Guest Speaker - David Webb Ware, Glenburn CFA.
David undertook a major leadership role as Sector Commander during the very recent Longwood Fires which burnt over 1,300 hectares.David explained the chain of command, from individual brigades; strike teams (5 tankers and ST leader; Sectors (5 strike teams); Divisions (5 sectors) and the Incident Control Centre.
The fire started at the Hume High-way in Longwood on the Wednesday evening, spreading east and then in a southern direction engulfing Highlands, Caveat, Ruffy, Yark, Molesworth and threatening Alexandra. The value of mineral earth breaks and private units had a huge impact on the fire spread. Highlands lost 33 houses and many sheds, with units forced to asset protect as fire was indefensible. A late wind change on the catastrophic Friday gave Yea the break it needed, with the fire swinging to the east as it came towards the Goulburn River at Ghin Ghin.
The availability of outside support was severely affected by major fires at Walwa, Harcourt and the Otways all requiring statewide assistance also.
David urged the use of the UGFM App and Vic Emergency App to stay well in-formed of the fire dangers and advice.
Vote of thanks — Darryl, who mentioned the $2,500 donation to Yea Fire Brigades Group for the purchase of computer monitors to assist with planning.
3 Minute speaker– Paul Kellett
Firstly, Paul gave us a lesson in microphone etiquette from the point of view of someone wearing hearing aids. He encouraged all to take a lesson from Cold Chisels Jimmy Barnes, and to almost eat the micro-phone to be effective for all to hear!
Paul told a tale on himself! While travelling in outback Queensland he inadvertently filled his 4x4 with petrol rather than diesel. Luckily Chris noticed the sales docket and crisis was averted by being able to stop at the very near by caravan park while they sorted out the issue. Due to the kindness and help of local campers and their friends, Paul and Chris were back on the road the next day.
Paul's new motto—always check the bowser hose before filling up your car!
Firstly, Paul gave us a lesson in microphone etiquette from the point of view of someone wearing hearing aids. He encouraged all to take a lesson from Cold Chisels Jimmy Barnes, and to almost eat the micro-phone to be effective for all to hear!
Paul told a tale on himself! While travelling in outback Queensland he inadvertently filled his 4x4 with petrol rather than diesel. Luckily Chris noticed the sales docket and crisis was averted by being able to stop at the very near by caravan park while they sorted out the issue. Due to the kindness and help of local campers and their friends, Paul and Chris were back on the road the next day.
Paul's new motto—always check the bowser hose before filling up your car!
Thanks to our caterers tonight, Yea & District Riding Club,
for another delicious meal!