Emergency Procedures for the Mooney M10 Cadet

In October 2011, the NSW RFS also provided support to the SES following damaging storms in the Blue Mountains, which had significant impact on homes and transport infrastructure. Despite the ongoing wet weather, the season was not devoid of bush fire activity with three Section 44 declarations. This included two in the Blue Mountains where small but fast moving fires quickly impacted on properties. The other, in the far west, was the result of extensive lightning activity which generated a large number of fires. Across the year, it was encouraging to see so many of our volunteers get involved in our consultative processes. Importantly, these processes ensure volunteer members have a real say in the ongoing development and management of their Service. The Service’s ongoing Consultative Committees, held in conjunction with the Rural Fire Service Association, play a role in discussing key strategic matters for the organisation. Perhaps the largest effort in this area has been the rollout of regional forums for volunteers in 32 locations across the State. These have given volunteer members an opportunity to raise questions or concerns, while also giving members of the NSW RFS Executive a chance to better understand the varied issues seen by brigades and explain some of the Service's initiatives and changes. It has also been encouraging to see so many members embracing some of our programs aimed at retaining and increasing volunteers, ranging from our Flexible Membership Model and the development of the Leadership Capability Framework, to the ongoing Secondary School Cadet program which has again gone from strength to strength. These are all important projects which can assist in strengthening the organisation well into the future. These are of course just some of the highlights and there are many more which are outlined throughout this Annual Report. Naturally, the year has not been without its challenges and there will no doubt be more in the future, however the Service has responded to these in an agile and considered way. I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone who has played a role in these projects, programs and initiatives across the year. In particular I would like to thank the NSW RFS Executive for their leadership in what has been a challenging year. Of particular note, thank you to Assistant Commissioner Keith Harrap, Director Infrastructure Services, who retired following a long and distinguished career as both a volunteer and salaried member. I would also like to express my gratitude to the Hon. Michael Gallacher MLC, the Minister for Police and Emergency Services, as well as Mr Les Tree, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services and the staff for their assistance over the year. Thanks must also go to the salaried staff of the Service, particularly for their ongoing focus on ensuring our volunteers have the support, equipment and expertise required to deliver frontline services. Of course the biggest thanks must go to the men and women on the frontline – our volunteers – who have once again shown incredible dedication, commitment and versatility. While it has been a season dominated by rain and floods, it is inevitable that fire conditions will return. The ongoing efforts of volunteers in preparing communities and responding to a range of emergency incidents is something the Service and in fact the entire community is rightly proud of. Shane Fitzsimmons, AFSM Commissioner NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 5 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 5 our vision To provide a world standard of excellence in the provision of a community-based fire and emergency service our mission To protect the community and our environment we will minimise the impact of fire and other emergencies by providing the highest standards of training, community education, prevention and operational capability our values • mutual respect • adaptability and resourcefulness • one team, many players, one purpose • integrity and trust • support, friendship, camaraderie • community and environment • knowledge and learning our customers • The people of New South Wales • Our members our stakeholders • The people of New South Wales • The Minister for Police and Emergency Services • The Government of New South Wales • The insurance industry • Local Government • Other emergency services • Other government agencies nsw rural fire service 6 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 46 8 41 39 6 7 47 45 38 3 9 10 11 35 33 2 31 42 28 34 48 36 43 37 30 5 44 40 15 12 13 14 32 4 27 29 1 18 16 23 26 25 22 17 20 21 24 19 H Headquarters 15 Carter Street, Lidcombe N Region North Level 4, State Office Block, Victoria Street, Grafton S Region South 7-9 Kylie Crescent, Batemans Bay E Region East Level 2, Quad 1, 8 Parkview Drive, Sydney Olympic Park W Region West 3/21 Lovell Street, Young Office hours at all locations: 0845am-1700hrs, Monday to Friday 11/12 10/11 09/10 District Offices (including Teams and Zones) 48* 49 50 Brigades 2,036 2,039 2,051 nsw rfs districts 2011/12 E N S W H ■ Non-RFS NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 7 * Where a District is a team or zone the LGAs are listed beneath. Region North ■ 1. Far North Coast Ballina Byron Tweed 2. Northern Rivers Kyogle Lismore Richmond Valley 3. Clarence Valley 4. Mid North Coast Bellingen Coffs Harbour 5. Lower North Coast Kempsey Nambucca 6. Northern Tablelands Glen Innes Severn Inverell Tenterfield 7. New England Armidale Dumaresq Guyra Uralla Walcha 8. Namoi / Gwydir Gwydir Moree Plains Narrabri 9. Tamworth 10. Liverpool Range Gunnedah Liverpool Plains Upper Hunter 11. Castlereagh Gilgandra Warrumbungle KEY Region East ■ KEY 12. Mid Coast Greater Taree Hastings 13. Gloucester / Great Lakes Gloucester Great Lakes 14. Lower Hunter Cessnock Dungog Maitland Port Stephens 15. Hunter Valley Muswellbrook Singleton 16. The Lakes Lake Macquarie Wyong 17. Gosford 18. Hawkesbury 19. Warringah / Pittwater Pittwater Warringah 20. Hornsby / Ku-ring-gai Hornsby Ku-ring-gai 21. The Hills 22. Cumberland Blacktown Fairfield Penrith 23. Blue Mountains 24. Sutherland 25. Macarthur Camden Campbelltown Liverpool 26. Illawarra Kiama Shellharbour Wollongong 27. Southern Highlands Wingecarribee Wollondilly 28. Chifley / Lithgow Bathurst Regional Lithgow Oberon Region South ■ KEY 29. Shoalhaven 30. Far South Coast Bega Valley Eurobodalla 31. Southern Tablelands Goulburn Mulwaree Upper Lachlan Yass Valley 32. Lake George Palerang Queanbeyan City 33. Monaro Bombala Cooma-Monaro Snowy River 34. Riverina Highlands Gundagai Tumbarumba Tumut 35. Riverina Coolamon Junee Lockhart Urana Wagga Wagga 36. Southern Border Albury Berrigan Corowa Greater Hume 37. MIA Griffith Leeton Murrumbidgee Narrandera 38. Mid Murray Conargo Deniliquin Jerilderie Murray Wakool 39. Lower Western Balranald Wentworth Region West ■ KEY 40. Cudgegong Mid Western 41. North West Bogan Coonamble Walgett Warren 42. Orana Dubbo Narromine Wellington 43. Canobolas Blayney Cabonne Cowra Orange 44. South West Slopes Boorowa Cootamundra Harden Young 45. Mid Lachlan Valley Forbes Lachlan Parkes Weddin 46. Far West Bourke Brewarrina Central Darling Cobar Unincorporated NSW 47. Mid West Carrathool Hay 48. Bland Temora Bland Temora 8 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 total of volunteers 70,246 region north 13,850 volunteers region south 20,476 volunteers region east 20,397 volunteers region west 15,523 volunteers A roadside hazard reduction burn on the Barrier Highway 170km west of Cobar. This burn was part of the Roadside Vegetation Program, read more about this in the Year in Brief chapter. NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 9 funding 11/12 Rural Firefighting Fund $271M tankers Numbers of new and refurbished tankers to be allocated to brigades 177 vehicles Tankers 3,803* Pumpers 68 Personnel Transport and Command Vehicles 726 Bulk water carriers 57 Tanker trailers 1,464 Cargo, top trucks, various trailers 426 Communications vehicles and trailers 41 Catering vehicles and trailers 77 Marine craft 28 Slip on trailers and miscellaneous vehicles 402 Total Units 7,092 * Non-Service owned vehicles are not included in the 2011/12 figure for tankers. communications Radios 21,940 10 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 incidents – four year view 11/12 10/11 09/10 08/09 Bush fires 2,602 1,897 3,446 2,522 Grass fires 1,552 2,316 2,549 2,689 Building fires 849 846 927 939 Vehicle fires 1,500 1,462 1,475 1,532 Motor vehicle accidents 4,211 4,016 3,544 3,684 False alarms 2,020 2,201 2,028 2,227 Controlled burns 964 1,095 Smoke scare 685 864 Refuse fires 592 788 Oil spills 252 461 Assist other agencies (except floods) 318 265 Flood 58 120 Other* 3,310 2,499 6,177 5,881 Total Number of Incidents 18,913 18,830 20,146 19,474 * In 2010/11 and 2011/12 the 'Other' Category has been expanded to include more details about incidents attended. Christmas never arrived for some people across Australia when a mail truck carrying presents was completely destroyed by fire in December 2011. Seventeen NSW RFS firefighters from the Tweed District attended the scene near Chinderah on the Pacific Highway. Photo by Dirk Klynsmith NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 11 incidents in 2011/12 North South East West 751 544 641 666 306 388 659 199 200 194 348 107 246 223 859 172 839 813 2,143 416 268 349 1,218 185 1,024 991 3,579 585 3,634 3,502 9,447 2,330 Bush fires Grass fires Building fires Vehicle fires Motor vehicle accidents False alarms Other * Total *(includes other, controlled burns, smoke scares, refuse fires, oil spills, assist other agencies and flood) 12 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 State Government NSW 2021: A Plan to Make NSW Number One NSW 2021 Goal 28 Ensure NSW is ready to deal with major emergencies and natural disasters NSW RFS Corporate Plan 2011-2015 • Key Focus Areas • Targets and Milestones Directorate, Regional and Business Unit Business plans planning for the future: NSW 2021 NSW 2021: A Plan to Make NSW Number One was launched in September 2011. It is the NSW Government's plan to rebuild the economy, return quality services, renovate infrastructure, strengthen our local environment and communities, and restore accountability to Government over the next ten years. NSW 2021 has five strategies and 32 goals. The NSW Rural Fire Service has responsibilities under Goal 28 of the Plan and we report on those responsibilities through the annual NSW 2021 Performance Report to Parliament. The NSW RFS Corporate Plan 2011-2015 has been aligned with Goal 28. Reports on the performance of the NSW RFS in 2011/12 appear in the Key Focus Area chapter. NSW 2021 Goal 28 is to ensure NSW is ready to deal with major emergencies and natural disasters and includes the following. 28.2 Defend against suburban and bushland fires Increase community resilience to the impact of fires through prevention and preparedness activities 28.2.2 Enhance volunteer training programs with a particular focus on cadet training schemes 28.2.3 Increase the number of identified Neighbourhood Safer Places Increase hazard reduction across NSW 28.2.4 Increase the number of properties protected by hazard reduction works across all bush fire prone land tenures by 20,000 per year by 2016 28.2.5 Increase the annual average level of area treated by hazard reduction activities by 45% by 2016 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 13 NSW 2021, Goal 28 NSW RFS Performance 2011/12 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Cumulative total number of Neighbourhood Safer Places designated 740 793 849 Target number of Neighbourhood Safer Places designated 833 873 913 953 993 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Cumulative total number of Secondary School Cadet Program students – commencing 2011/12 849 Cumulative Target number of Secondary School Cadet Program students 800 1,600 2,400 3,200 4,000 Please note that the Secondary School Cadet Program has been conducted since 2004 with around 3,500 school students participating between 2004 and the current reporting period. NSW 2021 Goal 28.2.2 Train an additional 4,000 secondary school children through the school cadets program by 2016 Cumulative Total Number of Secondary School Cadet Program student – commencing 2011/12 Target Number of Secondary School Cadet Program students (cumu.) NSW 2021 Goal 28.2.3 Increase the number of identified Neighbourhood Safer Places Total number of Neighbourhood Safer Place designated Target number of Neighbourhood Safer Places designated 14 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Total annual properties protected by programmed hazard reduction works 118,021 154,211 167,533 165,945 5 year average properties protected by total programmed hazard reduction works 96,313 115,612 128,593 136,063 Target 5 year average properties protected by total programmed hazard reduction works 132,793 136,793 140,793 144,793 148,793 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Total annual hazard reduction works completed (ha) 123,334.51 174,705.85 117,633.25 138,211.48 5 year average total area of hazard reduction works completed (ha) 113,946 126,915 128,894 135,688 Target 5 year average total area of hazard reduction works completed (ha) 139,900 150,435 161,762 173,943 187,041 Target 5 year average properties protected 5 year average properties protected Total annual properties protected by programmed hazard reduction works NSW 2021 Goal 28.2.4 Increase the number of properties protected by hazard reduction works across all bush fire prone land tenures by 20,000 per year by 2016. Increase the annual average level of the area treated by hazard reduction activities by 45% by 2016. NSW 2021 Goal 28.2.5 Total 5 year average area treated 5 year average area treated Total annual area of hazard reduction works completed NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 15 management and governance Management and governance Organisational chart Principal officers 16 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is the lead combat agency for bush fires in NSW. Working closely with other agencies we respond to a range of emergencies including structure fires, motor vehicle accidents and storms that occur within rural fire districts. The NSW RFS is widely acknowledged as the largest volunteer fire service in the world. Members of the NSW RFS are trained to very high levels of competence to ensure they know what to do in an emergency. The Service aims to reduce the likelihood and consequence of fires occurring. This involves comprehensive risk management programs to reduce bush fire hazards, reduce fire ignitions and the development regulations for bush fire prone areas. For over 100 years we have been a significant part of the history and landscape of NSW. Our organisation is made up of more than 70,000 volunteers operating in over 2,000 brigades, supported by around 900 staff. Legislation The management and operational responsibilities of the NSW RFS are set down clearly in the Rural Fires Act 1997 and can be summarised as follows: • Protection of life and property for all fire-related incidents within all rural fire districts in the State • Safety and welfare of all volunteers • Provision of effective training and resources to rural fire brigades • Provision of emergency assistance to other emergency service organisations. A number of amendments were made to the Rural Fires Act 1997 and introduced in December 2010. The amendments formalised arrangements for Neighbourhood Safer Places and the responsibility of the NSW RFS Commissioner to issue warnings to the public about bush fires. NSW RFS Commissioner The Commissioner is responsible for managing and controlling the activities of the Service and has other functions conferred or imposed on him by or under the Rural Fires Act 1997. It is the Commissioner who invokes Section 44 of the Rural Fires Act 1997 in order to declare a bush fire emergency. NSW RFS Executive The day to day management of the Service is carried out under the direction of the NSW RFS Executive. The Executive consists of the Service’s Directors and a profile of each of these principal officers can be seen on the following pages. Details appear on page 20-23. Corporate Executive Group The Corporate Executive Group (CEG) comprises the Executive and senior managers of the Service and representatives of the NSW Rural Fire Service Association. Its principal role is to consider and provide advice to the Commissioner on strategic issues affecting the Service. Details of representation and attendance at this Group are set out in Appendix L. Details appear in Appendix L. Governance Committees Three bodies are empowered by legislation to assist in the operations of the NSW Rural Fire Service, they are: the Rural Fire Service Advisory Council, the Bush Fire Coordinating Committee and the Fire Services Joint Standing Committee. Rural Fire Service Advisory Council The Rural Fire Service Advisory Council (RFSAC) is established under the provisions of Part 6 of the Rural Fires Act 1997. The Council advises and reports to the Minister and the NSW RFS Commissioner on any matters relating to the administration of the Service. It also provides advice to the Commissioner on public education, programs relating to rural fire matters, the training of rural firefighters and Service Standards. Details of representation and attendances at the Council are set out in Appendix L. Details appear in Appendix L. Bush Fire Coordinating Committee The Bush Fire Coordinating Committee (BFCC) is established under the provisions of Section 46 of the Rural Fires Act 1997. The Committee is chaired by the NSW RFS Commissioner and supported by the Service. The BFCC is responsible for planning in relation to fire prevention and coordinated bush firefighting. It also advises the Commissioner on bush fire prevention and mitigation and coordinated bush fire suppression. The BFCC constitutes Bush Fire Management Committees (BFMC) for all rural fire districts and areas with significant risk of bush fire. It also approves operations coordination and Bush Fire Risk Management Plans that are prepared by the BFMCs. Details of representation and attendance at this Committee are set out in Appendix L. Fire Services Joint Standing Committee The Fire Services Joint Standing Committee Act 1998 provides for the establishment of the Fire Services Joint Standing Committee (FSJSC). The major functions of the Committee are to develop and submit to the Minister strategic plans for the coordinated delivery of urban and rural fire services at the interface; to undertake periodic review of fire district boundaries; the minimisation of duplication and the maximisation of compatibility between the NSW RFS and Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW). The Committee is chaired alternately by the Commissioners of FRNSW and the NSW RFS. Details of representation and attendance at this Committee are set out in Appendix L. NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 17 Audit and Risk Committee The Audit and Risk Committee provides assistance to the NSW RFS Commissioner by overseeing and monitoring the governance and accountability requirements of the NSW RFS. The Committee is chaired by an independent member and advises the Commissioner on a range of matters including: the effectiveness of the Service's internal audit function within the Service; legislative compliance; the financial statements and financial reporting of the Service; risk and control frameworks; business continuity, and corruption prevention activities. Details of representation and attendance at this Committee are set out in Appendix L. Bush Fire Arson Taskforce The Bush Fire Arson Taskforce (BFAT) evolved as a result of issues arising from the 2009 Black Saturday Fires in Victoria and the subsequent Federal Attorney General's Workshop on the Prevention of Arson. Membership comprises of NSW RFS, NSW Police Force, FRNSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service and Juvenile Justice personnel. The primary role of the BFAT is to reduce the incidence and impact of arson and deliberately lit bush fires throughout NSW by: • Ensuring there is a flow of information between agencies pertaining to arson and deliberately lit bush fires • Utilising a joint and uniform approach to investigation, training and research that is relevant to each agency • Developing prevention programs designed to reduce the incidence of arson and deliberately lit bush fires at the local, regional and State level • Developing strategies to assist in the apprehension of those responsible for arson and deliberately lit bush fires • Facilitating networking and a collaborative response to the multifaceted aspects of arson and deliberately lit bush fires Consultative and Stakeholder Committees Consultation with our stakeholders and related agencies plays a key role in the governance of the NSW RFS. Rural Fire Service Consultative Committees The Rural Fire Service Association (RFSA) is a State-wide non-partisan member association and a valued partner of the NSW RFS. The NSW RFS Commissioner relies on a number of consultative committees for advice on the NSW RFS operations and management. The Committees that met in the reporting period are: Community Engagement, Membership Services, Regional Services, Infrastructure Services and Operational Services. Details of representation and attendance at this Committee are set out in Appendix L. Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW Liaison Committee The principal roles of the Committee are to discuss and resolve significant issues of a strategic nature that are of mutual interest to local government and the Service. Its members consider and report upon issues referred to it by the Minister. Details of representation and attendance at this Committee are set out in Appendix L. Stakeholder liaison and collaboration The Service is also represented on a number of external organisations: • Australasian Fire and Emergency Authorities Council and its various Committees • Association of Environment Education (NSW) Border Liaison Committees • Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre • District Emergency Management Committees • District Rescue Committees • Emergency Services Communications Working Party • Emergency Services Industry Reference Group • Emergency Services Personnel Support Advisory Group • Environmental Education Officers’ Group • Fire Protection Association • Museum Education Officers’ Group • National Aerial Firefighting Centre • NSW Health Disaster Management Committee • Public Sector Occupational Health and Safety Group • Standards Australia – various committees • State Emergency Management Committee • State Rescue Board • National Emergency Management Commitee • Fuel Loads Management Working Group • The National Bushfire Arson Prevention Working Group Governance and Ethical Standards The Service remains committed to the highest level of ethical behaviour and satisfactory conduct being displayed at all times by its members. All day-to-day activities of the Service are supported by the Service’s Code of Conduct and Ethics SS 1.1.7 which applies to volunteer and salaried members alike. There were no changes to the Code during the reporting period. The Service's Professional Standards Unit also provides advice, education, training and mentoring relating to fraud prevention and corruption prevention issues. It is designed to ensure the community's ongoing trust in the NSW RFS by maintaining the highest standards of ethical behaviour among our members. 18 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 Coordinated Risk Management Community Resilience Operational & Mitigation Support Services Customer Service Centres Operational Business Systems District Staff Volunteers District Staff Volunteers District Staff Volunteers District Staff Volunteers Region South Region West Region North Region East Commissioner’s Office Regional Services Operational Services Response & Coordination nsw rfs organisational chart NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 19 Financial Services Corporate Communications Executive Support Ministerial Liaison Program, Audit & Inquiries Professional Standards Health, Safety & Welfare Learning & Development Chaplaincy & Family Support Network Volunteer Relations & Workforce Planning Corporate Planning, Research & Governance Fixed Assets & Infrastructure Mobile Assets & Infrastructure Information Communications & Technology Membership & Strategic Services Membership Coordination Infrastructure Services Executive Services 20 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 21 NSW RFS Commissioner Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons, AFSM Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons was appointed Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service in September 2007. Prior to taking on the role as Commissioner he was Executive Director Operations and Regional Management. Commissioner Fitzsimmons has been a member of the Service since 1984 when he joined the Duffys Forest Brigade and where he remained as a member for ten years, at various times holding the positions of Captain and Deputy Group Captain. In 1994 he was appointed Regional Planning Officer in Central East Region, eventually progressing to the position of Regional Coordinator before being appointed State Operations Officer. In 1998 Commissioner Fitzsimmons was appointed Assistant Commissioner Operations. Commissioner Fitzsimmons has represented the Service at international meetings in the United States, Singapore and Malaysia. He was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in 2001. Director Operational Services Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers, AFSM Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers joined the NSW Rural Fire Service in 1979 as a volunteer member of the Belrose Brigade. In 1995, Deputy Commissioner Rogers commenced his career as a salaried officer as Deputy Fire Control Officer for the Greater Taree District. Since 2002, he has held various Executive positions responsible for Regional Management, Risk Management, Community Safety and Operational Services. In 2004, he was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal. In July 2008 Deputy Commissioner Rogers was appointed Director Operational Services which brought together the two service delivery areas of Community Safety and Operations into a single cohesive team. In 2011 he was appointed Deputy Commissioner. During the reporting period, Deputy Commissioner Rogers continued to provide leadership and direction to several ongoing key initiatives including: the implementation of three Customer Service Centres at Batemans Bay, Coffs Harbour and Glendenning; the refinement of Rapid Area Response Teams to increase the response capability of the Service; and the continued enhancement of Remote Area Firefighting Teams to ensure consistency of equipment, training and practice across the State. principal officers 22 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 Director Regional Services Assistant Commissioner Dominic Lane, AFSM Assistant Commissioner Dominic Lane is a longstanding member of the Service having joined the Milbrulong Bush Fire Brigade in 1984 just after leaving school. Assistant Commissioner Lane was appointed to the position of Director, Regional Services in October 2008. In this reporting period Assistant Commissioner Lane oversaw the final phases of the District and Regional Realignment Project including the alignment the District positions into the functional areas of Membership, Infrastructure and Operations. Assistant Commissioner Lane travelled throughout the State to attend 32 Regional Forums from Glenn Innes to Coonabarabran to Bourke and Deniliquin. More than 1,000 volunteers were consulted during the latter half of the reporting period and the project is continuing into the next year. Assistant Commissioner Lane chaired of the newly established Regional Services Consultative Committee which oversaw several organisational-wide initiatives such as NSW RFS Rank Review and District Support Brigade Review. He was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in 2004. Director Infrastructure Services Assistant Commissioner Keith Harrap, AFSM Assistant Commissioner Keith Harrap joined the Service as a member of Ku-ring-gai Brigade in 1968 and has held various positions ranging from volunteer to Assistant Commissioner. He was appointed as Deputy Fire Control Officer for Hornsby/Ku-ring- gai in 1988 and then as Fire Control Officer in 1993. Assistant Commissioner Harrap was elected to the position of Vice President (Salaried Officers) of the Rural Fire Service Association in 1994 and held that position until 1997. He was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in 1999. From 2001 to 2004 Assistant Commissioner Harrap held consecutively the positions of Staff Officer and Acting Executive Director Operations Support. He was appointed to the position of Executive Director, Corporate Communications in 2004, appointed Executive Director, Operational Support in 2006 and appointed as Director Infrastructure Services in 2008. Assistant Commissioner Harrap was a long standing member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and a past Director of the International Association of Wildland Fire and was also an international representative on the IAFC Wildland Fire Policy Committee. Following 44 years of commitment to the Service, Assistant Commissioner Harrap retired in July 2012. NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 23 Director Membership and Strategic Services Bronwyn Jones Ms Bronwyn Jones was appointed to the position of Director, Membership and Strategic Services in August 2010. Her employment with the Service commenced in November 2008 when she was recruited in the new role of Director, Membership Services following the realignment of the Headquarters structure in that year. Prior to joining the Service, Ms Jones had extensive senior level experience in strategic planning and reporting, human resource management and project delivery gained in various public sector agencies, including the Premier’s Department, the Department of Community Services, NSW Police Force and IAB Services. She holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Labour Relations and the Law (University of Sydney); a Master of Arts (Interdisciplinary Studies) degree and a Master of Commerce (Human Resource Studies) degree, both from the University of NSW. Director Executive Services Richard Lyons Mr Richard Lyons has been employed in the NSW Public Sector since 1979. Over his career he has principally worked in policy-related areas in the Health and Attorney General’s Departments, the Ministry of Police and, prior to his appointment to the Service in August 2008, he held the position of Director, Office for Emergency Services for the 13 years. Mr Lyons holds tertiary qualifications in Science and Law and has responsibility for managing the Directorate of Executive Services. Key Focus Areas, Milestones and Targets Protect People, Property and the Environment Lead Coordinated Bush Firefighting and Prevention in NSW Enhance Community Resilience Value and Support our Members Build Organisational Capability and Sustainability Foster Partnerships 24 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 , key focus areas 26 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 key focus areas for the nsw rfs 2011/12 Protect People, Property and the Environment Lead Coordinated Bush Firefighting and Prevention in NSW Enhance Community Resilience Value and Support our Members Build Organisational Capability and Sustainability Foster Partnerships The Corporate Plan sets key focus areas, a number of four-year targets and annual milestones which are updated for each planning year. NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 27 2011/12 milestones M1 Roles and classifications of membership defined M2 Leadership capability framework developed M3 Increased hazard reduction completed with more effective reporting M4 Review and evaluation of roles and responsibilities in brigades completed M5 Community Protection Plans piloted and implementation schedule developed M6 New methodology for hazard reduction endorsed M7 All Bush Fire Management Committees have a valid Bush Fire Risk Management Plan M8 Schools classified according to bush fire risk and pilot program for treatments developed M9 Mid North Coast Computer Aided Dispatch system (CAD) piloted and evaluated M10 Advertising campaign on grasslands completed M12 New opportunities for corporate partnerships identified M13 New three year public awareness campaign developed M14 Fleet classification policy and fleet management strategy developed and agreed M15 Station / Fire Control Centre works program developed M16 Update of ICT Strategic Plan completed M17 Actions for all critical and high risks in the Organisational Risk Register are implemented 2015 targets The NSW RFS Corporate Plan 2011-2015 is aligned with Goal 28 of NSW 2021: A Plan to Make NSW Number One through the first four 2015 targets listed below. 1 Number of properties protected by hazard reduction works increased by 20,000 per year (NSW 2021) 2 Annual average level of area treated by hazard reduction activities increased by 45% (NSW 2021) 3 200 more Neighbourhood Safer Places created in bush fire prone areas (NSW 2021) 4 Additional 4,000 secondary school students trained through the School Cadets Program (NSW 2021) 5 Computer Aided Dispatch system implemented 6 Fire behaviour analysis capability developed State-wide 7 Risk assessment of all schools in bush fire prone areas in NSW 8 Business requirements developed for the replacement of the Bush Fire Risk Management System (BRIMS) 9 Next Generation Workforce Strategic Plan implemented 10 Organisational Risk Management framework integrated across the NSW RFS 11 Communities in bush fire prone areas are more prepared and aware as a result of targeted and coordinated public awareness campaigns 12 State, national and international partnerships developed to enhance shared fire management expertise and resources 13 Consolidated SAP solution to manage fleet and equipment implemented 14 Radio and pager network upgrades completed 15 Station/Fire Control Centre works plan implemented in line with local needs and funding provided by government 16 Learning and Development frameworks aligned with flexible membership 17 Research framework and utilisation strategy implemented 28 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 Protect People, Property and the Environment The NSW RFS protects lives, property and the environment in a proactive and ecologically sustainable manner. Included in this Key Focus Area for 2011/12 were hazard reduction targets and mitigation programs, management of bush fire hazard complaints, fire investigation and analysis, development of aviation capabilities, implementation of State Rapid Aerial Response Teams (RART) and continuous improvement of operational procedures. Milestones for 2011/12 M3 Increased hazard reduction completed with more effective reporting M6 New methodology for hazard reduction endorsed TOP: Smith Creek West hazard reduction within the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in Sydney. Photo by Bernie O'Rourke ABOVE: A hazard reduction burn at the Region North Exercise March 2011. Photo by Ben Shepherd NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 29 Hazard reduction targets and mitigation programs The adverse weather conditions over the past two years including widespread flooding, have significantly reduced the opportunity for NSW RFS members to conduct hazard reductions. Despite this, substantial work has been completed around the State to manage and reduce bush fire hazards. In the reporting period Mitigation Crews were established in Lismore, Coffs Harbour, Tamworth, Warialda, Dubbo, Taree, Cessnock, Sydney, Mudgee, Wingecarribee, Oberon, Nowra, Mogo, Bega, Cooma, Wagga Wagga and Orange. These crews undertook a total of 2,178 works. Of these, 1,013 were mitigation works, 1,165 AIDER works and a total of 7,487 kilometres of bush fire hazard vegetation was managed. A number of mitigation grant funding programs were delivered to support land managers, local councils and NSW RFS brigades to achieve critical hazard reduction works and the upgrading of strategic fire trails. In total, 896 hazard reduction activities and 139 fire trail activities were undertaken in the reporting period. Hazard Reduction Performance Reporting The coordination of hazard reduction reporting requires the integration and analysis of data from land management agencies and local councils. This enables reporting for the NSW 2021: A Plan to Make NSW Number One, Bush Fire Coordinating Committee and Section 74 reporting requirements under the Rural Fires Act 1997. The Bush Fire Community Protection Report and the Hazard Reduction Undertaken by the NSW RFS Report appear as Appendix A. Details appear in Appendix A. The Roadside Vegetation Program was a hazard reduction initiative in the reporting period. A full explanation of appears in the Year in Brief chapter. Reporting on Goal 28 from NSW 2021 The NSW RFS has responsibilities under Goal 28 in NSW 2021 and three out of four of the targets are related to protecting people property and the environment. These are: 28.2.3 Increase the number of identified Neighbourhood Safer Places 28.2.4 Increase the number of properties protected by hazard reduction works across all bush fire prone land tenures by 20,000 per year by 2016 28.2.5 Increase the annual average level of area treated by hazard reduction activities by 45% by 2016 A full report on the Service's performance in relation to these targets appears in Appendix A and pages 13-14. Details appear in Appendix A. Management of bush fire hazard complaints Another important aspect of identifying and reducing risk to the community is the hazard reduction complaints process. In 2011/12, 1,943 bush fire hazard complaints were received and investigated with 55 percent of these deemed to be a hazard, requiring treatment from the land owner/occupier. A report on hazard reduction complaints appears in Appendix A. Fire investigation and analysis The NSW RFS formally investigated 483 fires during the reporting year. This included 110 structural fires, 10 motor vehicle fires and 363 vegetation fires. Of the 483 formal investigations, 75 percent had the cause of the fire determined. There is more information about the activity of the Fire Investigation Unit on the following page. Development of aviation capabilities The Aviation Section provided an extensive aviation training and recertification program for aviation specialist functions during the reporting period. Personnel from NSW and interstate fire and emergency service agencies participated in the aviation training opportunities. Many of these people were actively deployed to fire and flood operations in the 2011/12 fire season. The State Air Desk was operational for 173 days supporting aviation operations across NSW and facilitated the tasking of 567 aircraft and fuel trucks to fire and emergency incidents across the reporting period. Over a million litres of aviation fuel was used over the season. A total of 740 aviation deployments were made during the flood emergencies between November 2011 and March 2012. Implementation of State Rapid Aerial Response Teams (RART) A report on the activity of the Rapid Aerial Response Team in the reporting period appears in the Year in Brief chapter. Details appear in Year in Brief. key focus area 30 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 Lead Coordinated Bush Firefighting and Prevention in NSW The NSW RFS drives effective multi-agency risk planning prevention strategies and response arrangements. This Key Focus Area covers the lead role of the NSW RFS in the Bush Fire Coordinating Committee’s (BFCC) responsibility to coordinate all State firefighting operations and agencies involved in bush fire prevention, suppression and mitigation, and the role of local Bush Fire Management Committees (BFMC) in developing risk management and operational coordination plans. Milestones for 2011/12 M7 All Bush Fire Management Committees have a valid Bush Fire Risk Management Plan TOP: A fast moving grassfire in Emmaville, near Glen Innes on Easter Sunday 2012. Photo by Stephen Prichard ABOVE: State Operations plays a critical role under coordinated firefighting arrangements, including the dissemination of warnings to fire affected communities. Photo by Anthony Clark NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 31 Overview of the 2011/12 fire season In the reporting period, the NSW RFS declared three Total Fire Bans and three Section 44 Bush Fire Emergencies with one Emergency Alert telephone warning messages being issued during the Cliff Drive fire in the Blue Mountains in October 2011. The Blue Mountains Local Government Area declared a Section 44 Bush Fire Emergency at 1100hrs on 20 September 2011. It was revoked at 1800hrs on 23 September 2011. The Cobar, Central Darling and Unincorporated Areas in Region West declared a Section 44 Emergency at 0600hrs on 28 September 2011. It was revoked the following day at 1400hrs. The Blue Mountains Local Government Area declared a Bush Fire Emergency at 1545hrs on 24 October 2011 and it was revoked the next day at 1830hrs. Details appear in Year in Brief. Bush Fire Risk Management Planning The NSW RFS Operational Services Directorate coordinates and provides support for the Bush Fire Management Committees (BFMCs) across NSW. BFMCs provide a forum for local cooperative and coordinated bush fire management and include landholders, land managers, fire authorities and community organisations. BFMCs are responsible for preparing, coordinating, reviewing and monitoring the Plan of Operations and Bush Fire Risk Management Plan for their area. The Bush Fire Risk Management Plans set future mitigation, hazard reduction and community engagement priorities across the State. They are major contributors to reducing bush fire risk to communities. Incident Controller Major Incidents program The new Incident Controller Major Incidents (ICMI) training program was introduced in the reporting period. This course provides Incident Controllers with the skills and attributes required to manage large scale and challenging bush fires. The ICMI training program included 24 NSW RFS staff members as well as three participants from National Parks and Wildlife Service, three from Fire and Rescue NSW and one participant from the Country Fire Service (SA). Skills gained in the ICMI training program are of a very high standard and all participants have many years experience in Incident Management Team roles. Assessment for the first ICMI training will take place in the next reporting period. Fire Investigation and Arson Prevention The Fire Investigation Unit, through participation on the Bush Fire Arson Task Force, helped establish an additional five District Arson Prevention Working Parties in the reporting period. The Unit also began work on the introduction of an electronic arson trend analysis system in partnership with other agencies. This project will improve the sharing of information between stakeholder agencies responsible for mitigating and investigating arson- related fires. The NSW RFS also participated in the National Bushfire Arson Prevention Working Group. The working group is made up of senior police and fire agency representatives from each State/Territory and significantly contributed to the National Strategy for the Prevention of Bushfire Arson. This strategy aims to ensure there is a national and collaborative approach to combating bush fire arson and was endorsed by the Standing Council of Police and Emergency Management in July 2011. In Region East, fire investigators participated in joint training with the NSW Police Force Arson Squad and Forensic Services Group. During the year the Region’s 50 structural and wildfire investigators carried out 234 investigations leading to several arrests. Border Liaison The Regional Offices continued to maintain and build relationships in their local communities by working closely with other emergency service agencies, and relevant stakeholder and interest groups. Region North successfully hosted the first Cross Border Incident Management Exercise conducted by the Queensland/ NSW Border Liaison Committee at Kyogle in October 2011. Region South participated in a number of Border Liaison meetings with their Victorian counterparts including the Eastern Cross Border Committee and the Upper Murray Cross Border Committee. Arrangements regarding Victoria’s interim alert messaging were established for those areas adjoining the Victorian border in the case where bush, grassfires and scrub fires that may impact. These new measures implemented in December 2011. To enhance cooperation between agencies, Region South Group Officers hosted a forum which included participation from the Country Fire Authority (Vic), Country Fire Service (SA) and ACT Rural Fire Service. The forum allowed senior volunteers to discuss Command Control, Fire Analysis and State Mitigation Support Services as well as participate in Communications and Fatigue Management Workshops. A successful Incident Management Exercise was conducted in Region South which included representatives from ACT Fire Service, National Parks and State Forests. The Exercise provided an opportunity to refresh the skills of the Region’s experienced Incident Management Team personnel and to test the functionality of the Fire Control Centre during emergency situations. Roadside Vegetation Program An initiative to reduce fire hazard along strategic roads leading into and around villages across NSW was conducted in 2011/12. A report appears in the Year in Brief chapter. key focus area 32 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 Enhance Community Resilience The NSW RFS ensures the people of NSW are resilient and well-equipped to withstand the impact of bush fire and its consequences. Initiatives in this Key Focus Area addressed the delivery of bush fire alerts and warnings, public awareness campaigns, community engagement to increase bush fire preparedness, and planning for bush fire protection in the built environment. Specific programs included new Community Protection Plans incorporating Neighbourhood Safer Places, and the Assist Infirm Disabled and Elderly Residents (AIDER) program. Milestones for 2012 M5 Community Protection Plans piloted and implementation schedule developed M10 Advertising campaign on grasslands completed M12 New three year public awareness campaign developed TOP:Community Protection Plans include community meetings and information sharing such as this one in Guerilla Bay. Photo by Simon May ABOVE: The NSW RFS grass fire awareness campaign was focussed on rural and regional areas. This one was in the Cooma Monara area. Photo by Brydie O'Connor NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 33 Community Protection Plans It has been a successful first year for the Community Protection Plan (CPP) project. CPPs were launched in NSW in response to some of the recommendations of the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission and provide a standard approach to community level bush fire planning throughout NSW. CPPs are a tactical bush fire plan that incorporates a range of aspects relevant to bush fire risk management into a single document that is specific to a community. CPPs provide the public, land managers and fire authorities with easy to understand information on the: • Bush fire threat to a community • Current and proposed risk treatment works • Access and egress issues • ‘At-risk’ (schools, hospitals, nursing homes, childcare centres) and hazardous (petrol stations, treatment plants) facilities • Available treatment strategies In the reporting period, CPPs were successfully piloted in Terrey Hills, Guerilla Bay, Tingha and Cumnock. The communities involved in the pilot studies responded well to the approach and in some cases, up to 40 percent of the population attended the community meetings. The CPP pilot studies have resulted in tangible improvements to the bush fire protection currently in place for these communities. In addition, the CPPs have provided for better hazard reduction planning and, even more importantly, has contributed to improved community preparedness. In the reporting period the development of CPPs also commenced for Woombah, Dundurrabin, Mount Wilson, North Arm Cove, Dalgety, Bungonia, Lake Wonboyn and Wollembi. To assist local district staff, eight CPP officers and a team leader have been appointed to work across NSW from the Customer Service Centres in Coffs Harbour, Glendenning and Batemans Bay. CPP officers assess communities and provide residents and the local NSW RFS with advice and resources to build the CPP. They also assist residents in preparing their individual Bush Fire Survival Plans. Due to the success of the first year of the Community Protection Plan project, an implementation schedule has been developed for the next two years. Early in the next reporting period, the CPP concept will be referred to the Bush Fire Coordinating Committee for its consideration and integration into the current risk planning framework. Delivery of bush fire alerts and warnings One Emergency Alert was issued during the Cliff Drive fire in the Blue Mountains in October 2011. Public awareness campaign The Corporate Communications group delivered two major public awareness campaigns in the reporting period. The Prepare.Act.Survive. grass fire awareness campaign was successful in raising community awareness about the dangers of grass fires, specifically targeting rural and regional areas. A separate campaign targeting bush fires was carried out State-wide. This was the final year of the three-year campaign introduced following the 2009 Black Saturday bush fires in Victoria. A new public awareness campaign for the following three years was developed in the reporting period. Community engagement to increase bush fire preparedness Increasing support for community engagement within brigades was a focus for the Community Engagement Unit in the reporting period. Social media has continued to be a major asset in keeping members informed of new ideas and for sharing what other brigades are doing. Users of the Community Engagers Facebook page have increased in the period. A bi-monthly newsletter to members and a quarterly newsletter to residents around NSW were also achievements. Community Engagement Toolkit The reporting period saw the launch of the Community Engagement Toolkit in conjunction with the Community Engagement Strategy. The Toolkit contains: • Community Engagement Strategy • Tips for planning Community Engagement Activities • Tools to help conduct Community Engagement The toolkit is designed for staff and volunteers and provides practical advice and tools for engaging communities. In the reporting period, several other new resources designed for the general public were also released, completing the Bush Fire Safety factsheet series and targeting tourism and recreation. Copies of these can be found on the NSW RFS website: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au. key focus area Tingha Cumnock Terrey Hills Guerilla Bay 34 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 Type of development Assessed Complying Development 42 Part 3A 40 Planning Instruments 185 Integrated development 1,906 Infill development 2,779 General advice (79C matters) 28 SEPP Infrastructure 28 TOTAL 5,009 The Department of Planning and the NSW RFS have been working closely on a strategy to reduce the number of unnecessary development assessment referrals received from local government, under government planning reforms. This is to ensure that the NSW RFS concentrates its efforts on larger subdivisions and vulnerable communities. Assist Infirm Disabled and Elderly Residents (AIDER) This is a one-off free service, supporting vulnerable residents to live more safely and confidently in their home on bush fire prone land. In this period 1,165 jobs were completed including clearing gutters, thinning vegetation, removing leaf and tree debris, trimming branches, mowing and slashing long grass around residential homes. Neighbourhood Safer Places A Neighbourhood Safer Place (NSP) is a place of last resort for people to gather during the passage of a bush fire. It is typically a building or open space which is signposted within the community to provide a higher level of protection from the immediate threat of fire. key focus area Training volunteers and staff in community engagement In the reporting period the Community Engagement Unit was responsible for coordinating 44 courses involving more than 500 community engagement staff and volunteers. These courses qualify members to hold community meetings, work with local communities to be better prepared against bush fire damage and assist families to complete a Bush Fire Survival Plan. Community Safety Assistant 367 participants attended 35 courses presented at: Clarence Valley, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Warringah, Wollondilly, Wyong, Glen Innes, Lake George, Hastings, Corowa, Moree Plains, Tweed, Campbelltown, Coffs Harbour, Yass Valley, Cumberland, Chifley, Vacy, Clarence Town and Port Stephens. Community Safety Facilitator 117 participants attended seven courses presented at: Orange, Wagga Wagga, Penrith, Grafton, Illawarra and Yass Valley. Community Liaison Officer 29 participants attended two courses presented at: Cessnock and Yass Valley. NSW RFS Open Day The NSW RFS State-wide 2011 Open Day was held on Saturday 24 September 2011, with 354 brigades from four regions across the State participating. Many brigades incorporated some great community engagement initiatives, which improved their ability to share bush fire safety messages with their community as well as further increase exposure of the NSW RFS. 16th Australian Community Engagement and Fire Awareness Conference The 16th Australian Community Engagement and Fire Awareness Conference was held in early June 2012 in Wollongong with the theme Fire Up Engagement. A total of 360 NSW RFS members and 60 representatives from other agencies attended. Other agencies included the Country Fire Authority Victoria, Tasmania Fire Service, ACT RFS, Fire and Rescue NSW and the NSW State Emergency Service. The key note speaker was Celeste Geer, Director and Producer of ‘Then the Wind Changed’, a documentary about her personal experience of the 2009 Black Saturday bush fires in Victoria. Significantly, there was a record number of NSW RFS members speaking at the conference about their own community engagement experiences and initiatives. Particular highlights of the conference were the launch of ‘No Plan Dan’ and a new range of Australian cartoon characters to help communicate fire messages. Planning for bush fire protection in the built environment A review of Planning for Bush Fire Protection (2006) began in the reporting period including 33 submissions from stakeholders. The Community Resilience Unit also worked with the Fire Protection Association of Australia on their certification scheme to provide for greater transparency and accountability of bush fire consultants. During the reporting period a total of 5,009 assessments were undertaken. The table following shows the breakdown of assessments completed by the Service over the period. NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 35 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Cumulative total Number of Neighbourhood Safer Places designated 740 793 849 Target Number of Neighbourhood Safer Places designated 833 873 913 953 993 In line with the NSW 2021 there has been an increase of 56 NSPs this financial year, leading to a total of 849 now established in 118 Local Government Areas across the State. Annual audits and inspections were also undertaken to identify potential new sites and to ensure that standards for the design and placement of NSPs were upheld. A full list of the NSPs already identified can be found on the NSW RFS website. The Killcare/Wagstaffe Open Day activities in 2011 on the banks of the beautiful Hardys Bay. Photo by Terry Wilson 36 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 Value and Support our Members The NSW RFS fosters a safe working culture, actively promotes a diverse, flexible and adaptive membership; and values and appropriately recognises the contribution of our members, staff and volunteers. This Key Focus Area contains programs such as the development of workforce metrics, the Flexible Membership Model and the District Support Brigade Review which strengthen the NSW RFS workforce. Milestones for 2012 M1 Roles and classifications of membership defined M2 Leadership capability framework developed M4 Review and evaluation of roles and responsibilities in brigades completed TOP: Valley Heights Brigade opened their new station in the reporting period and Commissioner Fitzsimmons attended. Photo by Brad Bridger ABOVE: The 10th Volunteer Memorial Service was held in October 2011 at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair in Sydney. NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 37 Flexible Membership and Equal Employment Opportunity The NSW RFS has a range of initiatives to promote the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) in the workplace. A key initiative is the Flexible Membership Model. Flexible membership is a concept that provides an overview of how our membership might look into the future. It provides more options and greater flexibility for our membership, with a key focus on diversity. In 2011/12 extensive consultation took place around a draft Flexible Membership Model for the NSW RFS. The Next Generation Workforce Strategic Plan contains other key equity and diversity strategies for the NSW RFS. This plan has established targets in regard to workforce diversity, particularly in relation to female, indigenous and culturally diverse members. The Next Generation Workforce Strategic Plan also focuses on flexible training options that will help NSW RFS attract and retain members from diverse backgrounds simply by providing different ways to teach and communicate with our membership. The NSW RFS Multicultural, Disability and Aboriginal Services Strategy’s are all important initiatives that have been developed to engender an environment that is reflective of the wider community of NSW. From an employment perspective, the NSW RFS recruitment system continues to stress EEO principles through convenor training and a thorough job analysis and development process. The NSW RFS also has an EEO Policy and an EEO Management Plan. In the next reporting period, the NSW RFS will review its EEO Policy and Management Plan and combine all diversity plans into a more holistic ‘Equity and Diversity’ strategy for the organisation. More on Equal Employment Opportunity can be found in the Membership and Strategic Services chapter. Details appear in Review of the Reporting Year. Emergency Services SAP Human Resources Project Overview A joint agency initiative commenced on 1 July 2010 which involved the ‘on- boarding’ of the emergency services agencies, NSW RFS, State Emergency Service and the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services (MPES) onto the pre-existing NSW Fire and Rescue SAP system. Although the SAP HR project involved all agencies it was of particular importance to the NSW RFS as it involved the transfer from Firezone of all volunteer records, both personal and training/qualification related data. The SAP HR Project was divided into two phases: 1. The successful implementation of NSW RFS employee payroll and human resource records as well as the introduction of Electronic Self Service (ESS) which was also to incorporate Management Self Service (MSS) 2. The transfer of volunteer personal (Volunteer Management – VM) and qualifications (Learning Solutions On-line – LSO) to SAP as well as enhancements to the ESS function There were significant challenges during this period in order to achieve these deadlines. The ‘go-live’ date for phase two of SAP HR (VM and LSO) was initially scheduled for early April 2012. Due to the extensive involvement of many NSW RFS personnel in supporting the SES in the major flood operations in many parts of NSW, it went live in the first week of June 2012. The delayed go-live date was successfully achieved and SAP HR was operating for all identified areas for the NSW RFS from this date. Further enhancements to the ESS functionality will be phased in during the next reporting year. Transitioning to the new harmonised work health and safety laws and workers compensation changes There were two significant changes to health and safety and workers compensation legislation in NSW in the reporting period. Firstly, the OHS Act 2000 and OHS Regulation 2001 were repealed and replaced with the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2011 and WHS Regulation 2011 which commenced 1 January 2012. Secondly, the NSW Government introduced changes to workers compensation laws via the Workers Compensation Legislation Amendment Act 2012. The Service has supported members through these changes with information and advice, as well as improvements to the Health and Safety Management System. Further information on this area appears in the Membership and Strategic Services chapter. Details appear in Review of the Reporting Year. e-Learning Several online learning programs were introduced in 2011/12.This included the Safety Induction and Volunteer Induction. In addition, staff members also have access to Staff Induction and Organisational Risk Management Awareness training. A large number of NSW RFS members have undertaken these programs. The delivery of online and blended learning in a flexible manner will be a growing field of training and assessment in the NSW RFS. District Support Brigade Review Foundational work for the District Support Brigade Review was the focus in the reporting period. A discussion paper was drafted and released by the Regional Services Consultative Committee for comments and feedback. The feedback was published and will influence the future direction of the Review. key focus area 38 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 Build Organisational Capability and Sustainability The NSW RFS builds capable and ethical leadership at all levels of the Service; promotes an organisational culture of reflection, learning and evidence-based decision making; builds and promotes good corporate governance practices and principles and effectively manages assets and facilities to ensure local needs are met. This Key Focus Area covers a wide range of programs, from the development and implementation of frameworks to support legislative compliance and organisational risk management, to the upgrade of our core ICT operating systems, the Tanker Replacement Program and the radio and pager network upgrade. Milestones for 2012 M2 Leadership capability framework developed M9 Mid North Coast Computer Aided Dispatch system (CAD) piloted and evaluated M13 Fleet classification policy and fleet management strategy developed and agreed M14 Station / Fire Control Centre works program developed M15 Update of ICT Strategic Plan completed M16 Actions for all critical and high risks in the organisational risk register are implemented TOP: The Deniliquin Brigade station is one of the first standard design stations to be completed. The station was completed in November 2011. Assistant Commissioner Dominic Lane(centre) presented Deniliquin Brigade members with Long Service medals including (L-R) Trevor David, Laurie Coonan (Brigade President), Alyce Harding (who received the medal on behalf of her late husband Ron), Julian Bassett, Andrew Brain, Wayne Fitzpatrick, David Donaldson and Murray Druit. State Member for Murray Darling, John Williams and Deniliquin Mayor Brian Mitsch and brigade member Lachlan Graham also attended the ceremony. Photo courtesy of Deniliquin Pastoral Times. ABOVE: Perthville Brigade in action at the Region East Exercise. Photo by Ben Shepherd NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 39 key focus area Leadership Capability Framework In the reporting period a draft Leadership Capability Framework was developed. This framework provides the architecture on positioning the development of leadership training in technical, regulatory and human interaction subjects against the various roles and levels of the NSW RFS. It provides a leadership model for both salaried and volunteer positions. Computer Aided Dispatch pilot The Mid North Coast Call Receipt and Dispatch Trial commenced in August 2011 and continued throughout the reporting period. The aim of the trial was to test communication and dispatch protocols for a 24/7 centralised dispatch process using the Operational Customer Service Centre (OCSC) at Headquarters in Lidcombe. The trial was deemed successful but demonstrated that State-wide implementation would prove challenging due to the unique environment that NSW RFS operates in. Fleet classification strategy The Infrastructure Services Directorate is responsible for the Service's firefighting and corporate fleet. Further details on fleet management appear in the Infrastructure Services Directorate report. Details appear in Review of the Reporting Year. Fire Control Centre Works Program In the reporting period, $3.5 million was allocated for newly built and refurbished buildings throughout the State. State-of-the-art Fire Control Centres (FCCs) were constructed at West Wyalong and Northern Rivers. Further planning continues for the new FCCs at Singleton and the Lower Hunter Team at Maitland which is approaching tender release stage. Construction of a new Standard FCC at Bombala has commenced and this FCC will be completed this coming year. The new Standard FCCs will continue to bring a new level of capability and service for the management of bush fire and other emergency incidents within these areas. Details about the Northern Rivers Fire Control Centre appear in the Year in Brief chapter. ICT Strategic Plan completed The strategy and activity of the ICT Unit appears in the Infrastructure Services Directorate report. Details appear in Review of the Reporting Year. Organisational Risk Register The focus in the reporting year was on continuing Organisational Risk Management integration throughout business units. Actions to address all risks rated ‘critical’ and ‘high’ were incorporated into business plans and three ‘high’ rated risks were evaluated at a lower risk level as a result of the implementation of risk treatments. In recognition of its achievements the NSW RFS was named runner-up in the Enterprise Risk Management category of the NSW Government Treasury Managed Fund (TMF) Risk Management Awards in September 2011. A full report on this area appears in the Membership and Strategic Services Directorate report. Tanker Replacement Program During the reporting period, Infrastructure Services managed the Tanker Replacement Program and handed over 177 new and refurbished tankers to the NSW RFS Brigades across NSW. Details appear in Review of the Reporting Year. SAP Human Resources Project The Emergency Services SAP Human Resource project is reported on in full on the previous page. Details appear in Key Focus Area chapter. Planning and reporting In 2011/12, the Service implemented an enhanced corporate planning and reporting framework. The new framework includes a four year Corporate Plan, which focuses on six Key Focus Areas, supported by corporate objectives, strategies, milestone and targets. In the reporting period, business planning, risk management and key reporting requirements have been integrated and quarterly reporting has been implemented. Enhancement of shared functionality In 2011/12, a project was implemented to improve ICON and share its functionality with the ACT Rural Fire Service (ACT RFS). Enhancements included an increased accuracy of incident locations in the system through improvements in geo- spatial technology. It also incorporated the addition of hazard reduction events for situational awareness information to NSW RFS staff and community when smoke is in the air. The sharing of NSW RFS functionality with the ACT was implemented to better manage bush fire incidents across jurisdictional boundaries. The benefits of this are an improved visibility to the community of bush fire incidents in both jurisdictions and improved incident management coordination by NSW RFS and ACT RFS staff through the use of a common system. Radio and pager networks This project continued in the reporting period and details appear in the Infrastructure Services Directorate report. Details appear in Review of the Reporting Year. 40 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 The NSW RFS leverages new and existing partnerships to influence the national agenda in relation to emergency services and develops mutually beneficial local, national and international strategic alliances to raise and strengthen the NSW RFS profile. Programs under this Key Focus Area include the Botswana Fire Management Program and local partnership initiatives such as the Secondary School Cadet Programs conducted in conjunction with NSW high schools and the Hotspots Fire Project. Milestones for 2012 M11 New opportunities for corporate partnerships identified Foster Partnerships TOP: Hotspots workshops were held in 16 locations across NSW. Photo by Brodie Rafferty ABOVE: The Botswana Fire Management Program completed its third successful year in 2011/12. Photo courtesy of Russell Perry NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 41 International initiatives Botswana Fire Management Program The Botswana Fire Management Program is funded by AusAid to assist bush fire prone Botswana to develop a coordinated firefighting model, similar to the NSW RFS. Since the program began three years ago, more than 70 NSW RFS members, including over 45 volunteers, have been deployed to successfully train firefighters, identify suitable firefighting equipment and establish a coordinated firefighting model in bush fire prone Botswana. In 2011/12 the program finished the third year of its five-year commitment. There were three deployments to Botswana in the reporting period with ten staff and ten volunteers participating. The program takes advantage of the professionalism and expertise of Service members in a range of fields as well as giving NSW RFS members the valuable experience of working in a different culture and landscape. Links to Asia In the reporting period, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Service and the Asia Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC). Since its inception in 1986, ADPC has been recognised as the major independent centre in the region for promoting disaster awareness and the development of local capabilities to foster institutionalised disaster management and mitigation policies. Local initiatives Secondary School Cadet Program The NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program presents Year Nine and Ten secondary school students with an opportunity to learn about NSW RFS ideals and values as well as undertake age-appropriate training that is incorporated into the school program. The Secondary School Cadet Program continued its success throughout the 2011/12 period. Approximately 850 students participated in 56 programs across NSW schools; an increase in programs from the previous year. The Secondary School Cadet Program is a priority action in the NSW Government’s NSW 2021. To read more about the Cadet of the Year for 2012, Phillip Brunsdon from Tumut High School, see the Year in Brief chapter. Details appear in the Year in Brief chapter. Top national award for Hotspots In the reporting period, the NSW RFS won a major national award for the Hotspots Project. The 2011 Australian Safer Communities Award in the Education, Training and Research section is an award that recognises innovative practices that help build safer, stronger and more disaster resilient communities that are better prepared to manage emergency situations. The Hotspots Project has been in operation for seven years and is designed to equip landholders and land managers with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage fire on their own land. The NSW RFS works closely with the NSW Farmers Association and Nature Conservation Council to make sure the Hotspots project is helping to protect communities while maintaining the unique biodiversity of the Australian landscape. The Hotspots Project consists of a number of workshops aimed at improving landholders’ understanding of fire and shows them the steps they can take to manage their risk. The Project also focuses on environmental sustainability and is supported by the Nature Conservation Council. Hotspots workshops have been conducted in nearly 50 locations around NSW including 17 in the reporting period. The locations of the Hotspots workshops in 2011/12 were: Hunter Valley, Shoalhaven, Coffs Harbour, Lithgow, Canobolas Zone, Eurobodalla, Lakes Team, Lake George Zone and Greater Taree. Approximately 460 landholders were engaged in these workshops. The Customer Service Centres also delivered workshops at Corindi, Dundurrabin, Wolgan, Mount White, Clifton Grove, Mongarlowe and Duea River Valley with a total of 197 landholders involved. key focus area Locations of Hotspots workshops held in 2011/12 year in brief State-wide projects Region North activity Region South activity Region East activity Region West activity Part of the Roadside Vegetation program, this roadside burn was on the Barrier Highway, about 170km west of Cobar. Photo by Robyn Favelle The Roadside Vegetation Program (RVP) was a State-wide initiative coordinated by the Regional Services Directorate and implemented through the Regions and Districts in liaison with local councils. The focus of the RVP was on clearing strategic roads leading into and around isolated villages. The burning, mechanical clearing and spraying along major strategic roads built Asset Protection Zones and Strategic Fire Advantage Zones around the village, protecting them from bush or grass fire. Areas where roadsides had dried out and were left with a large bulk of dry matter were identified by the local councils and NSW RFS Districts as the focus of the RVP. Across NSW, 36 councils were involved and nearly 10,000 hectares and 6,429.25 kilometres of roadside were treated in the reporting period. More than half of this work was done in Region West, with Region South also quite busy. The burning, mechanical clearing and spraying along major strategic roads was completed with the assistance of the State Mitigation Support Services as well as out-of-area volunteers. The majority of the planned works were completed in the reporting period, which was remarkable given the wet weather conditions that were experienced throughout the year. The RVP was one of a number of additional measures taken by the Service to prepare for the 2012/13 bush fire danger period and was made possible by an extra allocation from the Rural Fire Fighting Fund for this purpose. year in brief Roadside Vegetation Program 44 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 year in brief The Regional Forums was a project initiated by Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons where members of the Executive travelled around NSW to meet with volunteers. The aim of the project is to ensure that volunteers were well informed about current updates and changes in the NSW RFS. Between March and July 2012, Assistant Commissioner Dominic Lane travelled the State attending 32 Regional Forums from Glen Innes to Coonabarabran to Bourke and south to Deniliquin. More than 1,000 volunteers were part of the consultation in the reporting period and the project is continuing into the next year. The topics covered in the Regional Forums included the upcoming bush fire season, NSW RFS budget and finances, hazard reduction, State Mitigation Support Services, Deductible Gift Recipient status, the Brigade Constitution Review, Harmonisation of WHS Legislation, District and Regional Realignment, Radio Enhancement, Red Fleet Policy, MyRFS/SAP – Volunteer Management, the Rank Review, District Support Brigade Review and Flexible Membership. There was also time for general discussion. Assistant Commissioner Dominic Lane was enthusiastic about the Forums. “The Regional Forums provide an ideal opportunity for volunteers to hear directly from the NSW RFS Executive on the important issues,” he said. “They are also the opportunity for volunteers to give feedback, raise questions and provide input into key operational issues.” “Every area in the State has different areas of focus depending on local weather conditions, topography, and the sort of fire emergencies they attend most,” he said, “So each of the Regional Forums was also unique to the needs of the volunteers in that area.” The topic most commonly raised among volunteers was the upcoming 2012/13 fire season and the threat of grass fires. “Our volunteers are our most important resource,” he said, “consultation with them in a face-to-face environment has proved to be very valuable for the Executive and, I believe, for the volunteers.” Regional Forums Volunteers meeting with Assistant Commissioner Dominic Lane at the Dubbo Regional Forum. Photo courtesy of The Daily Liberal Consulting with volunteers in face-to- face meetings was a focus for Regional Services Directorate in 2011/12. NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 45 Protocol Officers and Pipes and Drums Band A new State Protocol Officer, two new Deputy State Protocol Officers and 15 new members of the Protocol Team have been appointed in the reporting period. Protocol Team tasks include assisting Regional and District staff with Service recognition medal ceremonies, facilities openings, tanker handovers, civic functions as well as coming together for major NSW RFS commitments such as the State Championships, Volunteers Memorial Service and the annual St Florian’s Day ceremony at NSW RFS Headquarters The Protocol Team forms part of the public face of the NSW RFS and along with the Pipes and Drums Band, contributes to the standing and reputation of the NSW RFS. Protocol team in action at the Valley Heights Brigade opening in March 2012 year in brief in Lidcombe. Dressed in formal uniform tunics, they add an extra level of respect and dignity at Service funerals and commemorative functions. State Protocol Officer (SPO), Bill Duncan is the newly appointed head of the team along with two new deputies, Deputy State Protocol Officers (DSPO) Mark Unwin and Chris Palmer. Due to their fresh recruiting and training efforts in the reporting period, 15 new members have joined the State Protocol team bringing the State-wide total to 27. Of the three key positions who have been appointed in the reporting period, the SPO and the two DSPOs, two of these are volunteers and one is a staff member. "It is important that our Service extends its high performing and long-serving members sincere and honourable recognition for their achievements and generous contribution to the safety and welfare of their fellow citizens, “ Bill Duncan said, “Our Protocol team can help do that." Since the inception of the State Protocol Officer role in 1994, the NSW RFS has had three Protocol Officers, Chief Supt Brian Pickford, Supt Bruce Tory and Supt Richard Petch. Each has contributed to the standing and reputation of the NSW RFS in their own way. The SPO is an honorary position and office holders are appointed for a period of three years. The SPO is the NSW RFS representative on the State Protocol Committee and is required to work with other agencies in coordinating and harmonising protocols between agencies. The position works very closely with the chaplains of the NSW RFS, particularly the Senior Chaplains and liaises with the Coordinator Counselling and Support Unit regularly. “I am very keen to include more members from regional NSW in the team,” said Bill Duncan, “throughout 2011/12 I have travelled around NSW to meet interested volunteers and provide training.” In the reporting period Regional squads have been formed in Regentville, Queanbeyan, Orange and the Clarence Valley. 46 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 Rapid Aerial Response and Remote Area Firefighting Teams 2011/12 achievements include the first Rapid Aerial Response Team (RART) deployment, training of nearly 200 volunteers and the formation of the of the Remote Area Fire Firefighting and Specialised Operations Section (RAFSO Section). The first successful RART deployment took place on 20 September 2011. A RART team composed of RAFT volunteers from Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury was deployed to the Colo area of the Hawkesbury District. The teams located and contained a The Service’s capacity to respond immediately to bush fires in remote areas was dramatically increased in the reporting period fire north of Wheelbarrow Ridge Road, Green Swamp. Using dry firefighting techniques they quickly contained the perimeter of the fire, while overhead the helicopter undertook bucketing operations. The crew was extracted from the site by helicopter once the fire was contained. Hawkesbury District deployed local crews the next day to continue working on hot spots of the fire. Throughout the fire season two dedicated medium winch capable helicopters were on standby and apart from this deployment in the Hawkesbury, they were also redeployed to assist in flood operations when needed from November to March 2012. The newly formed RAFSO Section coordinated training in Remote Firefighting for 52 volunteers giving NSW RFS a capability of 148 trained Remote Area Firefighters. This total includes 134 Helicopter Winch Certified Remote Area Firefighters. A further 33 Remote Area Firefighters undertook Helicopter Winch Skills training and 101 volunteers were recertified in Helicopter Winch Skills training. To better assist, support and recognise the contribution of RAFT firefighters the Section formed the Remote Area Firefighting Teams Focus Group. The group is tasked with enhancing the capability, understanding and utilisation of Remote Area Firefighting Teams throughout NSW. A Joint Operational Protocol for Remote Area Firefighting has been developed between the NSW RFS and the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The protocol was endorsed by both organisations in the reporting period, and consolidates the operating guidelines for remote fires in NSW. The reporting period has seen an increase in the use, interest and training levels of this scarce specialist resource. Group Captain Craig Burley assessing RAFT and RART crews in the Helicopter Winching Skills course in Camden August 2011. Photo by Chris Ryder year in brief NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 47 Base Camps In the reporting period four simultaneous Base Camps were established in flood- affected south western NSW along with two Base Camps in support of NSW Police operations on the Mid North Coast. In a first for the NSW RFS, a Base Camp was established for an external agency. On 10 December 2011 the NSW Police Force requested accommodation for up to 120 specialist police on the Mid North coast of NSW, as part of an operation to apprehend a criminal. The Base Camp was established by Operational and Mitigation Support Services (OMSS) within 24 hours and NSW RFS volunteers provided catering until the close of the incident on 30 January 2012. A Base Camp which functioned as a commander’s room and briefing room for the same operation was established at Gloucester Fire Control Centre from 23 December until 25 March 2012. In early March the first request for a Base Camp in response to the floods in the south west of NSW was received. The State Emergency Operations Centre requested a joint emergency services Base Camp for the township of Barellan on 9 March, 2012. The Base Camp was established within 24 hours with the capacity to accommodate 130 emergency services personnel. It operated from 9-21 March. The second Base Camp was another first for the NSW RFS. A civilian Base Camp or Temporary Accommodation Centre (TAC) which was established on 13 March at the Sports Oval in Coleambally. The centre was established for 100 evacuees from the Murrumbidgee River township of Darlington Point, who had been isolated on the southern side of the river from Griffith. The centre operated until 19 March when river levels had receded enough to allow residents to return home. The next day, on 14 March the State Emergency Operations Centre requested a TAC at Deniliquin to house up to 500 evacuees from the township of Hay as a result flooding in the Murrumbidgee River. A TAC at the Deniliquin Showground was operational within 24 hours of the request. This was also the first time in NSW that the Major Evacuation Centre Policy had been utilised under the direction of the State Emergency Operations Controller which operated for 13 days and was the largest temporary accommodation centre established in NSW history. On 15 March the final request for a Base Camp was received for a joint emergency services Base Camp at Hay. The Base Camp at the Hay Showground accommodated 100 emergency service personnel, was operational within 48 hours and operated until 26 March 2012. Photo by Rebel Talbert 48 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 region north Season Overview Region North experienced limited fire activity during the 2011/12 fire season both in terms of local and out-of-area operations. The Region did make a significant contribution and commitment of resources to assist NSW SES through the major flood events that affected northern and north western NSW late in 2011 and early 2012. Volunteers, Incident Management personnel, Strike Teams and Aviation Support personnel were deployed to the various locations affected by the flood emergencies. The township of Moree and its surrounding villages were devastated in November and again in February as floodwaters inundated the area and isolated thousands of residents. NSW RFS crews worked tirelessly to assist NSW SES crews and the affected residents. During late December 2011 to mid January 2012, Region North volunteers and staff were deployed to provide logistical support to a Police Search Operation that centred around the New England Village of Nowendoc. Operational and Mitigation Support Services established the base camps and members from New England and Tamworth provided catering and base camp accommodation support. The operation was one of the largest search operations ever conducted in NSW. As the operation continued crews from across Region North and Region East supplemented the NSW RFS deployments. Significant hazard reductions A continued strong focus through all levels of the organisation on fire mitigation and hazard reduction has seen the Region achieve significant hazard reduction outcomes for the third consecutive year. This effort was supported by work from the State Mitigation Support Services (SMSS), and across the Region the number of hazard reduction jobs completed was more than double the achievements of 2010/11. A full report of hazard reductions, development applications, hazard reduction certificates and hazard reduction complaints appears in Appendix A. Details appear in the Appendices. Across the Region over 17,400km of fire trails have now been registered and classified. The Bush Fire Risk Management Planning program has continued to progress with all draft plans finally approved during the course of 2011/12. The Bush Fire Risk Management Plans set future mitigation, hazard reduction and community engagement priorities across the Region and will be major contributors to reducing bush fire risk to communities over the next five years. Regional Training The Annual Region North Exercise held at Glen Innes continued to be very successful and productive delivering scenario based activities to enhance the skills and capabilities of the Region’s volunteers and staff. A number of scenario’s drew on the expertise of external agencies, which included counter terrorism, electrical safety, leadership, LPG safety, first aid and search for missing persons. Four hundred and twenty eight volunteers with 52 Appliances took part in the 12 training scenarios that were designed to teach and refresh crew members and crew leaders in all aspects of dealing with fire related incidents. Key Facts Volunteers 13,850 Male 10,945 Female 2,905 Incidents in 2011/12 3,634 Vehicles 1,975 NSW RFS Districts 11 NSW RFS Brigades 526 Square kilometres 152,495 Population 634,314 Landscape types Coastal scrub, forested hills and flat cropping and grazing in the west NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2011/12 49 A Senior Volunteer Forum was held in Armidale in August 2011 with 62 attendees. To enhance the skills of local staff in preparing Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificates, processing Hazard Complaints and undertaking Development Assessment, the Region hosted introductory and advanced field assessment workshops. The annual Incident Management Workshop was conducted in July 2011 at Coffs Harbour Fire Control Centre with inter-agency participation from FRNSW, NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service and Forestry NSW. The exercise ensures the continued provision of high standard coordinated operational capability during major fire and multi- agency incidents involving NSW fire and land management agencies and interstate counterparts. Community engagement The 2011/12 Regional Community Engagement Forum was held in Tamworth. Attended by volunteers and staff, the forum provided highly interactive sessions dealing with many topics including targeting engagement efforts to our most vulnerable communities, practical sessions on one to one interaction, and promotion strategies for the recently introduced banner phrase ‘Prepare. Act. Survive’. Major field day exhibits at Casino’s Primex and Gunnedah’s AgQuip rural expos were well attended with once again NSW RFS maintaining the opportunity to be an exhibitor. These major rural expos continue to provide volunteer and staff community engagement facilitators the opportunity to interact directly with thousands of members of the rural sector community. region north Our members Region North Volunteer and Staff dedication was duly recognised through a number of medal and award ceremonies held in Districts across the region throughout the year. A total of 532 awards, totalling thousands of year’s service to the community of NSW, were presented to members. Awards presented to Region North members included NSW RFS Commissioner’s Commendations, NSW RFS Long Service Medals, National Medals and the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM). The most notable awards presented in Region North included the Commissioner’s Award for Valour, presented to Tamworth District volunteer Kendall Thompson for his role in a number of life saving rescues during the Queensland floods in early 2011. See more details on the next page. Details appear in the Year in Brief. The AFSM was awarded to Group Captain Geoffrey (Boots) Towner for his many years of dedicated service to the Clarence Valley communities and to Superintendent Michael Brooks for his many years of dedicated service to the Namoi Gwydir area. Building capacity in the region The Northern Rivers Fire Control Centre project that commenced in 2010/11 was completed during 2011/12. The $3.7 million Fire Control Centre now houses the Northern Rivers Zone consolidating the Richmond Valley, Lismore and Kyogle Districts. Details appear in the Year in Brief. In addition to the Northern Rivers FCC Project, 59 other property related projects were completed across the Region during the 2011/12 period. During 2011/12 25 new appliances, four second-hand appliances and a range of support vehicles were handed over to brigades in the Region. Improved server capacity was rolled out across the region in the FCC locations of Coonabarabran, Narrabri, Moree, Inverell and Tamworth ensuring increased IT capacity and reliability. Region North continued to maintain and build relationships throughout communities both through emergency service agencies and other relevant stakeholder and interest groups including the following: • District Liaison Committees monitoring Council Service Agreement arrangements and performance • Bush Fire Management Committees contributing to cross agency coordination and cooperation • Queensland / NSW Border Liaison Committee enhancing interstate operational coordination • District and Local Emergency Management