Volunteer - REGULAR FEATURES From the Chairman - NSW SES Volunteers Association
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Volunteer the Issue 40 | June 2017 ISSN 1445-3886 | PP 100018972 REGULAR FEATURES From the Chairman From the Commissioner
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Volunteer
the
NSW SES VOLUNTEERS ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President of the Board of Directors Director Director
Charlie Moir ESM (Inverell) Kim Davis ESM (Captains Flat) Kim Edwards (Waverley/Woolhara)
0428 401 443 kim.davis@nswsesva.org.au kim.edwards@nswsesva.org.au
chairman@nswsesva.org.au
Director Director
Chief Executive Officer Neville O’Malley (Tabulam) Vacant
Andrew Edwards neville.omalley@nswsesva.org.au
andrew.edwards@nswsesva.org.au
Director
Patricia Orchard (Tamworth)
patricia.orchard@nswsesva.org.au
NSW SES VOLUNTEERS ASSOCIATION AREA REPRESENTATIVES
Sydney Northern Area Central West Area Sydney Southern Area
Graham Kinder (Manly) Rob Hines (Orange) Pat Johnson ESM (Sydney Southern HQ)
sydneynorthern@nswsesva.org.au centralwest@nswsesva.org.au sydneysouthern@nswsesva.org.au
Hunter Area Macquarie Area Southern Highlands Area
Peta Luke (Merriwa) Kurt Andrew (Dubbo) Patricia Maxwell (Queanbeyan)
hunter@nswsesva.org.au macquarie@nswsesva.org.au southernhighlands@nswsesva.org.au
Clarence-Nambucca Area Far West Area Murrumbidgee Area
Mark Neal (Nambucca) Paul Kaye (Broken Hill) Madison Harvey (Wagga Wagga)
clarencenambucca@nswsesva.org.au farwest@nswsesva.org.au murrumbidgee@nswsesva.org.au
Mid North Coast Area Lachlan Area Illawarra South Coast Area
Cheryl Goodchild (Taree) Vacant Lisa Williams (Eden)
midnorthcoast@nswsesva.org.au lachlan@nswsesva.or.au illawarrasouthcoast@nswsesva.org.au
Richmond Tweed Area Sydney Western Area
Kristine McDonald (Tweed Heads) Vacant (Sydney Western HQ)
richmondtweed@nswsesva.org.au sydneywestern@nswsesva.org.au
Namoi/North West Area Murray Area
Vacant (Namoi Region HQ) Susan Leckie (Murray HQ)
namoi@nswsesva.org.au murray@nswsesva.org.au
CRITICAL INCIDENT SUPPORT PROGRAM 1800 626 800
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NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 1
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Contents REGULAR FEATURES
4 From the President
4 From the Minister
5 From the Commissioner
7 From the Editor
48 NSW SES Region Headquarters
FEATURES
9 The NSW SES and NSWRFS
Young People in Emergency
Services Awards
10 Large Animal Rescue Master Class
12 Vertical Rescue Training
Wingecarribee Unit
14 Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal
2017 Kokoda Trek
17 Exercise Tail Wind
18 Updates from the Capability
Development Group
21 NSW State Emergency Service
Voluteers Compete in NSW Police
Equestrian Games
22 The Tail End of Debbie
27 A Glimpse of the New SHQ
Building Located in Burelli
Street Wollongong
28 SES — RFS Training in Helicopter
Flood Operations
30 Exercise Star
32 Saving Lives is in Our Blood
34 Sydney Western Rescue Competition
37 RescuExperience
10 14 38 Northern Rivers Floods —
an SES Community Liaison
Officer’s Perspective
42 The Emerging Generation and the
Impact on Volunteering
44 The Fleet Project
45 Growing Support
47 Search and Rescue
32 38
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 3
FROM THE PRESIDENT
We will be working together, growing
the volunteer culture even stronger.
CHARLIE MOIR ESM volunteers- but we have made it aren’t always going to be sure how
PRESIDENT NSW SES through all of that, and to some degree to get there. But we will be working
VOLUNTEERS ASSOCIATION we are stronger for it. together, growing the volunteer
With Commissioner Smethurst now culture even stronger and getting the
at the helm, he has big ideas and even communities we help as much support
A
nd just like that, half the year bigger strategies to get us there. This as we can.
has been and gone! And it’s will be a time of transformation for our In the Volunteers Association, we
not just the seasons that Service, and it couldn’t come too soon. also will be looking at transforming
are changing! I have had numerous meetings the way we do things – we have
We are seeing big changes in our with our Commissioner now, and I started small with changes to the
Service and it is time to embrace them am walking away from them feeling way we process and allocate our
and get onto a steady track. energised, and confident that he is funding schemes (you can find more
For a number of years now, we have putting us on the path to success. It information on this further in the
been in a state of limbo. We have had probably won’t be easy, and there will magazine), and will be continuing to
five Commissioners, talk of region be moments when we know what we shake things up as we need to make
restructures, changes in staff and want the future to look like but we this the best Association it can be.
FROM THE MINISTER
and dedication of our emergency the troops in Lismore, Banora Point,
services volunteers and personnel. Griffith, Sutherland, Bankstown,
SES volunteers have made huge Penrith, Bourke and Cobar. I have also
contributions protecting people across visited the SES HQ, presented the
the state as severe storms battered awards for the SES Young volunteers
NSW. The North Coast was hardest hit and enjoyed watching the State Rescue
by severe weather as Cyclone Debbie Challenge at Alliance Stadium. Most
made its way down the Eastern Sea recently, I was thrilled to announce
Board. North Coast residents are facing the 24 finalists for the 2017 Rotary
enormous challenges in the wake of NSW Emergency Services Community
these floods, and the NSW Government Awards. Congratulations to the four
TROY GRANT MP will be with them every step of the way SES nominees.
MINISTER FOR on their path to recovery. So often our emergency services
EMERGENCY SERVICES I’ve visited Lismore and the Tweed volunteers are the quiet achievers who
twice since the devastating floods. work tirelessly to ensure the safety
On the ground I was impressed by the of others in times of disaster and
contribution of the SES, and ultimately, devastation. Over the past few months
their courage and professionalism SES volunteers have been flat out. You
T
he past few months have been in the face of great adversity. The are our local heroes, and we owe you
incredibly busy – quite a start recovery efforts continue, and I thank an enormous debt of gratitude for the
as the new Emergency Services all SES members involved for their crucial work you do. I look forward to
Minister! First and foremost, I would outstanding efforts. continuing to meet volunteers and
like to put it on the record that I am Since becoming the Minister I’ve personnel in local units across the
immensely proud of the commitment thoroughly enjoyed meeting many of State during my travels.
4 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017
FROM THE COMMISSIONER
D
ear Members. In my first 3 the predicted increasing intensity
months with the Service, I and frequency of severe weather
have achieved one of my initial events, we need to address this
priorities, which was to visit all of our situation immediately.
Regions. During these visits I also Supporting this, are some
endeavoured to get out to as many interesting facts and figures on our
Units and activities as I could and meet recruitment and retention from the
with you. For those of you that I haven’t 2014 NSW Auditor General’s Report.
managed to meet as yet, my intent is to The report states that we have around
conduct as many Unit visits as possible 1700 people join the Service annually,
and I will continue to get out regularly however, we are seeing around 26%
and specifically attend your major of our people leave every year. This MARK SMETHURST DSC, AM
events and activities. is a 6% higher than average loss for a COMMISSIONER
As you know, we are well into volunteer organisation. We also know
implementing our Strategic Plan that approximately half the people that
2016 – 2021, which is the blueprint join the NSW SES annually, leave within Of course there will be a lot of
for the delivery of our business as an their first year. supporting work to assist us with the
emergency service. To further target Clearly this information is telling Volunteering Reimagined strategy, and
our work and clarify our objectives us we need to improve the way we this is where many of the key actions
we have now focused specifically do things to retain our volunteer of the Action Plan 2017 -2019 will come
on the next two years of work and members. After all, we invest heavily in to improve efficiencies and enhance
produced an Action Plan 2017-2019. in conducting training, providing PPE processes. Work is already underway
It has been a collaborative effort to and making available professional on improving the way we undertake
develop the Action Plan involving development opportunities. Every and deliver training, and the NSW SES
members from across the Service, Unit’s long term viability to deliver Training and Development Review
including Volunteers, Regional to its community is dependent Model project is another critical piece
Controllers, Managers, the Strategic upon having a reliable, trained and of work that will feed into the broader
Leadership Team and the NSW SES equipped volunteers. recruitment and retention agenda.
Volunteers Association, to ensure So we need to reflect on our I appreciate that there is a lot
its clarity and intent. This plan has a approach to volunteering, and think of change happening and this can
range of key goals for the Service and a bit more laterally about how we can be very challenging, as well as
I see that this will greatly enhance the bring people into the Service and keep liberating. None of the work ahead
volunteer experience and build our them. It’s about being more flexible of us is insurmountable, and all of
operational capability. about what we expect from our it is beneficial and necessary to get
So how will the NSW SES look as we members and how they can contribute us where we need to go. By 2019
move forward? to the work of the Service. In essence we will have a truly superior Service,
Primarily, we need to increase it’s Volunteering Reimagined, and one that is better embedded within
both our capacity and capability. Over that is what our new strategy is called. communities, with a strong base of
the past 12 months, the pressure on This strategy is now available to all well trained, diverse, capable and
the Service and its people to respond members to view and provide feedback reliable people.
to protracted events has become on. I encourage your thoughts, ideas We will be closer to our goal of
evident. We have seen this both in the and concerns on this important piece being the best volunteer emergency
field and in operations centres. With of work. service in Australia.
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NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 5
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FROM THE EDITOR
From the Editor
PAT JOHNSON ESM
EDITOR
A
nother magazine rolls around
once more it seems like only
yesterday that I put the April
one to bed. Again thank you all for your
contribution it is only with your input
that we can make it a great magazine.
Please don’t forget that the
September one will be ”Pink”
supporting breast cancer. I have so far
two lovely ladies that have given me
some input but need much more in the
way of support with articles and ideas
to help make it a great issue. Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness
As I always say, enjoy your magazine.
NSW SES Peer Support
The Peer Support team is available to We are there to listen to whatever them. They are there to take calls at
all SES members and their families. it is that is bothering you: it can be those times when you just need to
»» Peers are volunteers who are service related, family related or talk to someone straight away.
active within their own units work related. We are a listening We have peers, Chaplains and
and regions ear; there to talk to you and where access to a psychologist depending
»» Peers have been trained to you can be assured it will remain on your needs.
be a listening ear when you confidential. Sometimes by just Please ensure you have the
or your family members need talking to someone you will be 1800 626 800 number saved in your
that ear surprised at the clarity and sense of phones and in the phones of the ones
»» Peers have varying degrees of relief you will find. you care about.
talents, skills and years of service Our Duty Officers in Peer Support Watch this space over the next
within the NSW SES are there to take calls from our few publications on more of what
»» Some of us are young; some of us members and their family. Like any we do and who we are. An EOI will
are older and come from diverse other DO within the service – they be announced later for those of you
backgrounds, race, cultures are on call 24 hours a day 7 days a who would be interested in training
and experience week – no time is a bad time to call to become a Peer Supporter.
Volunteer's Members Update
The office has been working on updating the Member Data base to ensure that we have all the
correct contact details for our Members. If you need to update your details please either email the
office at office@nswsesva.org.au or call on 1300 073 782.
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 7
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For more information about our training programs, please contact us
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DONATE BLOOD
AND YOU’LL SAVE
THREE LIVES.
On behalf of Camden Council
I would like to thank all the
volunteers in the Camden
Local Government Area
and throughout the State for
AND GET THE their wonderful and tireless
support and acknowledge their
BEST BISCUIT EVER. significant contributions.
Mayor of Camden,
Councillor Lara Symkowiak
To donate, call 13 14 95 70 Central Ave, Oran Park
or visit donateblood.com.au P. 4654 7777
W. www.camden.nsw.gov.auYOUNG PEOPLE IN EMERGENCY SERVICES AWARDS
The NSW SES and NSWRFS Young
People in Emergency Services Awards
T
his year during National Youth
Week the NSW SES Volunteer
Association proudly supported
the NSW SES and NSWRFS Young
People in Emergency Services Awards
that were held at NSW Parliament
House on Wednesday 5 April, 2017.
The Hon. Troy Grant MP, Minister
for Police and Minister for Emergency
Services and NSW SES Commissioner
Mark Smethurst DSC, AM presented
NSW SES Cadet, Sasha Cox from Broken
Hill High School with the NSW SES
Cadet of the Year Award and Yvette
Amos from the Snowy River Unit with
the NSW SES Young Volunteer Award.
Year 11 student, Sasha Cox was
chosen to receive the Cadet of the
Year Award because of the leadership,
maturity and passion for helping her peers. Marc went on to say that many has served as the Unit and Local
peers that she demonstrated during young people had been inspired to join Controller. NSW SES Commissioner,
a Secondary School Cadet program in the Broken Hill SES Unit over the past 5 Mark Smethurst congratulated Yvette
Broken at Broken Hill High School in due to the influence of the Secondary and acknowledged that she became
2016. Deputy Region Controller, Marc Schools Cadet Program. one of the youngest volunteers ever to
Coulter nominated Sasha for the award Yvette Amos was presented with hold the position of Unit Controller in
and spoke in glowing terms about the NSW SES Young Volunteer of the NSW SES when she was appointed
Sasha’s commitment to serving her the Year Award by the Minister in to the role in 2012 at the age of 21.
local community as well as her passion recognition of her commitment to
to continually promote the benefits of learning and support of volunteers By Todd Burns
engagement with the NSW SES to her in the Snowy River Unit where she Coordinator Youth Engagement
Umbrellas Coming this July
C
oming in early July, pre-order
your SES Umbrella now. This
new look golf sized Umbrella
has branding on the inside and outside
on sale
large white panels. This item is a must
in preparing for those cold winter rainy
until
sold out
days or when you have to do interviews
on TV! This is a limited run item and will
be on sale at $29.95 until sold out.
Pre-orders are being taken at
https://www.nswsesva.org.au/shop/
remember to login to purchase this item.
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 9LARGE ANIMAL RESCUE MASTER CLASS
Large Animal Rescue
Master Class
G
eneral Land Rescue units poor animal handling and poor Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service (UK)
in NSW are often called to rescue techniques. supported by David King (Hawkesbury
undertake large animal rescue NSW SES Operational Capability Unit), Anthony Hatch (Griffith Unit) and
operations. Under the State Rescue hosted a multi-agency Large Animal Grant McClory (Operational Capability).
Policy ‘Rescue’ means the safe removal Rescue Operations (LARO) master class The workshop covered a wide
of persons or ‘animals’ from actual or at the Australian Racing and Equine range of common situations large
threatened danger of physical harm’ Academy on the Richmond TAFE animals get themselves into with
(NSW State Rescue Policy — 3rd College (Western Sydney Institute). participants taking home some very
Edition Version 3.5 December 2014). TAFE also provided an opportunity for important lessons:
SES, as the combat agency for floods, our members to obtain a statement
may also be tasked to relocate large of attainment for ‘Rescue animals and BEWARE THE ‘CALM’
animals isolated by flood water or apply basic first aid’. TRAPPED HORSE
stranded in flood water. NSW SES members with LARO When working around trapped animals
The rescue of large animals poses experience from around the State it is easy to be lulled into a false sense
a number of unique risks to our joined members from the Volunteer of security if they do not appear to be
rescuers, associated with handling Rescue Association (VRA), Police struggling. Horses, for instance, will
animals and basic animal behaviour Rescue Squad, South Australia SES, give up easily, rest for a while and then
(the survival instinct of fight or flight). RSPCA and the NZ SPCA in two explode momentarily before calming
There is a very real risk of injury to days large animal rescue operations again. This unpredictable behavioural
an untrained rescuer and the risk of facilitated by Anton Phillips, a process will continue if not controlled.
injury or death to the animal through large animal rescue specialist from The horse can literally ‘self destruct’.
10 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017LARGE ANIMAL RESCUE MASTER CLASS
Animals may also struggle if stimulated REQUEST A LARGE ANIMAL or relocated. Can you access a nearby
by the rescue operation (noise — VETERINARIAN ASAP paddock or is it being transported to
movement — vibrations), rescuers Working in close proximity to any the veterinary practice?
(loud and excited) or an emotional entrapped horse can impose a major
owner (crying or screaming). risk to rescue operators. As soon as IT DOESN’T TAKE A LOT OF
possible, a vet should be requested to WATER TO DROWN A HORSE
PROVIDE RESTRAINT attend the incident. Get the owner to Horses can quickly succumb to
Always place a head restraint request their vet. Sedation of the horse pneumonia if they inhale a small
(commercial halter or improvised should ensure it will not react quickly amount of water. Always keep the
halter) onto the horse prior to or unexpectedly to stimuli - but can still horse’s head out of water.
undertaking any form of rescue walk/move to assist the rescue. All participants could have easily
or relocation. HOWEVER, a sedated horse can still spent another two days listening to
react to stimuli and give you a kick. Anton’s stories as he shared his wealth
A RELEASED ANIMAL MAY If required, the vet can also of large animal rescue experiences.
TAKE FLIGHT anaesthetise the horse for a short period.
Once sensing freedom herd animals may
attempt to return to the herd with no DETERMINE WHAT TO DO
regard for those around the scene of WITH THE ANIMAL ONCE IT
operations. This is also an important HAS BEEN RESCUED
reason to provide some form of ‘quick Take your time to arrange how and By David King Deputy Controller
release’ on a vertical lifting system. where the animal is going once rescued Hawkesbury SES Unit
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 11VERTICAL RESCUE TRAINING
Vertical Rescue Training
Wingecarribee Unit
W
ith the increase of rescues
around the Wingecarribee
Shire, the SES, is constantly
training new members.
The whole of the Wingecarribee
Shire is surrounded by escarpments,
and although there are walking tracks
and signage throughout the area, the
public disregard the warning signs
along the escarpments and descend
into the valleys.
The public are not only putting their
own lives on the line, but also those of
the SES and helicopter crews who have
to risk their lives to retrieve them.
Too often SES is called out to find
lost bush walkers and often have to
carry injured walkers out, with others
having to be rescued by helicopter.
Wingecarribee SES has the most
unusual cliff training area at Hill Top.
Training takes place at what is believed
to be the deepest railway cutting in
New South Wales. It is part of the
first railway system into the Southern
Highlands in the 1800s.
12 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017VERTICAL RESCUE TRAINING
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 13SALVATION ARMY KOKODA TREK
Salvation Army Red Shield
Appeal 2017 Kokoda Trek
I TREK TO GIVE HOPE
C
ourage, Endurance, Mateship
and Sacrifice
We started the Kokoda trek
from South to North. The PNG locals
said that the Salvation Army direction
from Owers Corner is the hardest
trail that anyone could possibly take,
especially during the wet season in
April. The trek is normally walked in the
opposite direction.
Since the beginning of our trek,
we were advised that the challenge
was to climb over ten difficult peaks,
the last peak being the hardest one,
a 2,190 metres high climb. After we
had reached the highest peak then
we needed to descend a steep trek
to Kokoda. The whole journey took
nine days to complete; the terrain
conditions were wet, muddy, slippery After we arrived at Owers Corner, day, we finally arrived at Brigade
and humid which made our journey we immediately proceeded to descend. Hill. We were mentally and physically
extremely hard and challenging. It was a path no wider than two feet exhausted but with a great sense of
Before our arrival at PNG, our first and the terrain was slippery and accomplishment; we were happy and
drama started at Brisbane airport on muddy. As we kept walking, the night relieved that we did it. During this trek,
Wednesday, when we tried to check caught up with us without any warning we supported and motivated each
in and found out that our group (30 before we reached the campsite. While other. On a personal reflection, I felt
of us) were not on the passengers list. I got my torch and headlamp out I so proud to be Australian and be at
However, after few enquiries made realised that I forgotten to load any Brigade Hill for my very first Anzac Day
by the organisers; at least 11 of our batteries before starting the trek. We dawn service outside of Australia. I was
members were able to go on the first needed to change our boots to thongs, standing where our diggers attempted
flight. The rest of us were scheduled as we needed to cross a river, which to halt the strong Japanese advance
for the second flight leaving at midday, rose to our knees with fast currents. It force. Our diggers sacrificed so much
but that was cancelled due to some was so nerve-racking but challenging for what we all take for granted today;
technical issues. We flew the next day to adapt to this situation while in our “freedom”. This was an emotional
arriving on Thursday afternoon, so we pitch darkness. moment for me to be here. While I was
lost a day of our scheduled trip in PNG. Every day was a challenging self-reflecting, the Last Post was played
On the day we arrived, we needed to endurance; the ability to continue our followed by a minute of silence and the
be in our camping site before nightfall. journey needed resilience, strength only noise I could hear was the “Aussie”
We boarded a bus that drove us to the and energy. Fatigue and muscular pain flag flapping by the light wind. There
hotel. At the hotel, we had one hour tested our ability to push on regardless. was no way of comprehending what
to unpack our gear and repacked it The mission was to arrive at Brigade our diggers had gone through and the
into our porter’s backpacks (weighing Hill on 24th April, so we could be there sacrifices they made during their battle
approximately 20 kg) and the rest and commemorate the dawn service for survival in Kokoda. It was a very
of our gear was packed into our day of the 75th Anniversary of Kokoda emotional time as there were a few
backpack (which needed to be less on Anzac Day. It took us a few days to members in our team who had close
than 6kg). An hour later, we proceeded reach to Brigade Hill, we had to climb family connections with Kokoda.
boarding the bus again that drove two major hills, first hill was 1,350 After we left Brigade Hill and
us to our destination, the ride took metres high and the second was 1,415 headed to our next destination,
several hours to reach our destination, metres. The terrain was rugged and the Efogi Mountain. This mountain
Owers Corner. physically challenging. On the fourth marked the halfway of our Salvation
14 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017SALVATION ARMY KOKODA TREK
Army Trekking. We knew that the trek We were all mentally and physically the question as it cost $3,000, covered
wouldn’t be an easy task. We had a few exhausted from trekking for nine hours by insurance for medical emergency
days of difficult climbs starting with every day. Trekking through muddy only. The only way out of this
1,415 metres, followed by 2,025 metres and wet pathways was not easy; every demanding journey was to “ just do it”,
and then a third one of 2,085 metres. step in the mud and water made our regardless. I needed to push through
Still, there was one more mountain feet feel two kilograms heavier. The the pain, blisters, mental fatigue
to climb, the PNG porters called it ascending and descending climbs on and exhaustion. Thankfully, through
“The Wall”, and the mountain was the rugged paths was a daily challenge; encouragement from the team and
located at Mt Bellamy (which was 2,190 slippery rocks, uneven surfaces, porters I made it to “The Wall”. As I
metres high). We needed to climb this protruding roots and fallen logs from mentioned before, this climb was a
mountain almost vertically before we the trees made trekking almost an near vertical slope, it was the longest
could start descending to Kokoda. impossible task while we tried to keep day climbing. This climb took every bit
Kathy (Team Leader) made the our feet dry and free from blisters. of concentration, energy, strength and
decision for us to get up early because I would be lying to you if I didn’t say determination left in my body. There
she didn’t want us to get caught up in that I was going to quit after two days was no time for fear or “I cannot do
the rain again or trek at night, it was of this challenging trek. However, my this”, there was no way around it. I was
too dangerous to do so. Consequently, choices of getting out were limited. carefully paying attention and focusing
we had to get up at 4:30am every These were my options: two days on every single step “John” my porter
morning, packed our bags and have walking back to Owers Corner or two was taking, I clearly remember what
breakfast so we could start our journey days walking forward to a village where John’s instruction was: “follow every
by 6am. The trek was taking its toll; our possibly a private helicopter could step that I take, and when I reach for
bodies were not able to recover as fast pick me up. The medical emergency
as we wished. helicopter service was totally out of »» continued on page 16
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 15SALVATION ARMY KOKODA TREK
»» continued from page 15 recover but still we had to unpack and difficult mental and physical challenges
take out what we needed for the night that we face in life, and by taking
your hand take it, I will pull you up and to sleep out, cleaned our boots, refilled small steps with determination; these
balance you”. water bottles, sterilised the water and are the true ways of getting out of
We had no sense of time or how cleaned ourselves. Not to mention, any situation.
long it took us to climb “The Wall” but cleaning and managing the blisters. Apart from trekking ninety-six
as we reached to the top we turned When we had an opportunity to clean kilometres, approximately a total 6,000
around and looked down. We looked ourselves, we used water from a river metres of climbing and cutting across
at each other, and there was a sign nearby or a village communal tap or razor edged ridges over steep towering
of relief in everyone’s faces, we just rain water coming off the corrugated mountains. Kokoda wild landscape
accomplished the most challenging roof. These needed to be done before with its rugged paths through the
climb of the whole trek. Everyone darkness sets in. rainforest jungle, spectacular scenery
was going through so much mental After we reached Kokoda, a few and towering trees entwined through
and physical endurance, every muscle of the porters came up to me and mountain streams of vine and logs,
in our bodies being used, tested and said, “We were very concerned about the translucent water tumbles its
stretched to an upmost breaking you”, I asked why? The porters replied: way down into the steep valleys is
point, and we quickly learned that our “We thought you wouldn’t make it remarkably beautiful.
feet were the most important part of through the trek because you were Lest We Forget
our body for this trek. The sense of struggling so much but you did it! I would like to pay my respects to
achievement that I felt for every step Congratulations, you are a strong our diggers, past, present and all our
I took, it was indescribable feeling. man”. I replied, “Thank you but I did it service men and women today that
Going up and down hills and valleys because of John, my porter and all the sacrifice their lives for our country. I
and yet I had accomplished this difficult porters that helped all the way”. Also, would also like to say a big thank you to
climb. For sure, it totally took me out what got me through Kokoda journey The NSW SES Volunteers Association
of my comfort zone; it was a fulfilling was my pride and the encouragement for making this possible.
emotional challenge that I had never from my team leader Kathy, great The total raised from the group was
felt in my life. mates in the group and my porter John $160,000, which was donated to the
There were three hours left of who said to me on day two, “We will do Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal.
trekking before we could reach the this together! “A true Fuzzy Wuzzy.
next campsite. Reaching the campsite I guess Kokoda brings out your true By Joseph Bekhore
was a blessing, we could relax and character and ability to adapt during April 2017 Owers Corner to Kokoda
16 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017EXERCISE TAIL WIND
Exercise Tail Wind
T
he Aviation Operations Team
(AOT) ,completed PD workshops
and Exercise Tailwind this
weekend at Albion Park Airport.
The workshop included sessions
on the use of BEACON within Air
Operations, presentations from
the RFS State Air Desk (SAD), as
well as Operational Capability
overviews on current and future State
Air Operations.
The AOT then moved into exercise
Tailwind which required the teams to
establish (3) independent Airbases in
(3) Regions and prioritise tasking whilst
working with air crew and maintaining
Air communications with the Airframe.
Capability is currently reviewing
the structure of the Air Operations
Team (AOT), with the view of
enhancing this Capability in support of
future Operations.
By Robbie Landon
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 17CDG UPDATE
Updates from the
Capability
Tsunami Operations
EXERCISES CONTINUE! Bombora is only the second
Following the successful Puysegur tsunami exercise to be conducted by
Surge Exercise last year at Manly, the the TOCDG, and more are planned…
Tsunami CDG (TOCDG) is conducting two annually, one being recurrent on
an evacuation exercise ‘Bombora’ at November 5 each year to mark World
Ballina on June 24. This important work Tsunami Day.
is being led by the RTR Ballina Unit, How is your Unit placed to meet the
and is a deliverable of the TOCDG’s threat of tsunami, or support those Units
Business Plan. Its outcomes will help that have communities in the evacuation
inform the new Tsunami Awareness footprint?
Package that is being developed for
release later this year. WANT TO KNOW MORE?
The TOCDG is made up of dedicated HOW ARE THEY DOING THIS? For information, go to
volunteers and supporting staff who The TOCDG has a Business Plan that http://www.tsunamisafe.com.au/
represent each coastal region, as well outlines its deliverables, namely or contact the Chair or Co-ordinator of
as a representative for all Western awareness through the development the TOCDG via email on
Regions. Their charter is simple: as of a Tsunami Awareness Package Capability@ses.nsw.gov.au
one of the three core combat roles for all members, the refinement
of the NSW State Emergency Service, of evacuation products and local
to build and further develop our arrangement plan templates,
tsunami awareness, preparedness and and of course exercising those
operational response capability. local arrangements. By David Bowing
18 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017CDG UPDATE
Development
Group
Flood Operations
G
’day from the newly reformed »» NSW SES branded kit bags for
and renamed Flood - Operations L3 operators.
and Rescue Capability »» A Light Flood Rescue response
Development Board or F-ORCDB for vehicle for evaluation.
short! Over the years you may have »» Continual expansion of the number
seen some of the work that has come of Ark Angel rafts
out of the previous FOCDB, such as »» Developing a deployable Flood
the introduction of the Ark Angel Rescue cache to be accessed as
rafts, Flood Rescue Helmets and PFD’s, required across the state.
Bowloader Punts and much more. »» Headlamps for L3 operators
At the start of May, the CDG met (Headlamps for Yellow boat
together for the first time over two helmets to follow)
days to for the creation of a 2 year The group is also undertaking some »» A proposal to trial high clearance
Business Plan of deliverables that more medium term projects including flood response vehicles.
ensures the Board work towards but not limited to; In what will be a new season for
the Commissioner’s priorities of »» A policy for conduct of Flood Rescue the NSW SES in the Flood space, we
Operational Capability and Training, Operations at different levels remain committed to conducting
both of which support Recruitment »» Updated Training and Education flood operations and rescues as a
and Retention. The Group is extremely packages for new and professional and responsible agency,
excited to say that while some projects existing operators providing for our members the most
are just kicking off, we are already »» Exciting new training grounds appropriate equipment and training in
starting to pull together some key across the state accordance with our combat role.
initiatives coming shortly such as: »» A subcommittee review of If you have any feedback or
»» Delivery of hundreds of yellow requirements for new flood vessels questions please feel free to contact
Swift Water helmets with NSW SES »» Intent to trial a high-clearance the F-OR CDG Chair or Co-ordinators
markings to be issued to vessels. concept vehicle to examine on capability@ses.nsw.gov.au
»» The construction and issue of applicability and suitability in NSW
inflatable hose kits flood response operations.
»» Roll out of Reach and Rescue »» Consideration and review
poles to enhance L1 Flood of dry suits for cold
Rescue Operations weather environments. By David Bowing
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 19NSW POLICE EQUESTRIAN GAMES
NSW State Emergency Service
Volunteers Compete in NSW
Police Equestrian Games
Kaliya on Billy. Ben on Chance.
Angela on Arrow. Melanie on Twista.
T
he NSW Police Equestrian Games The events held on Saturday Ben also got a silver in barrel racing.
were held on 29th & 30th of consisted of Showjumping, Dressage I came away with a Gold medal in the
April at Hawkesbury riding club and Combined Training (both), with Combined Training, which came from
grounds. The weather was perfect the show hack classes and sporting winning a gold in both my Dressage
which was great as the event was events on Sunday. For those who don’t and Showjumping class.
postponed in March due to excessive understand the events, Dressage Now, many people think riding a
rain. The event is open to members of is precise movements at marked horse is easy. However many people
police and emergency services in NSW spots in an arena. Showjumping is have never had to control a 600kg
and their families. I Kaliya Maxwell, jumping over a number of coloured animal that has its own mind, with
my husband Ben from Hunter Region, jumps and normally against the clock just your legs, seat and fingers. It’s
Angela Chapman from Southern (timed). Sporting is riding as fast as not an easy task and you have to be
Highlands Region and her sister you can whilst steering your horse able to understand and work with the
Melanie Antram represented NSW SES around obstacles such as barrels or horse that needs to respond to your
as a team. It was an amazing event, weaving around a row of vertical commands, so we need to give half
with 50 competitors from the RFS, poles (bending). Show hack classes the credit to our horses Billy (mine),
Police, Fire and Rescue, Ambulance and are judged on the rider’s riding ability, Chance (Ben’s), Twista (Melanie’s) and
the four of us from NSW SES. The event posture and ability of the horse to Arrow (Angela’s).
had a really friendly atmosphere and move in a nice flowing level stride. We would like to say a huge thank
we met lots of great people who made Our team competed in all the you to our NRMA who sponsored our
you feel really comfortable, no matter events and came away with a hoard team, we were looking very flash in our
what level you ride at. of medals including three 4th places, new saddle cloths and brow bands! We
We arrived on the Friday afternoon four 5th places and four 6th places. had a fantastic time and can’t wait for
to help the organisers set up and set up Both Ben and Melanie got a bronze the next one!
our horse float as that was going to be medal in their respective rider classes,
our sleeping quarters for the next two Melanie and I received a silver medal
nights (all good fun). in our respective rider classes and By Kaliya Maxwell
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 21THE TAIL END OF DEBBIE
The Tail End
of Debbie
22 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017THE TAIL END OF DEBBIE
Lismore Shopping Square.
Browns Street Carpark, Lismore.
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 23THE TAIL END OF DEBBIE
Keen Street, Lismore.
24 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017THE TAIL END OF DEBBIE
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 252017 Volunteers
Association Grants
are Opening Soon!
Times are a-changing for the funding schemes for
the Volunteers Association.
Previously, our funding schemes were only offered once a year,
and feedback from members was that if they found out about
potential development opportunities after the schemes had
closed, then the member would miss out.
The new process means that ANY requests for funding
assistance must come through our online form at
www.nswsesva.org.au and then be processed through the Grants
Committee whose members will meet four times a each year.
We will be launching the new Grants Schemes from July 1st, 2017
and will be publishing the dates for the committee meetings so
you have plenty of time to get your applications in!
A full rundown of how the process will work will be available on our website shortly!
www.nswsesva.org.auNEW SHQ BUILDING IN WOLLONGONG
A Glimpse of the New SHQ Building
Located in Burelli Street Wollongong
NSW SES Corner of Auburn and Burelli St.
Front Entrance Cnr Burelli and Atchison St.
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 27HELICOPER FLOOD OPERATIONS
SES — RFS Training
in Helicopter Flood
Operations
L
2 and L3 flood rescue operators for a number of winching sequences. from the wire and entering the water.
from around the State assisted On the first day of training, Minister Very quickly an SES IRB was on the
NSW RFS Down the Wire (DTW) for Emergency Service, Troy Grant, scene to rescue both the DTW and
operators in three days of hoisting also joined our L3s in the water and his victim; and returning them both
(winching) from the water at the was winched to safety by one of the to shore.
Penrith Lakes (next to the Penrith RFS DTWs. Further joint training sessions are
Whitewater Centre). Each day our L2 flood rescue being planned around the State in
Each day our L3s and DTWs were operators provided logistics support coming months.
briefed on aircraft safety and winching moving L3s into the water and providing
operations. The DTWs then escorted a safety and rescue capability.
the L3s onto and off the hovering Each of the RFS DTWs lifted
helicopter (hover entry and exit three SES L3s from the water before
techniques) before hitting the water undertaking an emergency release By David King
28 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017HELICOPTER FLOOD OPERATIONS
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 29EXERCISE STAR
Exercise Star
O
n Saturday 27th May
volunteers from Sydney
Southern, Sydney Northern
and Illawarra South Coast regions
participated in Exercise STAR (Search
Training and Rescue). The aim of
the exercise is to practice, evaluate
and refine training and operational
procedures for Land Search operations.
Exercise STAR 2017 was held in
the National Parks and surrounding
bushlands in the vicinity of the
Sutherland Shire for SES to practice
the emergency procedures that
would be needed in the event of a
search operation being conducted in
that area.
30 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017EXERCISE STAR
The exercise started with an The second exercise held after All members involved enjoyed
evidence search for a bank robbery. lunch was for 6 missing persons’ themselves and learnt form
The teams were looking for toy guns, in separate locations. The teams the experiences.
money and bullet shell casings, through conducted searches, were required to
thick bushland and needed to use administer first aid and then stretcher
different type of search techniques. the injured persons out. By Matthew Kirby
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 31EMERGENCY SERVICES BLOOD CHALLENGE
Saving Lives is in Our Blood
THE EMERGENCY SERVICES BLOOD CHALLENGE IS ON AGAIN!
1 JUNE – 31 AUGUST
N
SW State Emergency Service are at their lowest. This is due to
(NSW SES) members are again regular donors having the cold or flu
competing against other and therefore being unable to donate
emergency service organisations by until they have recovered.
state and by service to give the most NSW SES members will join staff
blood donations during the Emergency and volunteers from many emergency
Services Blood Challenge 2017 which service organisations with the aim of
was launched on 1st June. collectively making 8,500 donations
NSW SES Commissioner, Mark during the Challenge.
Smethurst kicked off the challenge NSW SES volunteers are always
yesterday at the launch by joining ready to help - be it floods, storms,
representatives from other emergency rescues, or searches for lost and
services within NSW by donating his missing people, so giving blood is just
blood to help save lives! another way in which our members
Joining the Commissioners was a support the local community.
44year-old father of two and a motor Follow NSW SES’s progress
accident survivor Andy White ,who throughout the Challenge on
owes his life to emergency services the Australian Red Cross Blood
and 12 generous blood donors after an Service website:
accident in November 2014. http://www.donateblood.com.au/nes
The Campaign is a three-month Remember, you can donate at any
challenge that sees emergency time – to make an appointment to give
services members compete to see who blood at your nearest Australian Red
can secure the most blood supplies Cross Blood Service donor centre, call
over winter. 13 14 95 or book online or visit.
Winter tends to be a difficult period
for the Red Cross as blood donations Photos by Victoria Platts
32 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017EMERGENCY SERVICES BLOOD CHALLENGE
Andy with Paddy.
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 33SYDNEY WESTERN RESCUE COMPETITION
Sydney Western Rescue Competition
Team shot of Auburn.
O
n Saturday 27th May, 2017 handling, mass casualty, confined space Thanks also to Greg Newton and
over 150 members were and of course, leadership. Throughout Mark Smethurst for their support on
incarcerated at Parramatta the day almost every team held the the day. To the judges and support
Gaol for the Sydney Western Region #1 spot at some stage in what was personnel from Sydney Northern,
Rescue Competition. The scenario was an extremely close competition. At Sydney Southern, Ambulance NSW,
simple, the Sydney Basin had been the end of the day, less than 6 points St John Ambulance and Fire & Rescue
heavily affected by an earthquake at separated 1st and 2nd place, with 3rd NSW, thank you very much for
Lapstone in the Blue Mountains and 7 less than 20 points from 1st. Teams supporting the event. The day would
teams comprising Taskforce Zulu were exhibited fantastic team work, skill not have been possible or the success it
responded to the Parramatta North levels and spirit throughout the event, was without your support.
Urban Transformation Precinct to deal demonstrating without doubt the By the end of competition, the
with whatever they encountered. fantastic operational capability SWR encouragement award went to Holroyd
The early morning start soon gave Units have across a wide skill base. for their outstanding performance
way to the competition proper which A massive thank you goes out and enthusiasm, and the well-
included teams representing Auburn, to all those involved in running the deserved winner’s trophy to Auburn,
Blue Mountains/Penrith, Canada Bay/ event, from the IMT to judges, to closely followed by Canada Bay, and
Burwood, Hawkesbury, Holroyd, stand crews and casualties, to the Parramatta.
Parramatta and Strathfield/Auburn. amazing cassim team who prepped A great day and we get to do it all
Several combined teams. and maintained the 30-odd casualties. again in two year’s time.
Teams faced a range of challenges Our cast of walking dead included
testing their skills in heavy lift and extensive burns, lacerations, abrasions,
stabilisation, search, USAR, casualty disembowelments, impalements,
handling, first aid, crime scene and other assorted gore, adding an By Brad Dousha
preservation, rescue from heights, tool unpleasantly real element to the stands. Photos by Damian Hofman
34 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017SYDNEY WESTERN RESCUE COMPETITION
Group Shot.
Trophy presentation Auburn Team 1st place.
Rescuer tending to “burnt” casualties.
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 35SYDNEY WESTERN RESCUE COMPETITION
Gear dump and team briefing area inside the gaol recreation area. Hawkesbury Team working to release a casualty in water tank.
Auburn / Strathfield combo team in the water tank stand. Rescuer directing a walking wounded casualty to the triage area.
36 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017RESCUEXPERIENCE
RescuExperience
N
SW rescue agencies came
together for two days to
explore and share the latest
road crash rescue techniques. Four
members of SES GLR units and
two of our new Operation Training
Support Officers participated in a
number of interactive events at the
“RescuExperience” hosted by FRSA &
Holmatro at the Fire and Rescue NSW
Ingleburn facility.
The hands on sessions included
cross ramming and incline cutting;
advanced cutting techniques and
vehicle relocation.
An interesting demonstration was
provided of the “Norwegian Rapid
Extrication Technique”. Adjustable
chains were strategically placed
around the A and C pillars; with the
A pillar chains connected to a winch
and the C pillar chains connected to an
immovable object, say a fire truck or along the top and the adjoining The car slowly opened up
other rescue truck. A-pillars cut. The gussets at the base providing quick and full access to the
The front chains then were of each A-pillars were then cut prior entrapped patients.
tensioned using the vehicle mounted to slowly applying tension to the
winch. The laminated glass was cut front chains. By David King
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 37NORTHERN RIVERS FLOODS
Northern Rivers Floods —
An SES Community
Liaison Officer’s
Perspective
W
hen the call came out for
SES CLO’s for immediate
deployment to the Northern
Rivers floods it was a no-brainer that
I should go. Having been previously
deployed as Media Officer to
Richmond, Tweed for another flood
event I thought this sounded like an
interesting new challenge — and so
quick-smart I was off to Ballina for a
seven day deployment.
Arriving I was given a motel room
for one night — and immediately
pondered on whether my stay would
be extended or was I bound for a
camp bed and sleeping bag in the
remarkably luxurious air-conditioned
RFS Tent-City being constructed nearby
in record time. Then with other CLO’s
I was whisked off to Regional HQ for
a briefing.
“I hope you have all packed your
Kevlar vests” we were told light-
heartedly on arrival “Cos we are helicopter ride! Shortly afterwards that as a grey nomad — another lady was
sending you CLO’s into some hot spots bubble burst “A slight change of plan so happy to have found her son a
where we have heard there have been — you are off to Lismore by minibus”. suit amongst the donated clothes
rumblings of discontent — and you And so it was that an hour later (you’ve that he could wear when appearing
may be marked men and women with guessed it) we were driving by minibus as a witness in an upcoming court
targets on your back. You will operate to Murwillumbah. matter, but then was not sure whether
in teams and should have a buddy with We visited the evacuation centre her copies of the Court documents
you at all times”. Knowing that we were in the church hall — piles of clothes, had survived.
to be targets I quickly assured our team tables of donated kitchen, bathroom Then we drove over the bridge
leader that if the bullets started flying and cosmetic stuff, mattresses lined to the total devastation of South
the whole of our team would be right up on the floor, a variety of food set Murwillumbah — with the houses,
behind her! out on the dining table, hot soup in an roads and businesses just a sea of mud;
Then the exciting bit for our team urn, and red cross volunteers working and piles of debris mounting on the
of four (self-designated the “A-Team”) hard at reception and in the kitchen. kerb sides. Our plan was to hand out
“For your first task we are deploying I sat with a few of the evacuees and information — but in reality it was too
your team by chopper to a hot spot listened to their stories. One lady had early for this community — they would
in Murwillumbah”. finally settled down and bought a be expecting us to help by providing
Whoopee I thought — at the age property just outside of Murwillumbah manual labour cleaning-up, and
of 68 this was to be my first ever three months ago after sixteen years anything less would be meaningless.
38 THE VOLUNTEER | JUNE 2017NORTHERN RIVERS FLOODS
CLO’s having dinner. Jodie Ulin.
So instead we drove back over the rain my wallet got soaked — causing heights, peculiarities about this flood
bridge and ate lunch at Murwillumbah the ink to run on my taxi receipt! event, timings of flood warnings and
RSL adjacent to the river and its levee. Claiming back the cash was going to be evacuation orders, and any suggestions
The bistro had a restricted menu of problematic I thought — but SWR BSO as to how things could have been done
roast beef with veggies, roast chicken easily sorted that out. differently. It was an opportunity for
with veggies, or a choice of four pizza Two days later and I’m again sharing some to give constructive feedback,
toppings. The town was still under an a ride with a chaplain and other team for others to simply thank us, and
evacuation order but there were quite members — and what idiot ever said for a small minority to vent their
a few locals eating — and I chatted that lightening never strikes the anger and frustration — the “Kevlar
to some who were curious about my same place twice! Returning from vests” brigade.
“Canada Bay” name tag and pleasantly Tumbulgum we come across a man We visited caravan park folk who
surprised when I told them we had lying bleeding on the left side of the had temporarily relocated from a
travelled in from various parts of NSW road, and a two car pile — up on the caravan park to the undercover parking
and had even brought in a team of right side of the road — complete with area beneath the Regional Art Gallery.
CLO’s from South Australia to help. a head size hole in one windscreen. Most had lost everything. We heard
Disasters by their very nature breed We were in a hired minibus with no that one park resident had lost his
planning on the run — and if you get first aid kit, but we did have two SES life in the flood, and another had lost
fixated on expecting things to go volunteers with nursing and paramedic his false nose (constructed for him
smoothly then it’s best not to volunteer experience. So out we pile, and start after cancer surgery). During this visit
for disaster deployments. If you can go directing traffic and dealing with I also met my first ever “freak” — a
with the flow (pun intended) then you the patient. caravan park resident whose career
will be an asset to the cause. If not then Nothing straightforward about this had included being the caged freak in
you just become part of the problem. case — the bleeding man had nothing to a travelling road show! Like the others
Expect the unexpected — like do with the car accident — he was on his he just wanted to chat at some length
leaving RHQ in a hire car being driven way to a hospital appointment, stopped about his life and flood experiences
by a chaplain with a peer support his car, got out and then tripped over — he had a mattress, a sleeping bag,
person in the back seat. What could some loose wire on the road cracking and the clothes that he stood up in —
be safer I asked myself — even if it his head on the pavement. On the everything else was gone — but hey
was raining lions and wolves — until a opposite side of the road the drivers of — there were others worse off than
four-wheel drive rear ended us, having the two crashed cars appeared to have him – at least he was still alive and was
been itself rear ended at high speed disappeared after the accident — one getting fed — and a news crew in a
by a small sedan that in turn was then having been seen by locals to run to a chopper had even dropped off some
clipped by a marked SES vehicle. van that stopped, jump in and then the grog to lift their spirits (pun intended).
Two vehicles required the tow van took off. What was most interesting for
truck while the female driver of the Anyway — back to why we were me was the challenge of responding
small sedan required ambulance really there — CLO duties. Our role to the very occasional criticism. One
transportation. Our hire car was still was to go into the flood affected lady asked me why the SES did not
drivable — only its’ rear-end being areas; meet locals who were cleaning work closely with Council to find an
completely cactus! The major problem up, talk with them and provide each area of higher ground near the town
for me — other than possible whiplash with a post-flood recovery information where vehicles could be moved when
— was that while directing the traffic booklet. It was also requested that we
around the crash site in the pouring gather Intel wherever possible: flood »» continued on page 40
NSWSESVA.ORG.AU 39You can also read
