Issues of Interest
Posted: 22.08.2010
First Workshop for Newly Appointed Brigade Community Safety Reps
District 13 Brigade Community Safety Reps collectively meet for first time and workshop through set agenda items
Posted: 04.07.2010
The man renown for being a strict disciplinarian, Volunteer Firefighter John McLeod AFSM of Boronia Fire Brigade continues to serve. Strong advocate for Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria
John McLeod, received his 55 year service award at a surprise function held at the Knox Club Wantirna on Friday 25th June
Posted: 22.06.2010
Structural & Wildfire Crew Leader Work Group Updates
Progress report from 2 important work groups (State Level)
Posted: 22.06.2010
Rodney Beale heads South
Firefighter Rod Beale Mooroolbark Fire Brigade transfers to Phillip Island Fire Brigade
Posted: 28.04.2010
Criminal Records Check
HQ trial on new criminal records checks close to completion
Posted: 22.03.2010
CFA members march for Anzac Day
Sunday the 18th of April is scheduled for the Boronia RSL street march, early start for Anzac Day. CFA members / brigades are welcome to march as one CFA unit with our returned service personnel.
Posted: 06.03.2010
Captain Helen Kenny recognised for her outstanding contribution to the community
Captain Kenny led crews from the St Andrews Fire Brigade on Black Saturday under extreme fire conditions
Posted: 24.02.2010
Kallista Brigade raise safety concerns over the use of GPS devices
February 14th Regional Council meeting, Kallista Brigade raised the awareness on use of GPS. Concerns expressed about GPS verbal instructions conflicting with road traffic signage and actual road conditions
Posted: 18.02.2010
Criminal Records Check, contract signed, quicker response for checks
VFBV support the new process of quicker criminal records checks for individuals, a pilot program will start at CFA HQ in March using a new service provider
Posted: 17.02.2010
Response to newspaper article from VFBV Region 13 President
The hundreds of CFA volunteers protecting communities in the Dandenong Ranges are very concerned at a local businessman's remark to the Bushfire Royal Commission and reported in The Age Feb 12
Posted: 25.01.2010
Sub committees within the RPC (Regional Planning Committee)
Sub committees work for the overall betterment of region 13, your brigade can input into these committees with ideas and suggestions.
Posted: 20.01.2010
Determination at Wildhaven.
Determination and hard work pays off. Well done volunteer firefighter Stella Reid St Andrews Fire Brigade & husband Allan for bringing Wildhaven back on line.
Posted: 17.01.2010
Region 13 Volunteers give feedback information on fuel management practises for Royal Commission
Volunteers from Region 13 including all Group Officers provide information on the current standard of fuel management practises by Statutory Authorities. Information collected will form part of a VFBV submission to the Royal Commission.
Posted: 07.12.2009
Conflict Issue Resolution
Region 13 HR & Welfare Committee endorse "Conflict Issue Resolution Process"
Posted: 29.11.2009
Yarra Valley Group Strongly Support Chief Officer.
A letter to the Royal Commission from the Yarra Valley Group of Fire Brigades gives a clear message to the Royal Commission.
Posted: 28.11.2009
Volunteer Input into State Joint VFBV / CFA HR Committee
12 Volunteers provide representation on the State HR Committee
Posted: 27.11.2009
Special Acknowledgement
Region 13 volunteers provide ongoing support throughout Region
Posted: 23.11.2009
Improved Police criminal record check process close to completion
Police criminal record checks for CFA volunteers will shortly be completed in a more timely manner if a new process is accepted.
Posted: 23.11.2009
Drought Appeal Funding at Work
Funds raised during the drought appeal are being used to assist families in the North of the State.
Posted: 23.11.2009
Drought Update from North of the State
Mixed news on the farming / drought front
Posted: 22.11.2009
Research Fire Brigade Produce 46.4
The production of the book 46.4 degrees by Research Fire Brigade, stories and pictures of Black Saturday
Posted: 18.11.2009
Scott Aspin helmet issue - update
VFBV are in discussions with CFA regarding the removal of Scott Aspin helmets from service within CFA.
It has now been ascertained that only around 250 of these helmets remain in service.
Posted: 08.10.2009
Reefton and Bayswater Brigades, first hand information from these 2 Region 13 Fire Brigades
Reefton and Bayswater brigades are both fully volunteer fire brigades and are located at either ends of CFA Region 13. They are an example of the diversity of CFA brigades and how volunteer firefighters must deal with a range of risks within their communities.
Posted: 27.09.2009
Rowville Fire Brigade continues to move forward with strong leadership from Captain John Farrer and Brigade Officers ably supported by a dedicated team of local volunteer firefighters.
Rowville Fire Brigade meets the challenges of an ever expanding population growth within its brigade area. With an annual call rate of over 300 turnouts, a membership of over 50 firefighters, 4 appliances on station and a diverse range of risks, Rowville Fire Brigade is an integral link within the Knox Fire Brigades Group.
Posted: 27.09.2009
Accident Investigation / Disciplinary Investigation, VFBV reps available as support
Assistance is available in the form of a support person if you are required to attend an interview or investigation.
Posted: 05.09.2009
Control Line 2009
A one day workshop focussed on the management of major emergencies
Designed for:
- Incident Controllers
- Incident Management Team personnel
- Emergency Response Coordinators
- Municipal Emergency Resource Officers
- Recovery Managers
- Relief Managers
Posted: 02.09.2009
Gloves and helmets a point of clarification
Scott Aspin helmets should be returned and replaced. Rigger style gloves should also be replaced.
Posted: 31.08.2009
Future Focus Workshop for Brigade VFBV Reps, aims to strengthen Regional Councils.
State Executive VFBV Reps met with local VFBV at Mooroolbark F/S 26th August to plan the “Future Focus Workshop for Brigade VFBV Reps in Region 13”.
The aim being to strengthen Regional Councils, raise the profile of local VFBV and provide stronger representation across the board. Key words Profile, Respect and Influence.
Future direction and the involvement of brigade VFBV reps at the coal face was the focal point of discussions on Wednesday night 26th August
Posted: 30.08.2009
Region 13 Forum 2009 Swinburne Lilydale
The Region 13 Forum Sunday 30th August 2009.
Opened by General Manager Lex de Man.
Welcome to:
Minister for Police & Emergency Services Bob Cameron, CFA Board Member David Gibbs AFSM, DCO Greg Esnouf AFSM, Brian Sandlandt Chairperson Regional Planning Committee, VFBV Executive, Brigade and Group Officers, Yarra Area Management.
Posted: 25.08.2009
Planning Permits for Removal of Vegetation Hazards
VFBV continue to support local Brigade issues, calling for positive outcomes on fire prevention measures with native vegetation.
Posted: 24.08.2009
New Employer Information Brochure Available Soon
A brand new employer information brochure will be available early September. The brochure is designed to assist employers who have CFA volunteers as employees. CFA also hopes it will encourage volunteers to have a discussion with their employer about their involvement with CFA and negotiate suitable leave arrangements prior to the need arising for them to attend an emergency.
Posted: 24.08.2009
Boronia FB Annual Dinner - Toast to CFA and Chief
On Saturday 22nd August, Boronia hosted their Annual Dinner for members and dignitaries. What follows is an excerpt from Boronia's First Lieutenant, Peter Carew’s toast to the CFA and Chief Officer.
Posted: 08.08.2009
Emerald Fire Brigade have provided ongoing support for drought appeal. Being part of CFA is truly being part of the community and family.
Emerald Fire Brigade have provided ongoing support for the drought appeal via their local IGA Supermarket and Opportunity Shop. Generous work helps communities in the North of Victoria. Report follows in detail on the efforts of Emerald Brigade and the local community.
Posted: 04.08.2009
Yarra Glen Fire Brigade develop a new partnership
Yarra Glen Fire Brigade have visited Pigick Brigade in Western Victoria and enjoyed some great hospitality. A long drive past Horsham and close to Rainbow.
Posted: 28.07.2009
Brigade stalwarts achieve milestones
Ex Captain Bob Horner, Ex Captain Frank Stephenson and Ex Captain Jim Read have achieved personal milestones and in doing so have provided a wealth of service to their communities and fellow firefighters.
Posted: 28.07.2009
Diversity in CFA Brigades
Diversity in Brigades is a positive, and what's healthy diversity?
Posted: 12.07.2009
Bushfire CRC Taskforce Interim Report
Listed link to the Interim Report, contents section
Posted: 04.05.2009
Key points from VFBV meeting region 13 Sunday 19th April Lilydale Fire Station
Key points from VFBV meeting, listed are a number of key points form the April 19th meeting. Strong representation from brigades at the meeting.
Posted: 11.04.2009
Brigade instigated Black Saturday welfare projects
A number of “Work In Progress” projects instigated at Brigade level are now underway. Local VFBV will support these projects wherever and however it can. Please advise us if you have a project in mind or is currently in progress, we may be able to help.
Posted: 11.04.2009
Bushfire Inquiry process, accident investigation, Volunteer firefighter representation
The process of accident investigation is now taking place, some volunteers will be required to give information in relation to accidents that happened during the bushfires.
Posted: 11.04.2009
Anzac Day 2009 - Brigade involvements, locations, dates and times
For the last 94 years, young and old have come together at commemoration services around the country, to remember those brave soldiers who gave their lives so we could live ours. A number of region 13 brigades regularly participate in Anzac Day Services.
Posted: 11.04.2009
2009 Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal - Fire Brigades annual contribution
Tradition is kept going, big $ response for Childrens Hospital Appeal from volunteer and integrated brigades in the region
Posted: 05.04.2009
Help Us To Help Others
A number of brigades and individuals are working on different projects in support of fellow fire fighters, their families and the community in general, in areas hit hard by the recent bushfires.
Posted: 02.04.2009
HELP WANTED
Help wanted - expertise in the building industry. Project is to construct a 2 bedroom dwelling.
Posted: 10.03.2009
Black Saturday and an ongoing commitment by VFBV Region 13
Summary of Region 13 VFBV’s involvement in the follow up phase of the bushfires.
Posted: 09.03.2009
Drought Appeal, Brigades in Region13 provide strong financial assistance to communities in the North of Victoria
A concentrated effort by region 13 has raised a total to date of $44k
Posted: 20.12.2008
PPC for volunteers whom are staff seperate to staff issue supported at VFBV State Level
Brigades in region 13 whom have staff firefighters as volunteers have requested that separate PPC be issued for their volunteer duties.
Posted: 19.10.2008
Region 13, Regional Planning Committee (RPC) explained.
The RPC provides strategic planning across the region, RPC sub Committees allow volunteers to have an input into decision making at a regional level. Recent past RPC Chair Knox Group Officer Allan Small provides an overview of the important role of the RPC.
Posted: 13.10.2008
One association (VFBV) now a reality.
Listed are key points from the Regional Council Meeting held at Lilydale 12th October 2008, Alan Monti VFBV and General Manager Lex de Man present reports. Update on drought appeal.
Posted: 12.10.2008
Bayswater Fire Brigade have been nominated for an Emergency Management Australia (EMA) award in the 2008 Australian Safer Communities area, for their work in presenting the seminar “Control Line” and “Master Class” workshops.
The Brigade have been invited to attend the Victorian award ceremony to be held on Wednesday 22nd October. Details of the Control Line and Master Class workshops can be found in previous posted articles under “Issues of Interest”.
Posted: 02.10.2008
2008 Fire Awareness Awards. Ferntree Gully Brigade are now finalists in the Fire Awareness Awards for their recent initiative of a Sprinkler and Alarm Training Simulator. Updated 8/10/08 Congratulations FTG Highly Commended Awarded
The awards are an initiative of Victoria's fire authorities MFB,CFA, DSE and are proudly supported by RACV Insurance.
Ferntree Gully’s finalist nomination is in the “Fire Service Category” of the Fire Awareness Awards. This is a section in the awards for a fire service, brigade, station or district depot, including an agency department, that has developed and implemented an initiative via fire safety measures and/or community education to reduce the number and/or impact of fires.
Posted: 29.09.2008
Master Class September 08 reinforces the importance of incident management and the value of training in a multi agency environment.
The scenario of a major earthquake in Melbourne was the challenge confronting the "Master Class" groups. Participants worked through a range of issues associated with an emergency of this magnitude.
Master classes were run on Friday 5th and Monday 8th September 08 at the Karralyka Centre Ringwood in conjunction with the "Control line" seminar. The cost was $500.00 per participant, Volunteer Firefighters recieved sponsorships via CFA and Bayswater Fire Brigade. The selection process was dependant on ability, understanding and training of Incident Management Systems and a willigness to take your experience further.
Posted: 22.09.2008
Emergency Service Leaders promote Incident Management as a critical key component in the command and control structure
180 Emergency Service Personnel attend the Control Line Seminar held at Ringwood on Saturday 6th September 2008. Personnel from emergency services throughout Australia attended a successful seminar held at the Karralyka Centre in Ringwood Victoria.
CFA Board Member Michael Tudball officially opened the seminar. Ex Captain Tudball congratulated Bayswater Fire Brigade for organising such an important event.
The control line seminar was available to all members of emergency and associated services at a small cost of $5.00 for the day, the seminar has been widely advertised.
Posted: 14.09.2008
Region 13 Association key position points
Recent positions adopted by your region 13 Association executive in relation to new PPC issue and Fatigue Management
Posted: 03.09.2008
New Postings in Document Archive Section
1) Report to joint Associations meeting (20th July 2008) from Lex de Man General Manager Yarra Area, details Yarra Area Performance
2) Report on the CFA Community Safety Volunteer Workshop held on 10th August 08
3) Report from Paul Garvey CFA, to Region 13 HR & Welfare Regional Planning Sub Committee, Initiatives in Support of Volunteerism, 28th August 2008
Posted: 10.08.2008
Key points from joint association meeting held at Lilydale Fire Station 20th July 2008
Joint Association meeting moves forward on issues, strong representation of region 13 brigades at meeting with 49 brigade delegates present
Posted: 24.07.2008
Region 13 Council unanimously vote for one association
At the joint association meeting held at Lilydale Fire Station on the 20th July an historic vote was taken. The vote recorded was affirmative for the formation of one Association to be known as Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria.
Posted: 21.07.2008
Leading Australian Incident Management Master Class and Seminar
Congratulations Bayswater Fire Brigade in hosting cutting edge emergency managment classes, Strategic Master Class and Seminar. National and International emergency management leaders present emergency management workshop and seminar. Volunteer and Career Firefighters welcome to apply.
Posted: 07.07.2008
Inaugural Meeting of HR & Welfare Sub – Committee Meeting held on the 19th May 2008, volunteer firefighter representation from across the region
First meeting of region HR & Welfare Committee receives positive endorsement from association reps. The HR & Welfare Committee is a Sub Committee of the Regional Planning Committee (RPC).
Posted: 05.07.2008
Region 13 Joint Association Executive - Position on First Aid
The Region 13 joint associations executive have recently met and decided on a policy position regarding first aid within brigades. This follows brigades expressing concerns over numbers allocated to first aid training.
Posted: 10.06.2008
Recruiting in a Culturally Diverse Way - Updated 4/9/08
A Workshop for Emergency Service Personnel
The aim of the workshop was to support emergency management agencies to implement organizational change in order to increase the recruitment of volunteers from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. Organised by Emergency Management Australia and held at the Department of Justice Offices Melbourne February 2008.
Posted: 10.06.2008
Well Deserved Pat Bigham AFSM
Congratulations are extended to Pat Bigham from Gruyere Brigade on receiving the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) on the Queens Birthday Honours 2008
Posted: 02.06.2008
Diversity in Emergency Services Conference MCG Oct/Nov 2007
Emergency service personnel from Australia and overseas met at the MCG for a 3 day conference, exceptional presentations on major issues regarding diversity in our services were made. Captain Brenda Berkman New York City Fire Department delivered her keynote address - Are we there yet? Diversity in the US Fire Service
Posted: 02.06.2008
Dr Helen Szoke Diversity In Emergency Services Conference Melb Oct/Nov 2007
Dr Helen Szoke Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission address to the Diversity in Emergency Services Conference MCG 2007. Human Rights Underpin a Human Service.
On January 2007 the Charter of Human Rights & Responsibilities came into force in Victoria. Unlike the familiar discourse of equal opportunity the human rights dialogue is relatively new to Victoria. On the 1st of January 2008 the Charter becomes fully operational.
Posted: 02.06.2008
Brigade OH&S Facilitators Are On The Move
Yarra Area sets the bench mark with the pilot induction program for Brigade OH&S facilitators
Posted: 23.05.2008
Knox Fire Brigades Group 2009 Torchlight. Updated 9/01/09
2009 Knox Fire Brigades Group Torchlight. We anticipate a large contingent of firefighters to march on the night. Members of the public are strongly urged to line the march route and support your volunteer firefighters.
Inivitations to brigades are now being sent.
Top Marching Bands secured for the event. The Pipes and Drums of the NSW Rural Fire Service, Ringwood RSL Pipes, The Wonthaggi Citizens Band and The Victorian Police Band.
Posted: 06.03.2008
Incompatible 38mm Hose Couplings
The issue of incompatible 38mm hose couplings was raised by Wonga Park Brigade at our October 07 Region joint Association meeting, a strong presentation was given with examples of hose and couplings presented.
Posted: 06.03.2008
Bullying & Harassment - ZERO TOLERANCE
At the recent brigade management forum conducted at Swinburne Lilydale your associations gave a presentation in relation to harassment and bullying. We strongly oppose any form of harassment and bullying in brigades.
