need. If, for example, one of the skills you have is knowledge of how to intubate, but you don’t have an intubation kit with you, then you can’t be expected to intubate the patient nor can you be judged on the basis that if you’d had that kit, you could have done something more for the person. www.vesa.org.au
REPORTS
“If there is something you can do and you identify that it needs to be done, then it would be reasonable do to it.”
Conclusion Can I be held to account given the higher level of skills I’m trained and employed to use? Answer: Yes, you have those skills and knowledge. If you’re going to help someone, do what you can do to help. As a general observation, if a person is going to volunteer in an emergency service, but is unwilling to do their best for the person who needs help because of some misperceived fear of legal liability – believing that somehow the law would prefer a person not to do whatever they can to help – then it’s time to reconsider that volunteering.
Does the Good Samaritan Act apply at the times I’m volunteering? As for the good Samaritan legislation (in WA, the Civil Liability Act 2002 (WA) ss 5AB-5AE) it says: A good samaritan does not incur any personal civil liability in respect of an act or omission done or made by the good samaritan at the scene of an emergency in good faith and without recklessness in assisting a person in apparent need of emergency assistance. A ‘good samaritan’ is any person ‘acting without expectation of payment or other consideration, comes to the aid of a person who is apparently in need of emergency assistance’. I don’t think it applies to St John or lifesaving volunteers. They are at an event or a beach with the very purpose of providing emergency assistance. The members do not get paid (either by the service or the patient) but they do get other benefits from their membership and their volunteering. To extend good Samaritan protection to those volunteers would say that those organisations that hold themselves out as being expert at providing that care, do not have to provide ‘reasonable care’ to their patients. That was not the intention behind the legislation and I don’t think the Act would be extended that far. In WA the Volunteers And Food And Other Donors (Protection From Liability) www.vesa.org.au
Answer: In my opinion, no. When volunteering, the relevant law is the Volunteers And Food And Other Donors (Protection From Liability) Act 2002 (WA). Even if the ‘good samaritan’ legislation did apply, it would not justify withholding care that a person can identify is needed and which they can reasonably provide.
Act 2002 (WA) would ensure that a volunteer is not personally liable but that the organisation for which they volunteer (in this case St John (WA) or the surf lifesaving association) would be. I do not think the Civil Liability Act was intended to defeat the policy in that legislation which is to ensure that people who are injured by a negligent volunteer are not left without a remedy. It is my view therefore that the ‘good samaritan’ provisions do not apply to a first aid volunteer when ‘on duty’.
Submitted by Michael Eburn Associate Professor, ANU College of Law, Australia National University, Canberra. Reprinted with permission. Originally published in Michael Eburn’ s blog:
https://emergencylaw.wordpress.com. This blog is maintained by Michael Eburn to discuss legal issues affecting emergency services (fire, ambulance and rescue services) in Australia.
February 2017
PHOENIX 7
FEATURE
ASSETS & INFRASTRUCTURE Procurement tips and advice from Assets and Infrastructure
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he 12 member Victoria SES Assets and Infrastructure (A&I) Team is responsible for the procurement and delivery of state-funded building, vehicle and equipment projects. The A&I Team also manage the procurement and delivery of many unitfunded and grant-funded projects including the AAMI Program and the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP). The senior members have a combined total of 120 years’ experience managing projects and procurement activities. In the past three years, they managed the procurement and delivery of nearly 200 projects with a total approximate value of $28m. The A&I Team is based in Sunshine alongside the Operational Communications Department and the Central (West) Regional Office staff. The Sunshine West location is close to the main arterial routes to regional areas and Victorian Head Office (VHO) at Sturt Street. This promotes a rapid service for delivery activities, which is particularly important when the Sunshine complex functions as the State Logistics
for purpose. The membership of the Fleet Working Group includes representation from the following groups: VESA, Victoria SES volunteers, state operations, state communications, WH&S, finance and regional operational staff. The A&I Team use the knowledge and experience of external consultants and suppliers. When new specifications are being developed or design changes are being considered, the A&I Team obtains practical technical advice from industry professionals. This knowledge is consolidated into the standard Victoria SES specifications that are also published on the The Hub (www.hub. ses.vic.gov.au). Standard payment terms Victoria SES standard payment terms are “30 days after the goods or services” have been received. Do not agree to pay for goods or services in full before it has been confirmed that the goods or services have been fully delivered to the agreed standard. If agreement is made to pay a supplier in full before the goods or services have been received and checked it
“As part of the procurement process, the A&I Team obtains advice from VESA, Victoria SES volunteers, regional staff and each of the relevant Victoria SES business units.” Centre. It also promotes close interaction between the A&I Team and the business units based at VHO. The minutes of the Fleet Working Group are now available on The Hub (www.hub.ses.vic.gov.au). As part of the procurement process, the A&I Team obtains advice from VESA, Victoria SES volunteers, regional staff and each of the relevant Victoria SES business units. An example of this is the Fleet Working Group, led by the A&I Team, which reviews the selection and design of Victoria SES vehicles to ensure they are fit
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February 2017
can be difficult to encourage the supplier to correct any mistakes or omissions. In some cases the payment period may be shortened to accommodate the needs of small businesses or staged payments may be made where the project has a high value or a long procurement period. Compliance with Australian standards Goods and services supplied to Victoria SES must comply with the relevant Australian standards.
Non-compliance can be costly. Goods may need to be replaced or extra funds used to modify product. It is important to check goods and services meet Australian standards. The A&I Team assist Victoria SES members where newly purchased assets manufactured overseas are found to be counterfeit or require modification to comply with Australian standards. Centralised contracts Where appropriate, Victoria SES engages external suppliers under contracts for fixed time periods. This reduces the time and costs involved with obtaining quotes or tenders, but more importantly it builds relationships with suppliers who are able to satisfy Victoria SES’ financial, governance and service quality standards. The construction of Victoria SES rescue trucks is under fixed term contracts with suppliers, which avoids disputes regarding payment terms or compliance with Australian standards. Centralised purchasing also empowers Victoria SES to negotiate discounts for bulk purchases, which are passed on to members. Design improvements The A&I Team regularly review the design and specification of new assets based on discussions with Victoria SES members and business units, external suppliers and professional consultants. Where design improvements are identified, these are included in the Victoria SES standard specifications and incorporated in future projects. The design of the rescue trucks was recently reviewed in response to safety concerns identified by members. Following discussions carried out with an external ergonomic consultant and truck body builders practical costeffective means to modify the design were identified and has led to design improvements that will reduce the risk of ergonomic injury to Victoria SES members. These will be incorporated in 2016-17 projects. www.vesa.org.au
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FEATURE
Spread the word:
DOWNLOAD THE VICEMERGENCY APP VicEmergency comes in handy over festive season WITH SHARK SIGHTINGS, BEACH CLOSURES, FIRES, THUNDERSTORMS AND FLASH FLOODING ALL HAPPENING OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS, THE VICEMERGENCY APP HAS BEEN KEEPING COMMUNITIES INFORMED.
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roviding incident notifications and warnings for all emergencies, the VicEmergency app gives users the choice about how they want to get information in a way that suits them. A number of new features and design enhancements have been made to improve the app since its release. There has also been more than 500,000 downloads while recent wild weather saw a 22 per cent increase in active users. Following community feedback, a new update was released to the app stores on December 22 to make it faster and more responsive and to introduce new features. In one of the most noticeable changes, users can now choose to set up watch zones without having to create a profile. For users that want to access their watch zones from multiple devices, or want to create a family or business account, the option to create a profile is still there and the way to go. State alerts including Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans are now visible on the home screen making them easily accessible to all users. A number of fixes have been implemented to improve the functionality of the My Location feature and increase the responsiveness of the app to load incidents and transition between pages. Notifications for fire, flood and weather are automatically turned on for each Watch Zone and users are required to turn these settings off if they do not want to receive this information. It’s up to users to decide what information they receive and for what areas. This means that you can choose to receive information for fire, flood, storms, shark sightings, earthquakes and tsunamis
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or just for fire, floods and beach closures. The decision is up to you. The community has provided constructive and important feedback about the VicEmergency app and we have taken
action to implement a number of changes and new enhancements in response to that. EMV will continue to listen to the community, work through feedback and look at how we can continue to improve the functionality of the app.
It’s important to remember that the VicEmergency app has replaced the FireReady app. FireReady is no longer providing current data or emergency information. Victoria has an integrated warnings system with the VicEmergency app, hotline and website working together to provide the community with access to timely information so they can make the critical decisions about their own safety. VicEmergency brings together information and warnings from agencies including Country Fire Authority (CFA), Department of Economic Development and Transport and Resources (DEDJTR), Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Life Saving Victoria, Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB), and Victoria State Emergency Service (SES). With summer here we encourage the community to download the VicEmergency app now, get used to it, and know how it works before there is an emergency. You can download the VicEmergency app today from the App Store or Google Play. Victorians can get emergency information from a number of sources including the VicEmergency app, www.emergency.vic.gov.au tuning in to ABC radio or other emergency broadcasters including commercial and community radio stations, Sky TV or by phoning the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and following VicEmergency on Facebook and Twitter. App questions and answers can be found on the VicEmergency Knowledge Base: http://support.emergency.vic.gov.au. If users are unable to find an answer to their question, they call also submit a support request via the online form.
www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
NATIONAL FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN FOR ALL SES ASSOCIATIONS Raffle Campaign – not a scam DID YOU KNOW HERE IS A CURRENT FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN FOR VICSESVA?
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his is not a scam, but a genuine raffle campaign hosted by the national Association (NSESVA) on behalf of all state associations and is run by a firm called One Contact, whose clients include organisations such as the Rural Fire Service of NSW Association (RFSA), NSW SES Volunteers Association, Red Cross, Colgate and RioTinto. The raffle campaigns have been successfully run for the NSW SES Volunteers Association and the ACT SES Volunteers Association for some years.
Now we have the opportunity to raise funds for the benefit of our Victorian SES volunteer members, to provide future grants for equipment, facilities, training and welfare (see also Phoenix December 2016 edition, p.9). The Victorian SES Volunteers Association is a registered charity that has the appropriate government approvals to conduct fundraising activities using raffles which will be used to support Victorian SES volunteers. There may be some members of the community who do not understand the
difference between SES the agency and VicSESVA (or VESA) the association representing volunteers. So there may have been queries about the legitimacy of this fundraising campaign. Please reassure any people who enquire about the legitimacy of this campaign that it is definitely not a scam and will help all the dedicated SES volunteers working for their communities. Any questions concerning fundraising activities can be directed to the Independent Chair of VicSESVA (VESA) Faye Bendrups on 0435 964 455.”
VICSESVA TO MEET WITH MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES JAMES MERLINO
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icSESVA Chair Faye Bendrups caught up with James Merlino, Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Emergency Services at a function to celebrate Australia Day at Government House on January 23. A formal meeting is scheduled for mid–February and details of that meeting will be reported on in the next edition of Phoenix.
www.vesa.org.au
February 2017
PHOENIX 11
FEATURE
BOURKE STREET
TRAGEDY
ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2017, VICTORIA EXPERIENCED ONE OF THE WORST MASS ATTACKS IN RECENT HISTORY. SES VOLUNTEERS ASSISTED IN THE AFTERMATH WITH THE SUPPLY OF MATERIAL RESOURCES AND PEOPLE TO ASSIST POLICE AT THE COMMAND POST SET UP OUTSIDE THE GPO BUILDING IN THE BOURKE STREET MALL.
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he incident left six people dead, 37 treated in hospital and, at the time of going to press, nine people still hospitalised with one in a critical condition, fighting for their life. The Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, says a legitimate and profound anger surrounds the Bourke Street killings. “We are angry, we are frustrated and we are desperately sad,’’ he said. Dimitrious Gargasoulas, 26, has been charged with five murders, with more charges yet to be laid. He had begun the crime spree the previous night in Windsor, attacking a family member. During Friday 20, he drove to various parts of Melbourne, tailed by police, stopping and starting in Clarendon Street, South Melbourne, Docklands, Yarraville. After that, the car headed through Port Melbourne into the city, before arriving at the intersection of Flinders and Swanston Streets, where he was seen shouting from his car, driving erratically. He sped up Swanston Street, turned into the Bourke Street Mall, ploughing though the hundreds of pedestrians enjoying the beautiful Melbourne summer day before being stopped by police at Queen Street. The devastating impact on individuals and families is immeasurable. Since the incident, a extensive part of the Bourke Street Mall/Elizabeth Street intersection became a site for floral tributes, toys, photos and messages to loved ones. A fund has been set up to aid the victims’ families and has already reached over one million dollars. The outpouring of grief and sympathy has been widespread across the Melbourne and wider Victorian community. This is not the first time that Melbourne has experienced tragic and inexplicable killings. The Hoddle Street massacre on August 9, 1987, left seven dead and 19 seriously injured. The Queen Street massacre later that same year on December 8 left nine dead. No-one is immune to senseless acts
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“In times of crisis, the emergency services show their professionalism. Frontline police, fire and ambulance officers take on confronting and heartbreaking tasks. Support agencies swing into action. SES volunteers respond effectively and efficiently.” of violence, as evidenced by the Lindt Café siege or the Port Arthur tragedy, with 35 killed and 25 wounded, the deadliest mass shooting in Australia’s history and among the worst in the world. In times of crisis, the emergency services show their professionalism. Frontline police, fire and ambulance officers take on confronting and heartbreaking tasks. Support agencies swing into action. SES volunteers respond effectively and efficiently.
Victorian Council of Churches, Red Cross and Salvation Army also assist, offering community support and a listening ear to those affected by the tragedy. If you, your family, or anyone close to you, has been affected by this tragic event, VICSES Peer Support is always available. Call 1800 899 927 to request a Peer to contact you. Other help can be sought from the VCC, www.vccem.org.au, or Lifeline, www.lifeline.org.au. www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
www.vesa.org.au
February 2017
PHOENIX 13
FEATURE
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www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
FEATURE
SES VOLUNTEERS RECEIVE PREMIER’S CHAMPIONS AWARDS
IN DECEMBER 2016, TWO SES VOLUNTEERS WERE HONOURED WITH THE PREMIER’S VOLUNTEER CHAMPIONS AWARDS. FAYE BENDRUPS, CONTROLLER VICSES FOOTSCRAY, RECEIVED A LEADERSHIP AWARD, AND IAN PHILLIPS, A JOINT SES AND CFA VOLUNTEER RECEIVED A SERVICE AWARD.
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he Victorian Premier’s Volunteer Champions Awards acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of all volunteers in Victoria across categories of Leadership, Changemaker, Impact, Service and Teamwork. Volunteers are the heart and soul of Victoria and without them, many groups and organisations simply would not exist. Premier Daniel Andrews stated “Victoria wouldn’t be the greatest State without our hardworking volunteers and I am always inspired by the wide variety of volunteering that takes place. From helping out during emergencies, to caring for vulnerable Victorians, maintaining our environment, culture and heritage, making community sport happen or supporting new arrivals – volunteers come from all walks of life and enrich our communities in so many ways”. Faye Bendrups’ Leadership Award cited her exceptional hands-on leadership, empowering the community to be safer and more resilient and her inspiration and motivation of scores of SES volunteers. Ian Philips’ Service Award cited his professionalism and support for both SES and CFA for over 28 years, where his input has been selfless and outstanding, being a dedicated and guiding member for both services. The awards were presented at Government House, hosted by the Governor of Victoria, The Hon. Linda Dessau. The Governor’s message states “Each Award recipient reflects a remarkable and generous community spirit and commitment and each of them deserves to be publicly acknowledged and thanked for their work. They come from a broad range of backgrounds and contribute to every part and every aspect of life in our State”.
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www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
VOLUNTEERS HELPOUT STORM AFFECTED RESIDENTS IN THE YARRA RANGES VOLUNTEERING VICTORIA’S HELPOUT IS ABOUT SPONTANEOUS EMERGENCY VOLUNTEERS AND IS A SERVICE THAT OPERATES YEAR-ROUND. THE SERVICE REGISTERS INTERESTED VOLUNTEERS AND LINKS THEM TO ORGANISATIONS WORKING IN DISASTER-AFFECTED COMMUNITIES WHEN HELP IS NEEDED.
www.vesa.org.au
Both residents and volunteers alike have clearly benefitted from this initiative: ‘‘Thankyou for allowing me to participate with this organisation. I was there for both Saturday and Sunday, and although the sites were quite large, the other volunteers were great to work with, whilst the coordinators were extremely professional and helpful! Don’t hesitate to contact me in the future for any other projects that you may have going?
“These guys were fantastic, there is no way I could have done this without them. Thankyou.” YARR A R ANGES RESIDENT
H el p OUT VOLUNTEER
ER FT A
FO
RE
“The MSEVs are there to help manage and coordinate the offers of assistance that inevitably come during an emergency and is run in collaboration with local councils and the Australian Red Cross.”
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orking hand in hand with HelpOUT is Volunteering Victoria’s Managers of Spontaneous Emergency Volunteer (MSEV) program. MSEV recruits, trains, supports, deploys and debriefs a workforce of skilled volunteer managers to help councils and relief and recovery agencies manage spontaneous volunteers during disaster relief and recovery. The MSEVs are there to help manage and coordinate the offers of assistance that inevitably come during an emergency and is run in collaboration with local councils and the Australian Red Cross. A storm on October 9, 2016, left substantial tree debris across Knox, Cardinia and Yarra Ranges shires. A locally driven Community Clean Up Campaign to assist storm affected residents with the removal of tree debris was one part of the recovery process. Over two weekends in December, seven volunteers from Volunteering Victoria’s HelpOUT service assisted community members to remove tree debris from private properties to the nature strip, ready for collection by a council appointed contractor. As well as removing the debris this important work helped residents prepare for the upcoming bushfire season. HelpOUT and MSEV are both funded through the Commonwealth and Victorian governments Natural Disaster Resilience Grants Scheme, with MSEV in its final year of funding and HelpOUT in the second year of three. With this in mind it is now a priority that ongoing, recurrent funding is secured to ensure the work can be continued and that Victoria is able to harness the power of volunteers in emergencies. Find out more at volunteeringvictoria. org.au/helpout or call 03 8327 8560.
Before and after, removal of storm debris in the Yarra Ranges.
February 2017
PHOENIX 17
FEATURE
SES AND DRAGON BOAT RACING SES CREWS HAVE HAD A LONG AND INFLUENTIAL ASSOCIATION WITH DRAGON BOAT RACING IN VICTORIA.
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ragon Boat Victoria’s website explains that Dragon Boat racing has cultural origins in ancient China and has evolved into a highly competitive sport right across the globe. Dragon Boat Victoria promotes and facilitates participation in dragon boat racing across Victoria, delivering regattas across metropolitan and regional Victoria. The premier event is the Victorian State Championships, held on Victoria Harbour, Docklands. The state championships prepare crews for national racing at the annual Australia Dragon Boat Championships. The origins of dragon boat racing are explained by Dragon Boat Victoria: In Chinese culture, the classic Dragon (or “Loong”) rides the clouds in the sky and commands the wind, mist and rain. The Chinese dragon is made up of many different types of animals on Earth. The dragon is said to have the head of a camel,
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117 fish scales of the carp, deer horns, rabbit eyes, ears of a bull, the neck of a snake, stomach of a clam, paws of a tiger, and claws like an eagle. The dragon symbolizes power and excellence, courage and boldness, heroism and perseverance, nobility and divinity. A dragon overcomes obstacles until success is achieved and is energetic, decisive, optimistic, intelligent and ambitious. Originally the dragon boat was used for religious purposes as a way to appease the rain gods. Each boat has an ornately carved dragon’s head at the bow and a tail in the stern. The boat is painted with scales. The paddles symbolically represent the dragon’s claws, the drum represents the heart. Commonly we see 20 seat dragon boat in Australia, but there can be between 10 to 50 plus paddlers, one or more drummers and the sweep. The crew paddle to the beat of the drum, and the sweep (often the team captain) coordinates the boat and the team’s performance.
Dragon Boat Victoria continues to celebrate the origins of the sport. This was highlighted at the Chinese New Year Regatta held on the Maribyrnong River on 12 February 2017. The Chinese Dancing Dragons and Monks blessed the boats in the traditional Eye Dotting Ceremony. This ‘awakens’ the dragons for racing and ensures all who race within the boats are protected. Breast cancer survivors or supporters can join a Dragons Abreast club. Dragons Abreast Crews are made up of breast cancer survivors (and some very special supporters) of various ages from a great variety of backgrounds, athletic abilities and interests. Dragons Abreast clubs are founded on the principles of participation and inclusiveness, with a competitive outcome as secondary. The SES became involved with Dragon Boat Victoria about 25 year as ago, after a double fatality in the Yarra River. At that time, the Dragon Boats were unstable, were www.vesa.org.au
FEATURE
prone to capsize and tended to barrel roll. In this fatality, one person was knocked out and drowned, one was rescued but died later in hospital. At this time, there was no requirement for dragon boat paddlers to wear PFDs (personal flotation devices, life jackets). After the coroner’s inquest, SES were enlisted to assist and Manningham Unit took on the challenge, led by Greg Mitchell. A Safety Committee was formed and Greg was able to have significant input on procedures and practices, including the mandating of a swim test, annual capsize drills, additional training and the wearing of PFDs. Manningham IRBs (inflatable rescue boats) were deployed to Dragon Boat races to remain on water on standby for rescue, and to follow and monitor all boats and crews in every race. At first, Lilydale Unit assisted, until Manningham’s capacity increased with the addition of a third IRB.
In early years, races were held on the Yarra River outside the casino precinct. There were frequent capsizes which would leave 20 to 30 Dragon Boat crewpeople in the river. Soft tissue injuries and shock were common, but with SES IRBs and crews ready, fatalities were avoided. Other hazards included busy river craft traffic and bridges. Parks Victoria were also involved to close parts of the river when the races occurred and to monitor adherence to water craft regulations. Footscray unit were invited to assist, supplying two more IRBs and crews. Later races were moved to Victoria Harbour, Docklands, sharing the water with luxury vessels and large ships. By now, Dragon Boat design had improved and the wearing of PFDs was enforced. The SES responsibilities expanded to include ground crew tasks from an observation post on shore: to check number of people in each boat, to check they were all
wearing PFDs on water, to maintain radio communications for emergencies, to log and record all races and ensure all boats are monitored and coordinated. On water, Greg Mitchell devised a system for SES boat crews to operate on a rotating pattern, with each SES IRB having oversight and shadowing of 2 Dragon Boat lanes – there are usually 4 lanes per race – while another SES IRB is on general standby on water and one more is resting. That is, four SES IRBs, coxswains and crews are deployed for each event. In December 2016, the Dragon Boat Races were held at the National Water Sports Centre at Carrum Downs for the first time, with Chelsea Unit assisting Manningham and Footscray. In February 2017, the races were held for the first time on the Maribyrnong River for the Chinese New Year Regatta, with Manningham and Footscray participating. February 2017
PHOENIX 19
FEATURE
AFAC CONFERENCE 2017
CALL FOR ABSTRACTS THE AFAC17 POWERED BY INTERSCHUTZ – SYDNEY WILL BE HELD FROM SEPTEMBER 4-7, 2017 IN SYDNEY. THE THEME FOR THIS YEAR’S CONFERENCE IS:
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ollaborating and improving performance is essential for success in emergency management. Innovating in the face of disruptions and developing our people to successfully manage emergency services of the future is a key challenge. AFAC17 will focus on how we can work together to improve our performance, what leading the way looks like and who will benefit from our collective effort. For more information visit www.afacconference.com.au/. The AFAC17 Call for Abstracts is now open – do not miss this opportunity to share your knowledge, research and projects with the wider emergency management sector and be part of the premier emergency management conference and exhibition in Australasia.
“Collaborating for Success – Improving performance in emergency management.”
The AFAC17 conference program will include presentations from keynote and invited speakers, in addition to those presentations selected through the Call for Abstracts process. Presentations are not the only way your thinking can are shared, with many abstracts selected to be displayed in the AFAC17 Knowledge Lounge as posters. Authors are welcome to submit an abstract for an oral presentation or poster. The AFAC17 Program Committee will select abstracts for presentation based on the relevance to the conference themes and topics: 1. Collaboration and performance 2. Research utilisation and innovation 3. Data to drive performance 4. Strengthening organisations 5. Public value 6. The value of mitigation and disaster resilience
The AFAC17 Call for Abstracts is now open – do not miss this opportunity to share your knowledge, research and projects with the wider emergency management sector and be part of the premier emergency management conference and exhibition in Australasia.
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Abstract submissions for AFAC17 are open to all with involvement in emergency management including professionals, volunteers, researchers and academics, industry, community and all levels of government. The abstract selection process is extremely competitive due to the high quality of submissions. We expect that approximately 80 papers will be selected for oral presentations across the 3 day program. As a result it is likely that only one or two from each member organisation will be chosen. Day one, Monday, September 4, 2017, of the program is the Research Forum, driven by the all hazards research agendas of the Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC and complemented by the science from a wide range of universities, research organisations and emergency service agencies. Days two and three (Tuesday 5 and Wednesday 6 September, 2017) of the program feature concurrent streams which are designed to bring together and share the combined wisdom of experience, research and analysis from across the sector. AFAC member organisations have been asked to conduct an internal selection process for abstract submissions. If you are a staff member or volunteer of an AFAC member, please contact your organisation in relation to this prior to submitting an abstract online.
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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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February 2017
PHOENIX 21
VicSESVA SHOP
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February 2017
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VicSESVA SHOP
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February 2017
PHOENIX 23
VicSESVA SHOP
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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 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 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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