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Fire Season Preparedness
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer
As at time of writing, significant out of control bushfires burning in Queensland and New South Wales are a stark reminder that this year’s Fire Season is rapidly approaching.
This certainly confirms Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) reports that have studied the earliest pre-season day recording a FFDI > 25 between now and 1950, with the data supporting the observation that our fire seasons are starting much earlier, with September featuring very heavily in the data since the early 2000s. The BOM outlook for this season is for an increasing number of high-risk bushfire days, with bushfire activity and heatwave conditions more likely this year compared to the average.
CFA CEO/Chief Officer Steve Warrington has recently set his Chief Officer’s expectations and seasonal focus for this year’s fire season. Along with the expectation to hit fires hard and fast; ensuring information and community warnings are issued; and backing your training and knowledge to be confident in making decisions; - the highest priority is a focus on the safety of our people.
Amongst this priority is an expectation that all operational members have completed their minimum skills training, have completed the hazardous trees awareness package (every three years) and a reminder of the need to complete the annual entrapment drill.
The annual entrapment drill was first introduced by Chief Officer Ferguson, and CFA have promoted the drill and encouraged participation for many years. Recent data collected by CFA over the last few years has indicated a less than optimal completion of the annual entrapment drill in particular. While this is likely due to under reporting and some early teething problems with CFA’s new Learning Management System, it is an issue of significant concern for the Chief, who has asked for VFBV assistance and support in promoting the importance of our annual fire season preparedness.
In discussions with volunteers I have explored the reasons why some members may be resisting this messaging, and in particular the annual entrapment drill. It probably wouldn’t surprise anyone, that in the current environment and with the low levels of morale across the service, members are particularly sensitive to how the message is delivered, sometimes more so than the message itself – especially as that message gets passed on and delivered at the local level by various people and in various formats and tone.
This is perfectly understandable, and I appreciate many volunteers, and in fact Australian’s in general typically have a very low tolerance for ‘direction’ or anything involving the word ‘mandatory.’ I often say volunteers are the most generous peoples on the planet, ask them and they will do almost anything – tell them and that good will and generosity will quickly disappear.
Fortunately, the answer to my enquiries predominately confirms the under-reporting or low awareness of the requirement or how to record its completion as the primary reason. However, some responses have indicated an undertow of resistance. Constructive criticism has ranged from apathy and low morale, the appropriateness of the frequency (annual requirement for example), and anger that members of considerable experience and history are being asked to ‘prove’ something they have done for years, sometimes decades.
This is valuable feedback and has been communicated back to CFA where it has been well received, with a commitment to consider and review the requirements and frequency at the end of each season.
One thing to keep in mind is if you ever have to perform this drill in anger – it will likely be a volatile environment, you and your crew will be stressed and pushed to your limits and the benefit of being able to commit these actions to muscle memory by frequent repetition and just do them automatically may one day save you and your crews life.
To our veteran firefighters I say what a terrific opportunity for you to share some of your experience and knowledge with newer members who would likely deeply appreciate your support and mentoring during their annual drill.
On this point I am reminded of the introduction of minimum skills which faced a very similar backlash. In fact, a couple of years after the introduction of minimum skills it was clear to CFA that the message and ‘how’ it was introduced was the projects biggest stumbling block. To reset some of this dialog Chief Officer Trevor Roche committed to publicly undergoing his minimum skills training at the 2001 Junior Urban Championships to demonstrate to all members his commitment that everyone should do it. Work place assessors Adrian Hem and Tony Duckmanton were reported as putting the Chief through his paces, and a few weeks later Trevor sat his minimum skills theory and practical assessment at the Senior Urban Championships, where he graduated and received his accreditation certificate for Wildfire.
Knowing Trev very well, I can only say he was likely a very ‘challenging’ student and I’m sure Adrian and Tony could enlighten us with their fond memories of this occasion.
The reason I bring up this story is Trevor is still a very committed CFA volunteer and is one of the most compelling advocates for the annual entrapment drill. Trevor recalls the very painful and gut-wrenching memories of figuratively sitting around kitchen tables speaking with the families and loved ones of those CFA volunteers that lost their lives during Linton, and explaining what he as Chief Officer was going to do to make sure it never happened again. He gave a solemn promise to ensure that their lives were not lost in vain and that CFA would improve the safety of its members.
Back to the present day, the Chief has made very clear that District Officers must ensure they allocate time and resources to support brigades and groups as a priority to undertake these activities and consider innovative ways to help members complete them.
I was in attendance at a recent volunteer meeting where the Operations Manager offered to provide District spare tankers for any brigade that needed help reaching members, even if that meant him personally dropping by their workplace so members who couldn’t attend pre-scheduled training would have an opportunity to perform the quick five-minute entrapment drill. These kind of innovate ways to support members should be commended and are a great example of our ‘just get on with it’ attitude that we are so justifiably proud.
I appreciate the logistical challenges of brigades and members trying to organise times when everyone is available and really want to encourage brigades and groups to consider flexible and innovative ways to cycle members through with the support of their Districts. The Chief has delegated the power for crew leaders to be able to sign off members and as a way to support Captains, OIC’s and Group Officers spread the load.
So, could I please press upon members the importance of becoming involved in this year’s season preparedness activities and encourage you to support and promote them. One of our most solemn obligations we have to our families and loved ones is to make sure all our people get home safely and this is one small way each of us can demonstrate our commitment to that promise.
VFBV VolWEL Survey
- I feel that the time I devote to CFA is productive and worthwhile?
- Most training is available and provided within a reasonable distance from my brigade?
- CFA recognises and utilises the skills and experience I bring to CFA?
- Overall how satisfied are you with your role as a CFA volunteer?
Are these statements important to you? How well are these areas being supported? Make sure that your voice is heard by taking part in the 2019 VFBV Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey (VolWEL).
The VolWEL is an annual snapshot of volunteer opinion and welfare. It has become a critical tool in monitoring short-and long-term trends, and the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at improving CFA volunteer engagement and wellbeing.
The survey is a reliable and important method used to capture the views of volunteers while also tracking trends in volunteer opinion over the years. It is one of the largest surveys of its kind in Australia. As with previous years, VFBV is supporting other volunteer fire associations from across Australia in running the survey within other fire services to gain a national perspective of volunteer views. VFBV is also working with the Victorian SES Volunteers Association (VicSESVA) in offering the survey to VICSES members again for 2019 in recognition of the shared respect between CFA and SES volunteers.
There has never been a more important time for CFA volunteers to have their say on how well they think these areas are performing. All answers and comments are confidential, and the results go straight to decision and policy makers.
Visit the VFBV website to take part in this year’s survey. If you do not have internet access, please contact the VFBV office on (03) 9886 1141 and we’ll send you a paper copy of the survey to complete.
This year’s VolWEL survey will close in October – so make sure your voice is heard and complete the survey today.
Announcement of Volunteer Nominations to the CFA Board
VFBV welcomes the announcement of the three volunteer nominations to the CFA Board.
Peter Shaw has been renominated to the CFA Board having served on the Board for the previous three years. Peter has been a volunteer since 1974 and is currently Group Officer for the Knox Group in District 13, and member of The Basin Fire Brigade. Peter brings extensive emergency management experience to the role, having served with Victoria Police concurrently with his CFA service for over thirty-five years.
Joining Peter, are newly appointed members Dawn Hartog and Kent Griffin.
Dawn is Captain of Toolangi Fire Brigade in District 12, and serves as Chair of the District 12 DPC. She has extensive experience across the education, training and the emergency management sector in addition to her volunteer experience, having had roles with CFA, Royal Life Saving Society of Australia, EMV and currently performs a senior role with DELWP. Dawn has a Masters in Adult Education and has commenced a Doctorate of Philosophy specialising in Education, Fire Safety and School education.
Kent is a member of the Langley-Barfold Brigade in District 2, where he currently serves as Brigade Secretary and Treasurer. Kent is a very experienced board director and senior executive, and is currently the Chief Financial Officer for TAL, one of Australia’s leading life insurance companies. Kent was previously a partner with Ernst & Young. He has led and developed teams over many years, including transformational change within finance and actuarial functions at enterprise level and is a very experienced director having held various director positions on companies across Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Thailand and India.
VFBV is confident that together, Peter, Dawn and Kent will bring significant experience and capability to the CFA Board and make a valuable contribution to the future CFA. They along with the other impressive applicants demonstrate the extensive breadth, experience and skills within the volunteer ranks and are a shining example of the professionalism and capability of CFA volunteers.
We also take this opportunity to thank outgoing CFA Board members Lynda Hamilton, Hazel Clothier and Tim Young who each served on the Board for the previous three years. They join a long list of Victorians who have stepped up to represent their communities and volunteers at the Board table. We remain forever indebted to their service and contribution, noting all are eligible for renomination in the future. Given the particularly difficult period that CFA has undergone over the last three years, VFBV expresses its sincere thanks for their efforts and contributions during their time on the CFA Board.
In the process of finalising these positions, an unexpected late withdrawal of a selected nominee has created a casual vacancy. The Minister has established a process to fill this remaining position, to which we are now working towards. VFBV has completed its advertising and interview process for this vacancy, with interviews of applicants continuing over the weekend. A new panel is being finalised by the VFBV Board for submission to the Minister shortly.
We are hopeful for an expedited announcement regarding the fourth nominee, and will await the results of the Minister’s deliberations, with an announcement expected shortly.
On behalf of the VFBV Board and State Council – please join us in congratulating Peter, Dawn and Kent on their appointments to the CFA Board, and thank-you to Lynda, Hazel and Tim for their valued and respected service and contribution over the last three years.
Wellbeing hotline improvements
Following changes to the CFA Wellbeing Support Hotline VFBV received feedback from volunteers that the hotline had become ‘clunky’ and at times difficult to navigate. Given callers to the hotline are frequently in distress, the need for simple and clear options is paramount.
The Joint HR, Welfare &OH&S Committee raised these concerns with CFA suggesting possible improvements. These suggestions were well received by CFA, with a commitment to investigate them. At a recent meeting delegates were informed that this feedback has now been implemented with the system now more streamlined.
After calling the hotline on 1800 959 232, members requiring urgent assistance are transferred directly to the Membership Assistance Program (MAP) which is manned 24 hours a day by a psychologist. Members are then able to choose the service they require, including Peer Support, Chaplaincy Support Program and Centre Against Sexual Assault (CASA) among other services. Delegates welcomed the amalgamation of these valuable services avoiding multiple contact numbers and CFA has agreed to continue working with the committee to monitor and continue discussions on future enhancements.
Spectrum changes
Following advice from Telstra that its Spectrum Pre Conferencing service was being discontinued as from January 2020, the VFBV/CFA Joint Communications & Technology Committee has been working with CFA on possible replacements.
Spectrum is used as a redundancy system for Brigades when the paging network fails or is experiencing an outage. A search of the market found seven potential replacement systems with a recommendation of one of the replacement systems being presented for approval shortly.
The recommended system received an endorsement from the Committee and will communicate further information of the system following its acceptance. The committee believe this new system will be very similar in operation to the replaced Spectrum system with some aspects to be managed at the District level for quicker changes.
BA Conversion
VFBV has been fielding many complaints from volunteers experiencing variances and miscommunication from several Districts regarding their ability to attend and complete MSA Breathing Apparatus conversion training for the new BA sets.
Some Districts were advising members they had to redo the whole BA course before they could attend conversion training.
VFBV advocated for a streamlined approach with local Brigades and Captains being able to identify and endorse members to undertake the conversion training and regain currency.
CFA agreed to this and released an endorsement process that includes challenge testing allowing the Brigade Captain/ OIC to have the ability to endorse a member to undertake BA conversion training if their six-monthly currency has lapsed.
This could be due to multiple reasons and this common-sense flexibility now allows a Brigade, who knows their members best, having the ability to endorse.
This process then allows the BA conversion training to be recognised as skills maintenance and six-monthly currency as a BA wearer on their training records.
This is a good outcome for members and VFBV is hopeful this will alleviate future miss conceptions.
For further information or to seek endorsement documents please contact you District Training Department or VFBV Support Officer Chris Dent This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
2019/20 VFBV Affiliations
Congratulations to the winners of this year’s VFBV Affiliation Prize Draw!
All Brigades that paid their 2019/20 affiliations prior to 30th June, 2019, were automatically entered into the prize draw to win their choice of one of four great prizes with a total value of almost $3,500, and kindly donated by GAAM Emergency Products and Powdersafe.
The lucky winners and their selections were:
1st Prize: Douglas Fire Brigade, District 17 - Pelican torches (Powdersafe)
2nd Prize: Baddaginnie Fire Brigade, District 23 - TFT Break-apart nozzle (GAAM)
3rd Prize: Metcalfe Fire Brigade, District 2 - Hose Roller (GAAM)
4th Prize: Carboor Fire Brigade, District 23 - Root Soaker (GAAM)
The number of Brigades affiliating with VFBV for 2019/20 is on track to match record numbers of the last two years, a sign of continued strong support for VFBV’s work on behalf of volunteers.
Affiliations were due on the 30 June, 2019, so if you are not sure whether your Brigade or Group’s VFBV affiliation and Welfare Fund subscription have been paid, contact your Secretary urgently, as we encourage all those who have not yet affiliated to do so as soon as possible.
For any enquiries, contact your VFBV State Councillors or call VFBV on (03) 9886 1141.
Learning Management System enhancements
VFBV representatives on the Joint Training Committee have gained improvements to the Learning Management System (LMS) to lessen the administrative burden on brigades.
In early 2019 CFA created a common link between the Fire Incident Reporting System (FIRS) and LMS so that Breathing Apparatus (BA) worn at Incidents was logged automatically into LMS, capturing not just BA use during training but also incidents. In a further enhancement, the incident date and FIRS incident number will also be captured in the BA Skills History. CFA also added a number of Organisational Development ELearning packages that members can access; these can be found on LMS.
VFBV will continue to voice members’ concerns around the poor interoperability between CFA’s various information technology systems.
Queens's Birthday Honours
VFBV have run a series of profiles over the last few months celebrating the CFA volunteer who received an Order of Australia (OAM) in the Queen's Birthday Honours announced on 9 June 2019. Each of these profiles are available from the VFBV website.
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Robert Flynn from Grovedale was awarded the OAM for service to the community through a range of organisations including the Fire Services Museum Victoria, where he has been a volunteer since 2006 and served on the committee from 2010-2014, and Belmont Fire Brigade, where he has been a volunteer firefighter since 2005 and member since 1987. |
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Jill Parker of Mortlake was awarded the OAM for service to local government, and to the community of South West Victoria, including as Moyne Shire Councillor and current member of Mortlake Fire Brigade as Treasurer and Communications Officer. A former Fire Safe Kids Officer and Community Bushfire Safety Liaison Officer, Jill has also received the National Medal (with 40-year clasp) and National Emergency Medal. |
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John Munckton of Glenaroua, received an OAM for service to the community of Seymour, including as a member of Glenaroua Fire Brigade, where he has volunteered since 1970, served as president from 1980-1996 and became a CFA Life Member in 2010. |
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John Fleming of Inverloch, received the OAM for service to the community of Wonthaggi, including the Glen Alvie Fire Brigade (since 1996) and Wonthaggi Fire Brigade (from 1961) where he is also a life member. |
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Mervyn (Merv) Hampson from Mortlake, was awarded the OAM for service to veterans and their families through the Returned and Services League of Australia and Naval Association of Australia. A Life Member of Mortlake Fire Brigade, where he joined in 1979, he has received CFA’s 35-Year Service Award and National Medal. |
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Leolyn (Leo) Watkins was awarded the OAM for service to the community of Ararat, including as a member of Warrak Brigade since 1961, with Life Membership awarded in 1992. |
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Leslie (Les) Sumner, from Cobden, received an OAM for service to the community of Cobden, including through Jancourt Fire Brigade (since 1960) and Cobden Fire Brigades Group (since 2013). He was also head trainer and life member at Cobden Football and trainer for the Victorian Country Football League, in addition to other volunteering around Cobden. |
Now Open - 2019 VFBV Volunteer Welfare & Efficiency Survey
Written by Adam Barnett
The 2019 VFBV Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey is now open to all CFA volunteers.
CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY.
The survey, is an annual snapshot of volunteer opinion and welfare. It has become a critical tool in monitoring short-and long-term trends, and the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at improving CFA volunteer engagement and wellbeing. Last year over 2,500 CFA volunteers took part in the survey and almost 6,000 volunteers took part across the surveys offered to fire service volunteers across Australia.
The survey is made up of 33 questions chosen by volunteers and takes just 10 – 15 minutes to complete. Your comments and answers are confidential, and the results go straight to the decision makers.
The survey is a reliable and important method used to capture the views of volunteers while also tracking trends in volunteer opinion across the eight years of the survey, you can access the results of the 2018 VFBV Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey here.
It is one of the largest surveys of its kind in Australia and VFBV supports other Australian State and Territory volunteer associations in running the same survey within the other fire services to gain a national perspective. VFBV is also supporting Victorian SES Volunteer Association (VicSESVA) in offering the survey to VICSES members to also gain an understanding of VICSES volunteers. Please see details below of the other surveys available.
If you have any issues accessing the survey – please contact your VFBV Support Officer or the VFBV office This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (03) 9886 1141. We are also able to send out paper copies of the survey to members who do not have internet access.
2019 Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey available to fire agency volunteers from across Australia
The Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey is also being offered to volunteers from fire agencies from across Australia. The survey has been a success in Victoria since 2012 and is being offered to fire service volunteers again in 2019 through their respective representative volunteer associations as part of the Council of Australian Volunteer Fire Associations (CAVFA).
The survey was developed by VFBV to address a significant gap in the information available to the decision makers and over the years has become an unmatched guide to trends in volunteer opinions.
The survey will take 10 – 15 minutes to complete, and all answers and comments are confidential, the results are analysed by VFBV independently of the volunteer associations and also compared to provide a national snapshot of volunteer expectations and opinion.
To take part, click on your fire service below.
New South Wales
Queensland
Rural Fire Service Queensland Survey
South Australia
Tasmania
Tasmanian Fire Service Volunteers Survey
Tasmanian Fire Service Retained Volunteers Survey
Victoria
Western Australia
Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Survey
Note: Association of Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades (AVBFB) have elected not to take part in this year’s survey, please contact AVBFB directly if you have any queries.
2019 Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey available to VICSES volunteers
The Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey is being offered again to VICSES volunteers. The survey is being offered to VICSES volunteers by their representative volunteer association, Victorian SES Volunteer Association (VicSESVA) in partnership with VFBV.
VicSESVA have previously participated in the Volunteer Welfare and Effiency Survey in 2015 and in 2016 and 2017 as part of the wider Victorian Emergency Management Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey. The 2019 survey will be able to compare the results with those of previous years to understand any trends that have emerged in volunteer opinion.
The survey will take 10 – 15 minutes to complete, and all answers and comments are confidential, and are analysed independently of VicSESVA. VicSESVA will then use the survey results to advocate on behalf of VICSES volunteers to Government, VICSES and Emergency Management Victoria.
VFBV welcomes the announcement of the three volunteer nominations to the CFA Board.
Peter Shaw has been renominated to the CFA Board having served on the Board for the previous three years. Peter has been a volunteer since 1974 and is currently Group Officer for the Knox Group in District 13, and member of The Basin Fire Brigade. Peter brings extensive emergency management experience to the role, having served with Victoria Police concurrently with his CFA service for over thirty-five years.
Joining Peter, are newly appointed members Dawn Hartog and Kent Griffin.
Dawn is Captain of Toolangi Fire Brigade in District 12, and serves as Chair of the District 12 DPC. She has extensive experience across the education, training and the emergency management sector in addition to her volunteer experience, having had roles with CFA, Royal Life Saving Society of Australia, EMV and currently performs a senior role with DELWP. Dawn has a Masters in Adult Education and has commenced a Doctorate of Philosophy specialising in Education, Fire Safety and School education.
Kent is a member of the Langley-Barfold Brigade in District 2, where he currently serves as Brigade Secretary and Treasurer. Kent is a very experienced board director and senior executive, and is currently the Chief Financial Officer for TAL, one of Australia’s leading life insurance companies. Kent was previously a partner with Ernst & Young. He has led and developed teams over many years, including transformational change within finance and actuarial functions at enterprise level and is a very experienced director having held various director positions on companies across Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Thailand and India.
VFBV is confident that together, Peter, Dawn and Kent will bring significant experience and capability to the CFA Board and make a valuable contribution to the future CFA. They along with the other impressive applicants demonstrate the extensive breadth, experience and skills within the volunteer ranks and are a shining example of the professionalism and capability of CFA volunteers.
We also take this opportunity to thank outgoing CFA Board members Lynda Hamilton, Hazel Clothier and Tim Young who each served on the Board for the previous three years. They join a long list of Victorians who have stepped up to represent their communities and volunteers at the Board table. We remain forever indebted to their service and contribution, noting all are eligible for renomination in the future. Given the particularly difficult period that CFA has undergone over the last three years, VFBV expresses its sincere thanks for their efforts and contributions during their time on the CFA Board.
In the process of finalising these positions, an unexpected late withdrawal of a selected nominee has created a casual vacancy. The Minister has established a process to fill this remaining position, to which we are now working towards. VFBV has completed its advertising and interview process for this vacancy, with interviews of applicants continuing over the weekend. A new panel is being finalised by the VFBV Board for submission to the Minister shortly.
We are hopeful for an expedited announcement regarding the fourth nominee, and will await the results of the Minister’s deliberations, with an announcement expected shortly.
On behalf of the VFBV Board and State Council – please join us in congratulating Peter, Dawn and Kent on their appointments to the CFA Board, and thank-you to Lynda, Hazel and Tim for their valued and respected service and contribution over the last three years.
VFBV is proud to be a supporting partner to this years AFAC Conference powered by Interschutz.
Interschutz is kindly offering free entry to this years Trade Exhibition that is run in parallel to the AFAC Conference. All CFA volunteers and VFBV members registering for the Trade Exhibition will also be given a complimentary $15 lunch voucher.
The Trade Exhibition is being held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Tuesday 27 August through to Thursday 29th August 2019.
The exhibition features 12,000 sqm of exhibition space; close to 200 cutting edge equipment and service providers; 30+ Expo stage presentations; live demonstrations; AIDR Knowledge Centre and more. Come and see the latest technology, personal protective clothing, and equipment on display by some of the world’s largest emergency management suppliers and manufacturers.
VFBV will be on stand #595 and members are welcome to drop by and have a chat. We will have laptops on hand so volunteers can complete this year’s VFBV Welfare & Efficiency Survey while they are there. Our colleagues from our National Body will also be present, with the Council of Australian Volunteer Fire Associations (CAVFA) on stand #597 who we’ll also be helping out during the week.
Do the following to register for your free Visitor pass and to secure your free $15 lunch voucher:
· Visit https://www.afacconference.com.au/register/
· Select Visitor Pass (scroll down to the bottom right hand corner)
· Enter your details
· Under Conference Delegate, select Exhibition Visitor Only
· Choose the Member option
· Select your Organisation – members can select either Country Fire Authority or Council of Australian Volunteer Fire Associations.
· Complete the remaining details
You will receive an email confirmation and barcode for you to hand in on the day to pick up your pass and lunch ticket.
Presumptive Regulations
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer
I am pleased to report on the positive progress made in developing the Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation Regulations 2019 and the work of VFBV in advocating strongly for CFA volunteers.
Presumptive Legislation provides a rebuttable presumption for volunteer and career firefighters suffering from specified forms of cancer. It legislates that these cancers are presumed to be due to the nature of their service as a firefighter for the purposes of claiming compensation. It is intended to reverse the onus of proof so the sick firefighter does not have to needlessly face the almost impossible task of proving which specific fires, incidents or toxins caused the cancer.
The presumptive rights part of the legislation formed Part 2 of the Government’s Fire Services Reform Bill, and, unlike the remaining parts of the legislation, the presumptive rights portion of the Bill came into operation on the day after the Act received Royal Assent.
One of the first priorities for VFBV was to influence the Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation Regulations that were to be developed immediately following Royal Assent. While the Bill provides the framework for the law, the Regulations provide the detail and specifics that are required to give practical effect to how administrative processes would actually work. For volunteers in particular, the Regulations are even more critical, as they deal with the workings of the controversial ‘advisory committee’ required for all Victorian volunteer firefighter claims.
VFBV’s concerns and objections to the additional barriers and processes that only volunteer firefighter claims must go through are well known and documented. I am not going to repeat them here. However, while the regulations are not able to completely cure those problems (as they have to operate within the framework of the principal legislation), we saw an opportunity to work with Government and stakeholders to develop the regulations in such a way that could minimise the harm while hopefully mitigating the potential bias that the legislation creates. The goal was to influence the regulations as best we could to ensure volunteers received as fair and respectful treatment as possible under the circumstances.
That is why I am so pleased to report that our hard work and collaboration over many weeks with the Minister, the Hon. Lisa Neville, her staff, EMV and Worksafe on the drafting has had some positive effects. The Regulations have consequently now been made by the Governor and were given effect on 9 July. And while there were, of course, compromises along the way, I am pleased with the result and very grateful for the hard work and good faith displayed by the Minister’s office in particular.
Discussions were very productive and respectful and gave me increased confidence that the much-needed healing of divisions of the past is on the right track.
One of VFBV’s primary objectives was to gain increased transparency in the advisory committee process and its outcomes. In this vein, the new Regulations require the advisory committee to provide its expert opinion (and the reasons for it) within 10 days of receiving the request from WorkSafe. The Regulations also now provide an opportunity for the claimant firefighter to provide their own information to the committee should they wish to – and the firefighter can request a copy of the expert opinion and the reasons for it, which must be provided within 7 days of the request being made.
These were key criticisms of the original legislation and these changes are important safeguards that volunteers will welcome as they significantly increase the transparency and accountability of the committee.
Other areas of importance was the ability for the nomination and activation of the three person panel to be tailored to best suit the nature of the application they are to review. For example, the panel that reviews whether a volunteer firefighter has ‘attended fires to the extent reasonably necessary’ could be made up of just fire service experts, which may be different to a panel established to review an exceptional exposure event that may requires scientific knowledge. This starts to lay the groundwork and shape the working of the panel closer to the simple ‘tick and flick’ process that was promised to us.
There is also provision for the panel to help the applicant firefighter obtain relevant records or local knowledge – an important safeguard should agency records be incomplete or insufficient.
With the Regulations now complete, VFBV’s next priority is to review the actual claims forms and process to ensure a sick firefighter is not delayed or confused by complicated paperwork. Our preliminary analysis indicates current forms are likely to be somewhat confusing for firefighters submitting a presumptive claim for cancer. This is mainly because the forms were primarily designed to report common workplace injuries where exact causes are known. We will now direct our efforts at working with WorkSafe and CFA on possible solutions. We are also investigating options for additional support for volunteers as they go through the claims process, and I’ll report back on progress shortly.
In summary, this is a positive outcome considering our starting point, and demonstrates the value of working cooperatively and in good faith with stakeholders to achieve a good outcome.
The proof will be in the pudding so to speak, so while good progress has been made on the intent and design of administrative processes, we will need to remain vigilant and monitor the progress of future claims that will test these processes. Despite the inherent weaknesses of the legislation, we will need to see whether these measures can, in fact, mitigate the different treatment of volunteers and career staff simply because one is paid. The ultimate measure of success will be that there is parity of results and all firefighters who go through the system receive fair, equitable and compassionate treatment. We will all need to monitor the situation closely to ensure those commitments and promises are kept.
Rob Gibbs
Most of us know the story of Rob Gibbs, who has courageously spoken up about his treatment by CFA and the authorities over the last three years as he has battled for compensation to support his medical expenses and care.
A few short years ago Rob was a healthy, active firefighter, filling key leadership roles, a regular first responder including attendance at many significant and well publicised incidents. Today Rob, 48, is wheelchair- bound and in constant pain from leukaemia. He is battling this terrible, painful illness and has clear advice from a medical specialist that his firefighting was the primary cause. And yet he continues to be forced to battle insurers and lawyers when he should be concentrating on his health and his family. Rob has been left out in the cold because the legislation that passed Parliament in June this year contained a clause that only backdated presumptive rights to diagnoses occurring after 1 June 2016.
VFBV will continue to support and campaign strongly for Rob, who deserves a fair and just outcome – not just for himself but for his wife and young daughter. We will keep working for the best, but Rob’s experience remains a cautionary tale and one I hope gets addressed as quickly as possible – not just for the trust of CFA volunteers but for the simple humanity, compassion and fairness that Rob is due. We will continue to monitor progress of Rob’s case and will keep you apprised.
AFAC Conference
Just a reminder that if you’re in Melbourne for this year’s AFAC Conference, pop in and say hello.
VFBV will be on Stand #595 in the exhibition space at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre in Southbank throughout the conference. Members are welcome to drop by and have a chat. We will have laptops on hand so volunteers can complete this year’s VFBV Welfare & Efficiency Survey while they are there.
CFA Board Vacancy
Want to be part of leading and shaping the CFA into the future? You could be the right person for a position on the CFA Board.
A late withdrawal from the CFA Board nominee process has raised a second opportunity for members to nominate for the current round of appointments. The position is currently vacant and VFBV will expedite the process to ensure the position can be filled as quickly as possible. Applications opened on 30 July and close 15 August 2019.
The Board position is one of those nominated by VFBV and any member with experience who believes they have the skills and desire to play a leading role in the CFA is invited to apply. This position is for a CFA volunteer from a brigade serving predominately urban communities. VFBV notes the Victorian Government is committed to seeing equal representation of gender on boards, and female applicants from brigades serving predominately urban communities are highly encouraged to apply.
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.
Previous applicants who attended interviews this year are not required to re-apply, as all will automatically be considered for the panel of names to be presented to the Minister.
The CFA Board meets on a monthly basis and also operates a committee system which could require a minimum commitment of 2 days per month. Attendance at official functions is also expected. The appointment to the CFA Board would be for a period of up to three years; the retiring members are eligible for re-appointment.
The CFA Board Charter is available from the VFBV office.
For other relevant information, interested volunteers should contact the VFBV office. Applications including a current resume must be emailed or faxed to VFBV by COB on Thursday 15 August 2019 to: Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Fax (03) 9886 1618.
VFBV Volunteer Welfare & Efficiency Survey
This year’s survey will open on Friday 23rd August to coincide with this year’s AFAC Conference being held in Melbourne.
The VFBV Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey, now in its 8th year - is an annual snapshot of volunteer opinion and welfare. It has become a critical tool in monitoring short- and long-term trends, and the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at improving CFA volunteer engagement and wellbeing.
The survey is made up of 33 questions chosen by volunteers and takes just 10 or 15 minutes to complete. It is the largest survey of its kind in Australia, and VFBV supports the other Australian States and Territory volunteer associations in running the same survey within the other fire services to gain a national perspective.
Visit the VFBV website to pre-register for this year’s survey so you get notified the minute it opens.
Fast feedback needed
All members are asked to provide VFBV with feedback on the draft CFA Training Strategic Plan 2019-2024 by Sunday 25 August.
CFA commenced consultation on the draft plan on 26 July and copies can be sourced from your VFBV District Council or direct from the VFBV website.
Your views have already made a difference: strong feedback from the VFBV Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey (Vol- WEL), which placed training as one of the top two frustrations and areas of dissatisfaction for volunteers, is quoted by CFA as a key influencer of the approach to the plan. CFA says the plan “responds to the 2018 VFBV Welfare and Efficiency survey feedback by ensuring that we provide sufficient training opportunities in formats and at times which in turn will make it easier for our people to complete their training.”
A number of commitments and statements of how activity will be delivered are included in the plan. Members ‘on the ground’ know best whether the strategic intent will deliver practical benefits on the ground, so your view is important.
Feedback can be sent direct to; Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Post: 9/24 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East VIC 3151 or Fax: (03) 9886 1618
Executive Officer Appointed
VFBV continues to strengthen its skill base and our deep commitment to supporting CFA volunteers with the appointment of Mark Dryden to the VFBV Executive Officer role. Mark started his role on 1 August.
Mark is well known to members, having worked as a VFBV Support Officer in the South East since early 2016. Mark is also a long serving volunteer with more than 25 years’ service. He has served with multiple brigades throughout his life, such as Yackandandah (D24), Kialla (D22), Moorooduc and Skye (D8). He is presently settling in to his new home in Drouin in District 9.
Mark’s deep insights into the needs of volunteers, his experience liaising with many different stakeholders, his organisational and consultation skills and his in-depth knowledge of CFA will be greatly appreciated by VFBV and volunteers alike.
Thank-you to all applicants who applied: they have demonstrated the very high quality of competency and knowledge in candidates who have an interest in working for this unique and very important organisation.
VFBV has commenced advertising for the VFBV Support Officer – South East position, which is vacant as a result of Mark’s appointment. If you know of someone who would love to make a difference for CFA volunteers and who has the skills to facilitate good consultation, issue resolution and volunteer engagement, please refer to the advertisement on this page. Mark will continue to support the South East while the position remains vacant and as he transitions to his new role.
Bullying high but reporting low
The CFA complaints process continues to be one of the most serious and contentious issues dealt with by the Joint HR, Welfare and OH&S Committee. VFBV delegates are strongly pushing for volunteers to be fairly, equitably and appropriately treated in any complaint process, and for proper transparency about the process and tracking of cases to ensure they are resolved in a timely manner.
At a recent meeting the committee was informed that data received by CFA consistently indicates that rates of bullying and harassment are unacceptably high, however levels of reporting are low.
There is a perception that many volunteers feel there is little point in raising an issue as they believe it will not be dealt with adequately and fairly, or that there will be negative consequences for the complainant. The committee was told CFA is working on simplifying the process.
VFBV will continue to advocate for fundamental changes to CFA’s current discipline and complaints processes and is seeking an overhaul that will improve confidence amongst volunteers that members will receive natural justice and procedural fairness.
VFBV would advise any member who wishes to lodge a formal complaint to access:- https://cfaonline.cfa.vic.gov.au/mycfa/Show?pageId=display-Doc&docId=005323
Making recruitment and retention easier
VFBV has formed a joint working party with CFA following repeated requests from brigades for a way to easily share and find information about existing and tested recruitment and retention strategies used by fellow brigades around the state. The working party will aim to ensure programs developed for brigades to retain and recruit new members are user-friendly.
Initiatives under review include editable marketing templates and knowledge-sharing platforms (which includes case studies direct from brigades about how they have re-engaged, recruited or retained members). Programs may include a variety of word style documents, brochures, still images and videos, and even a suggestion of podcasts. Rural decline is also part of the program, with a pilot underway in Edenhope (District 17) and Wedderburn (District 20).
CFA is also looking at youth retention and recruitment initiatives in other organisations, such as other emergency services, Scouts and the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. It is believed that CFA has around 4000 operational youth members (aged between 16-17 years up to 24 years old). CFA is currently working through the seven key areas of child safety to ensure that the organisation is compliant and meet legislative requirements, which has caused some programs to ‘slow down’, such as the cadet program, Duke of Edinburgh Award, and La Trobe University visits.
CFA committed to continue supporting, maintaining and growing junior membership and ensuring that members under 18 years are made to feel safe at all times.
Position Vacant – VFBV Support Officer
VFBV is seeking to appoint a VFBV Support Officer to work in regional Victoria with VFBV District Councils, Brigades and volunteers to facilitate consultation, issues resolution and volunteer engagement.
The position is a State role, with emphasis and focus on providing support throughout CFA’s South East region (CFA Districts 8, 9, 10, 11 and 27.)
This is an existing position, with the incumbent moving to another role within VFBV.
In addition to relevant skills and experience, candidates will need to understand CFA and volunteerism, be good listeners; be able to facilitate good consultation; ability to establish productive networks; navigate through complex issues resolution; be self-starters and have a passion to improve arrangements that benefit the welfare and efficiency of CFA volunteers.
Extensive regional Victorian work travel is envisaged and flexible work base locations will be considered for the position, with the priority focus to assign a work location within the CFA South East Region.
Flexible working arrangements, to cater for extensive evening and weekend work, will be tailored to match the needs of our volunteer membership base.
This is a full-time position giving the right candidate an opportunity to really put his/her stamp on the VFBV of the future.
All applications must include both a current resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria outlined in the position description available from the VFBV office or website.
Get to know this year's OAM recipients - Les Sumner OAM
Written by VFBV
In this year’s Queens Birthday Honours Leslie Rupert Sumner, Cobden, received an OAM for service to the community of Cobden, including through Jancourt Fire Brigade (since 1960) and Cobden Fire Brigades Group (since 2013). He was also head trainer and life member at Cobden Football and trainer for the Victorian Country Football League, in addition to other volunteering around Cobden.
To get to know Les, we asked for some personal insights into his life, especially with the CFA.
1. What prompted you to join the CFA?
I officially joined in 1960 which was when you had to register but I had been involved before that. My parents had bought a property at Cobrico and I got involved when I left school about 1950. We didn’t have a fire truck then but Clem Hose had a truck with a tank on the back. I remember there was a house fire beside us. We were milking in the morning and went out to get cows and saw the smoke. Dad knew the house so we flew up there but the house was gone. From then on whenever something happened you got a phone call to come and help. In ’51 we had big fires going through from Naroghid to the coast. Every day from January 26 to Good Friday we were out fighting fires and I was involved with that. When we shifted to Jancourt I got involved there.
2. What have been your roles with the CFA and are you still involved?
I’ve been a Jancourt member since 1960, secretary and delegate for the Jancourt brigade since 1969 and treasurer from 2003 to 2009, deputy group officer between 1981 and 2007 and secretary 1981 to 1997 and I’ve been assistant communications officer for the Cobden Fire Brigades Group since 2013. I’ve stepped back a bit but still do the comms role and I’m still secretary at Jancourt after more than 50 years.
3. What drives you to undertake roles, with CFA or anywhere, with such a focus on serving communities?
I just like to help the community. Everyone was involved. It’s a community thing when you’re in the country. When you’re in the country and your family is growing up you have to take them to things so you get involved. If you didn’t like doing it, you wouldn’t do it.
4. What is the most important thing you’ve learned in your time as a CFA volunteer?
Everyone is there for the same reason; to help your fellow person out, whether it’s a house fire or car accident or a cat stuck up a tree you’re there to help. In those days it you’d ring people to help on the telephone, now it’s all pagers.
5. What do you think your best achievements are in your role with CFA?
I’ve been to different places like the big fires in Sydney and to Marysville on Black Saturday. That was probably the worst, the town was completely decimated. It was shocking and very traumatic.
6. What is your best memory - funny or serious – about your time with CFA as a volunteer?
We did have a cat up a tree but our ladder wasn’t tall enough to go to the top so we had to bring in the big truck with the high ladder from Cobden. We only had a Willy’s jeep.
7. Which was your favourite role or activity with CFA and why?
I just enjoy being part of the team.
8. What makes a good CFA volunteer?
Do what you have to do and be a part of a team and get behind the leader. The sooner you get the job done, the sooner you get home.
Congratulations Les and thanks for being such an inspiring part of our CFA family.
PHOTO CREDIT: Cobden Timboon Coast Times
VFBV is seeking to appoint a VFBV Support Officer to work in regional Victoria with VFBV District Councils, Brigades and volunteers to facilitate consultation, issues resolution and volunteer engagement.
The position is a State role, with emphasis and focus on providing support throughout CFA’s South East region (CFA Districts 8, 9, 10, 11 and 27.)
This is an existing position, with the incumbent moving to another role within VFBV.
In addition to relevant skills and experience, candidates will need to understand CFA and volunteerism, be good listeners; be able to facilitate good consultation; ability to establish productive networks; navigate through complex issues resolution; be self-starters and have a passion to improve arrangements that benefit the welfare and efficiency of CFA volunteers.
Extensive regional Victorian work travel is envisaged and flexible work base locations will be considered for the position, with the priority focus to assign a work location within the CFA South East Region.
Flexible working arrangements, to cater for extensive evening and weekend work, will be tailored to match the needs of our volunteer membership base.
This is a full time position giving the right candidate an opportunity to really put his/her stamp on the VFBV of the future.
All applications must include both a current resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria outlined in the position description available from the VFBV office or website.
Send applications to the attention of the CEO, VFBV, PO Box 453, Mt. Waverley, Vic. 3149 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Applications close Sunday 15th September 2019.
Any questions or queries re the application process should be directed to Cathie Smith from the VFBV Office on (03) 9886 1141 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Any interested applicants to the VFBV Support Officer position, are also encouraged to speak to one of our existing VFBV Support Officers and/or State Councillors who would be more than happy to give members a sense of the role.
The opportunity has arisen for a volunteer nominee to be appointed to the CFA Board.
As members would recall, in February this year VFBV advertised for applications from suitably experienced volunteers for appointment to one of four vacant CFA Board positions which were to expire this year at the end of their three year fixed term appointment. With VFBV’s process to advertise for and nominate names to fill these positions completed last month, VFBV understands an announcement to confirm three of the appointments is imminent.
In finalising the appointment an unexpected late withdrawal of one selected nominee has now created a further vacancy and therefore the VFBV Board has decided to reactivate its advertisement/selection process in order to fill this new vacancy. The vacancy is for a CFA volunteer from a brigade predominately serving urban communities.
In light of significant legislative changes passed by the Victorian Parliament in June this year this is a significant opportunity to lead the future direction and shape of CFA. The position is currently vacant and VFBV will be expediting the process to ensure the position can be filled as quickly as possible. Applications are open and will close 15th August 2019.
Previous applicants who attended interviews this year are not required to re-apply, as all will automatically be considered for the panel of names to be presented to the Minister. Members are reminded that the Victorian Government is committed to seeing equal representation of gender on boards, and female applicants from brigades serving predominately urban communities are highly encouraged to apply.
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. 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 an additional commitment of one half day per month. Attendance at official functions is also expected.
The appointment to the CFA Board would be for a period of up to three years; the retiring members are eligible for re-appointment.
The CFA Board Charter is available for download at the bottom of this page. For other relevant information, interested volunteers should contact the VFBV office.
Applications including a current resume must be emailed or faxed to VFBV by COB on Thursday 15th August 2019 to: Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Fax 03 9886 1618.
In this year’s Queens Birthday Honours, Leolyn Clem Watkins was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for service to the community of Ararat, including as a member of Warrak Brigade since 1961, with Life Membership awarded in 1992.
To get to know Leo, we asked for some personal insights into his life, especially with the CFA.
1. What have been your roles with the CFA and are you still involved?
I was never a captain or anything like that; just one of the soldier ants, so to speak.
2. What drives you to undertake roles, with CFA or anywhere, with such a focus on serving communities?
I just did my little bit and was quite happy to do so, but there were a lot of others around the town who’ve done a lot more than I’ve done and are worthy of awards. I’ve been out fighting fires and participated in whatever was going on around the place. I was on any local committee around here; the hall committee, the cemetery Trust, the recreation committee. It was just the accepted thing; you were in the community so you did your bit. I don’t know if it was expected of you, but I could see the benefit of it and I was prepared to put my hand up.
3. What prompted you to join the CFA?
I think I joined in 1961. I’m 85 now, going on 86. I’ve got a sheep property here at Warrak, which is about 20 kilometres east of Ararat. It was just the accepted thing in those days. If you were in the community you had to be prepared to protect your properties. It’s only a small community but we all helped. It wasn’t just me, there were always others around the place who had properties. We got together and if there was a fire, we worked on it.
4. What is the most important thing you’ve learned in your time as a CFA volunteer?
It was good for me to be involved. You become aware of when there are fire ban days and you keep your eyes open and make sure you don’t do stupid things like grinding metal and that sort of thing. You become aware of how dangerous fires are and how easily they can start.
5. What do you think your best achievements are in your role with CFA?
Fortunately, where I’m situated, the fires never came any closer than five kilometres, though a fire did burn about 20 acres of scrub on a portion of a bush block which adjoins me. It was just good to be available to help when needed.
6. Which was your favourite role or activity with CFA and why?
I’ve tried and done the best I could just to help the brigade and the community with anything that was needed.
7. What makes a good CFA volunteer?
Be prepared to put aside what you’re doing and put your efforts to helping others.
Congratulations Leo and thanks for being such an inspiring part of our CFA family.
Get to know this year's OAM recipients - Merv Hampson OAM
Written by VFBV
In this year’s Queens Birthday Honours Mervyn Arthur Hampson, from Mortlake, was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for service to veterans and their families through the Returned and Services League of Australia and Naval Association of Australia. A Life Member of Mortlake Fire Brigade, where he joined in 1979, he has received CFA’s 35-Year Service Award and National Medal.
To get to know Merv, we asked for some personal insights into his life, especially with the CFA.
1. What prompted you to join the CFA?
I joined in ’79. I’d done a lot of fire brigade training in the Navy. One day I was sitting at home here and saw the fire truck racing to a house fire and I realised it was my best friend’s house on fire. I raced down to see if could help. They were really short-handed and I ended up on the roof with the captain and he said you’d better join the brigade. I enjoyed it ever since.
2. What have been your roles with the CFA and are you still involved?
I’m still a member but I’m 79 now and I’m less active now. I haven’t had many roles. I’ve been Communications Officer. I never worked in the town – I was out on different farms all the time - so if the phone rang, I wouldn’t be any good as a lieutenant or a captain.
3. What drives you to undertake roles, with CFA or anywhere, with such a focus on serving communities?
I just like doing things; I can’t stand to be idle. As soon as I came out of the Navy, I was asked to join the RSL which I did and I’ve had a couple of stints as President, and I’m in that role at the moment. We didn’t have a branch of the Naval Association here in the south-west and a fellow asked me to help him to see if we could get together a little branch, which we did and it’s still going quite strong.
4. What is most important thing you’ve learned in your time as a CFA volunteer?
That’s a hard question, but I think it’s important to know how valuable it is to help people, plus getting the skills and training to know that if there’s a fire you’re able to do something about it and help people. I did all the relevant training courses up at the fire station and went to Fiskville and Penshurst a few times.
5. What do you think your best achievements are in your role with CFA?
The times I went away as staging area assistant manager. I went to several different places across the state to help when there were major fires. We went to a big one at Corryong, to Heyfield in Gippsland and a couple of stints in our district at Dunkeld and Dartmoor and a fair few others. I wasn’t home for Ash Wednesday. I was working at Port Campbell but ended up on the back of a truck and helped out down there.
6. What is your best memory - funny or serious – about your time with CFA as a volunteer?
Coming home from a big factory fire in Terang we decided to stop at the Noorat pub. We went in for a drink and stayed a while. A fella walked in and said you blokes must be with the fire brigade. He said there’s a truck out there and apparently its lost. The radio was going flat out - they were wanting to know where we were.
7. Which was your favourite role or activity with CFA and why?
I’ve had some wonderful experiences and met marvellous people. It’s good to be a part of the community, particularly in the staging area capacity where you record all the vehicles and everyone who goes out to a fire. If something happens and you want to find them, you know exactly where they are.
8. What makes a good CFA volunteer?
Dedication to your community.
Congratulations Merv and thanks for being such an inspiring part of our CFA family.
PHOTO CREDIT: Western District Newspapers
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Get to know this year's OAM recipients - John Fleming OAM
Written by VFBV
In this year’s Queens Birthday Honours John McKenzie Fleming, Inverloch, received the OAM for service to the community of Wonthaggi, including the Glen Alvie Fire Brigade (since 1996) and Wonthaggi Fire Brigade (from 1961) where he is also a life member.
To get to know John, we asked for some personal insights into his life, especially with the CFA.
1. What prompted you to join the CFA?
I joined in 1961. I was the Holden dealer in Wonthaggi at the time. I used to see the old Austin pumper going down the main street with one person driving it going to a fire. He was the captain and also our grocer, his grocery shop was about 100 yards from the fire station. I asked him how come he was driving by himself, where’s the rest of your crew? He said they get along in due course so I said do you need some help? He said sure do so I joined and that was it.
2. What have been your roles with the CFA and are you still involved?
I’ve been brigade secretary, training officer and group officer for 18 years and been as far as Queensland fighting fires. One time we took 37 vehicles to Tenterfield and spent a week there helping because they’d been fighting fires for six weeks and were worn out. I also spent a week in northern Victoria in the logistics section when there were fires at Mount Beauty. People say we should pay you for the job you do; my answer to that is the day you pay me is the day I’ll resign. When you’re a volunteer you can choose what you want to do, you don’t own me.
3. What drives you to undertake roles, with CFA or anywhere, with such a focus on serving communities?
I’m 88 now and retired but I’ve had a saying for many years that we do these things because we can, not because we have to. You see a need and you try and fill it.
4. What is the most important thing you’ve learned in your time as a CFA volunteer?
Self-help. You can help protect your community but your community is the whole of Australia, not just your town. I don’t want to get into a debate about the CFA and MFB. That’s stupid. If that happens, we’ll lose our surge capacity and there will be some disastrous fires.
5. What do you think your best achievements are in your role with CFA?
Just being there and doing things. I was involved as a commissioner in the shire amalgamations in 1994 and we had the motto `make it happen’ and that’s what we did. It was the same with the CFA.
6. What is your best memory - funny or serious – about your time with CFA as a volunteer?
Every fire is different and you have to treat it as such. There were some stories I wouldn’t want to talk about, probably the stupid things with bureaucracy.
7. Which was your favourite role or activity with CFA and why?
Just being there. It’s good to contribute to the community.
8. What makes a good CFA volunteer?
Community interest. You need people to look after the community.
Congratulations John and thanks for being such an inspiring part of our CFA family.
PHOTO CREDIT: Brad Lester of The Great Southern Star
Get to know this year's OAM recipients - John Munckton OAM
Written by VFBV
In this year’s Queens Birthday Honours. John Anthony Munckton of Glenaroua, received an OAM for service to the community of Seymour, including as a member of Glenaroua Fire Brigade, where he has volunteered since 1970, served as president from 1980-1996 and became a CFA Life Member in 2010.
To get to know John, we asked for some personal insights into his life, especially with the CFA.
1. What prompted you to join the CFA?
I joined in 1970. It was a natural thing to do. As a rural person, I have a sheep farm, you just served the community. Everyone pitched in. It’s a great sense of community when people pull together for a common cause.
2. What have been your roles with the CFA and are you still involved?
I was president for 16 years and was brigade representative to the group and region during that period, and basically a firefighter the whole time. I qualified as a crew leader in 2002. I’ve received a life membership and a 45-year service medal. I’m still a member but I’m nearly 70 and not as active these days.
3. What drives you to undertake roles, with CFA or anywhere, with such a focus on serving communities?
I was a shire councillor for a number of years and twice shire president, I’ve been president and assistant secretary and a life member of the Seymour Agricultural and Pastoral Society which runs the Seymour Show, I’ve been president of the Victorian Wine Show, on the Pyalong Water Board and Seymour Primary School council, vice president of the Graziers Association and I was a member of other organisations. I just like contributing to the community.
4. What is the most important thing you’ve learned in your time as a CFA volunteer?
I appreciate that it’s purely a volunteer organisation and people pull together for a common cause. That’s something that should not be threatened by any bureaucracy or government because the bottom line of our community is voluntary involvement. If that saves money for any local, state or federal government that should be applauded and promoted.
5. What do you think your best achievements are in your role with CFA?
Just being there when I’m needed. When there was a fire and you were required, you dropped tools and off you went.
6. What is your best memory - funny or serious – about your time with CFA as a volunteer?
I have a lot of good memories. I could say the earlier days of my involvement in the CFA saw a freer way of doing things from members who were not subject to the political correctness and bureaucracy we now experience. For instance, we ate sandwiches at a fire prepared by our wives and ladies associated with the brigade – no-one died as far as I can remember.
In the early days, the old Austin fire truck was our stalwart and it had no protective sides and a crash gear box. You went out there armed only with a good woollen jumper, long pants and boots and some water and you didn’t know when you were coming home. Things have changed a lot, although I would say the safety side of firefighting has dramatically improved with better truck protection and personal clothing protection and tests or basic fire knowledge.
7. Which was your favourite role or activity with CFA and why?
I just enjoyed giving my time. I haven’t really thought about doing it, it was just part of community involvement.
8. What makes a good CFA volunteer?
Someone prepared to drop tools when the occasion requires and goes to defend the district and an individual’s property.
Congratulations John and thanks for being such an inspiring part of our CFA family.
An historic decision for CFA
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer – written 1 July 2019
The CFA as we know it changed forever on Thursday 20 June 2019 after the controversial Fire Services (Reform) Bill was passed by the Legislative Council of the 59th Victorian Parliament 21 votes to 18.
For better or worse, the world respected CFA integrated model that has served Victoria so well has been replaced by a new model, with the details of how it will actually work unknown and still to be worked out. Let that sentence sink in – no modelling, no plan and no analysis.
There is much to do, and an ambitious timeframe to work out an extensive amount of detail before the new model comes into effect next year, particularly with the fire season in between. The division of assets, duties and ongoing management between the new co-located Fire Rescue Victoria stations and the remnant CFA volunteer brigades that are to be de-integrated is an obvious immediate priority.
There is also the development and, hopefully, proper piloting of the incident management doctrine needed as a result of separating one current fire service into two fire services operating in the same geographic areas but with potentially different equipment, training, doctrines and command structures. This will apply to former integrated brigades as well as all those around them where mutual support arrangements will need to be developed.
Everyone is interested in ensuring that community and firefighter safety is not compromised during the transition, and to this end work has already started. VFBV has been meeting with CFA, EMV and Government officials including the office of the Minister for Police and Emergency Services to establish constructive discussions and ensure volunteer views are represented in decision- making and the proposed implementation structures.
Before I go further, I want to acknowledge how many CFA volunteers, their families, and communities, are feeling. This was not the decision or outcome many of us wanted. We have been clear and consistent in expressing our concerns about the risks and how this will impact on CFA’s effectiveness, and on the men and women who built and made it the world-respected fire service it is today.
I stated on the night the Bill passed that although our warnings and advice have gone unheeded and many volunteers would be feeling betrayed and broken-hearted, all of them should sleep with a clear conscience.
We have articulated our concerns, both collectively through VFBV and separately. We have put forward thoughtful, logical and factual advice, backed up by trusted fire services leaders and experts, and made available the vast knowledge and experience of CFA volunteers in warning of the dangers and unintended consequences that accompany the arrangements proposed in this Bill, not to mention the dangers of the ‘just make it up as we go’ attitude that now pervades.
I have no doubt that CFA volunteers’ profound sense of duty to their communities and to the people of Victoria will overcome their immediate reactions - for now. We are used to backing each other and getting on with the job, and the job ahead is immense. We will need to seize the positive and the opportunities and try to minimise the negative and prevent the harm. Volunteers should remember that history is scattered with setbacks and losses, and often they serve as catalysts for positive change. We should not just set our eyes on the next couple of years – but think much more long-term about how CFA might look in 5, 10- or 20-years’ time.
The history of our own volunteer association dates back to 1884 and spans over 135 years where volunteers have tirelessly and selflessly worked and toiled, sometimes with dogged determination to build the CFA we know today. Volunteer firefighters have been the drivers of CFA’s world-successful and respected achievements. They have led, administered and coordinated CFA services to our communities for decades, whether it is in prevention, preparedness, or response and recovery. We know what we’re talking about.
We now have an obligation to use that knowledge and experience to build tomorrows CFA, no matter how hard that may seem now. Our experience and achievements deserve to be respected, and we must continue to ensure the promises made to us through the Volunteer Charter are honoured and respected. For that is how the collective wisdom, knowledge and experience of volunteers can best be utilised, and that is now the task ahead of all of us. We owe it to our forebears and those that will come after us - to build the best CFA we can.
Now is the time to heal the divisions that we never wanted but that have been created by the agenda of recent years. It is now critically important that we all unite behind our common cause in putting our communities first and protecting lives and property. For our part - VFBV is committed to working hard with the Government, agencies and all stakeholders to find common ground and heal the divisions of the recent past. We are committed to working constructively and in good faith as we move into the next part of this journey. No one should read this as a sign of giving up, in fact it is just the opposite. Just as we do on the fire ground, we must remain agile and adaptable. Changed circumstances calls for new thinking and our strategy must evolve with it.
Next steps for VFBV
We will proceed in good faith and look to salvage the best possible outcomes from these changes. We will also ensure decision-makers are held to account for the structures, promises and commitments they have made, and for that we need your help.
As well as meeting with CFA and other stakeholders, VFBV has begun work with our Brigades and Groups to ensure they are supported during these changes. VFBV delegates will be on hand to help members identify needs, challenges and opportunities, and areas requiring support. Together, we are working on improved processes to help you monitor impacts and ensure that any detrimental impacts on volunteers, communities and CFA brigades is well known and understood.
We need every brigade, group and member to support each other and to be active in contacting VFBV through your delegate or District Council executive if there are detrimental impacts or where commitments made are not being delivered on the ground.
Conversely – your local VFBV District Council is the perfect forum to start sharing your ideas and aspirations for what tomorrows CFA will look like. While at times it may feel like as individuals, we can’t make much of a difference, collectively we are a strong and powerful group that can make a huge difference. Things are likely to get worse before they get better. I don’t say this to depress you – but rather to manage your expectations. If elements of this reform are as unworkable as many have predicted – it may be better for those elements to fail quickly rather than be a long drawn out scab that gets picked at. We have done our best to warn of the dangers, now those that have made the decisions must accept responsibility for them. As always, I hope we will stand by our communities and give our all in our selfless service to the people of Victoria. History will judge what we do next, just as it will judge what has recently occurred. I urge you to be part of the new CFA, and rather than walk away or wait to be told what it will look like, busy yourselves in helping to create something we can all be proud.
Thank you
I would like to thank all those who contacted MPs or wrote letters about their concerns, and those who have been staunch defenders and supporters of the CFA and CFA volunteers throughout this turbulent period.
From MP’s to commentators, fire service experts and members of the general public - your support and confidence has been invaluable.
And to my fellow CFA volunteers, supporters and friends – I offer my sincere thanks and respect. It has taken great courage and conviction to stand up for what you believe in – and in the face of significant odds. I have never been more proud to stand beside you. Never lose faith nor hope. We are stronger together, and together we will continue to stand up for our communities and the safety of all Victorians.
VESEP 2019 Now Open
Applications are due to your Operations Manager by the 29th July 2019.
The Minister for Emergency Services has announced the opening of this year’s VESEP (Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program).
VESEP provides funding to assist emergency service volunteers in acquiring a wide range of ancillary equipment in recognition of your significant contribution in supporting Victorian communities in times of emergency. The funding formula for the program in most instances provides for $2 for $1 of Brigade/Group funding.
The program launched in the year 2000, which back then was called the CSESP Program (Community Safety Emergency Support Program) and was designed in close consultation with VFBV and volunteers and achieved VFBV's goal of having an annual grants program for volunteers - designed by volunteers, with a low paperwork requirement, $2 in grant money for every $1 of local contribution for sustainability and local buy-in, local driven priorities with annual strategic state initiatives, robust district/region and state volunteer peer review and a quick and timely approval and notification process to the successful brigades and groups.
Since its inception, the program has completed over 1,600 projects totalling more than $120 million dollars.
VFBV have put together an Application Help Pack and Case Studies to assist Brigades and Groups with their applications. This pack offers practical suggestions and complements CFA’s Guidelines and the 2019/2020 Application forms.
The pack is available for download from the VFBV website, or if Brigades would like a printed copy posted to them, then please call the VFBV Office on 9886 1141
Members can also contact their local VFBV State Councillors and/or VFBV Support Officers for any additional information or assistance with their applications. Previous years Case Studies can be downloaded from here.
We wish all Brigades and Groups well with your applications and thank you for your untiring service to Victoria!
Your voice is important
It is now more essential than ever that CFA and Government honour its obligations under the CFA Act and Volunteer Charter to genuinely consult with volunteers and VFBV as their representative body, on all matters that impact upon them.
As our annual VFBV Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey demonstrates, consultation by CFA on matters that affect volunteers is consistently the poorest performing area when it comes to issues that are important to volunteers.
The Government and CFA have made various private and public commitments to VFBV and volunteers about the implementation of their fire services restructure, including promises of close and genuine consultation on the implementation of the coming changes.
It is now more critical than ever that all members remain united and have a comprehensive view of whether those commitments are being met, so we can track them and inform stakeholders on the impacts of changes, including unintentional impacts as they arise.
The VFBV network, with elected representatives at brigade, district and state level, is here to represent you – so your ongoing feedback and advice about how change is impacting you and your brigade is vitally important.
Please participate and remain actively engaged with your VFBV representatives to ensure your voice is heard and to ensure decision makers are fully informed on how changes are impacting volunteers.
VFBV Volunteer Welfare & Efficiency Survey
This year’s survey will open on Friday 23rd August to coincide with this year’s AFAC Conference being held in Melbourne. VFBV will be on Stand #595 in the Exhibition space at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre in Southbank throughout the conference, and members are welcome to drop by and have a chat and complete the survey while they are there.
The VFBV Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey, now in its 8th year - is an annual snapshot of volunteer opinion and welfare. It has become a critical tool in monitoring short- and long-term trends, and the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at improving CFA volunteer engagement and wellbeing.
The survey is made up of 33 questions chosen by volunteers and takes just 10 or 15 minutes to complete. It is the largest survey of its kind in Australia, and VFBV supports the other Australian States and Territory volunteer associations in running the same survey within the other fire services to gain a national perspective.
Visit VFBV website to pre-register for this year’s survey so you get notified the minute it opens – or use the paper sign-up form that was posted to all Brigade/Group secretaries in this quarter’s mailout.
SOP feedback reminder
VFBV has received detailed feedback from members about the proposed CFA Standard Operating Procedure 6.06 Practical and Hot Fire Training.
Feedback and data provided by members is now being consolidated into a formal response to CFA. The feedback received was wide ranging, with unusually high levels of dissatisfaction raised with many aspects of the policy. Key themes included concerns for the increased workload and red tape being introduced; the wide scope that seems to pick up every training activity regardless of complexity or risk, and impractical approval process required to get CFA signoff.
One area of specific concern was the strong objection that training can only be conducted with ‘potable water’. (i.e. drinking water standard.) Member feedback indicated this standard is not practical nor sustainable with many worried about community backlash in using precious drinking water which was effectively being poured down the drain. Farmers and irrigators were the most critical, with many lamenting the long periods of drought and how offensive and disrespectful to rural communities it is to suggest that such a precious commodity be used in this manner.
Feedback confirmed that in many communities across Australia – potable water is not even available, let alone a practical standard for firefighting use. Examples of non-potable water is rainwater from tanks; water from creeks, dams and rivers; agricultural water used for crop irrigation; swimming pool water; and class A recycled water – the highest quality of recycled water that has been treated. While there was recognition that water must be clean, safe and fit for purpose, considerable feedback has indicated ‘drinking water’ to be an unachievable target.
This is a clear example of how critical it is to consult volunteers on decisions that affect them, and how policies need to respect the diversity of our operating environment. VFBV will be asking CFA for clarification, as it would have a significant impact on volunteer training and support if staff and paid instructors will refuse to participate if potable water is not available. VFBV will also be requesting that CFA provide support and funding to assist Brigades improve their access to appropriate water.
VFBV will provide consolidated feedback to CFA and is likely to recommend that this SOP be completely re-thought and redrafted to address the considerable concern raised by volunteers.
A reminder that SOP’s 5.04 Service Hose Testing and Coupling Inspection; 6.03 Derelict Structures – Burning Of ; 9.06 Fire Alarms – Monitoring and Logging of Tests; 9.14 Low Voltage Fuse Removal; 9.41 Safe Work at Heights; 10.24 Emergency Medical Response; and 10.27 Train Incidents are all being consulted on and feedback is due 15th July 2019.
Thank you to all volunteers, District Councils, brigades, Groups and District Planning Committees for the detailed and professional feedback received so far. We recognise and respect the time and skill it takes to read and recognise potential impacts and put it on paper in a detailed, professional and informative manner – so thank you!
Bushfire Thermal Imaging Camera course now available
Members will be pleased to learn that CFA has finally introduced a bushfire-themed Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC) course after considerable advocacy by VFBV on behalf of brigades.
CFA has seen an overwhelming increase in TICs thanks to grants like the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP). However, there have been serious shortages of courses, including the inability to provide courses due to skills profiles and pre-requisites that have excluded some brigades from the training. Disappointingly there has also been reports of CFA District variations around rules of when these time saving and critical pieces of equipment can be placed on trucks.
The new bushfire-themed TIC awareness course is now available on the Learning Management System (LMS) as an E-learning package.
Disappointingly, the VFBV/CFA Training Committee was not formally consulted on the actual package before it was uploaded, and the committee now encourages members who partake in the ‘E’ Learning module to provide ongoing feedback to your VFBV representatives so any issues can be identified and followed up.
Manual launched online
An updated Brigade Management Manual has now been launched on CFA Online following a comprehensive review.
The VFBV/CFA Volunteerism Committee was heavily involved in the review and delegates congratulated the CFA Volunteerism team on a good collaborative model that enabled enough time for VFBV to request feedback from members via our 2-Minute Briefing back in October last year.
This ensured feedback from the field was incorporated into the review. CFA has advised that members will have access to an online version as required, which incorporates links to various important information such as the Act, regulations, Standing Orders and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), as well as policies, forms, and more.
Each brigade will be given a paper version of the updated manual, which is expected to be available in August 2019.
VFBV will continue to work with CFA on updates to the manual to ensure it remains contemporary and relevant. If you have any feedback, including on content and design, please contact your local VFBV State Councillor or email CFA: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Invitation to Apply: Board Members of Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria
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. One member has advised they will not be re-applying; all other members are eligible for re-appointment.
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.
2019 VFBV Volunteer Welfare & Efficiency Survey – Register your interest!
Written by VFBV
This year’s survey will open on Friday 23rd August to coincide with this year’s AFAC Conference being held in Melbourne. VFBV will be on Stand #595 in the Exhibition space at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre in Southbank throughout the conference, and members are welcome to drop by and have a chat and complete the survey while they are there.
The VFBV Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey, now in its 8th year - is an annual snapshot of volunteer opinion and welfare. It has become a critical tool in monitoring short- and long-term trends, and the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at improving CFA volunteer engagement and wellbeing.
Click here to register to receive the survey via email when it opens.
The survey is made up of 33 questions chosen by volunteers and takes just 10 or 15 minutes to complete. It is the largest survey of its kind in Australia, and VFBV supports the other Australian States and Territory volunteer associations in running the same survey within the other fire services to gain a national perspective.
Please encourage all members of your brigade and group to register their interest in survey by signing up on online or downloading a sign-up sheet at the bottom of the page which was also posted to all Brigade and Group Secretaries in this quarter’s mailout.
The results of the 2018 VFBV Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey are available here and the 2018 National Volunteer Welfare and Efficiency Survey are available from the Council of Australian Volunteer Fire Associations (CAVFA) website.
