ACT Rural Fire Service Photography Blog

Tidbinbilla Brigade's new station is taking shape and nearing opening

2012-03-07T14:32:00.000-08:00

The much anticipated Tidbinbilla station is almost ready to be handed over to the Brigade. The walls are up, the roof is on and just waiting for the Tidbinbilla units to fill the bays.

Could this be the view from Captain Arthur Sayers bedroom?

The kitchen area of the shed is taking shape.

March 2012 ACT Flooding Event

2012-03-05T15:26:00.001-08:00

As most would be aware, the ACTRFS supported the ACT SES during the heavy rains and flooding throughout the ACT. This was a prolonged event that lasted over several days with crews working around the clock. A total of 941 calls for assistance was received from Tuesday 28th February through to Monday 5th March.

ACTRFS attends the 2012 ActewAGL Royal Canberra Show

2012-02-27T18:03:00.000-08:00

The ACTRFS attended the Royal Canberra Show this year as we have usually done. This year it was slightly different due to the fact that we were inside in the Budawang Pavillion. We did over 130 photo's of children and parents in front of our mock up fire truck as well as with Shyller the dog.

Many people that came along were informed of how to protect their homes and we gave away 60 bushfire protection kits. We also attracted 20 potential new recruits.

The ACTRFS Shave For A Cure team also benefited from this event by raising $1,700.

Great work to all that participated!

View from inside during Remote Area Firefighting Team recertification

2012-02-12T19:13:00.000-08:00

There have been copious amount of shots of our remote area firefighting team from outside the helicopter.....and even some video of in and around the chopper.....but for a different perspective, we have taken some shots from inside the chopper.

Our very experienced of a number of seasons JJ getting the motor warmed up.

Scott Cashmere letting the pilot know what is happening in the back.

Deputy Captain of Jerrabomberra Ben Bryant giving the all clear signal.

The Minister For Emergency Services Simon Corbell heads up, up and away

2012-02-08T23:15:00.000-08:00

Today the Minister For Emergency Services Simon Corbell took to the skies in a contracted chopper. WIN television made an appearance and interviewed both the Minister and Chief Officer Andrew Stark.

Minister Corbell and Deputy Chief Officer Michael Joyce in deep discussions.

Chief Officer Andrew Stark being interviewed by WIN television.

Minister Corbell being interviewed.

All strapped in and ready for take-off

JJ our wonderful pilot from Canada.

Hazard Reduction Burn at the Fyshwick Sewage Treatment Works

2012-02-07T21:27:00.000-08:00

Last night members of the Jerrabomberra, Guises Creek and Rivers RFS Brigade completed a hazard reduction burn at the Fyshwick Sewage Treatment Works. The grass had been sprayed and therefore 100% cured which created interesting flame height.

Keep an eye out for our Chief Officer Andrew Stark on the drip torch and hose!!!

Sector Leader Anura Samara from Guises Creek

Guises Creek medium tanker knocking down some of the flames.

"You want me to do what???"

Guises Creek tanker feelin the heat.

We have made things easy for our Fire Investigator / Operations Manager Richard Woods by finding the point of ignition.

One wrong turn and the tankers could be in the proverbial!

Arthur Sayer's Farewell

2012-01-24T21:37:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the ACTRFS staff headed out into the bush for a business plan review followed on by a farewell barbecue for our Senior Operations Officer. Everyone who is anyone in within the ACT Rural Fire Service Community knows Arthur Sayer who is the Captain of Tidbinbilla. Arthur has had a long distinguished career in the ACT dealing with all things bushfire related.

Class Of 2012 Photo

Trying to work out the way to the next destination.

Arthur receiving his surprise farewell gift.

We think Arthur liked his gift.

Arthur telling a few war stories of the various fires he was involved in throughout the Brindabella Ranges.

Ngunnawal Hills North Hazard Reduction Burn

2012-01-22T21:24:00.000-08:00

The Gungahlin Brigade completed a HR burn last Thursday near Ngunnawal.

This burn was to reduce the fuel loading and the burn achieved it's objective.

Tidbinbilla Brigade's

2012-01-17T15:31:00.000-08:00

The progress on the Tidbinbilla Brigade station is progressing well.

ACTRFS at the Summernats

2012-01-07T01:22:00.000-08:00

The ACTRFS was well represented at the Summernats this year. We had crews on hand to assist with the dampening down of the main arena, the helicopter joy flight area and the main competition area. From all accounts, everything has gone off really well.

The time spent at Summernats provided us with a great opportunity to promote the ACTRFS to the younger community. There were many shouts from the crowd for the crews to do burn-outs (which obviously wasn't possible), but they did enjoy the occasional demonstration of lights & sirens!

Many thanks to Chris Bowyer who managed the whole weekend - well done Chris!!

I think next year (subject to the fire danger) we can expect bigger and better things at Summernats.

Well done all, and particularly to Rohan Samara who took on the task of organising for us to attend. Roh is currently holidaying in Thailand so couldn't see the result of his efforts.

Here's a few very ordinary shots from my iphone - Mick Joyce DCO

Jamie Lankford with Lucas Tan hiding in the cabin!

The guys on Rivers 19 (middle of picture) enjoying the burnout action

Rivers 19 bulk water tanker with crew ready to keep the dust down at Summernats

MLO30 was kept busy on the main arena (this was obviously a quieter moment - Jamie telling us all about how many flatheads he caught down the coast while on holidays)

Special Children's Christmas Party 2011

2011-12-11T19:18:00.000-08:00

On Saturday 10 December 2011, eight members from the Rivers and Molonglo Volunteer Rural Fire Brigades attended the Special Children’s Christmas Party at Exhibition Park in Canberra that 1,600 children went to.

The Rivers Volunteer Fire Brigade provided a heavy tanker (RIV 11) and five crew with the Molonglo Volunteer Fire Brigade provided two members plus Shyler the Community Support/Fire Awareness Dog. Shyler and the heavy tanker proved very popular on the day with a number of children taking advantage of the opportunity to sit in a fire truck and pat/play with Shyler.

The event was very rewarding for all concerned and despite the volume of children wishing to climb all over the fire truck, all members who attended have commented on how rewarding it was to participate in the event.

Tidbinbilla Brigade's new shed work has started!

2011-12-05T22:51:00.000-08:00

The foundations have been poured and preparation for the walls and roof are in place on the brand new Tidbinbilla Brigade shed.

Turkish Wildfire Units

2011-11-22T18:29:00.000-08:00

It is sad that when the ACTRFS HQ staff go on leave, part of their holiday pics are made up of fire trucks!! :)

Operations Officer Paul Simakoff-Ellims, took these photo's whilst visiting Europe. Here is what Paul says of his holiday snaps.

The below photos are of a typical Turkish wildfire unit used to protect forest and national parks. The crews live next to their trucks all summer in small portable accommodation blocks, in shifts which last for 25 days. This unit was based at Gallipoli to protect the national park and significant monuments such as the Lone Pine Cemetery and ANZAC Cove. This particular truck carries around 9,000L of water and performed very well both on and off road.

A side shot of the tanker, the bar around the cab is a spray system and there is a electronic monitor on the front of the unit under the black cover.

The live reels and pump set.

The pump set

Orman, means Forest, Canakkale Isletme Mudurlugu means Canakkale islet directorate and ALO 177 Yangin Ihbar Hatti is the Fire notification number to call to report wildfire.

This is the electronic monitor located on the top of the unit between the cab and the equipment locker. Both monitors are controlled from within the cab but have a manual override. This monitor also has a value to allow for foam to be introduced directly into the monitor.

The large equipment locker between the tank and the crew cab, equipment is also stored on the top of the tank.

Can the ACTRFS assist with the President of the United States? Yes We Can!

2011-11-16T16:20:00.000-08:00

The ACTRFS was asked to lend the space in Hangar 48 opposit ESA HQ to house the President's Of The United States vehicles during his visit to Canberra. This unique request was answered in the positive and provided a good opportunity to check out his vehicles up close.

50 Years Of '000' School Fete's and McHappy Day

2011-11-13T19:10:00.000-08:00

The ACT Rural Fire Service has been super busy out and about in the Canberra community.

The first event was at the Royal Australian Mint celebrating the launch of the coin for the anniversary of the '000' service. Molongolo Brigade has been busy with the school fete's at Radford and the Belconnen Family Fun Day. On Saturday 12th November, all of the ACTRFS joined forces to assist McDonald's with McHappy Day to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House. It was great to see our members at the Gungahlin, Charnwood, Weston, Erindale, Tuggeranong, Lanyon and Weston stores!

The flame game providing to be popular at the Belconnen Family Fun Day

The Molongolo crew with a potential new recruit?

The Prepare, Act, Survive message getting passed along.

Shylah keeping a close eye over the flame game.

Shylah taking a break from all the community engagement activities she has been involved with.

The Molongolo crew at the Radford College fete.

The 50 cent coint that to celebrate 50 years of '000'

Cassy, Chris and Kerrie getting taken for an overhead view of the event at the Royal Australian Mint

A birds eye view of Rivers 10 and kids playing the flame game.

Juliane & Laurie from Guises Creek along with Tevita Kuridrani from the Brumbies Rugby Union team helping out at the Tuggeranong McDonald's.

Kerrie, Tom and Cassy along with their Raiders friends helping out at the Erindale McDonald's

Nicky, Steve and an ACT Fire & Rescue colleague raising much needed funds.

Tom from Rivers 'testing' the product before it goes out.

ACTRFS Twitter Feeds for the Open Day #RFSOPENDAY

2011-10-16T15:42:00.000-07:00

Guises Creek Goes Scottish

2011-10-10T18:21:00.000-07:00

With the beat of the drums and the din of the Scottish bagpipes bands playing all day, Scottish Highland clans came from around Australia and enjoyed a day filled with various activities including band competitions, eating haggis (yuk) and black pudding, heraldry, tug of war, and other colourful events.

The ACT RFS marquee proved very popular with an endless stream of enquiries about bushfires and how to prepare for them.

Kids loved squirting the hose at the "flame game" and a lot of potential new recruits have been groomed as a result!

Mary Kirkman, from Guises Creek Brigade, demonstrates how to use a hose and made many new friends, including with a very large Scotsman brandishing a rifle.

New Recruits HR burn at Jerrabomberra Ave

2011-09-17T20:36:00.000-07:00

Our latest batch of new recruits are being put through the paces today in the final part of their Basic Firefighter course. They are carrying out a hazard reduction burn on Jerrabomberra Ave under the watchful eyes of Pat Barling, Rob Gore, Dave Wassall and Andrew Joyce.

Deputy Chief Officer Michael Joyce was on hand to capture a few photos of the recruits as they went about their work.

More ACTRFS Gala Dinner Photos

2011-09-04T21:51:00.000-07:00

For the first time at this years ACTRFS Gala Dinner and Awards Night, we had our volunteer Gary Hooker whom is a keen photographer to set up a photo booth so members and brigades could get their photo taken. This proved very popular. Below are some of the photos from the photo booth.

ACTRFS Gala Awards Night 2011

2011-08-21T17:00:00.000-07:00

Over 170 ACTRFS members and families enjoyed the 2011 ACTRFS Gala Awards Night at the Hellenic Club. We recognised our 5 and 10 year service recipients as well as our Chief Officers Diligent and Exemplary Service Awards. Even the Chief Officer received an award from our Commissioner on behalf of the volunteers for his commitment and achievement in remaining with the Service for two fire seasons! :)

Mr Jeff Garner our fantastic MC with Amy McLenaghan from ACTRFS HQ

Mel Riches makes a speech on behalf of the Volunteer Brigades Association.

Our 5 Year Service Award Recipients. Rob Allard, Ian Flint, Lewis Gaha, Simon Hickey, Dennis Harding, David Reno, Ben Ribbons, Michael Woods & Brett Vey

The ACTRFS 10 Year Service Award Recipients. Rohan Samara, Tim Rhodes, Michael Blaseotto, Ian Morey and Grant Morey.

Diligent Service Award Recipients - Simon Pond, Chris O'Neil along with Exemplary Service Award Recipient Tony Greep

Chief Officer Andrew Stark receiving his award for lasting two fire seasons from a/g Chief Officer Michael Joyce and Commissioner Mark Crosweller

Chief Officer Andrew Stark addressing the members.

The Hall Brigade Group photo

Amy McLenaghan, Nicky Cobb & Deanne Cobb jumping for joy of a fun night.

Members of the Jerrabomberra Brigade

The Rivers Brigade

The ACTRFS HQ staff plus a ring in on the right.

The Guises Creek Brigade

The Parks Brigade

The Tidbinbilla Brigade

Our sponsors from United Aero

A reunion photo from the ACTRFS Calendar Girls

Dancing the night away

Photos from last night's Gala Dinner

2011-08-21T03:52:00.000-07:00

Hi all

The photos from last night will be available from tomorrow (Monday 22 August). There were a lot of photos taken and we need to sort through them all.

Cheers

All the ACTRFS Staff

Gala Dinner set-up complete!

2011-08-19T23:53:00.000-07:00

Nicky, Nicky's mother and Roh have been putting the finishing touches to the set-up for tonight's Gala Dinner. Should be a great night - check out these exclusive photos!

Village Firefighter Course

2011-08-16T21:45:00.000-07:00

Last weekend the ACTRFS conducted the Village Firefighter course.

Natalie Hile from the Jerrabomberra Brigade took these fantastic shots for us. It is great to see another budding photographer amongst our vounteers.

Rivers RFS & SES rattle the Buckets at Weston Creek!!

2011-08-13T17:51:00.000-07:00

Members from Rivers RFS & SES brigades got together on Saturday the 13th of August at Coolemon Court to raise funding through a bucket rattle.

On hand was the SES mascot to help entertain the crowds. By 11.00am, they'd raised a considerable amount of money already, so hopefully by the end of the day they had their buckets full!

Well done to the Rivers teams for putting in the extra time and effort needed to help the brigade raise some much needed funds.

RFS Women's Calendar - Presentation of Cheque to Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit

2011-08-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

Several of the women who posed for the RFS Women's Calendar, along with A/g Chief Officer Michael Joyce, were on hand today to present a cheque for $15,000 to the Canberra Hospital's Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit. Staff expressed their gratitude and appreciation for what was a fantastic effort and confirmed that the money would be used to fund some much needed equipment in the unit. Below are couple of photos taken by Ron Hughes at the presentation. Keep an eye out on the Canberra Weekly and the hospital website for some photos taken by the hospital's photographer.

ACTRFS Guises Creek Brigade AGM & HR Burn

2011-08-11T19:13:00.000-07:00

Like many of our ACTRFS brigades at this time of year, the Guises Creek Brigade held their AGM on Wednesday night.

Bob Moore, re-elected President of the Brigade chairs the meeting with the assistance of Pauline Wassall . Many thanks to Bob and Pauline!

Dave Wassall, re-elected Captain of the Brigade, gave a summary of the last years incidents and events. He also recapped all of the achievements of the Brigade members over the 2010-11 Bushfire season.

Mary Cunynghame takes over the all paperwork from Pauline Wassall as the newly elected Secretary. Many thanks to Pauline for her sterling efforts as Secretary last year!

Guises Creek Members attending the Annual General Meeting held on Wed 9 Aug 2011.

Michael Joyce thanks Brigade members for their contribution for the last year, and gives us the ‘heads up’ about the new fire season and changes to SOPs which will most likely result in GCRK members being tasked to fires within the abatement zone.

Members and ACT HQ staff mingle after the AGM.

Guises Creek have been busy and also completed a HR burn on Saturday 6 August on the property next to Rob Roy.

Guises Creek members assemble for a pre-HR burn briefing next to the Monaro highway.

The ground was fairly wet underneath and it crept very slowly burning the dry top materials. Lots of mice scurried off.

Once the fenceline was wet down the burn continued very slowly.

Cameron Blaseotto kept a watchful eye on the fire as it crept towards GCK11.

Dave Wassall supervises the test burn amongst the thistles.

Simon Hickey, Mary Kirkwood and Brendan Bruce looking a bit grubby after the burn, which was called off due to the onslaught of rain.

ACTRFS Social Media Presentation

2011-08-02T18:37:00.000-07:00

With so much being said and done in the 'social media' space with emergency organisations, the ACT Rural Fire Service has done up a presentation to briefly explain what we are doing.

Check the presentation out below to learn about how social media is impacting in times of emergencies and how we could use it to keep people informed.
Please be patient while the presentation downloads and use the forward and back buttons to view :)

ACT Rural Fire Service Social Media Prezi on Prezi

ACTRFS Shave For A Cure Team in The Weekend Australian Newspaper!!

2011-07-21T20:20:00.000-07:00

It is not often that we put up a post with only one picture!!! But this one picture tells a thousand words so to speak......or should we say, reflects the $22,927 we raised!!! Not only we were the HIGHEST fundraiser in the ACT, the 8th largest fundraising team in NSW but we were the 30th highest fundraiser throughout the nation!!!

Great effort to all and hope we can blitz our effort next year!!

ESA Leadership Weekend

2011-07-21T17:49:00.000-07:00

Last weekend the ACT Rural Fire Service organised an Emergency Services Agency Leadership weekend. Members of the ACTRFS HQ, ACTRFS volunteers, SES volunteers and the Community Fire Unit volunteers all got together at the Quality Hotel in Woden for the Leadership Weekend.

Everyone learnt about self development and their own leadership attributes and ways it can assist with their life as part of the ACTESA. Commissioner Mark Crosweller gave a talk on the Saturday morning for the participants that demonstrated their value as part of the larger organisation.

Commissioner Mark Crosweller addresses the leadership group and shares his experiences with them about personal development and growth.

ACTRFS Chief Officer Andrew Stark and Phil Langdon from Leadership Matters have a chat about the weekend.

Participants with their team poster and name for the weekend.

Team Travelling Shags explaining the true meaning of their poster.

Eamon (RFS) & Diane (CFU) sharing a lighter moment

Anthony (RFS) deep in thought prior to the message in a bottle exercise.

Gordon and Doreen (SES) helping each other out.

Eamon (RFS) is........who know's but it looks odd!

One team, one goal.

All the attendees from the leadership weekend.

Team dinner on Saturday night at the Noble Palace. ACTRFS Chief Officer also in attendance.

Table 2 at the team dinner.

ACTRFS Gala Awards Night 2010

2011-06-30T16:23:00.000-07:00

With the date set for Saturday 20th August and plans well under way for the 2011 ACTRFS Gala Awards Night here are a few photos from last years event. This night is to honour our volunteers for the years of service they provide and to get together and celebrate the successes from the year.

Check out the photos below from last years Gala Awards Night!

Fire Protection Duties Assisting With the Royal Millitary College 100th Anniversary Celebrations

2011-06-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

Crews from Jerrabomberra and Tidbinbilla ACTRFS Brigades were based at Mt Pleasant to assisting with fire protection for the fireworks display for the RMC. With the very dry grasslands surrounding Duntroon this precaution was a good precaution! A lot of debris from the fireworks rained down but thankfully nothing caught alight. The view from Mt Pleasant was a great location to take some nice fireworks shots too!

Middle Of Winter and ACT & Surrounds Very Dry

2011-06-14T00:37:00.000-07:00

Today has been a great example that we can't be complacent in regards to the dryness in our area. With the temperature of only 13'C and 45% humidity, the dryness and strong winds saw a spark from workmen using welding equipment in a paddock.

It was great to see the co-ordinated efforts with six fire brigade appliances as well as six tankers, three light units and three command vehicles from the ACTRFS including Parks work well togeth to round up this 29ha grass fire swiftly.

ACTRFS HQ Team Planning Day Out

2011-06-09T19:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the ACTRFS HQ team went out to London Bridge near Googong Dam to have a planning day. The day started at the new Hume airbase and then the team headed out bush for lunch.

The Chief Officer Andrew Stark leading the way to go explore the caves.

Arthur Sayer making the fire to warm up the troops whilst Nicky and Amy enjoy the fruits of his labour.

The team pose for a photo out the front of the cabin where the meeting was conducted after lunch.

Hi ho, hi ho, it's off to work we go. A happy looking team heading down to London Bridge.

ACTRFS's own Master Chef Ben Ribbons cooking up a storm for the troops.

Whilst walking through the scrub we stumbled upon Gandalf from the Lord Of The Rings

Greg Potts snapping a pic of the London Bridge.

Brian Murphy and Greg Potts getting better acquanted on the day.

Chief Officer Andrew Stark and Greg Potts looking the part being out in the bush rugged up.

Mt Stromlo Hazard Reduction Burn

2011-06-06T22:34:00.000-07:00

On a cool and overcast day last Sunday crews from Molonglo, Guises Creek, Rivers, Tidbinbilla, Southern, Jerrabomberra and NSWRFS Jerrabomberra Creek and Mongarlowe started work on a 50ha hazard reduction burn at Mt Stromlo. Alot of preparation was completed in the various sectors but due to high humidity, only a small section of the burning was completed. With alot of the prep work completed this burn will be left to burn at a later date.

Ben Bryant IC conducting the briefing to the ACTRFS & NSW RFS crews.

ACTRFS & NSWRFS working together.

Add caption

Jamie clearing the way

Can never have too much protection to ensure this doesn't get away ;)

Jamie Schulin getting ready for more fire break clearing.

Fire Management In The Netherlands

2011-05-31T21:46:00.000-07:00

Our A/g Deputy Chief Officer Richard Woods has just returned from his teaching and sharing knowledge in Wildfire Investigation. Please see previous blogs.

Below are some more pictures of firefighting in the Netherlands including their volunteer brigades.

The Control / Dispatch Centre in Apeldoorn, The Netherlands. This is a joint facility where Police and Fire Services operate from.

Netherlands Fire Service (Brandweer) attached to the Harskamp Military Training range.

Cor Scheppink, Commander of the Harskamp Fire Station ‘assisting’ with the test fires for the training course.

Fie tanker assigned to the Harskamp Military Base Fire Station.

Volunteer Fire Station at Hoog Soeron... a small village surrounded by scrub and grassfire risk in the central part of the Netherlands

Stage 1 Of Jerrabomberra RFS Station Handover

2011-05-19T23:55:00.000-07:00

This afternoon Boss Constructions handed over Stage 1 of the Jerrabomberra Station extensions. Rob Gore, (President) and Chris O'Neal of Jerrabomberra Brigade plus representatives of Boss Constructions, ACT Procurement Solutions, JaCS Facilities Support and ACT RFS management were there for the hand over.

From left, ACTRFS Deputy Chief Officer Michael Joyce, BOSS Constructions representative Alex Morgan, Ron Leslie from Procurement Solutions, Jerrabomberra President Rob Gore and Assistant Manager of JaCS Strategic Planning & Support Darren Smith, go through the paperwork

The group inspects the inside of the facility.

The main garage for the Jerra tankers and light units

The ACTRFS has accepted the handover of the shed, subject to the normal process of identifying defects. The Jerrabomberra brigade will be moving vehicles and equipment into the new facility this weekend

ACTRFS Team Joins The RSPCA Million Paws Walk

2011-05-17T22:05:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday the RSPCA ran their major fundraiser being the Million Paws Walk. A team of 12 members from the ACTRFS met up and participated in the walk to raise money for this cause.

The ACTRFS Team really stood out amongst the crowd wearing their uniforms and PPE.

Charlotte, Celeste and their cute pooch.

Stirling Ridge HR Burn

2011-05-15T21:57:00.000-07:00

Sunday saw the completion of the hazard reduction burn at Stirling Ridge along with the practical assessment of our newest recruits to the ACTRFS. From all accounts the burn was a great success as well as the basic firefighters completing and passing their assessments.

In this posting we were challenging our photographers to get more than just the usual fire & smoke shots but to capture it from different angles and viewpoints.....as well as the faces of the ACTRFS.

A keen bunch of new recruits ready for the day's activities (they weren't so happy after the rake hoe assessment!)

Gary Hooker seeing the light

One of our new recruits enjoying herself during the assessment

A different angle.

Amy McLenaghan learning the fine art of the use of a drip torch.

Ron Hughes & DCO Michael Joyce appear concerned about the goings on of the new recruits.

Deputy Chief Officer contemplating his next shot.

Update From Belgium!!

2011-05-15T17:12:00.000-07:00

Below is an update from Richard Woods, Operations Manager, whilst in Belgium.

"Currently in Ypres in Belgium- on Friday 13th May. I attended the Menin Gate Memorial Service held nightly at 800pm in rememberance of the lost soldiers of the First World War (Flanders Fields). These photos depict the Menin Gate and the members of the Ypres Volunteer Fire Brigade, who perform the Last Post at every Ceremony. At the invitation of the Last Post Association of Ypres, I took part in the Ceremony, layed a Wreath on behalf of the people of the ACT and read a short piece finalising the ceremony. After meeting the Officers of the Ypres Volunteer Fire Brigade, I presented with a patch of the ACT Rural Fire Service.

Richard with some of the Ypres Volunteer Fire Brigade

Wreath as placed (middle row third from left with Aus Flag)- one on upper section from previous evenings' ceremony- Richard was the only Aust to be involved in this evenings proceedings

Richard with the Commander from the Fire Service gaining an oversight of the grassfire threat in the Netherlands

May Photo Caption Competition

2011-05-08T17:27:00.000-07:00

The photo below was captured during the Stirling Ridge HR burn on Saturday 7 May. What was the DCO thinking? What were the Groupies thinking? What do you think?

Comment on the photo by suggesting a caption that you think captures the moment. Entries close 5.00pm Friday 20 May. The caption voted best by a team of experts will win a fantastic prize!

HR Burn at Stirling Ridge - 7 May 2011

2011-05-07T18:56:00.000-07:00

This weekend's HR burn at Stirling Ridge conducted for the National Capital Authority has gone off well. Crews from Molonglo, Guises Creek, Hall, Gungahlin and Jerra worked together under the direction of Lucas Tan who did a great job controlling the burn which was quite complex because of the environmental and heritage sites in the burn area. Below are a few shots of the crews at work on the burn.

One of the photos gives you a clue to our next photo caption competition!!

Clearing around plaques marking where the Westlake settlement once stood

This is the clue!! The full photo will be posted tomorrow for the competition

Do you feel sorry for the cat that someone forgot to let out of the truck!

Photos courtesy of Michael Joyce & Gary Hooker

Operations Manager Richard Woods In The Netherlands!

2011-05-05T16:25:00.000-07:00

At the invitation of the Netherlands Police Department and Fire Department, our Operations Manager Richard Woods has been conducting specialist training in wildfire investigation in the Netherlands, a first for this country. Based at the Harkskamp Military Base in the central Netherlands over the last 10 days, he has also been inspecting areas of high fire risk and attended a number of grassfire outbreaks with Police and Fire Crews.

The attached photos show Netherlands Police and Fire Investigators in the field, being mentored to locate items in the fire's area of origin.

After conducting a Wildfire Scene Examination Training Course in the Netherlands for 21 Police and Fire Investigators, their country is now well placed to investigate wildfires, topping up their existing skills in crime scene examination.

Operations Manager Richard Woods withe the Netherlands Crime Scene Officers reviewing the scene.

The Course also attracted significant interest from many levels of Governement including senior Military, Fire, Police and EPA Personnel. This also saw the attendance of National Media at the training event, promoting the attendance of an Australian Officer in providing these specialist skills.

The Netherlands has significant fire threat issue relating to grass and scrub fires, along with significant urban interface challenges. They have also been subject to ongoing arson issues across their country causing major problems for fire and police officials.

Richard creating quite a stir in the Netherlands being interviewed by their television and media.

Providing a briefing to Senior Government Officials on observations made during his visit of fire risk, fire management and fire investigation issues and recomendations.

Richard presenting observation of woldfire problems to key Executive Officers from the Police, Fire and Military.

ACTRFS assisting in running the Air Attack Supervisor Course

2011-05-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

ACTRFS assisted the Australian Maritime Safety Authority conduct an Air Attack Supervisor course over the last few days. National Response Team Aerial Observers from all the States and Territories around Australia came to Fairbairn to do this course. This course involved using a fixed wing bomber spraying areas of Kowen Forest with water under the guidance from trainee air attack supervisors in helicopters. The purpose of the exercise is to simulate the spraying of a sea based oil slick from the air.

Fixed wing aircraft getting fueled at Canberra Airport

The trainee's, pilots and support crew for a class photo in front of the fixed wing aircraft

ACTRFS donate knapsacks to the Canberra Model Aircraft Club in Jerrabomberra

2011-05-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

The ACTRFS has donated two knapsacks to the Canberra Model Aircraft Club. Because of the club's location in the Jerrabomberra Grasslands on the Monaro Highway, it is beneficial for them to have as much fire supression equipment as possible.

The CMAC has strict policies about when and what aircrafts fly depending on the fire danger days.

The chart they have developed in line with the fire danger rating days as to what aircrafts can operate.

The facility is located in close proximity to the AMC, ESA Helicopter Base, the Snowy Hydro Southcare Base and the new ESA training facility.

A pilot with his gas turbine motor. To operate these types of planes the pilot must have a CO2 extinguisher at the ready.

A pilot fueling up his plane has one of the ACTRFS donated knapsacks sitting alongside.

HR Burn at Attunga Point

2011-04-29T21:29:00.000-07:00

Crews from Rivers, Tidbinbilla and Guises Creek carried out an HR Burn today on Attunga Point which is just near the yacht club on Lake Burley Griffin. Although it was only a small burn, it burnt really well which just goes to show that even at this time of year a grass fire could easily take off under the right conditions. The burn was done for the National Capital Authority with Group Officers Peter Beutel and Pat Barling on hand to provide advice and mentoring for the crews.

We are looking forward to a bigger burn next week on Stirling Ridge which is also being done by RFS volunteers next weekend. Here are a few shots from the Attunga Point burn:

Group Officers Peter Beutel and Pat Barling ....mmmm...this could be the next caption competition photo!

The fire burnt really well

Crews enjoyed the opportunity to get some hands-on action

driptorch fun

No so much fun - dragging hoses up hill!

Caption Competition

2011-04-20T16:52:00.000-07:00

The team at the ACTRFS used Facebook for their first caption competition. Below is a picture of the winning caption chosen by the judges along with the various entries.

a)    Seriously!!!! It was THIS big!!!!!
b)   Your kidding your really in charge ??? holy crap
c)    You call that a fire
d) ‎   "Charnwood? Let it burn!"
e)    Were is the SES with our scones and tea?
f)     I'm being serious guys, is it okay that im wearing white after labour day?"
g)    You want me to do what with a rake hoe?
h)    Ok Rick, let me explain the fire square again. If you remove one or more of the following four sides,
       Heat, Fuel, Oxygen or the dude in the Red Helmet, we can get this fire out !!!
i)     No...I really am busting!
j)     hahahahahah 2 piece concept, what is that?
k)    I'm not doing a dam thing until someone gives back my TimTams" said Robert
l)     Someone just found out who is running the show...
m) Here, pull my finger... forget about it, I'll just have to do it myself.
n)    Hey, either of you guys got the keys for this thing?
o)    Sounds like just another one of your tall fishing tales to me mate!

Air Radio Operator and Air Base Operator Course - Goulburn 15-17 April

2011-04-17T18:52:00.000-07:00

Volunteers and staff from NSWRFS and the ACTRFS descended on Goulburn last weekend to be trained in Air Radio Operator (ARO) and Air Base Operator (ABO) competencies. The ARO qualification gives them the skills to operate airband radios to communicate with aircraft operating on a fireground and to conduct flight following and Search and Rescue (SAR) procedures. The ABO qualification gives the skills to re-fill bombers with retardant and foam. The course was well attended with 30 odd people gaining their ARO certificate and a further 12 gaining theire ABO certificate.

AJ gives crews a briefing on the operation of the mobile command post

The set-up inside the mobile command post

All the radios you need as part of the ARO role

Crews re-filling a bomber with retardant - note the transportable tank that's used to for storage and transporting of any left over finished retardant product.

NSWRFS have done a fantastic job fitting out the container - it's fully portable and self contained

A number of aircraft were on hand to help with the exercises - here Bomber 222 pulls up to be re-filled with retardent

Bomber 223 - these bombers hold 3,000 ltrs of water/retardant

Firebird 206

HMAS Harman Hazard Reduction Burn

2011-04-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

Whilst the Ngunawal HR burn was going on in the northside of Canberra, out to the west ACTRFS units were also conducting a hazard reduction burn at Harman near Queanbeyan.

Part of our Caption Of The Week competition on Facebook.

Glenn Foley hard at work

Lisa Cunningham from Guises blacking out.

Images from the Ngunnawal Hills Burn

2011-04-10T16:44:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend a number of hazard reduction burns were conducted on Saturday. The weather was fantastic for these burns and achieved the desired effects.

ESA Leadership Training Coming Up Again!

2011-04-07T21:22:00.000-07:00

Back in November last year, members of the ACTRFS & SES attended a leadership program provided by Alivve. As Commissioner Mark Crosweller said, "We want to ensure that when people are having a bad day and ring 000 for our assistance, we will have the confidence and capability to respond promptly and effectively to their emergency situation." The program focused on maximising the potential of the individual, the team and the organisation. Subjects covered during the 3 day program included; limiting beliefs, leadership philosophies, leadership dilemmas, managers as coaches, emotional & social intelligences and problem solving & decision making.

The ESA Group of participants on the first evening with Commissioner Mark Crosweller

The group split up into four teams and came up with posters to identify each team members interests.

The team exercise of message in a bottle proved how close the group became over the weekend.

Tony, Amy & Michael from ACTRFS HQ waiting patiently.

The elusive bottle that needs to be recovered.

The dream team that conquered the message in a bottle task in the correct time frame.

The groups doing there problem solving exercise.

ACT Emergency Services Agency Inspects Enlarged Cotter Dam Project

2011-03-31T22:13:00.000-07:00

Deputy Chief Officer Michael Joyce and Operations Officer Paul Simakoff-Ellims represented the ACTRFS at the site inspection conducted by the ACT ESA today. From our previous posting when our Rivers RFS Brigade visited several months ago there has been some huge developments.

Deputy Chief Officer Michael Joyce

View from above shows the perspective of how large the new dam is compared to the old one.

3 giant cranes over 100 meters tall tower over the construction site.

ACTRFS Air Observer Refresher Over The Blue Mountains

2011-03-31T15:26:00.000-07:00

The ACT air observers went on a refresher course earlier this month and took some great pictures of the rough terain over the Blue Mountains.

From a firefighting standpoint, this is NOT a great place to build your home. Fantastic views though!!

A view along the fire trail of a very remote and rugged terrain in the Blue Mountains

A well maintained private landing strip. As part of the exercise AOB's determined what level of fixed winged bomber operations could occur at this strip.

Waragamba Dam, Sydney's main water supply. ACTRFS RAFT team were deployed to the west of this dam to assist NSW RFS in contolling a large blaze that threatened the dam a few years ago.

NSW RFS HQ & United Aero Visit at Camden Airport

2011-03-29T22:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the HQ staff of the ACTRFS went for a visit and tour of the NSW RFS headquarters at Homebush. Visiting our neighbouring counterparts was very interesting as well as seeing how their Emergency Control Centre works.

On the way back we visited United Aero who has the contract for the ACTRFS to provide the helicopters we use during bushfire season.

Chief Officer Andrew Stark at his old stomping grounds.

Inside the ECC at Homebush

The chopper that was on contract in the ACT is now 'packed' up ready to head back to Canada to start work over there. It takes 12 hours to put the chopper back together after a 21 day sea freight.

ACTRFS HQ Staff In A Precarious Position

2011-03-23T21:13:00.000-07:00

Like all jobs, at times we feel like we get ourselves into some pretty precarious positions.......and working at ACTRFS HQ is no exception!

Nicole Cobb, a/g Manager Community Education, & Amy McLenaghan, Executive Assistant, assisted with the Fire Brigade college earlier this week and got in to a tight fix.

Amy trapped in the back of the vehicle.

Nicky pinned in the drivers seat.

Removal of the roof before getting Nicky out.

Nicky getting extracted from the vehicle on a board.

Once again, Nicky was the unfortunate driver in this scenario.

ACTRFS Hands Over $22,000 Cheque To the Leukaemia Foundation

2011-03-22T23:12:00.000-07:00

The ACTRFS today handed over a cheque for $22,000 from the money Team ACTRFS made through the World's Greatest Shave.

After a month of fundraising culminating in the 'Shave Off' on the 11th March, a giant cheque was presented to Marie Huttley-Jackson from the Leukaemia Foundation.

Marie Huttley-Jackson from the Leukaemia Foundation & Andrew Stark, ACTRFS Chief Officer

Marie from the Leukaemia Foundation explains what the funds will go towards.

The team from HQ at the presentation of the cheque.

Article in the Canberra Times on the Thursday 24th March

ACTRFS Member Is Awarded With The Community Protection Medal

2011-03-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

Outstanding service across ACT emergency services was recognised last Tuesday 15th March with a member from each of the emergency services receiving the Ministers Community Protection Medals.

Rob Gore from the Jerrabomberra Brigade and also ACTRFS Group Officer was one of the recipients.

Rob has been a member of the ACT Rural Fire Service for 16 years. During this time he spent five years as the Captain of the Jerrabomberra Volunteer Brigade, being elected as President of the Jerrabomberra Brigade last year.

Rob's skills and knowledge have recently been acknowledged through his appointment as one of four Group Officers in the ACT Rural Fire Service. This role bring with it a considerable level of responsibility, making Rob a mentor to Rural Fire Service Officers in the field, while being available to take control of incidents should they escalate beyond the capability of the on-ground Incident Controller.

Team RFS Hits & Exceeds Goal At The Shave Off

2011-03-14T16:55:00.000-07:00

Last Friday 11th March Team RFS got together for the 'Shave Off'

Team RFS post shave with Marie from the Leukaemia Foundation & the Raiderettes who collected money on the night for us. Team RFS was the highest fundraising group in the ACT with around $21,400 raised!

Simon Katz, President of the Rivers Brigade & Cassy Hancock the Rivers representative who took out the Battle Of The Brigades award for individually raising over $6,000!! Cassy was also the highest individual fundraiser in the ACT!

Team Jenkins - Michelle was Gungahlins representative and did a fantastic job raising over $3,000 individually. The whole family got in on the act to support Michelle.

Tom Long from Guises Creek flanked by the Raiderettes after his head shave. Tom raised $1,170 for Team RFS

The many stages of our Chief Officers shave off. Amy Mclenaghan, Andrew's Executive Assistant, was very willing for the opportunity to shave off her bosses hair!

Cassy our winning representative from Rivers midway through her shave.

Kate Fitzgerald from Jerrabomberra Brigade post getting her hair coloured. Kate raised $1,227 for the Foundation.

Team RFS and Marie Huttley -Jackson from the Leukaemia Foundation. Go Team RFS with over $21,400 raised!!

The Raiderette Gals giving us a helping hand collecting money on the night. They did a great jobin assisting us collecting the cash.

One of the Raiderettes trying on the Captains helmet for size.

Jenkins clan plus Robert Selmes from Hall.

Group Officer John Jenkins and Robert Selmes from Hall who raised over $500 for Team RFS

Robert Gore, Group Officer representative assisting fellow Group Officer Jenkins with a hat to keep his head warm.

Jenkins Junior supporting his mum Michelle by getting his head shaved.

Jenkins Jr number two getting his head shaved to ensure that he looks like the rest of the family.

Kate Fitzgerald (Jerrambomberra Brigade), Tony Corrigan (Southern Brigade) & Robert Gore (Group Officer) getting their heads shaved for Team RFS.

Chief Officer Andrew Stark addresses the crowd just prior to his head shave. Andrew raised over $2,100 for the Foundation.

Michelle Jenkins representing the Gungahlin Brigade was our second highest fundraiser by raising over $3,100

Travys Mclean aka 'Uncle Fester' represented the Molongolo Brigade and raised over $2,000

Chris Dixon from Peter Blackshaw generously put up $1,000 for someone to shave their head on the night.

Chris Dixon (Peter Blackshaw), Marie Huttley-Jackson (Leukaemia Foundation) & young Master Corrigan who shaved his head on the spur of them moment to raise the extra $1,000 for Team RFS.

Thank you to all that participated, contributed and helped make Team RFS the number one fundraising group in the ACT.

* Photo's courtesy of Gary Hooker.

Erikson Air-crane Visits Canberra

2011-03-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

Yesterday ACTRFS HQ had a surprise visit from one of the Erikson Air-cranes whilst it was travelling from Sydney to Melbourne.....considering the chopper uses 2,080 litres per hour it is not surprising it has to refuel frequently! Some interesting facts about the Erikson Air-cranes below:

The minimum depth required for the snorkel operation is 0.5 metres and a clearance diameter of 60 meters around the water source is required to allow safe access. The filling system has the ability to draw 9.000 litres in 40 seconds.

Air Crane Helitanker Facts:Maximum Speed 100 Knots
Length 27.3 metres
Height 7.82 metres
Main Rotor Diameter 22.0 metres
Tank Capacity 9,000 litres
Hover Fill Time 40seconds
Fuel Consumption 2,080 litres per hour
Foam Capacity 290 litres

Chief Officer Andrew Stark discussing how the ACTRFS can get one permanently

Deputy Chief Office Michael Joyce in the pilots seat.

Amy checking out the view.

Nicky in the pilots seat

Andrew in the pilots seat checking out the chopper

ACT Scouts Visit The Helicopters At Fairbairn

2011-02-28T15:16:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday around 50 scouts, cubs and joeys visited the ACTRFS HQ to have a look over the choppers. An entertaining night was had by the scouts who asked lots of interesting questions to the pilots.

ACTRFS Stand At The Royal Canberra Show Wins Outdoor Grand Champion!

2011-02-27T20:50:00.000-08:00

The ACTRFS is pleased to announce that it it won the Outdoor Grand Champion award at the Royal Canberra Show for the second time. This award is presented to one of the many exhibitors that it has been deemed to have the best display.

The ACTRFS Shave For A Cure Team Moves Into First Place!

2011-02-20T14:54:00.000-08:00

After a fantastic weekend of fundraising the ACT RFS Shave Team moves into first place in the ACT & Cassy Hancock from Rivers is the leading fundraiser! This is a fantastic effort from our ACTRFS team and with just under 3 weeks to go and a huge night for the 'Shave Off' planned stands us in great stead to reach our target of $20,000.

We hope that everyone can make it to the 'Shave Off' on Friday 11th March!!

Top Teams

1. ACT Rural Fire Service Team Members: 10 Total: $5,240.00

2. Action Buses Team Members: 12 Total: $3,669.00

3. ActewAGL Team Members: 7 Total: $3,156.00

4. Team Immigration Team Members: 7 Total: $2,880.00

5. ACT Corporate Dragons $1,467.00

Top Fundraisers

1. Cassy Hancock (Rivers RFS) Total: $3,228.00

2. Jimilla Hogan Total: $2,670.00

3. Liam Shepherd Total: $1,880.00

4. Verlie Fitzgerald Total: $1,862.00

5. Katie Taylor Total: $1,831.00

Cassy during the count up on Friday night after hitting the Irish & Weston Club

ACTRFS Battle Of The Brigades Shave For A Cure

2011-02-20T13:57:00.000-08:00

The ACT Rural Fire Service has a team of 8 brave volunteers and our Chief Officer shaving their hair for the Leukaemia Foundation. The Battle Of The Brigades has evolved to see which brigade can raise the most money for this cause.

After only 1 week into the fundraising the ACTRFS Team has raised over $2,800 which is a fantastic effort. With 3 weeks to go we should see the target of $20,000 being attainable.

This is our Chief Officer pre-shave off.

This is how we expect Andrew to look like after the shave......yes, this is Photoshopped!

ACTRFS Operations Manager Richard Woods visits USA to attend a pilot of a new Wildfire Investigation Course

2011-02-15T14:09:00.000-08:00

The ACTRFS Operations Manager Richard Woods has just returned from a Wildfire Investigation Course in the USA. During his trip he visited the Butte County Fire Department in Northern California. An arrangement between Calfire and Butte County share fire protection costs to provide protection to a semi-rural area of Northern California near the town of Chico. Richard took the opportunity to visit a number of jointly managed fire stations in Northern California within Butte County. Pictured below is a new style of wildfire tanker issued by CalFire California.

ACTRFS Help Out With Storm Damage Thursday 3rd Feb

2011-02-13T16:37:00.000-08:00

This fire season the ACTRFS is doing more storm damage work assisting the SES than firefighting! Thankfully we haven't had the severity that Queensland has been experiencing.

Wind Farm Hazards

2011-02-08T19:03:00.000-08:00

With the number of wind farms popping up around the ACT, see below for some of the fire hazards that can be encountered when the gear box oil isn't suited for the job!

An RFS vehicle car fire in pouring rain

2011-02-06T15:32:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when you least expect it the strangest things happen.....especially when you are doing emergency services type work. On Friday afternoon as the rain was pelting down the RFS 7 Headquarter vehicle had an electrical fault which caused a small fire in the engine bay. As Headquarters staff were about to leave for the weekend they smelt a burning smell and noticed a small amount of smoke coming from the bonet.

First TOBAN of the season and the guys & gals of the ACTRFS ready and waiting.

2011-02-02T14:51:00.000-08:00

With the first Total Fire Ban declared for the 2010/11 fire season many of the ACTRFS Brigades stood up at and around their sheds in case a fire broke out. The winds remained strong throughout the day with a low humidity and high temperature created conditions that would mean that any fires that started had the potential to grow very quickly.

The IMT was set up for the day on Tuesday - here members of the IMT have gathered for a briefing on the current weather conditions.

The Jerra crews killing time playing hand ball

Crews from Guises Creek floated between their airconditioned room and out back of their shed in the shade and breeze

The Rivers crews hung out at the front of their shed and then went mobile around the Cotter & Casuarina Sands area

Dunlop Hazard Reduction Burn

2011-02-01T20:18:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday 29th January there was a hazard reduction burn conducted in the northside suburb of Dunlop. As seen in the photo's below the grass curing is higher than the current forecasts for the ACT. The lighting pattern used was conservative and only matches were used but the fire burnt very well and achieved the goal of reducing the grass fuel.

Another drive, another bogging

2011-01-30T15:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the Tidbinbilla Brigade went out for an area familiarisation drive in Tid30 & Tid10. As you can see from the pictures below they got VERY familiar with a spot near Vanity's Crossing way down south in the ACT.

Enlarged Cotter Dam Site Visit

2011-01-27T15:25:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Thursday January 27th, the Rivers RFS Brigade visited the Enlarged Cotter Dam to view various access points and hazards in case of an incident they will be required to attend.

Don't forget you can click on the image to see the original size.

The top of the cutting is going to be where the top of the new dam is!

The brigade members receiving a safety briefing before entering the site

The Rivers tanker is dwarfed by the machinery on site

The quarry where they are getting the rocks to crush up for the dam wall

The brigade at the lookout spot which is where the dam wall will be built to

The excavations for the dam wall

The view from the look out spot where the new dam wall will come to & looking down on the old dam wall. It makes you realise how big this dam will be!!

The silhouette of the crushing plant and also where they will be making the concrete for the new dam wall

Canberra Times Journalist Visit Mt Tennant

2011-01-26T22:07:00.000-08:00

The ESA Media Officer Jeff Garner, ACTRFS Chief Officer Andrew Starke & Deputy Chief Officer Michael Joyce went up Mt Tennant with the journalist from the Canberra Times. The radio operator Peter Hann was interviewed for a story that will be published in this Sundays Canberra Times.

Another burn and another bogging

2011-01-23T14:42:00.000-08:00

Even with the comparatively drier weather, boggings can still easily occur. At this bogging during a hazard reduction burn, the ground looked firm but once the crust was broken down the vehicle went to the axle.

ACTRFS & SES combined fire extinguisher training

2011-01-20T15:30:00.000-08:00

The Rivers ACTRFS & ACTSES combined forces to conduct fire extinguisher training last night. It was a great opportunity for both services to work together and learn new skills.

An ACTRFS volunteer uses a foam extinguisher whilst the ACTRFS & ACTSES look on

Lightg up the oil pan under the close supervision of the crew member on the safety line

One of the ACTRFS new recuits uses the dry powder chemical extinguisher

The foam extinguisher in use

The ACTSES getting in on the action learning about the fire extinguisher use

Parks Flame Thrower

2011-01-18T20:26:00.000-08:00

During the hazard reduction burn at the National Arboretum, the Parks brigade utilised their flame thrower to do spot ignitions to light up.

Feeling the intense radiant heat

Parks 801 happy with his lighting

Parks Hazard Reduction Burns - Mt Painter and the National Arboretum

2011-01-18T18:57:00.000-08:00

Parks conducted two hazard reduction burns yesterday.

The Mount Painter burn near Cook was behind the houses to reduce the grass fuel loading and minise the grass hazards.

The second hazard reduction burn was conducted next to the National Arboretum to create a firebreak to the west.

8 Year Anniversary of January Firestorms

2011-01-17T15:07:00.000-08:00

Today is the 8 year anniversary of the January 2003 Firestorm. This time 8 years ago the eastern coast of Australia was alight with bushfires raging out of control.......8 years on it is inundated with rain and flooding!!!

Below are some pictures from the 18th January 2003.

Roll Over Protection Systems

2011-01-16T14:28:00.000-08:00

The development in technology and build of roll over protection systems has increased greatly over the last decade. Recently whilst one of the contract slashers worked behind houses in Fadden it rolled onto it's roof and the driver walked away totally uninjured. Years ago, tractors didn't have this kind of protection and in an accident like this the driver would have been seriously injured if not worse!

Franklin Burn With ACTRFS Volunteers & Parks Saturday 8th Jan

2011-01-09T20:01:00.000-08:00

A hazard reduction burn was run by the Parks Brigade to reduce the long grasses that have grown over the past couple of months. A good and productive day was had by all with the burn achieving its purpose of reducing the amount of ground fuels in Franklin. Volunteers and salaried TAMS staff all agreed that it was a good opportunity for the teams to work together and get to know each other better. It's great to see both groups working together so effectively.

Don't forget, please submit your images of any ACTRFS activity to rfsadmin@act.gov.au

The Gungahlin crew ensuring the grass fire doesn't spread out of the containment lines.

As the fire increases in intensity the smoke column slowly builds.

The after affect of the hazard reduction burn occuring with the fuel content being greatly reduced.