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PRESUMPTIVE LEGISLATION SHOULD TREAT ALL FIREFIGHTERS EQUALLY
Written by VFBV
Volunteer and career firefighters attend the same types of incidents, are exposed to the same toxins and breathe the same smoke. They should be treated equally. The process for a sick firefighter to apply for support should be fair, simple and compassionate.
Presumptive legislation is long overdue – and all Victorian firefighters should have equal protection under the law. The proposed legislation should be changed to provide equal protection to volunteers.
Rob Gibbs’ Story
Robs heartbreaking story was broadcast this week on Channel Nine’s - A Current Affair on Tuesday 11th June.
Rob Gibbs was a CFA volunteer and father of one who went from a healthy, middle-aged man who never smoked and barely drank, to being diagnosed with a rare form of leukaemia.
Oncologist Stephen Vaughan found Rob’s exposure to chemicals, like benzene, during his work as a firefighter, was a contributing cause of Rob’s leukaemia. But when Rob went to the CFA in 2015 to ask for help paying for his medication, his claim was rejected.
In 2018, Rob was forced to take CFA to the Supreme Court for judicial relief.
Rob has been forced to rely on a “Firefighters Assessment Panel” established under current legislation that is very similar to what is proposed by the Governments Fire Services Reform Bill.
CFA describes this panel as: “A Firefighters Assessment Panel has been formed to assist with the management and assessment of career and volunteer firefighter cancer related claims. The Firefighter Assessment panel is managed by Worksafe with the support of CFA and comprises expert medical, technical and claims specialists to ensure prompt, compassionate and fair assessments for all cancer related claims.”
In Robs case before the Supreme Court, his lawyers described how he was let down by this panel and was provided no opportunity to respond to the panels deliberations or findings. It was further alleged the process used was biased in its determination against Rob.
Rob has spent years trying to navigate this process – all at a time he is the most vulnerable.
As Robs story demonstrates, volunteers have every reason to be concerned about the proposed arrangements in the current Bill before Parliament, that will require them to traverse a potentially similar process.
As the honourable Jack Rush QC summarised in his legal analysis of the Bill
“…no attempt has been made in the Bill or in the accompanying Explanatory Memorandum to explain why the operation of the presumption is made more difficult and arbitrary for volunteer firefighters. The legislation is entirely unsatisfactory and prejudicial to volunteer firefighters who may be diagnosed and wish to claim for a specified cancer. By comparison with a career firefighter diagnosed with and wishing to claim for precisely the same specified cancer the volunteer is required to proceed through an ill-defined and arbitrary process culminating in the Workcover Authority being able to reject the expert opinion of an advisory committee established by the Act. This leads to the remarkable outcome that a volunteer firefighter may attend exactly the same fires, be exposed to exactly the same toxins but only the career firefighter will have the advantage of the presumption and a straightforward route to compensation. For the volunteer the Bill is capricious and unfair.”
What is presumptive legislation?
Firefighters are exposed to toxic substances in the course of their work. Toxins can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Obvious hazards include toxic waste sites and industrial premises, but carcinogens can also be present as a result of substances in residential fire, hazmat incidents, motor vehicle fires, and even bushfires to name just a few.
International research, including Australian studies commissioned by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) to carry out a national retrospective study of firefighters' mortality and cancer incidence have linked 12 specific cancers identified as being directly related to firefighting activities:
|
Disease |
Qualifying Period |
Disease |
Qualifying Period |
|
Primary site brain cancer |
5 yrs |
Primary site bladder cancer |
15 yrs |
|
Primary site kidney cancer |
15 yrs |
Primary non-Hodgkins lymphoma |
15 yrs |
|
Primary leukemia |
5 yrs |
Primary site breast cancer |
10 yrs |
|
Primary site testicular cancer |
10 yrs |
Mutiple myeloma |
15 yrs |
|
Primary site prostate cancer |
15 yrs |
Primary site ureter cancer |
15 yrs |
|
Primary site colorectal cancer |
15 yrs |
Primary site oesophageal cancer |
25 yrs |
Presumptive legislation for firefighters reverses the onus of proof that applies in other compensation schemes. This means the cancer will be presumed to be firefighter related and the sick firefighter will have quick access to support and compensation to cover medical expenses unless Workcover or the insurer can prove the cancer was caused by some other factor.
Current Victorian law presents the sick firefighter with the nearly impossible task of showing evidence of fires or incidents they attended and prove on the balance of probabilities which incidents or which toxic exposures caused the cancer. If a firefighter broke a leg at a fire incident, they would be covered immediately, yet when a firefighter is exposed to a carcinogen and falls ill some years later (sometime 25 years later) – they face a battle with the State and insurers of David and Goliath proportions just to get a fair go.
Victoria is the only State in Australia not to have Presumptive Legislation in place for firefighters
Victoria is currently the only state in Australia without presumptive legislation for firefighters.
The proposed Fire Services Bill introduced by the Andrews’ Government last year and again in 2019 contains two very separate and distinct issues:
1) the restructure of the fire services to create Fire Rescue Victoria and
2) Presumptive Legislation.
It is VFBV’s position that these two elements can and should be separate legislation. There are no dependencies between the two pieces of legislation – one does not rely on the other to operate.
Motions to separate the Bill and present Presumptive Legislation separately have been put up by several parties (including an independent) on at least three occasions in the last two years, but have not been supported by the Government.
Victorian Proposed Legislation Discriminates Against Volunteers
The core issue with the proposed legislation is that it disadvantages volunteers by requiring them to meet additional bureaucratic burdens and a higher standard of proof than career firefighters.
· Volunteers must prove they’ve attended enough fires to qualify as a firefighter for compensation, even though most other States have avoided incident thresholds as they are unreliable and not supported by evidence. A single exposure to a dangerous toxin can cause cancer. Staff do not need to prove how many fires they’ve attended (regardless of their role, e.g. working office duties).
· There is no definition of what constitutes enough fires. This leaves a subjective and unfair threshold that leaves the volunteer firefighter wondering if they will be covered or not – and at the whim of Worksafe and the ‘advisory committee’.
· The ‘advisory committee’ process is mandatory for all volunteer claims, regardless of how experienced or exposed they may be, and how clear their case.
· The advisory committee is not even required to tell the volunteer why their claim was rejected or on what grounds.
Effectively, this advisory committee is reversing the intention of the legislation and is putting the onus of proving they qualify for compensation back onto the sick volunteer firefighter.
This adds time, stress and uncertainty to volunteer firefighters with no demonstrable benefit. The data to demonstrate a CFA volunteer’s operational membership is readily available from CFA and recorded on the volunteer firefighter’s membership records.
The legislation is not the same as the Queensland legislation
Claims that the Victorian legislation is the same as in Queensland, providing equal and fair treatment of paid and volunteer firefighters, are not correct.
In Queensland, an ‘administrative committee’ exists that is not legislated, nor mandatory, and it has been established to assist volunteers in that State gather the information and data they need to demonstrate they have served the relevant waiting periods, as QLD volunteer brigades have not in the past had accurate or centralised records of service.
In Queensland – this committee is only used to determine if the waiting period has been served - and applies to both staff and volunteers equally. It is only used in the absence of accurate records.
Further, the Queensland Committee is chaired by their Fire Services Commissioner and includes representatives from the volunteer association for volunteer claims and union representatives in the case of staff. To the best of our knowledge – this committee has never been used or needed.
The opinion of a legal firm that represents career and volunteer firefighters in Queensland, Victoria and nationwide, says:
“The fundamental difference between the Queensland and Victorian legislation is that Queensland legislation treats volunteer and career firefighters the same. The proposed Victorian legislation does not. For a Victorian volunteer firefighter to have their claim accepted, additional hurdles must be jumped over when compared to their career firefighter counterpart.”
[Ref: James Law submission Fire Services Select Committee 2017]
It is also important to note that the Queensland legislation has no sunset or cut off period, whereas the proposed Victorian legislation cuts off 10 years after the firefighter retires or resigns.
Victoria has Accurate Member Status Records
In Victoria, CFA has a centralised database that keeps an accurate record of a volunteer’s operational status – and records every change made to their status and when it changed. Brigades undergo an annual ‘Section 29’ inspection in which a range of data is validated and verified, including who are operational members. Therefore, there is no need for a legislated and mandatory committee process for CFA volunteers.
Criteria for membership to the Advisory Committee and case assessment is currently unclear, except that the committee will be direct appointments by the Government. There are currently no probity measures or governance in place to prevent politicisation of appointments. There are also no clear process and criteria to ensure a fair and equitable process and outcomes for volunteer firefighters who are victims of cancer.
Priority changes advocated by VFBV
Based on our initial analysis of the Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation and Fire Services Legislation Amendment (Reform) Bill 2019, the following changes could be made to the proposed legislation to remove the unfair and discriminatory treatment of volunteer firefighters:
|
Page |
Section |
Description |
|
9 |
Division 3 – 9 (c) |
Remove highlighted section from 9 (c)
(c) before the date on which the injury that is a disease referred to in column 1 of the Table in Schedule 1 occurred, the volunteer firefighter served as a firefighter for at least the qualifying period specified in column 2 of that Table opposite the disease, and the volunteer firefighter attended fires to the extent reasonably necessary to fulfil the purpose of their service as a firefighter— in the absence of proof to the contrary
|
|
12 |
Division 3 - 12 |
Remove section 12 completely. This section does not appear for career firefighters.
12 Determination of whether section 9 requirement is met (1) For the purposes of determining whether a volunteer firefighter attended fires to the extent reasonably necessary to fulfil the purpose of their service as a firefighter under section 9, the Authority must seek an expert opinion from the advisory committee. (2) In providing the expert opinion to the Authority, the advisory committee must have regard to— (a) any relevant records, brigade records, CFA data, employer data and local knowledge; and (b) any other matter prescribed by the regulations. (3) The Authority— (a) must have regard to the expert opinion provided to the Authority under subsection (1); and (b) is not required to make a determination that is consistent with the expert opinion provided under subsection (1).
|
|
18 |
20 |
Remove 20 [2] (a)
20 Establishment of advisory committee (1) The Minister must establish an advisory committee for the purposes of this Act in accordance with the regulations. (2) The purpose of the advisory committee is to provide an expert opinion to the Authority as to— (a) whether a volunteer firefighter has attended fires to the extent reasonably necessary to fulfil the purposes of service as a firefighter as required by section 9(1)(c); or (b) whether a firefighter has had an exceptional exposure event.
|
The contentious Fire Services Reform bill was today (Thursday) pushed through the Legislative Assembly (Lower House) at record pace, avoiding scrutiny or time for members of Parliament to read and consult with stakeholders and constituents on the legislation.
The fate of community safety and CFA, a world-respected and highly successful emergency service, now rests on the checks and balances in the Legislative Council (Upper House), particularly the votes of the cross bench made up of the minor party and independent Members of Parliament who hold the balance of power.
VFBV continues to hear from CFA volunteers around Victoria who are dismayed at the lack of process and scrutiny of what is essentially a piece of critical public policy that will significantly impact Victoria’s trusted and respected emergency services.
Adam Barnett, CEO of VFBV, said there was an overwhelming feeling of being bulldozed and disregarded over proposed changes, with CFA volunteers particularly angry with the repeated misrepresentations and falsehoods that CFA is not providing world class service to urban communities.
“No credible evidence has been provided to back those claims – and worse, the proposed changes add no additional capacity to the system. Changing logos on trucks, uniforms and payslips does not modernise or improve community safety.” he said.
VFBV continues to respectfully call for evidence to support the Government’s case for change, including impact modelling, cost analysis and consultation. The lack of detail, modelling or analysis is a significant impediment in winning the hearts and minds of volunteers, who are not opposed to change that improves the services in a demonstrable way, Mr Barnett added.
Limited debate on the proposed legislation has occurred in the Lower House this week, with MP’s provided no time between the legislation being tabled and made public. Volunteers have been particularly concerned by some of the uninformed comments from some commentators. The process was labelled undemocratic due to the lack of proper Parliamentary oversight and public and stakeholder scrutiny.
“I reject any implication that the proposed changes will modernise our fire services. The proposed Bill actually takes us backwards pre-CFA – reverting to a model similar to what existed at the time of the disastrous 1938/39 ‘Black Friday’ fires, that saw more than two million hectares destroyed and 71 people dead.
“Back then there was The Bush Fire Brigades and the Country Fire Brigades operating across regional and rural Victoria as two distinct fire services, together with the Forests Commission. These two services operated with inconsistent equipment, different operational doctrine, different chains of command and inconsistent equipment; and that cost lives.”
Mr Barnett pointed out that CFA was established to fix the problem of multiple services competing across the same geographic areas. CFA has successfully adapted and evolved to growing urbanisation for decades due to the flexibility delivered from its integrated model, where staff and volunteers train, respond and work as one under a common chain of command and operational doctrine.
“The existing CFA model is seen as highly successful and is envied around the world” Mr Barnett said, adding that New Zealand had recently followed Victoria’s lead to integrate paid and volunteer fire services.
“Every report and recommendation recently has said we should strengthen integration between staff and volunteers, but this Bill does the opposite, leaving us with a patchwork of boundaries across Victoria where two fire services will now cohabitate, with different training, equipment, operational doctrine, command structures and accountabilities, where there is currently one.”
“Morale is at an all-time low. Volunteers are telling us of their despondency that logic, evidence, common sense and decency do not seem to be factors driving this proposal.”
“We all want safe and resilient communities and a strong and vibrant CFA. And we all want to put public safety at the centre of everything we do. Our concern is the proposed legislation does none of those things.”
“Victoria currently has the ‘best of both worlds’, with career and volunteer firefighters working together, training together, using the same equipment and responding together.”
As a former justice and senior counsel to the Bushfires Royal Commission Jack Rush QC recently said, the whole-of-government submission made to the Royal Commission in 2009, boiled down to two key points in relation to structural change;
- a change to the metropolitan fire district boundaries would have a significant reduction on the critical surge capacity of the CFA; and
- the cost of the CFA integrated stations was significantly less than comparable metropolitan fire stations..
“One of the Government’s stated objectives is to strengthen the role of CFA as a volunteer firefighting organisation, yet it has so far ignored the very clear advice from the volunteer firefighters’ themselves that the legislation would be extremely damaging to those objectives.” Mr Barnett said.
“CFA volunteers have extensive experience and knowledge about what is needed to protect Victoria, and yet they haven’t even had a say in this major, highly concerning legislation that directly impacts them and the communities they have sworn to protect” he added.
“Overwhelmingly they are asking us, their representative, to continue to strive to have their voices heard and to try to save as much of our world-class service as possible. More importantly for them, they want confidence that community safety is the driver for changes made to our service. They currently do not believe this is the case.”
The legislation package includes Presumptive Legislation that blatantly discriminates against volunteers, further undermining statements that volunteers are respected and valued,” Mr Barnett added.
“That cancer compensation would be tied to completely unrelated structural reform is a real kick in the guts for the very volunteers who selflessly put themselves in harms way to protect lives and property. There is no acceptable reason to tie the two together, and there is most certainly no reason to discriminate against volunteers. Cancer doesn’t discriminate based on pay status, so why should this legislation? Volunteers and paid staff attend the same incidents, face the same risks and breathe the same smoke.
“This bill was drafted initially in secret, without any input from CFA or MFB leadership, or even the Emergency Management Commissioner. No clear case has ever been put forward and no analysis or modelling to demonstrate what, if any, benefits and impacts it will have on community safety outcomes and CFA efficiency.
“VFBV welcomes any reforms that improve the way Victorian fire services work, and I continue to reaffirm my commitment to working with Government in shaping the strongest CFA for the future. However, these reforms need to be developed collaboratively, openly and most importantly – transparently. Victoria deserves no less,” Mr Barnett said.
Useful links:
VFBV Submission to Fire Services Bill Select Committee – http://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/589-vfbv-submission-to-the-fire-services-bill-select-committee
Jack Rush QC radio interview - https://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/654-jack-rush-qc-radio-interview
Fire Service Restructure Update and VFBV legal advice - https://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/588-fire-service-restructure-update-and-vfbv-legal-advice
Late this afternoon the Victorian Government tabled its proposed Fire Services Legislation in the Legislative Assembly. A copy of the Bill has now been made publicly available.
WHAT WE KNOW
· The Bill’s first reading speech was on Wednesday 29th May 2019
· VFBV attended a Government Bill briefing this morning (Tuesday 4th June 2019)
· The Bill’s second reading speech occurred late this afternoon (Tuesday 4th June 2019)
· Debate on the bill has been fast tracked for the Legislative Assembly tomorrow
Usually, after a Bill is tabled in the house and following its second reading speech, debate would normally be adjourned for a period of two weeks to allow members of Parliament to consider the Bill prior to debate.
This afternoon the Government has used its numbers in the lower house to bypass this usual practice, and debate will now proceed immediately in the lower house tomorrow morning.
Members can access live streaming of parliament at: https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/video-and-audio/live-broadcasting and select the “Assembly Live Broadcast” option.
NEXT STEPS
· Members are encouraged to read the Bill and discuss with your Brigade/Group
Members can access the Bill at: http://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/LDMS/PubPDocs.nsf/ee665e366dcb6cb0ca256da400837f6b/2EDB9D7CA602E31ECA25840A007BF715/$FILE/591019bi1.pdf
· Members who have questions or concerns that they wish to raise in debate in the Legislative Assembly tomorrow should make contact with their local Member of Parliament ASAP
You can find a list of all members here: https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/about/people-in-parliament/members-search/list-all-members Members highlighted in Green are members of the Legislative Assembly (lower house) while those in red are from the Legislative Council (upper house.)
Useful links:
· VFBV Submission to Fire Services Bill Select Committee – http://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/589-vfbv-submission-to-the-fire-services-billselect-committee
· VFBV Legal Advice on the Presumptive Rights Compensation aspects of the previously proposed legislation - http://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/588-fire-service-restructure-updateand-vfbv-legal-advice
· Legislative Council’s select committee findings from their inquiry into the Fire Services Bill - http://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/595-fire-services-bill-select-committee-finalreport
· Government Response to the Fire Services Bill Select Committee Final Report – Tabled in Parliament on 7 September 2017 –
· VFBV / Melbourne University Surge Capacity educational video: http://www.vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/568-cfa-s-volunteer-surge-capacityessential-for-victoria
MEMBER WELFARE AND SUPPORT
We have heard from many members already. We understand many of you are disappointed and angry. Everyone is different and their reactions to potentially traumatic or stressful events will be different. This is an extremely difficult time for us all and will require patience, empathy and solidarity as we tackle the next stages of this period in CFA’s history. Support services are available to provide you additional support:
The CFA Wellbeing Support Line: 1800 959 232 - provides CFA members and their immediate family access to member support 24-7.
Lifeline: 13 11 14 - provides crisis support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 - to talk with a trained mental health professional.
Disappointment that damaging legislation back on agenda
Written by VFBV
The Victorian Government has today re-introduced legislation that will have a major impact on the fire services in Victoria. CFA volunteers across Victoria will be very disappointed to hear this and to hear that the Government has not taken on board their concerns about how this legislation will reduce Victoria’s firefighting capacity.
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) expressed disappointment that the proposal to restructure the fire services was being re-introduced, especially after the controversy and agony of the previous legislation devastated volunteer morale and numbers.
VFBV Chief Executive Officer Adam Barnett said VFBV had not yet seen the legislation to be tabled, however he was of the understanding that it will be very similar to the previous legislation that was defeated last year.
VFBV has consistently raised the concerns voiced by CFA volunteers, cautioning Government that the proposed changes weaken rather than strengthens service delivery capability for urban growth areas, and surge capacity support to regional Victoria and major state-wide disasters. It will institutionalise further division across Victoria’s fire services. It is also a direct contradiction of the learnings and findings from the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission and will undo the good work that has been driven as a priority since then to bring the fire services closer together working as one.
“One of the Government’s stated objectives is to strengthen the role of CFA as a volunteer firefighting organisation, yet it has so far ignored the very clear advice from the volunteer firefighters’ themselves that the legislation would be extremely damaging to those objectives.” Mr Barnett said.
“VFBV has provided very clear feedback and advice that the previous legislation would be highly damaging to Victoria’s volunteer firefighting capacity, weakens the role and autonomy of the CFA, and will risk the effectiveness of the world-respected CFA operational model and broader community safety.”
“There is currently no analysis or evidence to support claims that the legislation will benefit servicing in urban growth areas. However, there have been a large number of unknowns and ambiguities raised about how the fire services would work together and the role of volunteers under the new model,” Mr Barnett said.
The existing CFA model can already supplement volunteer capacity with paid firefighters wherever and whenever they are needed and at the same time can keep the vital volunteer capacity. To de-integrate and fracture the CFA model without transparent analysis of the impact and for no clear case for change or demonstrated service gain is dangerous and irresponsible.
CFA volunteers will now look to the Victorian Parliament, and Upper House MPs in particular, to test the legislation in a more robust and open manner and to either amend or reject it.
In its response to the Select Committee into Fire Services Reform in 2018, the Government made a number of commitments including to clarify a range of concerns of volunteers. VFBV will be analysing the new legislation package to determine the extent to which these have been resolved.
“VFBV welcomes any reforms that improve the way Victorian fire services work, and I have today reaffirmed my commitment to working with Government in shaping the strongest CFA for the future.”
“However, these reforms need to be developed collaboratively, openly and most importantly – transparently.” Mr Barnett said.
“VFBV will continue to advocate for a modern approach, focussed on all people working together to maintain and build volunteer and community safety; a respectful culture focussed on empowering and supporting local volunteer brigades and communities with the flexibility and agility to enable CFA to tailor resources and support to local communities need” he said.
VFBV Submission to Fire Services Bill Select Committee – http://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/589-vfbv-submission-to-the-fire-services-bill-select-committee
Government Response to the Fire Services Bill Select Committee Final Report – Tabled in Parliament on 7 September 2017 – https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/images/Fire_Services_Bill/Final_-_Revised_Fire_Services_Bill_Select_Committee_-_Govt_Response_-_240817_frN0kqxZ.pdf
VFBV Media Contact: Megan Lane - 0431 671 999
National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) marks time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute towards achieving reconciliation in Australia. The 2019 National Reconciliation Week theme is Grounded in Truth; Walk Together with Courage.
The dates for National Reconciliation Week commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey, the successful 1967 referendum and the 1992 High Court Mabo decision.
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) started as the Week of Prayer for Reconciliation in 1993 (the International Year of the World’s Indigenous Peoples) and was supported by Australia’s major faith communities. In 1996, the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation launched Australia’s first NRW. In 2000, Reconciliation Australia was established to continue to provide national leadership on reconciliation. In the same year, approximately 300,000 people walked across Sydney Harbour Bridge as part of NRW, to show their support for reconciliation.
Today, NRW is celebrated by businesses, schools and early learning services, organisations, and individuals Australia-wide.
To find out more about National Reconciliation Week visit Reconciliation Australia website: https://www.reconciliation.org.au/national-reconciliation-week/
VFBV is encouraged by how CFA volunteers are working towards improved inclusion and engagement with traditional owners to gain understanding on how to protect and care for the land, particularly in relation to embracing traditional burning practices and how they can integrate and benefit current planned burning conducted by CFA.
Read more about how ‘Lessons from history drive new approaches to planned burns’ which was published last week as part of VFBV’s series of stories celebrating National Volunteer Week http://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/703-lessons-from-history-drive-new-approaches-to-planned-burns
CFA has a strong relationship with Indigenous communities and is committed to continuing to improve inclusion and engagement with traditional owners to better protect and care for country. You can find CFA resources such as the CFA Koori Inlcusion Action Plan and Aboriginal Engagement Guidelines at: https://news.cfa.vic.gov.au/-/cfa-walks-together-with-indigenous-communities
As Volunteer Week Draws to a Close - a very special - thank-you!
Written by VFBV
As National Volunteer Week 2019 draws to an end I want to close with a special thanks to the people who do so much to keep CFA brigades and groups connected – our VFBV elected representatives right across Victoria. I can’t thank them enough for the additional time and effort they dedicate to improving the welfare and efficiency of CFA brigades, groups and volunteers.
VFBV representatives are conditioned to put others first, whether it be their communities, other brigades, groups or their fellow volunteers. This culture of dedicated and selfless service is a proud tradition of the Association, and one in which we are rightfully proud. And this week’s celebration of National Volunteer Week has been no different, thanking and acknowledging the fantastic contributions of CFA volunteers. As the week draws to a close, I thought it fitting to save our last thank-you for all those that contribute directly to VFBV’s important work. Whether they are a VFBV Board Member, State Councillor, District Council Executive or Official, Brigade or Group Delegate, a member of our small staff team or any other volunteers, friends and supporters who contribute behind the scenes – they are what makes our large and diverse VFBV family so wonderful.
Without them, VFBV would be unable to do its work to provide a united voice for volunteers and volunteer brigades and groups.They spend every day - trying to make things better. Through our VFBV network we gather the views of volunteers starting at brigade level, represent their interests up through the VFBV District and State Councils and to the Board through to CFA management and joint consultative committees, to other emergency and volunteer organisations, and to the Government and Victorian public.
VFBV is a critical feedback loop connecting brigades to each other and to CFA’s organisational structure. Our network of VFBV volunteer leaders ensure there is a united, coordinated and comprehensive view of what volunteers need, what they think of new initiatives and changes, and how those changes can impact at the ground and community level. They provide genuine, connected and credible advice on what CFA volunteers are thinking and what they need to be safe, supported and more effective. They also play a critical role in keeping brigades advised about what’s happening at CFA and how that impacts them.
They are champions of the CFA Volunteer Charter, and face the challenging and often frustrating task to hold others to account for the commitments they’ve made there.
Our representatives dedicate a lot of additional time and effort, invisible to most of us except maybe their families, to undertake that consultation and coordination role. They regularly deal with the urgent requests and frustrations of brigades and do their utmost to ensure they get resolved with CFA as quickly as possible. As such they are on the front line as a key conduit and coordination point for you, and for every CFA brigade and group.
Some might wonder why they do it given the workload and the sometimes thankless task of consulting and coordinating on behalf of others – but like every CFA volunteer they are committed to having the most efficient and effective fire service and the safest and most resilient communities possible. Even more, they are committed to ensuring that their fellow volunteers are looked after and that there is a realistic touchstone for local views ‘on the ground’, when at times CFA policies or priorities might seem a touch unrealistic or impractical with day-to-day brigade experiences.
As volunteers start working higher in the CFA structure, such as at Brigade, Group, District or State level, there are even more commitments and more energy put into making CFA the world-respected organisation it is today.
I am always impressed and humbled by the professionalism, the dedication and the sheer resilience of our VFBV representatives, given the issues that face CFA as an organisation and the sheer number of brigades and people they deal with in the course of their work. To maintain positive attitudes and a professional outlook when the majority of issues they are approached with are from volunteers having a negative experience – requires immense personal conviction and dedication and very strong personal values and empathy for their fellow volunteers.
So, on a very personal note, where no words will ever be enough - let me say a huge public thank-you for the work that my fellow VFBV representatives do. Many of them will feel embarrassed to be so publicly singled out for thanks, but now probably more than ever its important I thank and acknowledge the incredibly important work they do on behalf of all CFA volunteers.
To you our delegates I say thank-you and well done! Many will never know your full achievements or sacrifices in making CFA a better place – but rest assured the work you do is appreciated, valued and respected, and makes the world of difference to tens of thousands of volunteers and their communities across the State.
And while every CFA volunteer deserves thanks and recognition for the work they do – giving up their personal time for training, dropping everything to respond to emergencies and undertaking the myriad of activities from station-keeping to community education that contribute to safer Victorian communities, I save this last thank-you for those of you that always put others first. From the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of the entire VFBV family and network – thank-you! It is a privilege and honour to work alongside you towards our vision for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria.
Adam Barnett, Chief Executive Officer
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria
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This article is part of our National Volunteer Week Showcase - celebrating our wonderful CFA Volunteers. |
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About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria. |
Did you miss this weeks updates on our website?
Over the course of the week VFBV has undertaken a number of activities to promote CFA volunteers, including re-tweeting and sharing CFA and other articles. We’ve shared and promoted the Vic SES ‘Wear Orange Wednesday’ campaign, in recognition of the close bond we have with our colleagues in orange. And we’ve generated and shared a number of our own stories on Facebook, Twitter and to media around Victoria. Check out some of the highlights from this weeks showcase and feature stories via our website:
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Monday, 20th May 2019 |
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Tuesday, 21st May 2019 Melbourne Coast Guards - Not Your Average CFA Volunteer |
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Wednesday, 22nd May 2019 CFA Volunteers rope in specialised skills to help save lives |
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Thursday, 23rd May 2019 Lessons from history drive new approaches to planned burns |
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Friday, 24th May 2019 Volunteering ‘just what you do’ in your community says CFA captain |
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Saturday, 25th May 2019 Recognising a life of volunteering and three generations of CFA people |
Recognising a life of volunteering and three generations of CFA people
Written by VFBV
Wallington CFA veteran Gerry Neyenuis recently added another life membership to his growing list of honours, but he admits receiving this one brought a tear to his eye.
Gerry, 72, was recently made a Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) life member, to match his CFA, District 7 championship committee and brigade honours.
The recognition was particularly meaningful for Gerry, reflecting not only his lifelong commitment to CFA but also, through the VFBV, a lifelong commitment to looking after other volunteers and providing leadership and support to them, come what may.
The presentation of his VFBV plaque during the state championships in Bendigo was an emotional moment. “That was more meaningful than anything else,” he said. “It was in front of a crowd I’ve been looking after for 10 years as chairman of the championship committee so that was a real buzz. It was hard to hold back a tear.”
Gerry joined CFA in 1966, initially with Gruyere near Coldstream, then Hampton Park, and in 1976 he moved to Ocean Grove and joined the Wallington brigade on the Bellarine Peninsula.
“When I started, I lived out in the country and in those days most people in the country got involved with the fire brigade,” he said.
“It was just a form of helping out your neighbours.”
Gerry has been an active representative of volunteer brigades through his roles at VFBV for more than 40 years. He’s a former board member and a State Councillor for VFBV, representing volunteer brigades across his District.
There have been significant changes over the intervening decades. “The commitment wasn’t as big in the early days; there’s a lot more involved with being a firefighter today and it’s a much safer service. Our minimum skills are all about safety.”
Gerry has also had various lieutenant roles with CFA and was captain of the Wallington brigade for 12 years, and deputy group officer. He also volunteered for six years as deputy delegate to the central council of the former volunteer brigade Rural Association, and was chairman of the state championship committee.
Gerry’s wife Maria was communications officer for 12 years while he was captain, his sons - twins Greg and Michael, 49, have been members since they were youngsters and Greg's three children Bianca, 21, and twins Eliza and Caleb, 17, are also involved.
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) CEO Adam Barnett praised Gerry's contribution and commitment over the years adding; "It may be volunteer week, but we also need to thank and recognise the families, friends and the employers of CFA volunteers. Their support and cooperation make a world of difference to our firefighters and what they do for our communities.”
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This article is part of our National Volunteer Week Showcase - celebrating our wonderful CFA Volunteers. |
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About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria. |
Volunteering ‘just what you do’ in your community says CFA captain
Written by VFBV
The theme for this year’s National Volunteer Week is ‘making a world of difference’, but former Melbourne resident Andrew Hack is taking a ‘universal’ difference with his commitments to volunteerism and his community.
Andrew moved to the small town of Wye River, nestled in the foothills of the Otway Ranges on the Great Ocean Road in 1997 and lives there with his family, wife Karyn and children Juna, 15, and Pema, 11.
Rather than slowing down and relaxing on the beach, he is now volunteering for no fewer than four different groups, including CFA and the Surf Life Saving Club.
Andrew has been a CFA member since he moved to Wye River in '97, where his father was also a member, and he became Captain of the Wye River CFA last year. “‘Although I’d never lived here before, it always felt like home because we had holidayed there so much over the years.’
He is a life member and 38 year veteran of Wye River Surf Life Saving Club, a volunteer umpire for the Lorne Dolphins football club, where Juna plays, and a member of the Aireys Inlet Eels football club committee, where daughter Pema plays.
Andrew said being part of a small community meant playing your part to make the community safe and sustainable. “Volunteering in your local community is, of course, a great opportunity for people to socialise and do something for the community and its people,” Andrew said.
“It’s not an altruistic thing for me. It’s seeing something that needs to be done and doing it. You’ve got to put your hand up to help, especially in small towns. The more you put into it the more you get out of it.
“It’s rewarding to feel that you’re servicing the people in your community and performing a valuable role,” he added.
Andrew isn’t the only one in his family who is an active volunteer in the local community. Karyn is actively involved in both the CFA Auxiliary and the surf life saving club, and the two children are junior surf life savers.
People who voluntarily put their own safety on the line for others deserve our respect, thanks and support, Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) CEO Adam Barnett said.
“Like anyone involved in emergency services, CFA volunteers are a special breed,” Mr Barnett said. “They willingly make sacrifices to defend their communities in times of need, steadfastly standing with courage and honour protecting Victorians during emergencies. From our annual volunteer welfare and efficiency survey we know that more than 94% of CFA volunteers say that protecting their local community and supporting their community in a meaningful way are in fact the key motivations for joining CFA in the first place.”
As Wye River CFA Captain, Andrew manages emergency services challenges unique to seaside tourist destinations. He was a long-time “weekends and holidays” visitor to Wye, where his parents retired, and he is now one of the 90 or so residents who see the town’s population swell to 4000 at Christmas and Easter. Houses may be unoccupied for much of the year except on weekends and holidays, and the town has a mix of visitors who know the area well as ‘weekenders’ among the thousands of international and Australian tourists who sweep through the area.
Wye River lost 116 houses on Christmas Day 2015 when major fires broke out. Andrew said fire prevention and planning was a major part of their focus. “We had good planning at the time and we feel we are prepared if it happens again,” he said.
He was also thankful and astounded by the rapid mobilisation of surge support from other CFA brigades and aerial firefighting support. “It’s just amazing that on Christmas Day people just dropped everything to come and help us out. We were overwhelmed by the response.
“Because of the difficult terrain the fire went on for weeks.”
Victoria is one of the most fire prone areas in the world, and as Victoria faces longer fire danger periods, with more and larger fires than ever before, there are even more reasons to support and value CFA volunteers. They are the critical component of CFA’s surge capacity (the ability to mobilise huge numbers of highly trained people and resources to multiple, major and long-duration fires while still maintaining capacity at home to deal with any local incidents).
Learn more about CFA’s world-respected surge capacity on the VFBV website: https://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/568-cfa-s-volunteer-surge-capacity-essential-for-victoria
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This article is part of our National Volunteer Week Showcase - celebrating our wonderful CFA Volunteers. |
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About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria. |
Lessons from history drive new approaches to planned burns
Written by VFBV
North East Region Burn Camp – Shelley 2019
As National Volunteer Week 2019 continues, one CFA volunteer recounts some recent lessons in cultural heritage and how learning lessons from the past can change how we think of planned burns.
Constant learning, training and skills development is all part of the professionalism CFA volunteers show in their commitment to safety in their communities. Through it, they make a world of difference to the safety of Victorians
By Michelle Ryan, Benalla CFA volunteer and VFBV Support Officer North East Region.
“Is ‘planned burning’ a stepping stone to ’cultural cool burning’? Yes – I believe it can be.”
I was lucky to be nominated and attend the North East Region Burn Camp No2, held at the HVP Shelley Forest camp from 13-16 April 2019. We were given pre-attendance videos to watch and a pre-event assignment to hand over on arrival and induction at the base camp. The camp was extremely well organised and structured over the four days, with dedicated, knowledgeable and experienced instructors overseeing every aspect of our daily practical work experience.
A SMEACS – (situation, mission, execution, administration, command/comms, safety) briefing was given at the beginning of each day, with 42 attendees allocated into groups for the next four days. On day two we were privileged to have Michael Sherwen (Mick), CFA Cultural Heritage Advisor, work with us and give a talk that evening. Mick explained how planned burning can be a progression to cool burns, so that we are doing less damage to the environment and protecting heritage buildings and sites. This includes flora and fauna, native animals and soil biomass, among other things, to help protect our ecosystem.
I highly recommend these burn camps to any volunteers and encourage them to attend camps in their regions, as this is an amazing opportunity to learn new skills and update our skills maintenance in a controlled and safe environment. I now have a greater understanding and knowledge base of how much work, pre and post burn needs to be done to achieve the right outcome. The skills learnt at this camp are a stepping stone to cool burns.
We need to understand the complexities of planned burning in order to appreciate the simplicity of Cultural burning. Planned burning gives us an understanding of fire behaviour, which is influenced by fuel, weather and topography and all matters associated with these. By having a sound understanding of fire behaviour based on these principles we can then apply these principles to the introduction of a ‘low intensity’ fire that we know will not travel quickly or scorch the ground and what lies underneath it and will not harm the canopy.
Duncan Terry, 1st Lt Toolamba CFA, agrees: “Cultural burning was used for thousands of years to manage fire in the landscape without the need for machinery or firefighting equipment by understanding fire and fire behaviour and choosing the conditions appropriate to the purpose of the burn. The camp also provides an environment for completing the practical assessment of the Burn Controllers qualification.”
Another participant, Colin James from Toolamba CFA, said the camp was a very intense four days. “You learn a lot about fire behaviour and how it can be used not only for prescribed burns but for fire suppression as well. It was a very rewarding experience, where a group of mostly unknown people quickly form into working teams with a very positive spirit and great camaraderie. It was great to have the time to actually observe fire behaviour.
Rather than our usual priority of just putting the fire out as soon as we can, we were watching it burn and getting a new appreciation of the interaction of fuel, terrain and weather, especially with the highly experienced instructors there to help.”
Skills taken away from this camp included working in a diverse team environment with strangers, fuel loads, fuel moisture content, weather conditions, resource deployment, risk assessment, sectorisation, command/comms, tree hazard awareness, correct preparation of burn site, rake hoe skills and efficiency of conserving valuable water with limited supply available.
Thank you to the Instructors involved – Phil Hawkey – Phil Browne – John Kneebone (Bones) - Mitch Emmett – Mark Barille – Tony Siccluna – Eain McRae – Roger Strickland – Av Weber - Tom Ellingsworth – John Rhodes – George Kucka.
Interested in a burn camp or other training? Keep an eye on CFA Brigades Online training section for upcoming burn camps or contact your local VMO (Vegetation Management Officer) or VFBV representatives for information. VFBV will promote future camps as we become aware of them.
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This article is part of our National Volunteer Week Showcase - celebrating our wonderful CFA Volunteers. |
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About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria. |
CFA Volunteers rope in specialised skills to help save lives
Written by VFBV
A car has tumbled from the road down a steep hill in outer Melbourne, trapping the occupants inside. They need to be rescued using specialised steep angle rope techniques – and highly trained emergency services volunteers from northern Melbourne are on scene.
It was all a training exercise, but on the Sunday before National Volunteer Week (20-26 May) started, CFA and SES volunteers gave yet another demonstration of their professionalism, dedication and their commitment to the safety of others by giving up their Sunday morning to train and practice their skills.
National Volunteer Week recognises that volunteers ‘make a world of difference’ and that’s certainly the case for emergency services volunteers, who regularly give up weeknights and weekends to ensure they have the capabilities needed to save others and keep their communities safe.
The CFA District 14 Multi Agency Rope Rescue Team, formed only a year ago, includes volunteers from Plenty CFA and Nillumbik and Whittlesea SES. During the exercise they practiced specialised steep angle rescue techniques that have been called on five times already since they started the additional service.
Volunteers from neighbouring Yarrambat and Diamond Creek CFA brigades assisted at the exercise to learn more about the technique, which is particularly valuable for emergency responders in hilly terrains. In all, around 40 volunteers from CFA and SES gave up their Sunday to hone skills that save lives.
Mark Gravell, President of CFA District 14 Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) council, said members of the specialised rope rescue team routinely trained for up to 12 hours a month to develop and maintain their skills, on top of their normal weekly CFA / SES training.
“The exercise involved rescuing the ‘victims’ from the vehicle, and then recovering the vehicle itself,” Mr Gravell said.
“I want to thank the Nillumbik Shire Council for its support for the local emergency services volunteers, and for letting us use the abandoned vehicle for our training – although I suppose there was mutual benefit in cleaning the local environment by removing the wreck!
“That is what CFA is all about – working in and with local communities, by local community members. That’s what we want to remember during Volunteer Week and every week.” Mr Gravell said Plenty CFA volunteers had raised more than $16,000 for the specialised equipment required for the Rope Rescue unit.
“What makes volunteers so valuable in this context is that they’ll lead the whole thing and make it happen for their community – identifying operational needs, raising funds, training, responding: it’s a mentally and physically challenging role but it’s also one of the most satisfying and fulfilling roles you could undertake.”
CFA District 14 has 40 CFA brigades and more than 2,200 volunteers and incorporates areas of metropolitan Melbourne from Werribee in the west, Epping, South Morang and Whittlesea in the north, and Eltham and North Warrandyte in the east. These brigades regularly support for other CFA brigades and nearby MFB stations as well as covering their primary response areas.
CFA protects more than 60% of metropolitan Melbourne overall, and District 14 includes industrial, residential and agricultural zones, with a mix of hazard types. District 14, like others where there is a high density of CFA volunteers, is also a key source of highly trained surge capacity for large or long duration fires, such as major industrial incidents and large bushfires such as those in Gippsland this past fire season.
There are several CFA volunteer brigades that have developed specialised capabilities in District 14, including a Road Accident Rescue unit based at Epping and Plenty, and a Large Animal Rescue unit based in Arthur’s Creek.
Research shows that volunteering not only enhances an individual’s sense of satisfaction and wellbeing, but volunteering builds significant public value and social capital, said VFBV CEO Adam Barnett.
“Within the emergency management sector, the value of partnering with communities and sharing responsibility through a collective sense of pride and purpose delivers enormous community benefits to the public such as an increased sense of safety, self-reliance and community confidence. All vital ingredients for strong, safe and resilient communities,” Mr Barnett said.
Exercise details: held Sunday 19 May 2019 at 09:30 am, Worn’s Lane, Yarrambat.
High resolution photographs:
http://media.vfbvd14.com/index.php/2019/05/21/plenty-cfa-press/
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This article is part of our National Volunteer Week Showcase - celebrating our wonderful CFA Volunteers. |
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About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria. |
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A Coast Guard uniform might not be a sight you expect to see in the middle of a major bushfire, but they were a welcome sight indeed to firefighters at the Bunyip fires that devastated parts of Gippsland this fire season.
It isn’t widely recognised that Victorian volunteer Coast Guard units are also considered part of CFA, but they play a valuable role on land and at sea, making a world of difference to the safety of Victorians.
Matt Semmens, Squadron Commodore for Volunteer Coast Guard Victoria, said many people didn’t realise Coast Guard brigades had been officially part of CFA since 2008.
In fact, CFA volunteer Coast Guard units from the Melbourne suburbs of St Kilda, Hastings, Carrum, Frankston, Sandringham and Safety Beach were an integral part of the emergency response effort at the Bunyip fires, providing transport, logistics and catering deliveries to support the thousands of firefighters in active operations.
“In the normal run of events, Victorian Coast Guard units respond to emergencies 24-7. We also go out on the water every weekend to improve the safety of those on the water by providing advice and information, and assistance if needed. We can even go inland, as the recent fires showed,” Mr Semmens said.
Deanne Semmens, Deputy Flotilla Commander for Carrum Coast Guard, said volunteering in the Coast Guard was both challenging and rewarding. Victoria’s 19 Coast Guard units respond to more than 1000 incidents a year.
“We never close down,” she said. “We have boats going out every week. We have the capability to fight fires out on the water, if that’s needed but it’s mainly rescue work.”
Carrum, like other Coast Guard units, works with all types of marine users if they get into trouble or have questions on boating safety. The Coast Guard also runs Boat Licensing qualifications.
Like their more ‘traditional’ CFA counterparts, volunteers train every week, on top of their emergency response and their ‘on duty’ weekend activity. “The amount of training depends on what level you want to achieve – for example coxswain or crew have different training levels, so there’s something that can fit in with most peoples’ availability and capabilities,” Ms Semmens said.
“We’re in the classroom once a week at least, and there’s also speciality training like marine radio licensing and navigation. There’s always something different to do and that’s what makes it so interesting.”
Mr Semmens, who coordinated the participation of coast guard units during this season, said even CFA crews were sometimes surprised to see a coast guard unit so far from the sandy shores.
“We did get asked a few times where our boat was,” Mr Semmens said. “But when we broke out the food that changed their tune!” More than 60 flotilla members put up their buoys and volunteered more than 800 hours of service at the fires between 3 and 12 March.
“It was very surreal for a lot of the members; very different for those who were in the staging area, smelling and seeing the smoke across the skyline and the mass of trucks and firefighters, compared to seeing it on TV. Some flotilla members worked in the Incident Control Centre in Dandenong providing communications and organisational skills to move people, food, equipment, relief crews about, and others helped erect tents at the staging area, escorted milk and cattle trucks and helped ensure firefighters were fed, watered and rested.
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) CEO Adam Barnett said Coast Guard members mobilised during the fire season formed part of CFA’s world-respected surge capability – the ability to mobilise huge numbers of resources in short order and maintain those for days and even weeks if needed.
Learn more about CFA’s world-respected surge capacity on the VFBV website: https://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/568-cfa-s-volunteer-surge-capacity-essential-for-victoria
“There are many different roles that people can perform as a CFA volunteer, and the Coast Guard is a great community service that makes a world of difference to the safety of marine users,” Mr Barnett said.
“In Volunteer Week, I want to encourage Victorians to recognise and thank all emergency services volunteers for their sacrifice and their contribution to the greater good of Victoria and the communities in which they live.”
Research shows that volunteering not only enhances an individual’s sense of satisfaction and wellbeing, but volunteering builds significant public value and social capital, he said.
“Within the emergency management sector, the value of partnering with our communities and sharing responsibility through a collective sense of pride and purpose delivers enormous community benefits to the public such as an increased sense of safety, self-reliance and community confidence. All vital ingredients for strong, safe and resilient communities” he added.
In Victoria, CFA volunteers deliver a highly professional emergency service that is admired and envied around the world, with CFA volunteers making up 95% of Victoria’s firefighting forces.
They are highly trained and respond to urban, rural, residential, industrial and bush fires, motor vehicle accidents, marine incidents, hazardous materials incidents, rescues, floods and storms.
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This article is part of our National Volunteer Week Showcase - celebrating our wonderful CFA Volunteers. |
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About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria. |
This week (20-26 May) marks National Volunteer Week and is a chance to recognise the 55,000 CFA volunteers who, in a range of roles and activities, make a world of difference to the safety and resilience of their own communities and all of Victoria.
People who voluntarily put their own safety on the line for others deserve our respect, thanks and support, Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) CEO Adam Barnett said.
“Like anyone involved in emergency services, CFA volunteers are a special breed,” Mr Barnett said. “They willingly make sacrifices to defend their communities in times of need, steadfastly standing with courage and honour protecting Victorians during emergencies. From our annual volunteer welfare and efficiency survey we know that more than 94% of CFA volunteers say that protecting their local community and supporting their community in a meaningful way are in fact the key motivations for joining CFA in the first place.”
Volunteer firefighters enjoy the physical and mental challenges of their roles, and they gain benefits in their own lives as well as making a genuine difference to the wider community, he added.
“Being a CFA volunteer provides invaluable skills that carry over into all aspects of their lives. CFA volunteers develop a strong sense of responsibility, teamwork and the ability to think and make decisions under pressure. These are great qualities for employers and in many other aspects of community and life.”
Mr Barnett encouraged people to consider becoming a CFA volunteer. “There are many different roles that people can perform as a CFA volunteer, from firefighter, community education, prevention and recovery to communications, logistics, and support.“
Research shows that volunteering not only enhances an individual’s sense of satisfaction and wellbeing, but volunteering builds significant public value and social capital. “Within the emergency management sector, the value of partnering with our communities and sharing responsibility through a collective sense of pride and purpose delivers enormous community benefits to the public such as an increased sense of safety, self-reliance and community confidence. All vital ingredients for strong, safe and resilient communities” he added.
In Victoria, CFA volunteers deliver a highly professional emergency service that is admired and envied around the world, with CFA volunteers making up 95% of Victoria’s firefighting forces.
They are highly trained and respond to urban, rural, residential, industrial and bush fires, motor vehicle accidents, hazardous materials incidents, rescues, floods and storms.
Victoria is one of the most fire prone areas in the world, and as Victoria faces longer fire danger periods, with more and larger fires than ever before, there are even more reasons to support and value CFA volunteers. They are the critical component of CFA’s surge capacity (the ability to mobilise huge numbers of highly trained people and resources to multiple, major and long-duration fires while still maintaining capacity at home to deal with any local incidents).
Learn more about CFA’s world-respected surge capacity on the VFBV website: https://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/568-cfa-s-volunteer-surge-capacity-essential-for-victoria
“Every time we save lives or property or help people in need, we know we are making a world of difference to those people. I am incredibly proud of our volunteers.” Mr Barnett said.
“I am asking the Victorian community to join me in thanking CFA volunteers for the wonderful work that they do.”
“I also want to recognise and pay tribute to our fellow emergency management volunteers including those in the SES, Coast Guard, Marine and Rescue Services, Life Saving Victoria, St John Ambulance, Ambulance Victoria, the Victorian Council of Churches Emergency Ministry, Red Cross and the Salvation Army. They join almost 6 million volunteers across Australia who provide invaluable support and services to our communities.”
“It may be volunteer week, but we also need to thank and recognise the families, friends and the employers of CFA volunteers. Their support and cooperation make a world of difference to our firefighters and what they do for our communities.”
About VFBV:
VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria.
CFA has commenced consultation on a number of SOP’s currently under review. Copies of each draft SOP can be found at the bottom of this page. VFBV is now calling for volunteer feedback and discussion on the proposed changes to assist with formal VFBV comment and feedback that will be provided to CFA.
Any comments on suggested improvements or clarifications would be welcome, as would any practical limitations or difficulties members may identify. Feedback via email or post would be most preferred, and feedback is welcome from any individual, brigade or group.
We have nominated a VFBV Support Officer for each – they will be coordinating and collating field feedback, that will then be used by VFBV to provide a formal response to CFA.
Feedback is requested no later than the 15th July 2019 – but much earlier if possible. It would be preferred that members provide feedback ASAP, so that it can be received incrementally, allowing us enough time to consolidate, identify trends and research issues raised by members.
SOP’s being reviewed:
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Main Changes |
VFBV Support Officer |
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SOP 5.04 Service Hose Testing and Coupling Inspection |
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Mark Dryden |
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SOP 9.14 Low Voltage Fuse Removal |
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Glenn Mercer |
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SOP 9.41 Safe Work at Heights |
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Glenn Mercer |
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SOP 10.24 Emergency Medical Response (EMR) |
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Glenn Mercer |
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SOP 10.27 Train Incidents |
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Glenn Mercer |
SOP’s proposed to be revoked:
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Main Changes |
VFBV Support Officer |
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SOP 6.03 Derelict Structures – Burning Of |
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Chris Dent |
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SOP 9.06 Fire Alarms – Monitoring and Logging of Tests |
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Glenn Mercer |
A reminder that CFA commenced consultation on SOP 6.06 Practical and Hot Fire Training last month – and feedback on that SOP is due on 14th June https://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/684-cfa-proposed-changes-to-sop-6-06-practical-and-hot-fire-training
How to Provide Feedback
If feedback could please be directed to the relevant VFBV Support Officer listed above. Contact details are as follows:
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Chris Dent Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Phone: 0407 334 685
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Glenn Mercer Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Phone: 0409 119 477 |
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Mark Dryden Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Phone: 0428 767 258
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Or feedback can be sent to:
Post: 9/24 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East VIC 3151
Fax: (03) 9886 1618
Feedback Due: 15th July 2019
Building Safer Communities
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer
As another year’s fire season winds down, it is undeniable that our fire season is consistently starting earlier and running later. With the longer duration comes a larger commitment and I want to formally acknowledge the exceptional work you have done over the season. In a difficult environment and with an air of uncertainty hanging over our sector, you have my utmost admiration for the professionalism and work ethic exhibited by all members who have contributed over the season.
This year we have seen record summer temperatures and have responded to over 3,300 grassfire/bushfire incidents, with 62,590 member responses. Incredibly, and proof of your exceptional skill and work, over 98% of these incidents have been contained to less than five hectares – a significant achievement and a strong endorsement of the effectiveness of our fire service, your training and your expertise. So well done – and thank-you.
While the cooler weather will hopefully bring some respite, we know firsthand from the high fuel loads and ongoing drought conditions present across the state that Victoria will continue to face a heightened risk throughout the year.
The fact that the fire danger period has been extended to mid-May for some areas of Victoria is telling, and brings into sharp focus the essential need to protect and strengthen the role of CFA volunteers and the critical role they play in Victoria’s Emergency Management as our communities face potentially worsening natural disasters, extended periods of drought and the effects of climate change.
I also want to acknowledge and thank Minister Lisa Neville, who personally wrote to all Brigades last month thanking them for their efforts and expressing her thanks and gratitude for the sacrifices made by members. This recognition and respect for the work you do is welcomed and is not only critical to building and sustaining a strong and sustainable volunteer culture within the sector, but is a much needed injection of goodwill and support from Government for the work that you do in protecting your communities 365 days of the year. A very welcome step change and one for which I am grateful.
Annual Memorial
This year’s CFA Memorial Service was held in Healesville on Sunday 5 May. This annual memorial is always held on the Sunday closest to International Firefighters’ Day and St Florian’s Day (4 May) – with St Florian being the patron saint of firefighters.
A number of significant dates from our history were reflected on during this years’ service including; 80 years since the 1939 Black Friday fires which led to the establishment of CFA, the Tarrawingee fires of 1943, 50 years since the 1969 Lara fires, and 10 years since the 2009 Black Saturday fires.
The annual memorial was a time for us to come together either in person or in spirit and remember and honour the 79 CFA firefighters (including 11 from pre-1944) who have selflessly given their lives to protect the lives of other Victorians. While the service is always solemn and reflective, it is also an important opportunity to reflect on our history and pay tribute to those lost – and the importance of the work we do to make our communities safer.
CFA CEO Paul Smith departs
Many were shocked to learn of the recent resignation of CFA CEO Dr Paul Smith, who finished with CFA at the end of April. While Paul was only appointed just over a year ago – I always found Paul to be an honest and driven leader, and someone who genuinely wanted to see CFA succeed and do well. I’m disappointed to see yet another senior leader from the sector depart, and terribly worried about a period of further instability as CFA looks for a yet another CEO on the cusp of what is likely to be major sector reform.
I wish Paul all the best in his new job and hope that he will always keep a special place in his memory for CFA and its people and will continue to be a strong advocate for us in his new job. Similarly – I congratulate the Acting Chief Officer Gavin Freeman AFSM on his appointment as Acting CEO for the next four weeks.
National Volunteer Week
Later in the month, from 20 – 26 May, we will celebrate National Volunteer Week. This is an annual celebration to acknowledge the generous contribution of the six million volunteers across Australia, recognising the incredible impact volunteers make in our local communities, society and the world. This year marks the 30th anniversary of this national celebration.
In terms of fire services, there are over 250,000 volunteer firefighters across Australia who both individually and collectively are certainly ‘making a world of difference’, which also happens to be this year’s theme. During these national celebrations, it is important we also recognise the people that stand behind us and support our volunteering. Employers, partners, family, loved ones and friends who also make sacrifices to support us and deserve our thanks and recognition for the important role they play in our lives.
The Year Ahead
And finally, I want to acknowledge the significant contribution of outgoing VFBV CEO Andrew Ford. I have worked with Andrew for close to 12 years and consider him not only a respected work colleague, but also a friend. I have witnessed first hand the professional and personal sacrifices he has made on our behalf, and while I know he does not regret any of them, I have nonetheless seen the toll they have taken and understand his reasons for wanting a change.
We are rightfully very proud of the organisation that Andrew has helped lead and I commend him on the very solid and strong foundations he leaves behind. While Andrew will continue his strong involvement and contribution to the Association in a new important strategic advisory role, I want to take this opportunity on behalf of the VFBV Board, State Council and all Association members to formally thank him most sincerely for his outstanding service and acknowledge the significant contributions he has made over the years building a safer Victoria.
I am feeling excited and privileged to be taking on the role of CEO, but I also acknowledge the gravity of representing CFA volunteers at a time of significant upheaval that has caused many of you great distress. I know there are many challenges ahead as we work to ensure we have the strongest possible CFA in the future. With the ongoing support of the VFBV Board, VFBV representatives, brigades and members, it is my role to ensure that our voice is heard, that volunteer views are known and understood, and that we always put the welfare and efficiency of volunteers along with the safety of the communities we protect first in every interaction. This is my commitment to you.
We are a resilient people, and I frequently reflect on our Association’s proud history of close to 150 years partnering to build safer communities and helping to build a strong, effective and vibrant emergency service for the people of Victoria. Just like our forebears, we will face the future together. I encourage all members to continue to raise any issues with your brigade or District VFBV representative, engage with your local VFBV District Council and as always, feel free to contact myself directly. Your voice is important, now more than ever. VFBV is your organisation, so please stay active and engaged as we continue our work seeking the best possible outcomes for a strong and united CFA – working together to build safer and more resilient communities.
State Rural Championships
The State Rural Championships held last month in Bendigo were highly successful with an estimated 2,000 people in attendance, with well above 500 members and juniors competing over the two days of competition. The Championships were conducted at the Tom Flood Sports Centre, where the famous annual Bendigo International Madison cycling race was held in March, which provided an ideal location for competitors and spectators alike.
VFBV congratulates the District 2 Championship Committee led by chair Brendan Dreschler, for its significant work and effort in hosting the Championship, and thanks all Committee members for their contribution. We also pass on our sincere appreciation to the City of Greater Bendigo for its support to the District 2 committee and its contribution to our State Championships. The Bendigo Council have been particularly supportive of the State Championships, with not only the Rural Championships last month, but also the Urban Championships in March, being the third successive Urban Championships held in Bendigo.
Greta repeated its win of last year in being named the Champion Brigade winning the Division 1 Aggregate, with Dunrobin/Nangeela coming first place in Division 2 and Mandurang was first placed in Division 3. Greta won four of the six senior events and ran a new record time in the Tanker Hose Reel & Ladder event.
Springhurst won its second Junior Championship title, being first placed in the 11-15 Years Aggregate and second in the 11-13 Years Aggregate. There were two new record times, one by Springhurst in the 11-13 Years Hydrant & Tanker, and the other by Mandurang in the 11-13 Years Low Down Pump & Ladder.
Full results of the 2019 State Rural Championship can be found on the VFBV website.
SOP 6.06 feedback
As reported in the last edition of Fire Wise, CFA has commenced consultation on proposed changes to SOP 6.06 Practical and Hot Fire Training. CFA is proposing this SOP replace the existing SOP 6.06 called Hot Fire Training -PAD Briefs.
As this proposed SOP includes significant changes from its predecessor, VFBV is requesting that all Brigades, Groups and members discuss and assess the possible implications and potential barriers that these changes may create when conducting training. Members are encouraged to discuss at upcoming District Council meetings with active feedback and involvement from interested Brigades, Groups and members.
VFBV requests that all concerns and feedback be directed to VFBV Support Officer Chris Dent so that VFBV can provide CFA with a consolidated, informed position based directly on your feedback. Feedback is due by Friday 14th June 2019, but earlier if possible. VFBV Support Officer Chris Dent can be reached via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
You Could Win!!
Brigades or Groups that pay VFBV affiliations before 30 June 2019 will automatically go into the draw for a chance to win one of four great prizes!
The 2019/20 Affiliation notices for your Brigade/Group’s VFBV affiliation and VFBV Welfare Fund Subscriptions are with your Secretary now with a due date of 30 June 2019. As a gesture of appreciation to Brigades and Groups that pay VFBV affiliation prior to 30th June, VFBV will automatically place your Brigade or Group into a draw for a chance to win one of these great prizes, kindly donated by GAAM Emergency Products and Powdersafe Pty. Ltd.
For further details, checkout the “You Could Win” flyer included with your 2019/20 VFBV Affiliation Notice sent out to your Secretary in March.
Elevated work platform trials
Volunteers have highlighted to CFA the significant safety issue when working at incidents that require the rescuers to operate above ground level. An Elevated Work Platform (EWP) is being trialled by brigades for use during rescues that require stable above-ground access at incidents, such as when rescuing a person trapped in a rolled over large truck cabin.
The trial is the direct result of active requests from rescue brigades which had identified the requirement as a key safety and efficiency measure for rescue operations and pursued it via the Joint VFBV/CFA Equipment & Infrastructure Committee. CFA has provided in-principle support and agreed to trial the equipment to evaluate options. Casterton Fire Brigade first trialled a portable lightweight Elevated Work Platform, with Werribee and Ballarat Brigades now part of a wider trial.
Members are reporting positive results from the trials. Given the limited stowage capacity on appliances, the trial is now assessing the best options that will take up the least amount of room. We will keep you apprised of progress.
IVECO 4.4 Tanker
VFBV has successfully escalated safety concerns raised by members about the Automated Manual Gearbox (semi-automatic transmission) in the IVECO EUROCARGO 4.4C Tankers. Following further reports from volunteers, delegates to the Joint VFBV/CFA Equipment & Infrastructure Committee on behalf of VFBV State Council have sought an urgent review and operational risk assessment be conducted.
The issue stems from how the transmission deals with a drop in engine revs. In a semi-automatic transmission, software engages the clutch automatically during gear changes. However, when the engine revs drop below approximately 700/800 RPM, these transmissions automatically engage the clutch to prevent the vehicle from stalling – leaving the driver effectively controlling a vehicle coasting in ‘neutral’ and therefore without exhaust brakes. This presents a significant issue when moving down a steep decline for example, and relies on the driver to then use the accelerator to increase the engine revs – which is very counter intuitive when the driver is seeking to slow the descent of the vehicle and engage the air brakes.
CFA has previously advised it would address this issue by targeted driver training and vehicle familiarisation. VFBV has expressed concerns that this is inadequate – and even with improved driver training, this still presents a significant safety issue which is then compounded when these vehicles form part of a strike team or are committed to campaign fires and drivers are regularly rotated.
CFA has now agreed to discontinue the use of the semi-automatic gearbox in the current build of tankers and replace it with an Allison automatic transmission for all future builds. Unfortunately, this has led to CFA having to reduce its planned build program of 20 Heavy Tankers scheduled for this financial year to 18 – again highlighting the inadequacy of the CFA base budget for appliances.
While this fix addresses the problem for the future, this still leaves approximately 80 appliances fitted with the older semiautomatic transmission. Delegates have expressed concern about the potential to now have two identical looking vehicles, one with a semi-automatic transmission and the other with a fully automated one – and how this may manifest during campaign fires for example where drivers are frequently rotated. Delegates have requested a funding bid be developed for Government to cover a retro fit program, and in the interim for CFA to develop measures to make the transmission type easily identifiable.
Loss of GPS tracking
Millions of GPS devices worldwide, including the Tait radios on CFA appliances, experienced a Y2K-style glitch on April 6 when the GPS internal date counter resets itself. Volunteer Delegates on the Joint VFBV/CFA Communications & Technology Committee have expressed disappointment that neither CFA or Tait had put in place planning for a known fault that occurs every 20 years and which impacted on CFA during the fire season.
As outlined in CFA Operations Bulletin 006-2019 released on 12 April 2019, all vehicles will still have full use of their radio for communication purposes. However, the glitch means the radio GPS loses satellite lock and cannot re-establish. As a result, appliance locations will not be visible using the resource tracking system, eMap or EM-COP, and when the “L” button on the handset is pressed, the last stored coordinates is displayed. When the duress button is pressed the correct co-ordinates are not sent. EMV are removing all symbols from EMCOP and eMap so there is no confusion as to whether the signal is working or not for those users of the mapping product.
TAIT is working on providing CFA a firmware patch that requires reprogramming of the GPS antenna, however installation will require a visit from a technician to each vehicle fitted with a mobile radio. CFA expects the patch will be completed as quickly as possible and planning is currently underway. Due to the use of external aerials, CFA Bag radios are likely to be updated by a different process that is yet to be determined by CFA’s Comms Department. This will be communicated to the Districts when finalised.
VFBV has requested that the update program be developed to ensure there is minimal impact on Brigades, and delegates have requested that CFA give Brigades plenty of notice of when these visits will occur to limit the inconvenience and ensure minimal appliance off line time. CFA has supported these requests and has committed to provide regular updates as soon as details have been finalised.
Dress Uniform Supplies
VFBV continues to advocate for the speedy resolution of the CFA dress uniform contract.
All orders for dress uniform tunics and trousers were put on hold while contractual arrangements with a new tailor are being negotiated.
While slower than hoped, CFA has provided an update indicating positive progress is being made. Due to probity constraints around commercial negotiations, details regarding the commercial arrangements are unable to be released publicly, but VFBV will update members as soon as possible.
VFBV also continues to lobby for changes to the cut of the female dress uniform based on feedback received from female members, who are looking for more diverse options in the cut and fit of the dress uniform shirts in particular.
Nominations for Trust Fund
The VFBV Board is calling for nominations to the CFA and Brigades Donations Trust Fund.
Following nominations, five new or reappointed members will be appointed by the VFBV Board to serve as VFBV trustees on the Trust Fund for a 12 month term. The Trust Fund committee meets quarterly, either via teleconference or at CFA HQ.
Nominations close Friday 21st June 2019 and can be mailed to VFBV office 9/24 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East 3151 or emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Hino Sponsorship Appreciated
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria is pleased to have Hino Australia as its major sponsor of the State Rural championships since 2013.
It is hoped this mutually beneficial partnership continues well into the future.
At the 2019 State championships VFBV President Nev Jones AFSM and VFBV CEO Andrew Ford thanked Hino Australia for its ongoing support and presented a plaque in appreciation of its annual ongoing support of this event.
The plaque was accepted by Corporate Business Manager – Government Tom Aryton, who said Hino Australia was pleased to support CFA volunteers in this manner and proud to be associated with CFA.
Position Vacant - Executive Officer
VFBV is seeking a talented and motivated person for the position of Executive Officer to work fulltime based at our Burwood East office.
Reporting to the CEO, this senior position involves working in a team environment to address issues impacting on all volunteers and representing VFBV on committees and working parties. You will work actively with VFBV State Council and District Councils with an aim to ensure volunteers’ views are understood and that issues of concern can either be resolved locally or escalated through appropriate channels.
The role has responsibility for the provision of expert technical, practical and strategic advice on matters affecting CFA volunteers. The role provides important leadership support to VFBV’s network of consultative forums, committees and working parties, as well as providing senior level support to the CEO in developing and managing relationships and partnerships with key stakeholders.
We need a person who can effectively represent volunteers within CFA, to Government, to other organisations and the general public. The role involves considerable liaison with CFA at Executive and senior management levels; working closely with brigades and District Councils; and influencing external decision makers. Strong interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills is essential.
Applicants need to have an understanding and appreciation of issues relevant to CFA brigades and volunteerism in general. You need to be able to demonstrate an ability to establish productive relationships within our own membership base and also with people who influence decisions about matters affecting volunteers. It is important that you are a self starter and can demonstrate success while managing multiple concurrent issues and challenging work demands. You need to be a good communicator and someone who understands how to lead and influence others to achieve outcomes.
This is a permanent position, based at our Burwood office. Recognising that the position supports brigades across Victoria, the position involves considerable travel including weekend and evening work required to support our volunteer membership base.
All applications must include current resume and cover letter addressing key result areas and selection criteria outlined in the Position Description found on our website.
Please contact Cathie Smith for any queries by phone on 03 9886 1141 or via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Applications close Friday 24th May 2019.
Inviting Applicants for CFA Board
The CFA legislation recognises that it is important that the CFA Board has strong volunteer expertise, knowledge and an understanding of CFA volunteers. To support this, CFA legislation provides for four of the CFA Board's Members to be appointed from a panel of names submitted by Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria, two being representatives from brigades predominantly service urban communities and two being representatives from brigades predominantly serving rural communities.
The terms of CFA Board Members Hazel Clothier, Lynda Hamilton, Peter Shaw and Tim Young expire 19th July 2019, triggering the need for VFBV to seek applications for a panel of names to be nominated for the next term commencing 20th July 2019.
VFBV is seeking applications for volunteers interested in filling one of the four VFBV nominated positions on the CFA Board.
CFA volunteers who believe they have the skills, experience and capacity to make a contribution to the Board of the CFA, are invited to apply for nomination to the CFA Board. In addition to volunteer experience and knowledge, selection will have regard to any of the following: knowledge of, or experience in, commercial, technical, operational, legal or financial matters; or expertise in fire or emergency management, land management or any other field relevant to the performance of the functions of the CFA.
From applications received and following interviews, VFBV will submit a panel of names to the Minister for Police & Emergency Services.
The CFA Board meets on a monthly basis and also operates a committee system which could require commitment of one half day per month. Attendance at official functions is also expected.
CFA Board Members current annual remuneration is $58,598 (including Superannuation).
The CFA Board Charter is available from the VFBV office. For other relevant information, interested volunteers should contact VFBV - contact details below.
Applications including a current resume must be emailed or faxed to VFBV by COB on Friday 24th May 2019 to: email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or fax: 03 9886 1618.
Inviting to Apply: Board Members of Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV)
INVITATION OPEN TO ALL VOLUNTEERS TO APPLY
Closing date for written applications is 31st July 2019
VFBV advances the interests of all Victorian fire brigade volunteers and advocates on their behalf to CFA and other key stakeholders. The VFBV Board drives policy development based on volunteer input and is involved in management of issues of central importance to all CFA volunteers.
Vacancies for Four Board Members will arise when the terms of Samantha Rothman, Kate Boschetti, Jan Cleary and Libby Hay expire on 1st October 2019; all members are eligible for reappointment.
The term of appointment will be to 1st October 2021 (two years) and applications are invited from interested volunteers to be considered for these vacancies.
The role of a VFBV Board Member involves contributing to VFBV direction, policy determination and monitoring the performance and governance of the Association. Also actively contributing to policy discussion at Board Meetings, networking with others about policies and issues management, and not only making decisions but being prepared to actively advocate for the benefit of all CFA volunteers and ultimately the Victorian community.
A Board Member Role Statement including the key selection criteria is available from the VFBV office or from the VFBV website.
This is an honorary position; no honorarium is paid.
If you are motivated by the prospect of making a difference for CFA volunteers, then send your written application addressing the key selection criteria in the role statement, plus an outline of your CFA activity including the names of two referees.
Applications must be lodged with VFBV by Wednesday 31st July 2019 to:
VFBV, 9/24 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East 3151
Tel: 9886 1141; Fax: 9886 1618
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
