To all who receive this email if you know of somebody who is participating in the ride and you are not sure if this email will get to them, particularly at volunteer stations, could you please forward this email to them or inform them of the info contained so that they receive this vital info on the event. Thanks.
Hi there everybody. Only two weeks to the ride now. Hope you all have been putting in some kms. I rode the 70 kms course the other day and it is pretty spectacular. The hill is well doable for everyone it’s just a matter of getting in a low gear and keeping those pedals going round. The bonus at getting to the top is that Kinglake bakery does a mean steak a mushroom pie and their apple scrolls are amazing. Not sure what the rest of the ride for the 120 kms or the other bakeries on route are like, am planning on doing that this week.
A little change to the starts times has come about. To keep with the theme of the ride (fundraiser for the CFA) SuperSprint has kindly offered our riders pole position on the starting grids. This will enable us to proudly show off our new CFA cycle jerseys and really make an impact on the media. With all our personnel wearing the jerseys and lined up at the front the photos should look pretty good. Our new start times are 0730 hrs for the 120 kms riders and 0845 hrs for the 70 kms riders. No doubt all the other riders in the field will zoom past us very quickly on the day but being at the start displaying a sea of CFA will provide us with maximum expose on the day.
Also Whittlesea Fire Brigade has offered to escort our riders from the Fire Station to the start area. This will also provide us with great media exposure as we ride into the start area as a group. The details for the escort are:
120 Km. Assemble Whittlesea Fire Station 0700 (Roll Call)
Depart Fire Station 0710 (Sharp)
Arrive Recreation Reserve and Start Line 0715
70 Km. Assemble Whittlesea Fire Station 0810 (Roll Call)
Depart Fire Station 0820 (Sharp)
Arrive Recreation Reserve and Start Line 0825
As you can see the timetable is pretty tight so we can't wait for people who are running late. The day will be very busy so please plan to be in Whittlesea as early as possible to avoid missing the escort or the start time.
On the day the CFA SRA shade tents will be set up so you can place a bag with spare/change of clothing. Please don’t leave anything of value in your bags (just in case). Parking for the day will be busy so that’s another reason to get there early. You can either park at/near Whittlesea Fire Station or in the areas that SuperSprint has set aside (see the website for a map).
On the day there will be some CFA cycle clothing for sale at the tents. Wind Vests, arm warmers, cycle shorts etc. Not sure of sizes available or prices but if you’re interested bring some extra cash just in case.
Any question don’t hesitate to ask, good luck with the last of the training and pray for sunshine on the day. See you at the start.
Thanks.
David Gorman
Leading Firefighter
Cranbourne Fire Brigade
Monday, August 31, 2009
Relay For Life 2009 - Emergency Services Challenge
Hi All
Just a reminder for interested people to get on board AND REGISTER. Don’t miss out this year! Open the attachments for more info.
* Information
* Steps to Register
* Representatives
* Collage
TO REGISTER - Follow the instructions, it’s simple. Or just call any one of your CFA Relay For Life Representatives (contact list attached too).
James Wong
Leading Firefighter
Patterson River Fire Station
Just a reminder for interested people to get on board AND REGISTER. Don’t miss out this year! Open the attachments for more info.
* Information
* Steps to Register
* Representatives
* Collage
TO REGISTER - Follow the instructions, it’s simple. Or just call any one of your CFA Relay For Life Representatives (contact list attached too).
James Wong
Leading Firefighter
Patterson River Fire Station
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Hurstbridge Farmer's Market
Now that we've done the Wattle Festival, the next event is the Farmer's market on Sunday 6 September. We need some more volunteers to help. The following is who I have already:
Location: Hurstbridge, Brockie's BBQ
We need a minimum of 6 (2 per gate). Please let me know your availability.
Geoff
Location: Hurstbridge, Brockie's BBQ
We need a minimum of 6 (2 per gate). Please let me know your availability.
Geoff
Wattle Festival - Thanks
Thanks very much to everyone who helped out today: Dale, Michael, Robyn, Deb & Peter J, Jan, Ben, Lindsay, Barrie, Lyn, Vicki, Tom (did I miss anyone?).
A special thanks to Peter R who was there at 7am to set up the stand, then hung around till 6pm to sell the last tickets.
I'll let you know how much we made when we get the cheque.
Geoff
A special thanks to Peter R who was there at 7am to set up the stand, then hung around till 6pm to sell the last tickets.
I'll let you know how much we made when we get the cheque.
Geoff
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Notes from WDV Group Debrief
Please see attached notes from debrief held at the Group meeting 19 August 2009.
Regards,
Jenny Broadhurst
Brigade Support Officer
Whittlesea Diamond Valley Catchment
Regards,
Jenny Broadhurst
Brigade Support Officer
Whittlesea Diamond Valley Catchment
Bushfire Preparedness Program 09-10 Updates
Good Evening All,
The Bushfire Preparedness Program Office is working with our staff, volunteers and a range of other agencies to deliver a number of key projects and prepare Victoria for the coming fire season.With the official launch of the fire season less than 70 days away, and over 26 projects underway, there are new achievements occurring all the time.
The Bushfire Preparedness Update aims to keep volunteers, staff and interested parties updated about these projects and will be published on a daily basis.
The first Bushfire Preparedness Update is now published on CFA Connect and covers the following topics;
* Royal Commission Interim Report
* Program office update
* Project updates on Township Protection Plan, Bushfire Action Week, Vegetation Management and Keeping Brigades Informed Projects
Volunteers and staff can access the update by clicking here or visiting the general interest section www.cfaconnect.net.au.
Regards,
Bushfire Preparedness Program Office
The Bushfire Preparedness Program Office is working with our staff, volunteers and a range of other agencies to deliver a number of key projects and prepare Victoria for the coming fire season.With the official launch of the fire season less than 70 days away, and over 26 projects underway, there are new achievements occurring all the time.
The Bushfire Preparedness Update aims to keep volunteers, staff and interested parties updated about these projects and will be published on a daily basis.
The first Bushfire Preparedness Update is now published on CFA Connect and covers the following topics;
* Royal Commission Interim Report
* Program office update
* Project updates on Township Protection Plan, Bushfire Action Week, Vegetation Management and Keeping Brigades Informed Projects
Volunteers and staff can access the update by clicking here or visiting the general interest section www.cfaconnect.net.au.
Regards,
Bushfire Preparedness Program Office
Royal Commission updates- Block 2, Monday and Tuesday
SENT ON BEHALF OF GILL METZ, GENERAL MANAGER
Good afternoon all,
Please find attached summaries to the second block of Royal Commission hearings, which commenced this week. The two attached summaries cover hearings from Monday and Tuesday of this week.
* 24 August
* 25 August
* 26 August
Members that have registered and logged on to CFA Connect http://www.cfaconnect.net.au/ can read the updates online.
To become a registered CFA Connect member you'll need a CFA Online (Brigades Online and the Intranet) login, though, so if you don't have one, organise a login now by following these simple steps. (Note that you need to create a separate CFA Connect account. You cannot log in to CFA Connect with your CFA Online details).
Full transcripts from the previous day’s testimony continue to be available at http://www.royalcommission.vic.gov.au/ and members are encouraged to download these transcripts, if they so wish.
It’s requested that these email updates be printed/distributed to members, either at the brigade or passed on via email (or some other mechanism)
Regards
Kris Perkovic
Media & Marketing Coordinator
CFA Outer Metro Norwest Area
Good afternoon all,
Please find attached summaries to the second block of Royal Commission hearings, which commenced this week. The two attached summaries cover hearings from Monday and Tuesday of this week.
* 24 August
* 25 August
* 26 August
Members that have registered and logged on to CFA Connect http://www.cfaconnect.net.au/ can read the updates online.
To become a registered CFA Connect member you'll need a CFA Online (Brigades Online and the Intranet) login, though, so if you don't have one, organise a login now by following these simple steps. (Note that you need to create a separate CFA Connect account. You cannot log in to CFA Connect with your CFA Online details).
Full transcripts from the previous day’s testimony continue to be available at http://www.royalcommission.vic.gov.au/ and members are encouraged to download these transcripts, if they so wish.
It’s requested that these email updates be printed/distributed to members, either at the brigade or passed on via email (or some other mechanism)
Regards
Kris Perkovic
Media & Marketing Coordinator
CFA Outer Metro Norwest Area
Region 14 News
Please find attached Region 14 News, a new semi-regular newsletter that will aim to update members on events and happenings across the Region.
I encourage all members to have a read and if you have ideas or contributions for the next newsletter, please do not hesitate to contact me at my details below.
A reminder if this newsletter can be forwarded/distributed to members, where possible.
Regards
Kris Perkovic
Media & Marketing Coordinator
CFA Outer Metro Norwest Area
I encourage all members to have a read and if you have ideas or contributions for the next newsletter, please do not hesitate to contact me at my details below.
A reminder if this newsletter can be forwarded/distributed to members, where possible.
Regards
Kris Perkovic
Media & Marketing Coordinator
CFA Outer Metro Norwest Area
Run for a Safe Climate - November 2009
PLEASE GIVE THIS 6 MINUTES OF YOUR TIME … WATCH THE VIDEO CLIP.
On the topic of climate change …. How does it effect you? How does it effect your family? How will it effect your future?
Whilst some people may have true concern, some people are sceptical and some people are indifferent. Whatever category you find yourself in, I ask you to please consider viewing the following link – http://www.safeclimateaustralia.org/run-for-a-safe-climate/
This link will take you to a website containing some information about this run, such as WHO, WHY, HOW and WHEN. I encourage you to watch the short 5 minute video too.
In brief, I am involved in a NATIONAL EMERGENCY SERVICES RUNNING PROJECT, that will travel from Cooktown in Queensland down to St Kilda beach in Melbourne. This will be conducted during the entire month on November 2009. It will involve firefighters, police officers, paramedics, state emergency services workers and military from QLD, NSW, SA and VIC, as well as many of interested people.
Why do I sent this email:
At this stage, I am only person from CFA involved
I am looking for people and brigades interested in supporting this running project, as it travels on the Victoria leg from Albury-Wodonga along the Murray to Mildura and then from Portland to Melb along the surf coast via Geelong and also Kilmore
I am looking for anyone interested in running with the project, whether it be the entire 6000kms, sections through Victoria, or for just a few hours (Runners will need to be able to comfortably handle approx. 10 to 15kms in a day)
I am seeking any donations or sponsors for this cause
If you think you can help me, would like to get involved, or if you have any questions,
please contact me via email or by calling 0402 013 228.
Thanks for your time.
BE A PART OF THE SOLUTION!
James Wong
Leading Firefighter
Patterson River Fire Station
On the topic of climate change …. How does it effect you? How does it effect your family? How will it effect your future?
Whilst some people may have true concern, some people are sceptical and some people are indifferent. Whatever category you find yourself in, I ask you to please consider viewing the following link – http://www.safeclimateaustralia.org/run-for-a-safe-climate/
This link will take you to a website containing some information about this run, such as WHO, WHY, HOW and WHEN. I encourage you to watch the short 5 minute video too.
In brief, I am involved in a NATIONAL EMERGENCY SERVICES RUNNING PROJECT, that will travel from Cooktown in Queensland down to St Kilda beach in Melbourne. This will be conducted during the entire month on November 2009. It will involve firefighters, police officers, paramedics, state emergency services workers and military from QLD, NSW, SA and VIC, as well as many of interested people.
Why do I sent this email:
At this stage, I am only person from CFA involved
I am looking for people and brigades interested in supporting this running project, as it travels on the Victoria leg from Albury-Wodonga along the Murray to Mildura and then from Portland to Melb along the surf coast via Geelong and also Kilmore
I am looking for anyone interested in running with the project, whether it be the entire 6000kms, sections through Victoria, or for just a few hours (Runners will need to be able to comfortably handle approx. 10 to 15kms in a day)
I am seeking any donations or sponsors for this cause
If you think you can help me, would like to get involved, or if you have any questions,
please contact me via email or by calling 0402 013 228.
Thanks for your time.
BE A PART OF THE SOLUTION!
James Wong
Leading Firefighter
Patterson River Fire Station
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Hank Vreulink's funeral
Hank's funeral service will be held at Ashton Manor, Main Road, Diamond Creek (Mel Ref 11 K6) on FRIDAY (Aug. 28) at 10 a.m.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Wattle Festival Roster
The following is the roster for the Wattle Festival, Sunday 30 August.
I'll be there all day. Many thanks for volunteering to help.
CFA Connect Update - CEO Mick Bourke
A FEW MINUTES WITH MICK BOURKE
Incoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mick Bourke is a community-minded executive who grew up in country Victoria where volunteerism was part and parcel of life. His business and leadership philosophies focus on teamwork, innovation and getting the best out of people. CFA Connect’s John Allin spent an afternoon with the man who takes the reins in September. Click here to read more.
GRAMPIANS $5M UPGRADE
On Friday, Premier John Brumby officially opened the $5 million CFA Grampians Regional Office in Ballarat. Click here to read more, watch the video and view photos.
The CFA Connect Team
Incoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mick Bourke is a community-minded executive who grew up in country Victoria where volunteerism was part and parcel of life. His business and leadership philosophies focus on teamwork, innovation and getting the best out of people. CFA Connect’s John Allin spent an afternoon with the man who takes the reins in September. Click here to read more.
GRAMPIANS $5M UPGRADE
On Friday, Premier John Brumby officially opened the $5 million CFA Grampians Regional Office in Ballarat. Click here to read more, watch the video and view photos.
The CFA Connect Team
Standing Orders and SOPs - New & Amended
I have received a stack of new and amended standing orders and SOPs.
The covering memo includes a ridiculous throw-away line that "it is important that all CFA members become familiar with the amended SOs and SOPs". But, of course, they don't provide any assistance with getting this information across to everyone. There's about 80 pages of documentation that needs to be disseminated, and I sure as mustard don't have time to read them.
I think this is an appaling abrogation of their responsibilities.
Anyway, if you are bored out of your brains one night, feel free to go down the station and read the SOs and SOPs. Unless anyone else has a better idea and how to share this wealth of CFA knowledge...
The covering memo includes a ridiculous throw-away line that "it is important that all CFA members become familiar with the amended SOs and SOPs". But, of course, they don't provide any assistance with getting this information across to everyone. There's about 80 pages of documentation that needs to be disseminated, and I sure as mustard don't have time to read them.
I think this is an appaling abrogation of their responsibilities.
Anyway, if you are bored out of your brains one night, feel free to go down the station and read the SOs and SOPs. Unless anyone else has a better idea and how to share this wealth of CFA knowledge...
City of Whittlesea - Blessing of the Fleet
The annual Blessing of the Fleet with City of Whittlesea is coming up. It will be a short service following by morning tea.
Date: Saturday 3 October 2009
Time: 10.00 am
Location: Plenty Ranges Arts & Convention Centre, 35 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang
Date: Saturday 3 October 2009
Time: 10.00 am
Location: Plenty Ranges Arts & Convention Centre, 35 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Webmail for Volunteers- coming soon!
Announcing….. ‘Webmail for Volunteers’ will soon be a reality!
The Technology Services Dept, along with VFBV representatives have selected a product- ‘Live@cfa’.
This is a Microsoft application that is Outlook based. It will provide volunteer members with a high-capacity CFA email account and access to shared calendars. The email address format will be e.g., john.citizen@members.cfa.vic.gov.au
The ‘go live’ date for the application is 13th October 2009.
The ‘Live@cfa’ application is intended for communication of non-critical/ administrative information between volunteer members and, staff and volunteers.
Further information on the ‘Live@cfa’ application will be communicated to volunteer members through various mediums but we would appreciate it if you could forward this message on to any volunteer members in your email address book.
Please direct any queries about the ‘Live@cfa’ application to Project Manager- Bob Milligan (b.milligan@cfa.vic.gov.au) or Sue Glasson (s.glasson@cfa.vic.gov.au)
Sue Glasson
Manager Training & Documentation
Technology Services
The Technology Services Dept, along with VFBV representatives have selected a product- ‘Live@cfa’.
This is a Microsoft application that is Outlook based. It will provide volunteer members with a high-capacity CFA email account and access to shared calendars. The email address format will be e.g., john.citizen@members.cfa.vic.gov.au
The ‘go live’ date for the application is 13th October 2009.
The ‘Live@cfa’ application is intended for communication of non-critical/ administrative information between volunteer members and, staff and volunteers.
Further information on the ‘Live@cfa’ application will be communicated to volunteer members through various mediums but we would appreciate it if you could forward this message on to any volunteer members in your email address book.
Please direct any queries about the ‘Live@cfa’ application to Project Manager- Bob Milligan (b.milligan@cfa.vic.gov.au) or Sue Glasson (s.glasson@cfa.vic.gov.au)
Sue Glasson
Manager Training & Documentation
Technology Services
Grace Knight - Winter Warmer
The attached flyer is re. winter warmer event being held at Bridges next week which may be of interest to members of the brigade, auxiliary and landcare.
Grace Knight is donating her time (and talent) to provide entertainment for people impacted (directly and indirectly) by the Feb fires.
Bookings are essential given limited seating and standing room.
Hope to see you there.
Cheers,
Jan
Grace Knight is donating her time (and talent) to provide entertainment for people impacted (directly and indirectly) by the Feb fires.
Bookings are essential given limited seating and standing room.
Hope to see you there.
Cheers,
Jan
Region 14 temporary employment opportunities
CFA has been working on enhanced and additional programs as part of its Bushfire Preparedness for the 2009-2010 Fire Season.
These additional programs have resulted in some temporary employment opportunities.
We are seeking expressions of interest (Curriculum Vitae and a short cover letter outlining your appropriate skills/qualifications for the role) for the following roles:
These additional programs have resulted in some temporary employment opportunities.
We are seeking expressions of interest (Curriculum Vitae and a short cover letter outlining your appropriate skills/qualifications for the role) for the following roles:
These positions are available on limited tenure until 30/6/10. The positions are preferably full time, although part time arrangements may be considered for the right applicants.
Please email your expressions of interest to me (s.leversha@cfa.vic.gov.au) by close of business Monday 24/8/09. Notifications for unsuccessful applicants will be made via email.
Should you wish to discuss the roles, please contact Region 14 Community Safety on 8746 1400.
Kind regards
Shane Leversha
Manager Human Resources
CFA Region 14
ESTA outage
There will be an ESTA outage, i.e. pager outage, in the night of 31st August to 1st September from 2300 hours to 0500 hours due to some hardware replacements. So, during this time, Vicfire will operate on manual basis which means the pagers will not work. Any calls will be handled via the relative Spectrum Bridge.
Please keep this in mind during that night.
Best Regards
Urs
Please keep this in mind during that night.
Best Regards
Urs
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Strathewen power outage
SP Austnet have advised of a scheduled power outage:
Date: Sunday 30 August
Time: 8.30am - 3.30pm
This will affect the Strathewen Shed.
Date: Sunday 30 August
Time: 8.30am - 3.30pm
This will affect the Strathewen Shed.
Missing Black Saturday survivor found dead
http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,25955435-5005961,00.html
Our thoughts are with the Vreulink and Shepherd families.
Geoff
Our thoughts are with the Vreulink and Shepherd families.
Geoff
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Commission Report: media support
Hi all
As most of you would know, the interim findings of the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission were released today Monday, 17 August. It is anticipated that CFA will receive numerous requests from media to respond to findings in the Commission's Report. Already, local media have sought ‘local’ comment on the Commission’s report, despite it just being released and members not having the opportunity to properly review the report.
If you or members of your brigade are contacted by the media for comment and are unsure of how to respond, you can simply say ‘no comment’ or refer all enquiries back to Region 14 and specifically, Kris Perkovic, on mobile: 0400 986 954.
Kind regards
Kris Perkovic
Media & Marketing Coordinator
CFA Outer Metro Norwest Area
As most of you would know, the interim findings of the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission were released today Monday, 17 August. It is anticipated that CFA will receive numerous requests from media to respond to findings in the Commission's Report. Already, local media have sought ‘local’ comment on the Commission’s report, despite it just being released and members not having the opportunity to properly review the report.
If you or members of your brigade are contacted by the media for comment and are unsure of how to respond, you can simply say ‘no comment’ or refer all enquiries back to Region 14 and specifically, Kris Perkovic, on mobile: 0400 986 954.
Kind regards
Kris Perkovic
Media & Marketing Coordinator
CFA Outer Metro Norwest Area
CFA committed to improvement
CFA COMMITTED TO IMPROVEMENT
CFA Chief Officer Russell Rees has welcomed the release of the 2009 Bushfires Royal Commission Interim Report and reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to improvement. Watch Russell speaking at the media conference following the release of the Interim Report.
All CFA coverage of the Royal Commission is on CFA Connect, click here to see more.
CFA Chief Officer Russell Rees has welcomed the release of the 2009 Bushfires Royal Commission Interim Report and reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to improvement. Watch Russell speaking at the media conference following the release of the Interim Report.
All CFA coverage of the Royal Commission is on CFA Connect, click here to see more.
Hank Vreulink missing
Hank Vreulink is missing:
http://diamond-valley-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/fears-for-missing-strathewen-man/
If you see his car - 2005 Toyota Hilux dual cab utility - registration TVS 872 - please contact police immediately.
http://diamond-valley-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/fears-for-missing-strathewen-man/
If you see his car - 2005 Toyota Hilux dual cab utility - registration TVS 872 - please contact police immediately.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Royal Commission Interim Report
Link to CFA Connect news article:
Link to the Royal Commission site to download the report:
Printed copies of the Interim Report and Executive Summarry can also be obtained by contacting Information Victoria on 1300 366 356 or bookshop@diird.vic.gov.au
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Crew Leaders Meeting
There is a meeting for all crew leaders involved in 7 February on Wednesday 19 August 7.30pm at Mernda firestation.
Geoff
Geoff
Friday, August 14, 2009
File storage
I have been having some problems with file storage, and can't use the site I've been using for the last few months. I've changed to a new site, but the ads are rather distasteful. My apologies for that.
If anyone has access to online storage space for use by the Brigade, I would be very interested in talking to you. I'm using maybe 20MB storage a month, so it will need to be a fair bit.
Geoff
If anyone has access to online storage space for use by the Brigade, I would be very interested in talking to you. I'm using maybe 20MB storage a month, so it will need to be a fair bit.
Geoff
Diamond Creek Torchlight
Date: Saturday 12th September
Time: 7.30pm (step-off time)
Location: St John’s Anglican Church Carpark Hyde Street Diamond Creek
Further information: Letter and map
Time: 7.30pm (step-off time)
Location: St John’s Anglican Church Carpark Hyde Street Diamond Creek
Further information: Letter and map
Road closure at Reservoir Road Yean Yean
Re: Bridge over the Plenty River on Reservoir road Yan Yean.
We have been awarded a contract by the City of Whittlesea to replace the above bridge.
The existing bridge is a single lane steel and concrete structure.
The new bridge will be a prestressed concrete structure with stronger and safer railing. It will have two traffic lanes and a footpath (on the upstream side of the bridge). As part of the work we will also widen the road approaches at both ends of the bridge.
As new bridge will be nearly as wide as the existing road reserve, it will be necessary to demolish the existing bridge prior to construction of the new bridge.
This will necessitate the closure of Reservoir Road until 19/9/09.
During the road closure the detour around the site will be via Plenty Road, Arthurs Creek Road and Recreation Road. This detour will be signed during construction.
We regret any inconvenience this work will create but trust that you will understand the necessity of these works.
Yours Sincerely
HARING & SEMPLE Pty. Ltd.
We have been awarded a contract by the City of Whittlesea to replace the above bridge.
The existing bridge is a single lane steel and concrete structure.
The new bridge will be a prestressed concrete structure with stronger and safer railing. It will have two traffic lanes and a footpath (on the upstream side of the bridge). As part of the work we will also widen the road approaches at both ends of the bridge.
As new bridge will be nearly as wide as the existing road reserve, it will be necessary to demolish the existing bridge prior to construction of the new bridge.
This will necessitate the closure of Reservoir Road until 19/9/09.
During the road closure the detour around the site will be via Plenty Road, Arthurs Creek Road and Recreation Road. This detour will be signed during construction.
We regret any inconvenience this work will create but trust that you will understand the necessity of these works.
Yours Sincerely
HARING & SEMPLE Pty. Ltd.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Foam on Tanker #2
Great news! Region have promised to have Class A foam installed on Tanker #2 before the fire season.
8 years of asking and waiting are over...
8 years of asking and waiting are over...
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Jon Faine in Strathewen
Jon Faine from ABC Melbourne will be doing a broadcast from Strathewen on the morning of Tuesday 18 August from 8.30am to 12 noon. The main source of discussion I am sure will be the Preliminary Findings of the Royal Commission.
However if you have something that you would like to be brought up on the day then please let me know.
The Auxiliary are putting on a Barbeque in place of the Conversation hours from 11-12.00hrs.
It will be an interesting morning.
Please pass this onto your neighbours and friends.
Kind Regards
Michael Chapman
However if you have something that you would like to be brought up on the day then please let me know.
The Auxiliary are putting on a Barbeque in place of the Conversation hours from 11-12.00hrs.
It will be an interesting morning.
Please pass this onto your neighbours and friends.
Kind Regards
Michael Chapman
Chief Officer Reappointed
CHIEF OFFICER REAPPOINTED
Russell Rees has been reappointed as CFA's Chief Officer for a further two years. Read more here.
See you online
The CFA Connect Team
Russell Rees has been reappointed as CFA's Chief Officer for a further two years. Read more here.
See you online
The CFA Connect Team
Monday, August 10, 2009
Name badges
I'm going to put in an order for name badges soon. If you need:
- Cloth name badge for your jacket(s)
- Decal name badge for your helmet(s)
let me know and I'll add you to the order.
Geoff
Broken Holster
A few weeks ago, someone left a broken holster in the "exchange box" in the Office at the Station. So that Pat can arrange a replacement, could the mystery person please contact Pat by email patcorr@alphalink.com.au or phone 9714 8270.
Thanks from Pat
Thanks from Pat
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Mid-week rosters
As discussed at the last general meeting, we are looking at trialling mid-week rosters. This is an alternative to members attending Sunday rosters.
If this is of interest to you, contact Geoff Schmidt with the details of which day and which time you would prefer.
If there is enough interest, then we'll kick it off.
If this is of interest to you, contact Geoff Schmidt with the details of which day and which time you would prefer.
If there is enough interest, then we'll kick it off.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
ESTA Outage Notification - ESTA Map 2 Implementation - 18/08/09 - 0100 - 0400
Hi All,
Please see below that there will be an ESTA outage on 18th August so any calls then will be via Spectrum Bridge.
Best Regards
Urs Biedermann
Communications Officer
Whittlesea Diamond Valley Group
Please see below that there will be an ESTA outage on 18th August so any calls then will be via Spectrum Bridge.
Best Regards
Urs Biedermann
Communications Officer
Whittlesea Diamond Valley Group
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Volunteer Health Checks
As you may remember OHS secured funding to provide free health checks to 200 brigades in 09/10. As part of a trial of this program we have been conducting a number of sessions at brigades which has meet with positives results to be point where word is spreading and brigades are directly contacting us to run a program.
To ensure there is coordination, Areas are aware and there is a fair distribution of the program within in regions I am seeking your feedback on the following
We can offer each region approximately 10 brigade sessions per region @ 20 members per session. If you wish to take this offer up we would appreciate the response and local coordination to selection brigades asap so we can plan the overall rollout as this is being conducted with Deakin Uni.
The alternative is we focus on those regions who are already active in this area following the trials to provide the 200 brigades. We are seeking funding to provide more sessions.
Cheers
Jeff Green
Manager OHS
To ensure there is coordination, Areas are aware and there is a fair distribution of the program within in regions I am seeking your feedback on the following
We can offer each region approximately 10 brigade sessions per region @ 20 members per session. If you wish to take this offer up we would appreciate the response and local coordination to selection brigades asap so we can plan the overall rollout as this is being conducted with Deakin Uni.
The alternative is we focus on those regions who are already active in this area following the trials to provide the 200 brigades. We are seeking funding to provide more sessions.
Cheers
Jeff Green
Manager OHS
CFA Connect Update - August 3rd 2009
This email has been sent to all CFA staff.
Could you please send it to the volunteers in your address books?
Thanks!
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
The final instalment of our popular five-part feature on Breathing Apparatus (BA) is now live. Part five features BA support vehicles and maintenance.
THE RECRUITS
The first three episodes of The Recruits documentary have now been viewed by thousands of CFA members. The documentary follows a group of CFA career firefighter recruits through their 16-week course at CFA Training College, Fiskville. Episode four will go live this Wednesday, so stay tuned!
COMMUNITY SAFETY VIDEO UPDATE
Watch the video update by Director Community Safety Lisa Sturzenegger outlining what CFA and the Victorian government are doing ahead of the coming fire season.
217 ARTICLES AND COUNTING
Since launching in May, CFA Connect has seen members publish 217 articles from across the state. Remember, no story is too big or too small for CFA Connect, so if you have anything CFA related that you would like to publish, we encourage you to log in and Get Connected!
See you online,
The CFA Connect Team
Could you please send it to the volunteers in your address books?
Thanks!
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
The final instalment of our popular five-part feature on Breathing Apparatus (BA) is now live. Part five features BA support vehicles and maintenance.
THE RECRUITS
The first three episodes of The Recruits documentary have now been viewed by thousands of CFA members. The documentary follows a group of CFA career firefighter recruits through their 16-week course at CFA Training College, Fiskville. Episode four will go live this Wednesday, so stay tuned!
COMMUNITY SAFETY VIDEO UPDATE
Watch the video update by Director Community Safety Lisa Sturzenegger outlining what CFA and the Victorian government are doing ahead of the coming fire season.
217 ARTICLES AND COUNTING
Since launching in May, CFA Connect has seen members publish 217 articles from across the state. Remember, no story is too big or too small for CFA Connect, so if you have anything CFA related that you would like to publish, we encourage you to log in and Get Connected!
See you online,
The CFA Connect Team
CFA Brigade Environment Grants - applications now open
Good afternoon all
Just a quick note to let you know that applications are now open for the CFA Brigade Environment Grants.
Grants of up to $1000 may be awarded for Brigade projects that protect the environment, and in particular, save nergy and greenhouse gas emissions.
Applications close 5pm 30 October.
Guidelines and application forms are to be posted on the Intranet under ‘bookshelf’, but I have attached copies for your information.
The availability of the grants has also been posted on CFAConnect and will be promoted through ‘The Fireman’.
As in previous years, all applicants will need Operations Manager endorsement of the project, as well as any other approvals required.
Please contact me if you have any queries.
Regards
Helen Bull
Environmental Manager
Country Fire Authority
Just a quick note to let you know that applications are now open for the CFA Brigade Environment Grants.
Grants of up to $1000 may be awarded for Brigade projects that protect the environment, and in particular, save nergy and greenhouse gas emissions.
Applications close 5pm 30 October.
Guidelines and application forms are to be posted on the Intranet under ‘bookshelf’, but I have attached copies for your information.
The availability of the grants has also been posted on CFAConnect and will be promoted through ‘The Fireman’.
As in previous years, all applicants will need Operations Manager endorsement of the project, as well as any other approvals required.
Please contact me if you have any queries.
Regards
Helen Bull
Environmental Manager
Country Fire Authority
Operational Debrief Report - 2008/09 Fire Season
Good Afternoon All
A series of operational debriefs have been completed for 2008/09 fire season. The joint debriefing process is part of the normal continuous improvement practice between the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE).
The operational debrief process is designed to enable CFA and DSE to review and assess their performance in preventing, preparing and responding to fires. It also assists in identifying areas for improvement from local through to State level.
Issues, suggestions and findings from the debrief sessions and the regional workshops have been collated and the final report has been prepared outlining issues that impact at the State level.
Actions arising from the debrief process have been developed between CFA and DSE including timelines for implementation.
The Operational Debrief Report 2008/09 Fire Season has been forwarded to the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission. This report may receive some focus from the media. All media enquires are to be referred to CFA Public Affairs for coordination.
This report will be available on CFA Connect by close of business today.
Thank you for your contribution to the Operational debriefing process.
Steve Warrington
Acting Chief Officer
Download the report
Please note that any media enquiries are to be referred to the Region as the Chief will be the only one to make comment…
Regards,
Tony O'Day
Operations Officer
A series of operational debriefs have been completed for 2008/09 fire season. The joint debriefing process is part of the normal continuous improvement practice between the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE).
The operational debrief process is designed to enable CFA and DSE to review and assess their performance in preventing, preparing and responding to fires. It also assists in identifying areas for improvement from local through to State level.
Issues, suggestions and findings from the debrief sessions and the regional workshops have been collated and the final report has been prepared outlining issues that impact at the State level.
Actions arising from the debrief process have been developed between CFA and DSE including timelines for implementation.
The Operational Debrief Report 2008/09 Fire Season has been forwarded to the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission. This report may receive some focus from the media. All media enquires are to be referred to CFA Public Affairs for coordination.
This report will be available on CFA Connect by close of business today.
Thank you for your contribution to the Operational debriefing process.
Steve Warrington
Acting Chief Officer
Download the report
Please note that any media enquiries are to be referred to the Region as the Chief will be the only one to make comment…
Regards,
Tony O'Day
Operations Officer
Strathewen station - power outage
There is a scheduled power outage affecting Strathewen station on Sunday 9 August from 8.30am to 3.30pm.
Melbourne Storm free tickets offer- Friday 7 August
Hi everyone,
Please note CFA Events is not taking booking for this event.
For details on the match & how to get tickets please visit the CFA Promotions forum on CFA Connect here.
You must be a registered CFA Connect member to view these details.
Offers are now being posted on CFA Connect before email notification is sent out.
If you are a volunteer and have been having trouble with receiving emails hours after initial notification is sent out, it may be worth visiting CFA Connect regularly to be in the know!!
Regards,
CFA Events
Please note CFA Events is not taking booking for this event.
For details on the match & how to get tickets please visit the CFA Promotions forum on CFA Connect here.
You must be a registered CFA Connect member to view these details.
Offers are now being posted on CFA Connect before email notification is sent out.
If you are a volunteer and have been having trouble with receiving emails hours after initial notification is sent out, it may be worth visiting CFA Connect regularly to be in the know!!
Regards,
CFA Events
Monday, August 3, 2009
Nillumbik MFPC Submission
Peter Reader put in a very good submission to the Nillumbik MFPC as input into the fire plan risk assessment.
Refer attached to see what he submitted.
Refer attached to see what he submitted.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Tanker 2 in Collins St
Roger Dalton took some photos of Tanker 2 going down Collins St when the Brigade visited Eastern Hill MFB.
Photos
Photos
Crystal Healing
To whom it may concern
With the horrific events surrounding Black Saturday.
My name is Lisa, I am a Crystal Healer.
I would like to offer Free Crystal Healing to ALL Volunteer Firefighters and your crew.
I have enclosed a Flyer If you can please place it for eveyone to see. I am currently offering it to ALL Fire Victims, Volunteers Fire Fighters etc.
I am in Coldstream and I can come to you.
Look forward to seeing you real soon.
Love and Light
Lisa
0420995796/97390675
With the horrific events surrounding Black Saturday.
My name is Lisa, I am a Crystal Healer.
I would like to offer Free Crystal Healing to ALL Volunteer Firefighters and your crew.
I have enclosed a Flyer If you can please place it for eveyone to see. I am currently offering it to ALL Fire Victims, Volunteers Fire Fighters etc.
I am in Coldstream and I can come to you.
Look forward to seeing you real soon.
Love and Light
Lisa
0420995796/97390675
Breakfast at St Andrews CFA
Please join us for breakfast on August 8th from 9-30 at St Andrews CFA. It is a recognition of six months on from February 7th.
Helen Kenney
Captain
St Andrews CFA
Helen Kenney
Captain
St Andrews CFA
Area calendar is here
As of today, Region 14 is launching an Area Calendar and requesting staff and members to send material to populate the calendar.
The objective of the Region 14 Calendar is to inform members of key events, items and dates occurring throughout the Area. This will benefit the planning and preparation of events in advance and help minimise scheduling conflicts.
Key dates include training courses, RPC meeting dates, bushfire information meeting dates, community safety presence at festivals and shows, brigade-specific events, operations-related items and other key initiatives that may be of interest to members.
Accessing the Calendar
A Microsoft Excel version of the Area calendar will be published to the Region 14 section of Brigades Online. This is considered the most convenient method for viewing by all members.
An Excel file of the calendar will also be emailed to the r14-volbrigades and r14-all email lists, with a request for the calendar to be distributed to members via brigade noticeboards, local email lists or other methods.
The Calendar will be ‘locked’ down to ensure data cannot be entered without prior permission.
Administration
Kris Perkovic and Carleen Abela at Region 14 will maintain the Area Calendar. Items are to be sent to them (via fax or email only):
Kris Perkovic
k.perkovic@cfa.vic.gov.au
Fax: 8746 1480
Carleen Abela
c.abela@cfa.vic.gov.au
Fax: 8746 1480
All items must contain the following minimum information:
· Name of item/event
· Date and time
· Location
Additional information can be inserted in an Excel ‘comment bubble’ (see screenshot below), which can be viewed by hovering over the line item marked with a small red triangle. Additional information may include RSVP dates, contact numbers, web links etc.
The person/s sending the item must provide a contact phone number, should clarification be sought.
Frequency of updates
The calendar will be updated regularly as items are forwarded for inclusion.
Once a date is confirmed, it must be forwarded to the administrators for inclusion in the calendar. Preferably, items should be listed in the calendar well in advance— three, six to 12 months in advance, where possible.
Start sending your items
I would encourage staff and members to start sending in items as soon as possible, so we can start populating the calendar, particularly as we head into the fire season. Can I also ask that brigades forward this email, at the very least, to BMTs, to ensure members are made aware of the new Area Calendar?
Should anyone have any questions, they can be directed my way.
Regards
Kris Perkovic
Media & Marketing Coordinator
The objective of the Region 14 Calendar is to inform members of key events, items and dates occurring throughout the Area. This will benefit the planning and preparation of events in advance and help minimise scheduling conflicts.
Key dates include training courses, RPC meeting dates, bushfire information meeting dates, community safety presence at festivals and shows, brigade-specific events, operations-related items and other key initiatives that may be of interest to members.
Accessing the Calendar
A Microsoft Excel version of the Area calendar will be published to the Region 14 section of Brigades Online. This is considered the most convenient method for viewing by all members.
An Excel file of the calendar will also be emailed to the r14-volbrigades and r14-all email lists, with a request for the calendar to be distributed to members via brigade noticeboards, local email lists or other methods.
The Calendar will be ‘locked’ down to ensure data cannot be entered without prior permission.
Administration
Kris Perkovic and Carleen Abela at Region 14 will maintain the Area Calendar. Items are to be sent to them (via fax or email only):
Kris Perkovic
k.perkovic@cfa.vic.gov.au
Fax: 8746 1480
Carleen Abela
c.abela@cfa.vic.gov.au
Fax: 8746 1480
All items must contain the following minimum information:
· Name of item/event
· Date and time
· Location
Additional information can be inserted in an Excel ‘comment bubble’ (see screenshot below), which can be viewed by hovering over the line item marked with a small red triangle. Additional information may include RSVP dates, contact numbers, web links etc.
The person/s sending the item must provide a contact phone number, should clarification be sought.
Frequency of updates
The calendar will be updated regularly as items are forwarded for inclusion.
Once a date is confirmed, it must be forwarded to the administrators for inclusion in the calendar. Preferably, items should be listed in the calendar well in advance— three, six to 12 months in advance, where possible.
Start sending your items
I would encourage staff and members to start sending in items as soon as possible, so we can start populating the calendar, particularly as we head into the fire season. Can I also ask that brigades forward this email, at the very least, to BMTs, to ensure members are made aware of the new Area Calendar?
Should anyone have any questions, they can be directed my way.
Regards
Kris Perkovic
Media & Marketing Coordinator
Minimum Skills Challenge - Diamond Creek Fair
Greg Friend would like expressions of interest for Minimum Skills Challenge to be held at the Diamond Creek Fair on 12th September 2009.
Please mention this at your Brigade meetings on Monday night (those of you who are meeting this month) or contact your members by whatever means as Greg needs an idea of which Brigades would like to take part by Friday 7th August.
The aim is for each Brigade to provide 2 x teams as we have done in the past.
If there is enough interest from Brigades and the event goes ahead either Greg or myself will email out more details closer to the event.
Please email Greg on gregory.friend@bigpond.com if your Brigade is interested in taking part.
Many thanks
Jenny Broadhurst
Brigade Support Officer
Whittlesea Diamond Valley Catchment
Please mention this at your Brigade meetings on Monday night (those of you who are meeting this month) or contact your members by whatever means as Greg needs an idea of which Brigades would like to take part by Friday 7th August.
The aim is for each Brigade to provide 2 x teams as we have done in the past.
If there is enough interest from Brigades and the event goes ahead either Greg or myself will email out more details closer to the event.
Please email Greg on gregory.friend@bigpond.com if your Brigade is interested in taking part.
Many thanks
Jenny Broadhurst
Brigade Support Officer
Whittlesea Diamond Valley Catchment
EWS demonstration
Kerry Plowright from an organisation called The Early Warning Network is giving a demonstration of their EWS (early warning system) on Tuesday 4 August 7.30pm at Arthurs Creek station.
To assist the demonstration, we would like anyone with GPS-ready phones to register on their site. Models like the Nokia N95 or E71. Blackberrys are aslso OK. If in doubt, register anyway.
Website for registration: https://www.ewn.com.au/support/gps_location.aspx
Originally, the demonstration was going to be for the Group. However, it was announced as a public meeting in the Diamond Valley Leader, so now we don't know who or how many are going to turn up. Come along if you are interested, but please register your phone regardless.
To assist the demonstration, we would like anyone with GPS-ready phones to register on their site. Models like the Nokia N95 or E71. Blackberrys are aslso OK. If in doubt, register anyway.
Website for registration: https://www.ewn.com.au/support/gps_location.aspx
Originally, the demonstration was going to be for the Group. However, it was announced as a public meeting in the Diamond Valley Leader, so now we don't know who or how many are going to turn up. Come along if you are interested, but please register your phone regardless.
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