objectives draft

BUSH FIRE PROCEDURE

Shire of Augusta Margaret River 41 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River 6285 | T (08) 9780 5255 | F (08) 9757 2512 | amrshire.wa.gov.au

Bush Fire Procedure

August 2018

Objectives The purpose of this procedure is to ensure the provision of an effective volunteer bush fire firefighting service within the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

Procedure This procedure sets out:

1. Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades2. Rules governing the operation of Bush Fire Brigades3. Appointment, dismissal and management of members4. Committee5. Training of members6. Bush Fire Brigade membership7. Administration8. Personal Protective Clothing/Equipment9. Communications10. Purchase of fire fighting equipment11. Vehicles12. Telephone and tablet expenses13. Electricity expenses14. Insurance cover15. Electoral roll16. Council workforce – fire fighting17. Planned burning18. Fire outside Shire boundaries19. Welfare20. Evacuation

Attachment 7.4.2

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21. Duties of Shire Ranger at fire22. Campfires23. Incident notification procedure24. Roles and responsibilities25. Firebreaks26. Bush Fires Act infringements27. Document management28. Glossary of acronyms29. EM Flowchart30. Terminology31. Application32. Appendix 133. Appendix 234. Appendix 335. Appendix 436. Appendix 537. Appendix 638. Appendix 7

1. Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades

1.1 Establishment of a Bush Fire Brigade

The Council will establish and maintain sufficient Bush Fire Brigades to provide proper and adequate fire protection for the municipality.

1.2 Name and officers of a Bush Fire Brigade

1. On establishing a Bush Fire Brigade under clause 2.2(1) the Local Government isto:-a. Give a name to the Bush Fire Brigade and associated sub-areas;b. Specify the area in which the Bush Fire Brigade is primarily responsible for

carrying out the normal Brigade activities (the ‘Brigade area’); andc. Appoint Fire Control Officers.

2. When considering the appointment of Fire Control Officers in subclause (1) (c), theLocal Government is to have regard to the qualifications and experience that maybe required to fill each position.

3. A person appointed to a position in subclause (1) (c) is to be taken to be a Brigademember.

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4. If a position referred to in subclause (1) (c) becomes vacant prior to the completionof the first Annual General Meeting, then the Local Government is to appoint aperson nominated by that Brigade to fill the vacancy in accordance with subclause(2).

The current Brigade names, profiles and areas are as follows:-

Brigade Profile Sub Areas

Alexandra Bridge Settlement Courtney Warner Glen

Cowaramup Urban Defensive Burnside Cowaramup North Cowaramup South Treeton Miamup

East Augusta Settlement

Gracetown Urban Defensive

Karridale Urban Defensive Karridale Hamelin Bay

Kudardup Settlement

Molloy Island Urban Defensive

Rosa Brook Settlement Osmington Rosa brook Rosa Glen

Wallcliffe Urban Defensive Kilcarnup Prevelly Rapid Landing

Witchcliffe Urban Defensive Witchcliffe Redgate Forest Grove

1.3 Composition of Bush Fire Brigade

1. Membership of a Brigade shall consist of the following categories:-i. Fire Control Officer(s)ii. Captainiii. Lieutenantsiv. Secretaryv. Treasurervi. Maintenance Officervii. Brigade Training Officerviii. Active Fire Fighting Membersix. Auxiliary Membersx. Probationary Membersxi. Honorary Life Members

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Chairperson A person elected by the Brigade at its Annual General Meeting to chair the Brigade meetings.

Captain A person elected by the Brigade at its Annual General Meeting to carry out the statutory duties associated with that post.

Lieutenants Persons elected by the Brigade at its Annual General Meeting to carry out the statutory duties associated with that post.

Secretary A person elected by the Brigade at its Annual General Meeting to look after clerical functions of the Brigade.

Treasurer A person elected by the Brigade at its Annual General Meeting to look after the financial and book keeping functions of the Brigade.

Maintenance Officer (or if not appointed the Brigade Captain) A person elected by the Brigade at its Annual General Meeting to look after the Brigade appliances and equipment.

Training Officer A person elected by the Brigade at its Annual General Meeting to carry out Brigade training activities. The Shire Training Coordinator is responsible to deem that the elected person is competent to fill this role.

2. Ranks within Bush Fire Brigadea. The Act and Bush Fire Brigade Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) directs

which members of a Bush Fire Brigade have command at a fire. It is recognisedthat unless a Bush Fire Control Officer is in attendance at the fire the Captainhas full control over the persons fighting the fire and is required to issueinstructions as to the fire suppression methods to be adopted by the fire-fighters. In the absence of the first, the second Lieutenant and so on, the orderof seniority of the members present will determine who amongst them is toexercise all the powers and duties of the Captain.

If there are a number of Bush Fire Control Officers under the Act and SOP, bymutual agreement, the most experienced will take control of the incident.

1.4 Annual General Meetings

Each Brigade should hold its Annual General Meeting during the period March to June. Elections of Brigade Officers shall take place at this meeting. Brigades shall advise Council of the incoming officers and the nominated names of FCOs, BFAC delegates and proxies for ratification by Council.

Brigades will also supply to Council by 15 July a copy of the minutes of the AGM complete with the Captain’s report as well as the statements found in Appendix 1.

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1.5 Dissolution of a Bush Fire Brigade

In accordance with Section 41(3) of the Act, the Local Government may cancel the registration of a Bush Fire Brigade if it is of the opinion that the Bush Fire Brigade is or has not complied with:

1. The Act; 2. This Procedures document; 3. The Rules Governing the Operation of Bush Fire Brigades; 4. The Bush Fire SOP’s or SAP’s; or

5. Is not achieving the objectives for which it was established.

1.6 New arrangements after dissolution

If a Local Government cancels the registration of a Bush Fire Brigade, alternative fire control arrangements are to be made in respect of the Brigade area.

2. Rules governing the operation of Bush Fire Brigades

2.1 Interpretation

1. In these Rules, unless the context otherwise requires, where a term is used in these Rules and is defined in the Procedures, the Act or the Regulations, then the term is to be taken to have the meaning assigned to it in the Procedures, the Act or the Regulations, as the case may be.

2. In these Rules, unless the context otherwise requires –

‘Authority’ means Department of Fire and Emergency Services Lower South West Headquarters;

‘Committee’ means the Committee of the Bush Fire Brigade;

‘Procedures’ means the Shire of Augusta Margaret River Bush Fire Brigades Procedures 2015; and

‘Normal Brigade activities’ is defined by section 35A of the Act.

3. Subject to these Procedures, where a decision is to be made by the Bush Fire Brigade, then the decision may be made by a resolution passed by a simple majority of the Brigade members who are present in person at the meeting.

4. Subject to these Procedures, where a decision is to be made by the Committee, then the decision may be made by a resolution passed by a simple majority of the Brigade officers who are present in person at the meeting.

2.2 Objects of Bush Fire Brigade

The objects of the Bush Fire Brigade are to carry out:-

1. The normal Brigade activities; and

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2. The functions of the Bush Fire Brigade which are specified in the Act, the Regulations and the Bush Fire Policy and Procedures.

2.3 Management of Bush Fire Brigade

1. Subject to the provisions of these Rules, the administration and management of the affairs of the Bush Fire Brigade are vested in the Committee.

2. Without limiting the generality of subclause (1), the Committee is to have the following functions – a. To recommend to the Local Government amendments to these Procedures; b. To draft the annual budget for the Bush Fire Brigade and present it at the Annual

General Meeting of the Bush Fire Brigade; c. To propose a motion for consideration at any meeting of the Bush Fire Brigade; d. To recommend to the Local Government equipment needs to be supplied by

the Local Government to the Bush Fire Brigade; e. Brief the Brigade BFAC Delegate or proxy on matters to be raised on behalf of

the Brigade; f. To invest or place on deposit any of the funds of the Bush Fire Brigade not

immediately required in performing the normal Brigade activities; and g. Deal with membership applications, grievances, disputes and disciplinary

matters.

2.4 Constitution of Committee

1. The Committee of the Bush Fire Brigade is to consist of the Brigade officers being the Captain, Secretary, Treasurer, Maintenance Officer and the Lieutenants of the Bush Fire Brigade, Training Officer and FCOs that have been ratified by Council.

2. The Brigade officers are to - a. Be elected at the Annual General Meeting of the Bush Fire Brigade; b. Hold office until the next Annual General Meeting; and c. Be eligible for re-election at the next Annual General Meeting.

3. Any Brigade officer may be removed from office by an absolute majority decision

of the Brigade members present in person at a special meeting called for such a purpose.

4. The Committee may appoint a Brigade member to fill a vacancy in any office arising from a resolution under subclause (3) or which has arisen for any other reason.

2.5 Meetings of a Bush Fire Brigade

1. Committee Meetings Committee meetings may be called at any time by the Secretary or Captain by giving at least 7 days’ notice to all Brigade members and if deemed necessary the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer, for the purpose of:– a. Organising and checking equipment; b. Requisitioning new or replacement equipment;

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c. Organising field excursions, training sessions, hazard reduction programs, and the preparation of fire-breaks;

d. Establishing new procedures in respect of any of the normal Brigade activities; and

e. Dealing with any general business.

In a notice given under subclause (1), the Secretary is to specify the business that is to be conducted at the meeting.

Business may be conducted at an ordinary meeting of the Bush Fire Brigade notwithstanding that it was not specified in a notice given under subclause (1) in relation to that meeting.

2. Special Meetings a. The Secretary is to call a special meeting when 5 or more Brigade members

request one in writing; b. At least 7 days’ notice of a special meeting is to be given by the Secretary, to

all Brigade members and to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer; c. In a notice given under subclause (2) the Secretary is to specify the business

that is to be conducted at the meeting; and d. No business is to be conducted at a special meeting beyond that specified in a

notice given under subclause (2) in relation to that meeting.

3. Annual General Meeting a. At least 14 days’ notice of the Annual General Meeting is to be given by the

Secretary to all Brigade members, the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer, the Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer and the Community Emergency Services Manager.

b. At the Annual General Meeting the bush fire Brigade is to:- i. Elect the Brigade officers from among the Brigade members; ii. Consider the Captain's report on the year's activities; iii. Adopt the annual financial statements; iv. Nominate member(s) as FCO(s); v. Deal with any general business; and vi. Elect BFAC delegate and Proxy (bi-annually).

c. In a notice given under subclause (1), the Secretary is to specify the business that is to be conducted at the meeting.

d. Business may be conducted at an Annual General Meeting notwithstanding that it was not specified in a notice given under subclause (1) in relation to that meeting.

e. Brigade FCO(s) to provide report on annual activities.

Quorum a. The quorum for a meeting of the Bush Fire Brigade is at least 50% of the

number of officers (whether vacant or not) of members of the Bush Fire Brigade. b. No business is to be transacted at a meeting of the Bush Fire Brigade unless a

quorum of Brigade members is present in person.

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Voting Each Brigade member is to have one vote, however, in the event of an equality of votes, the Captain (or person presiding) may exercise a casting vote.

2.6 Funds

1. The funds of the Bush Fire Brigade are to be used solely for the purpose of promoting the objects of the Bush Fire Brigade.

2. Brigades can receive ‘donations’ from landowners or members of the public. Donations received by Brigades can be used at the Brigades’ discretion.

Goods and Services Tax Brigade Treasurer is to ensure the Brigade complies with all the requirements of the Goods and Services Tax Act 1999.

Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission A Brigade, if registered, is to abide by the regulations of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) with regards to registration as a charity; and the rules for Tax Deductable Gift Recipient (TDGR) Status with regards to accepting Tax Deductible donations.

Financial Year The financial year of the Bush Fire Brigade is to commence on 1 July and is to end on 30 June of the following year.

Banking The funds of the Bush Fire Brigade are to be placed in a bank account and are to be drawn on only by cheques or electronically signed jointly by any 2 of the three signatories elected by the Committee.

2.7 Disclosure of interests

1. A Brigade member shall disclose to the Bush Fire Brigade or Committee any financial interest (whether direct or indirect) he or she may have in any matter being considered by the Bush Fire Brigade or Committee, as appropriate.

2. If a financial interest has been disclosed under subclause (1), then the Bush Fire Brigade or Committee, as appropriate, is to decide, in the absence of the Brigade member who disclosed that interest, whether or not the Brigade member is to be permitted to vote on that matter.

3. Where the Bush Fire Brigade or Committee, as appropriate, decides under subclause (2), that a Brigade member is not to be permitted to vote on a matter. And the Brigade member votes on the matter, then her or his vote is to be taken to have no effect and is not to be counted.

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2.8 Disagreements

1. Any disagreement between Brigade members may be referred to either the Captain or to the Committee.

2. Where a disagreement in subclause (1) is considered by the Captain or the Committee to be of importance to the interests of the Bush Fire Brigade. Then the Captain or the Committee, as the case may be, is to refer the disagreement to the Annual General Meeting, an ordinary meeting or a special meeting of the Bush Fire Brigade.

3. The Local Government, by recommendation of the CESM, is the final authority on matters affecting the Bush Fire Brigade, and may resolve any disagreement that is not resolved under subclause (1) or (2).

2.9 Notices

1. Notices of meetings of the Bush Fire Brigade are to be in writing and sent by ordinary post or email to each Brigade member.

2. Notices of meetings of the Committee may be given in writing in accordance with subclause (1) or by such other means as the Committee may decide (by an absolute majority) at a meeting of the Committee.

3. Any accidental omission to give notice of a meeting to, or non-receipt by a person entitled to receive such notice, is not to invalidate the meeting the subject of the notice or any resolutions passed at the meeting.

4. Where any notice other than a notice of meeting is to be given under these Rules, the notice is to be:- a. In writing; b. Unless otherwise specified, given to or by the Secretary; c. Given by –

i. personal delivery; ii. post; iii. facsimile transmission; or iv. e-mail.

d. Taken to have been received, as the case may be:- i. at the time of personal delivery; ii. one business day after posting; or iii. on printing of the sender’s transmission report.

3. Appointment, dismissal and management of members

3.1 Rules to govern

The appointment, dismissal and management of Brigade members by the Bush Fire Brigade is governed by the Rules.

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3.2 Equal opportunity

The Brigade and the Local Government recognise its legal obligations under the Equal Opportunity Act, 1984, and will actively promote equal employment based on merit to ensure that discrimination does not occur on the grounds of: -

• gender; • marital status; • pregnancy; • race; • religious convictions; • political convictions; • physical impairment; • age; • family status; and • racial vilification.

In accordance with the Equal Opportunity Act, 1984, both direct and indirect discrimination in the areas of recruitment and selection, training, health and safety and medical issues, conditions of employment and promotions, will not be tolerated. All policies and procedures in these areas will be directed towards providing equal employment to all volunteers provided that their relevant experience skills and ability to meet the minimum standards.

Furthermore the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and the Augusta Margaret River Bush Fire Brigade considers direct and indirect sexual harassment an unacceptable form of behaviour, which will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and all volunteers should be able to work in an environment free of intimidation and sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment is a general term covering unwelcome sexual behaviour. This includes, but is not limited to:-

a. unwanted physical contact such as touching or pinching; b. lewd comments or jokes about a person’s physical appearance or private life; c. request for sexual favours; and d. the display of pornography.

Both the Equal Opportunity Act, 1984, and the Criminal Code make it unlawful for a person to incite racial hatred, racial violence, serious contempt or severe ridicule of a person or group of persons on the grounds of their race. Accordingly, the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, and the Shire of Augusta Margaret River Bush Fire Brigade will not tolerate any form of racial hatred or racial harassment under any circumstances. This includes, but is not limited to:-

a. Publication of material, or possession of material for publication, to incite racial hatred. Display of material, or possession of material for display, to harass a racial group or individual.

Managers and supervisors must ensure that all employees and volunteers are treated equitably in accordance with the grounds listed in this Local Law. They must also ensure people who make complaints or are witnesses are not victimised in any way.

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Any reports of discrimination or harassment will be treated seriously and investigated promptly, confidentially and impartially. People will not be disadvantaged in their volunteer work as a result of lodging a complaint.

Appropriate action will be taken against anyone who discriminates or victimises a co-worker, client, or member of the Local Government.

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River and the Shire of Augusta Margaret River Bush Fire Brigade is committed to providing an environment that is free of all forms of discrimination or harassment. In addition the equal employment opportunity goal of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River is designed to provide an enjoyable, challenging, involving, harmonious work environment for all employees and volunteers where each has the opportunity to progress to the extent of their ability.

The Equal Opportunity Coordinator for the Shire of Augusta Margaret River is the Manager, Human Resources.

If any member of the Brigade feels that they are being treated unfairly under the Equal Opportunities Policy, they are to contact the Manager, Human Resources to commence action.

3.3 Occupational health and safety

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River and the Augusta Margaret River Bush Fire Brigade is totally committed to establishing and maintaining, so far as is practicable, the highest standards of occupational safety and health for all employees and volunteers.

This will be achieved by ensuring that the appropriate resources and effort are effectively utilised in the areas of accident and injury prevention.

The Chief Executive Officer is the responsible officer. The coordinator is the Manager Human & Community Services.

Managers and supervisors at all levels regard safety and health at the workplace as one of their highest priorities, and are responsible for ensuring that volunteers are given instruction on correct techniques for performing the job. This incorporates instruction in safe working practice and procedures, and an awareness of all hazards associated with their work.

Every volunteer has responsibility in accident and injury protection, and will be encouraged to participate in improving standards of workplace safety and health.

Members are responsible for:-

a. Maintaining work practices that are safe and minimise risk to health and safety. b. Encouraging others to work in a safe and healthy manner. c. Supporting and promoting OH&S in the workplace. d. Reporting and rectifying unsafe conditions that comes to their notice. e. Their own health and safety, and the health and safety of others affected by

their actions within the Brigade.

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3.4 Code of conduct

1. General

Brigade members are to act in a professional manner at all times, whether they are on a fire ground or representing the Brigade at any time e.g., a school fete, Brigade open day or static display etc.

Brigade members are at all times to show courtesy to members of the public and staff and members of the Local Government.

Any member of the Brigade found to cause disharmony, or by actions or speech to bring the Brigade, or the Shire of Augusta Margaret River into disrepute, or to act in other than a professional manner shall be disciplined.

2. Alcohol and drugs

Alcohol and non-prescription drugs are not to be consumed at all whilst on duty.

Members must not operate DFES or BFB vehicles whilst under the influence of alcohol or non-prescription drugs.

Alcohol must not be consumed at the station unless on special occasions or Brigade Social Functions. These occasions must have the prior approval of the Captain.

3. Members of other emergency services

Members are to respect personnel from other emergency service organisations, and their knowledge, experience and skills when working with them.

If any member has a matter of concern or conflict with a member from another Emergency Service, they are to submit it in writing to the Brigade Captain or Fire Control Officer who will deal with the matter in accordance with procedures.

4. Committee

4.1 Bush Fire Advisory Committee

Council shall form and maintain a Bush Fire Advisory Committee to formulate for Council’s consideration, recommendations and policy on matters relating to bush fire prevention, control and extinguishment, as provided for by Section 67 of the Bush Fires Act 1954 (as amended).

Composition a. The President of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, if desirous of

participating; b. The Chief Bush Fire Control Officer; c. The Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer; d. One Bush Fire Control Officer (appointed by the Shire in accordance with the

Act) nominated by each Brigade;

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e. Each Brigade shall nominate a proxy to attend at committee meetings where a delegate is unable to attend. It shall be the responsibility of a particular delegate to notify his/her proxy should he/she for any reason be unable to attend a particular meeting; and

f. Council shall appoint an ex officio minute taker.

Observers and advisers a. All Sub-Area Fire Control Officers and other brigade members are welcome to

attend Bush Fire Advisory Committee meetings (on a non- voting/observer only basis).

b. One delegate each from the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Brigades in Augusta and Margaret River, Parks and Wildlife Services – Blackwood, DFES Lower South West, Bushfire Ready Facilitators North and South and the local branch of the State Emergency Service may attend as observers without voting rights.

Function a. To advise Council on all matters relating to the operations of the Bush Fires

Act. b. To advise Council on the best and most efficient means of maximising fire

control resources in the district.

4.2 Quorum

A quorum shall consist of more than one half of the voting Committee.

4.3 Voting

At meetings of the Committee each member shall have one vote and in the case of an equality of votes, the question shall be determined in the negative. The Chairperson shall exercise a deliberative vote. Observers, advisers and ex-officio members may not vote on any matter.

Observers attending meetings of the Committee will not be permitted to speak on any matter unless invited to do so by the Chairperson, or in conformity with Council’s Standing Orders.

4.4 Bush Fire Advisory Committee recommendations

Recommendations of the Bush Fires Advisory Committee will be referred to the earliest possible meeting of Council.

4.5 Terms of office

The term of office is in accordance with the Shire’s ‘Instrument of Appointment and Delegation’ for Advisory Committees which states ‘ Membership shall, unless otherwise specified, be for a term ceasing at the date of the Local Government election in the year the Shire’s local government elections are held, after which time the Council may

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appoint members for a further term. Council may dismiss members who miss two consecutive meetings without reasonable cause’.

4.6 Presiding Member

The members of the Committee shall, at the November meeting of the Committee of the year coinciding with Council elections, elect a Presiding Member to chair committee meetings and a Deputy Presiding Member to chair in the absence of the Presiding Member.

These nominations will be presented to Council for endorsement.

4.7 Meetings

1. Ordinary and Special

Ordinary meetings of the Committee shall be held on the third Wednesday in August, November, February and May each year.

Written notice shall be given to all Committee members, at least fourteen (14) days prior to the meeting.

Other meetings of the Committee may be convened:-

a. By the Chairperson. b. By written notice to all Committee members, such notice being signed by at

least four members of the Committee, giving not less than seven (7) days’ notice and stating purpose of the meeting.

c. By the Council or its Community Emergency Services Manager.

The time and venue of meetings shall be determined by the Chairperson, Council or the Community Emergency Services Manager having due regard to the general convenience of the Committee members.

4.8 Election of Committee Members

At the August BFAC meeting of the year coinciding with Council elections the Brigade representatives are to nominate the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer and Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer.

In the event that the Meeting is unable or unwilling to make such nominations, Council will appoint the above Executive positions from a list of candidates submitted by the Meeting for consideration. Council must endorse these appointments.

4.9 Use of Council meeting facilities

Council shall provide the use of a Council facility for the ordinary meetings of BFAC.

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4.10 Minutes

A copy of the minutes of Committee meetings with an agenda for the next meeting shall be circulated to the nominated Councillor, BFAC members, BFAC proxies, FCOs and the Shire CEO.

4.11 Reports to the Bush Fire Advisory Committee

1. The CBFCO shall report on matters relevant to the Committee; 2. Delegates from each Brigade shall report on matters relevant to the Committee; 3. Council delegates shall report on matters relevant to the Committee; 4. The Parks and Wildlife Services - Blackwood delegate shall report on matters

relevant to the Committee; 5. The Department of Fire & Emergency Services LSW Region delegate shall report

on matters relevant to the Committee; and 6. Bushfire Ready Facilitators North and South shall report on matters relevant to the

Committee.

4.12 Appointment of Fire Control Officers

The Committee shall recommend Fire Control Officer appointments to Council following recommendation from individual Brigades. Council may appoint a Fire Control Officer to a Brigade in the absence of a recommendation by a Brigade.

4.13 Sub-Committees and Working Groups

The following sub-committee will meet on a regular basis and submit reports to the Bush Fire Advisory Committee:

1. Bush Fire Strategy Sub-Committee a. Membership

i. DCBFCO (Chairperson). ii. Shire’s Community Emergency Services Manager. iii. Brigade Delegate (10) – preferably Captain – nominated by the Brigade at

their AGM.

A working group may be formed at the discretion of council, BFAC delegates or upon request of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River Bush Fire Brigade’s in order to perform a specific function(s) or work through important matters as they arise.

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5. Training of members

5.1 Training Officers

1. Shire Training Officers - Council’s Community Emergency Services Manager is the Shire’s Training Coordinator. Brigade members who wish to provide Shire/DFES endorsed training to volunteers must have completed as a minimum the DFES Pathways Workplace Trainer Assessor course.

2. The responsibilities of those officers shall be to either provide basic training or to co-ordinate that training across all brigades (refer also Clause 5.2 – ‘Basic Training’).

3. Brigade Training Officers – elected by Brigades at their AGM to ensure ongoing training levels are maintained and monthly training activities conducted utilising the Volunteer Firefighter Maintenance Training Manual. Brigade Training officers can utilise eAcademy training resources provided by DFES and or other resources as applicable. These Brigade members should be senior members with good background knowledge. They do not require trainer/assessor qualification.

5.2 Basic training

Council will be responsible for basic training of its bush fire personnel through its Training Coordinator and Training Officers, utilising program content and training resources developed by the Department of Fire & Emergency Services.

5.3 Completion of Fire Fighters Course

Council requires all registered active firefighting brigade members to have completed ‘Introduction to Firefighting’, ‘Bush Fire Firefighting’, AIIMS Awareness or the equivalent DFES Basic Bush Fire Fighter Course within 24 months of registering. Completion of these three courses will enable the firefighter to be an active firefighter. Auxiliary members may attend training courses on a non-compulsory basis.

All members who have not or do not wish to complete the abovementioned courses must be registered/re-registered as auxiliary members.

5.4 Minimum level of qualifications

Council recommends that the minimum level of training for all firefighters is to be in accordance with the DFES Volunteer Pathway.

For example:

• Firefighter – VFF Level 1 • Crew Leader/Lieutenant – VFF Level 5 • Captain/FCO – VFF Level 6

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5.5 Training expenses

1. All training expenses are covered by the Emergency Services Levy (ESL) and Council will reimburse any trainers ‘out of pocket expenses’ on the submission of a detailed account.

2. If any of the following training expenses are incurred by training coordinators they will be reimbursed after detailed accounts are submitted to Council: – a. advertising in relation to proposed courses; b. hall or training room hire; and c. catering.

5.6 Monthly training requirement

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River recommends all Brigades to hold a minimum of one training meeting/exercise per month. The meeting/exercise is to run for a minimum of two hours. Dates and times of meetings/exercises are at the discretion of the brigade. All training and list of participants is to be recorded in the Brigade’s Fire Station Logbook.

5.7 Annual competency

Fire fighter members are to be assessed as ‘competent’ with their Brigades’ equipment on an annual basis.

5.8 Training Attendance

It is recommended that all active fire fighter members attend a minimum of six (6) brigade activities per year. The description of the brigade activity and actions for non-compliance are at the discretion of the Brigade Captain.

6. Bush Fire Brigade membership

6.1 Types

The membership of a Bush Fire Brigade consists of the following: –

1. Probationary fire fighter 2. Active Firefighting members; 3. Auxiliary members; and 4. Honorary life members.

Probationary A person who has joined the Brigade with the intent to becoming a qualified firefighter.

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Fire Fighting Member Firefighting members are those persons being at least 16 years of age who have completed the required qualifications (as per 5.4 above) and served the six (6) month probation period.

Auxiliary Member Auxiliary members are persons who are not ‘firefighting’ members of a Brigade but are willing to render other assistance such as transportation requirements, catering, communications etc. as required by the Bush Fire Brigade. This is a non-combat role.

Honorary Life Member The Bush Fire Brigade may by a simple majority resolution appoint a person as an honorary life member in recognition of services by that person to the Bush Fire Brigade.

6.2 Applications for membership

An application for membership is to be in writing and is to be submitted to the relevant Brigade Secretary on the prescribed form (see appendix 2). The Brigade Secretary shall then forward applications for membership (within 14 days of the Brigade approval) to the Shire’s Community Emergency Services Manager for processing. The Captain may choose to set the expectations for the new member by using the form found at Appendix 3. These are the basic expectations of the Captain and the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and the form can be used to record PPC sizing prior to ordering.

Any incomplete application will not be accepted. Potential new members must read ‘The Criteria for Membership’ before completing the membership application form.

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River requires that all new applications for membership are accompanied with a Volunteer National Police Certificate (VNPC) consent form as found in appendix 2.

The Shire’s CEO reserves the right to refuse an application for membership if a person’s police record or background suggests that this person may provide a risk to the Brigade and its members as well as to the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

6.3 Committee to determine applications for membership

Applications for all memberships are to be determined by the Brigades Executive Committee or a sub-committee convened for this purpose.

6.4 Decision on application for membership

1. The Brigade may:- a. Approve an application for membership unconditionally or subject to any

conditions; or b. Refuse to approve an application for membership.

If the Brigade refuses to approve an application for membership, it is to give written reasons for the refusal, as soon as practical, but not more than 10 days, after the

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decision is made, to the applicant and advise that the applicant has the right to object to the Local Government.

6.5 DFES to be notified of registrations

If an application for membership is approved, the Secretary of the relevant Brigade is to supply registration details, on the prescribed form, to the Local Government within 14 days of the approval. The Local Government will forward a copy of the application to DFES.

DFES will process the application and a volunteer ID number and profile will be created for each member.

6.6 Termination of membership

1. Membership of a Bush Fire Brigade terminates if the member:- a. Dies; b. Gives written notice of resignation to the Brigade Secretary; c. Is, in the opinion of the Brigade Committee, permanently incapacitated by

mental or physical ill-health; d. Is dismissed by the Committee; e. Is dismissed by Council; f. Leaves the district permanently without terminating their Brigade membership;

or g. Fails to meet the membership criteria and does not respond when issued with

a ‘Form of Intent’ (see Appendix 4). 2. The Secretary of the Brigade is to supply written details of any terminations from

the Brigade to the Local Government within 14 days of the termination. The Local Government will then inform DFES.

3. Terminating members must return all Brigade / Shire of Augusta Margaret River equipment or PPC that was supplied to the Captain or CESM.

6.7 Suspension of membership

1. Membership of the Bush Fire Brigade may be suspended at any time if, in the opinion of the Brigade Committee, circumstances warrant suspending the member.

2. The period of suspension shall be at the discretion of the Brigade Committee.

3. Upon the expiry of the period of suspension the Brigade Committee may:- a. Extend the period of suspension; b. Terminate the membership; or c. Reinstate the member.

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6.8 Member has right of defence

A Brigade member is not to be dismissed under clause 6.6(1) (d) without being given the opportunity to meet with the Committee and answer any matters that might give grounds for dismissal.

6.9 Objection rights

A person whose:-

1. application for membership was refused under clause 6.4(1)(b); 2. membership is terminated under clause 6.6(1)(c), clause 6.6(1)(d) or clause

6.7(3)(b); or 3. membership is suspended under clause 6.7(1).

Has the right of objection to the Local Government, which may dispose of the objection by:-

1. dismissing the objection; 2. varying the decision objected to; or 3. revoking the decision objected to, with or without

a. substituting it for another decision; or b. referring the matter, with or without directions, for another decision by the

Brigade Committee.

6.10 Existing liabilities to continue

The resignation or dismissal of a Brigade member under clause 6.6 does not affect any liability of the Brigade member arising prior to the date of resignation or dismissal.

7. Administration

7.1 Fire occurrence reports

Where Brigades do not have the capacity to enter fire incident reports into the DFES Incident Reporting System (IRS), they shall be forwarded to the Community Emergency Services Manager within 7 days of attendance. The CESM will ensure the incident is entered onto the DFES OMS data base. Reports shall also be submitted progressively to the Bush Fires Advisory Committee for necessary action.

7.2 Centralised ordering

All procurements made for or on behalf of Brigades will be through Council’s Community Emergency Services Manager who will have due regard to Council’s existing policies and budgets. No commitments can otherwise be made to suppliers by Brigades unless a Brigade’s own funds are used.

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8. Personal Protective Clothing/Equipment

Serviceable safety helmets, protective garments and protective footwear shall be worn at all times whilst actively engaged in fire protection activities such as training, burning off, fire suppression etc. Council through the ESL will fund the annual purchase of safety helmets, trousers, tunic, gloves and goggles. Requests for protective equipment are to be made through the Community Emergency Services Manager.

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River will provide Level 1 PPE and approved Bushfire Firefighter Boots to volunteer firefighters who:

1. Have been accepted as firefighter members by their Brigade; 2. Have completed the required training (as per 5.3 above); 3. Have completed the minimum 6 month probation from the time of registration of

membership; 4. Have attended a majority of his/her Brigade normal training activities and shown

commitment to the ideals of the Brigade during the probationary period.

Brigade members are to sign for their issued PPE on the prescribed form. When Brigade members cease to be active, leave the Brigade or their Brigade membership is terminated all their issued PPE must be returned to the Brigade.

9. Communications

9.1 Radio network for firefighting communications

DFES shall be responsible for the provision of any necessary WAERN Bush Fire radios for Brigades, Brigade vehicles and FCO private vehicles and to establish an efficient radio network for firefighting communications. Records shall be maintained by Council of DFES supplied radios for each Brigade.

9.2 Maintenance of two-way radio

The Shire through the ESL will be responsible for the on-going serviceability of the radio network.

DFES owns the license for WAERN and as such, all new purchases, maintenance and servicing or requests for additional equipment must be made by written request from the Brigade Captain to the Shire’s Community Emergency Services Manager.

9.3 Call signs

When calling a Fire Control Officer the correct procedure will be to use the Brigade name followed by the words “Fire Control Officer” i.e. “Wallcliffe Fire Control Officer”.

The call signs for Brigade fire units will be the brigade name followed by the type of vehicle being called, e.g.:-

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‘Witchcliffe Light Tanker One’

‘Witchcliffe 3.4’

‘Witchcliffe 1.4’

The Chief and Deputy Fire Control Officers’ call signs will be:-

‘Augusta Margaret River Chief’

‘Augusta Margaret River Deputy’

No Brigade member may use bush fire frequencies for any other purpose than firefighting or normal maintenance checks. The Brigade’s own Bush Fire radio may only be fitted with fire control radio frequencies with the express approval of the Community Emergency Services Manager.

9.4 Radio checks

1. All Brigade radios, including hand held radios, are to conduct radio checks on a weekly basis during the ‘fire season’ and on a fortnightly basis during the rest of the year by calling ‘any Shire radio’.

2. When leaving and returning to the fire station all Brigade vehicles are to communicate that they are ‘going off station’ (and the reason for departing the station) or, ‘back on station’.

9.5 Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) System

The AVL system provides real-time visibility of operational vehicles with automated features that enhance crew safety.

Monthly testing is required for all AVL equipped operational vehicles and portable AVL units to:

• Confirm that the AVL equipment is functioning correctly; • Confirm that the connection to the AVL server is functioning correctly; • Provide an opportunity for Pinpoint software updates (including fixes and

enhancements) to be received; • Proactively identify faults; and • Address feedback from AVL users who suggested regular tests.

Brigade members can request access to obtain a login in order to utilise the AVL system with written approval from the Brigade Captain. The request form (Appendix 5) must be submitted to the CESM for processing. All applications are sent to the Lower South West DFES Superintendent for final approval.

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10. Purchase of firefighting equipment

10.1 Purchases

Council may allocate funds from its annual ESL Operating budget for purchasing and maintenance of firefighting equipment. The aim when purchasing shall be for DFES standardised firefighting equipment where possible.

All requests from Brigades are to be forwarded to the Community Emergency Services Manager for consideration prior to presentation to the Bush Fires Advisory Committee. Brigade purchase requests are to be presented at the Bush Fire Brigade Strategy Meeting held in January of each year.

10.2 Foam

An annual quantity of foam, if needed, is to be purchased and stored by Council. Release can only be authorised by the Community Emergency Services Manager. The Shire of Augusta Margaret River will utilise A-Class foam that complies with current safety and environmental standards. The preferred A-Class foam which is also used by DFES and Parks and Wildlife Services is Phos-Check WD881, as it meets the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Services (FS) Qualified Products List (QPL) standards.

11. Vehicles

11.1 Recognised firefighting equipment

For the purposes of this policy, Council will recognise only equipment suitable to the Bush Fires Services provided by DFES through the ESL Capital Grants process. Equipment purchased by the Brigade is inherently the property of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River. Equipment should be included on the Shire’s equipment register for insurance and record keeping purposes.

11.2 Repairs

Any mechanical repairs of a routine nature required for recognised Bush Fire vehicles, shall be directed to Councils’ Workshop Supervisor by the Community Emergency Services Manager. Brigades are not to take vehicles direct to the Councils’ workshop

Accidental damage caused to fire units will be reported immediately to Council’s Community Emergency Services Manager.

All mechanical faults/repairs are to be reported to Council’s Community Emergency Services Manager immediately.

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11.3 Maintenance

The Community Emergency Services Manager in consultation with Council’s Workshop Manager will organise for annual servicing of all Brigade vehicles.

Brigades shall be required to adopt the following guidelines for care of all fire units and equipment:-

1. All fire units shall be kept clean and free from rubbish when not in use.

2. Units are not to be used for any private or contract work outside the normal guidelines for Brigade operations.

3. The use of any poisons or chemicals (other than fire retardants) in the units is

prohibited.

4. Fortnightly vehicle and firefighting equipment checks, including hazard warning equipment and radios are to be conducted. Units shall be started and driven a set route (as defined by the Brigade). Faults shall immediately be reported to the Community Emergency Services Manager.

5. A service report is to be issued to the brigade for each appliance when serviced by

the Council’s workshop staff.

6. Monthly testing of AVL installed in operational vehicles and portable Units.

11.4 Licencing and insurance

Council shall, through the ESL Operating budget be responsible for licencing and insurance of Bush Fire firefighting vehicles, buildings and equipment.

11.5 Housing

All fire fighting vehicles under the control of a Brigade are to be housed in a garage, shed or other suitable building.

11.6 Private use

Under no circumstance are firefighting units to be used for private purposes.

11.7 Fuel

Council will, through the ESL Operating budget, pay for the fuel costs associated with the use of mobile firefighting equipment, subject to the following guidelines:-

1. Fuel to be purchased only from the following outlets:- a. Cowaramup Service Station - Cowaramup; b. Gull Roadhouse - Witchcliffe; c. Gull Service Station Karridale Roadhouse;

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d. Darnell’s Store - Rosa Brook; and e. Gracie’s General Store – Gracetown.

2. Fuel must be purchased using the fuel card supplied by the Shire of Augusta

Margaret River. An odometer reading may be requested at time of purchase.

11.8 Vehicle log books

Vehicle log books must be completed each time vehicle is driven showing:-

a. date; b. purpose of use; c. kilometres travelled; d. name of driver; and e. drivers’ signature.

11.9 Locations and operational status of the Brigades’ appliances

The Brigade Captain will at all times keep the Community Emergency Services Manager, who in turn will advise the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer, of any change in the day to day location and operational status of appliances under the control of a Brigade.

11.10 Manning of the firefighting appliances

1. A firefighting appliance shall be manned by no less than two trained persons (as per item 5.3) while actively engaged in firefighting or fire control activities.

2. Members may drive appliances to an incident on their own, but must not become involved in firefighting activities until crew levels as in sub clause 1 are achieved.

11.11 Drivers’ licence

The driver of any firefighting appliance or fire control vehicle will hold a current driver’s licence of the class appropriate for the appliance or vehicle being driven and be either:-

1. A Council employee.

2. Any person authorised by the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer, his/her Deputy, or a Brigade Captain or Bush Fire Control Officer.

11.12 Driving guidelines

The following are the priority driving codes under which fire appliances are permitted to travel:-

1. Emergency Conditions – Unit to respond with due haste life/property in immediate danger.

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a. Emergency warning lights used at all times during travel and operation at incident;

b. Siren should be used when appropriate while travelling to an incident; c. All traffic lights and road traffic signals/signs to be obeyed ‘unless the driver of

the fire appliance is confident that it is safe and expedient to contravene’ and that other traffic will give way to the fire appliance;

d. Rail crossing signals and boom gates to be obeyed at all times; and e. Drivers are not to exceed the posted speed limit by more than 20kph.

2. Normal Road Conditions – When returning to station, attending training or

exercises and general operations a. No emergency warning lights or siren to be used; and b. All Road Traffic Codes to be complied with.

Hazard warning lights are to be used when vehicles are operating on the fire ground as well as when operating on roadways or any other circumstance where firefighter safety may be compromised.

NOTE: Drivers operating under ‘emergency conditions’ must have completed DFES Drive Vehicles On-Road Training

A probationary driver is not to drive a vehicle under emergency conditions or operate LR or MR appliances.

11.13 Tractors

Council encourages the owners of tractors within the Shire with down swept exhaust systems to have an approved spark arrester fitted as provided in the Bush Fires Act 1954, Regulations.

11.14 Capes zone response arrangements

See Appendix 7 for ‘i’ and ‘o’ Zone capes response arrangements

11.15 Incident Controller equipment requests

Incident Controller may request through either, the Shire’s Community Emergency Services Manager, Rangers, CBFCO, DCBFCO or DFES Lower South West HQ, the hiring of privately owned equipment for wildfire suppression. Permission must be sought prior to any machinery or other equipment being utilised.

11.16 Stowing Fuel on Operational Vehicles

Petrol fuel containers (jerry cans) are not to be stowed on Light Tanker appliances.

Appliances responding to fires in the Shire of Augusta Margaret River will be requested to place their appliances fuel containers at a designated safe location. This location will

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take into consideration ease of access as well as a safe distance away from the active fire ground.

Under no circumstances are appliance pumps to be refuelled when located on the active fire ground. Prior to the refuelling of fuel tanks, whether petrol or diesel, the appliance must be moved to the safe location, away from the active fire ground.

12. Telephone and Tablet expenses

The annual rental and call costs on each approved brigade fire station telephone, fixed internet connection or telephone emergency system will be paid by Council through the ESL Operating grant.

Tablets (Android and/or apple devices) have been supplied by the Shire and are currently not eligible under the ESL. The running cost and maintenance of these devices must be paid for by the Brigade or as budgeted through the Council’s budget by the Community Emergency Services Manager.

13. Electricity expenses

The Council through the ESL Operating Grant will meet all electricity costs associated with Brigade Fire Stations.

14. Insurance cover

Council will maintain a continuous policy for fire fighters and firefighting equipment in accordance with the provisions of Section 37 of the Bush Fires Act.

Areas of cover include the following:-

1. Interest Insured a. Injury / Disability / Death to fire fighters and assistants whilst engaged in, or

travelling to or from any place of a bush fire. b. Damage to any appliance, equipment or apparatus of a Bush Fire Brigade or

any privately owned appliance, equipment or apparatus that is being used under the direction or control of a Bush Fire Control Officer or member in accordance with the provisions of the Bush Fires Act.

2. Location a. Anywhere within the district of the local authority and as otherwise provided

under the Bush Fires Act and Amendments.

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3. Sum Insured a. Disability or Injury

In accordance with the benefits of the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act and the Bush Fires Act.

b. Damage Injury or damage limitations shall be in accordance with the Shire’s Bush Fire Brigade Insurance Policy.

4. Extensions a. Travelling to or from Normal Brigade Activities b. Disability or Injury c. The benefits of that portion of the State Government Insurance Office’s Policy

dealing with Disability or Injury Benefits (Section 3) will operate in respect to Volunteer Fire Fighters whilst such persons are proceeding to or returning from normal brigade activities under the Bush Fires Act 1954 without any deviation or interruption unconnected therewith.

15. Electoral roll

A copy of the Council’s Electoral Roll shall, on request, be made available to each Brigade to facilitate inquiries amongst landholders and to promote Brigade activities.

16. Council work force - fire fighting

Council acknowledges that it will provide, where authorised by the Chief Executive Officer or his/her delegated officer, available personnel and equipment from its work force as required for emergency situations. The Community Emergency Services Manager is to direct Councils involvement on these occasions taking into consideration the nature of work required, suitable PPE and communications.

17. Planned burning

17.1 Private land

Where Brigades perform planned burning for land owners and occupiers, the following procedure is to be applied:

a. RELEVANT FORMS SUPPLIED (Form ‘Request for Hazard Reduction Burn on Private Property’ (see Appendix 6). Brigades are to be supplied with relevant forms i.e. ‘Request for Hazard Reduction Burn on Private Property’.

b. FOLLOWING CONTACT WITH THE LANDOWNER/OCCUPIER

Following contact with the landowner / occupier the brigade to complete quotation section of form (quote to include GST) and have owner / occupier complete action request section.

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c. FCO TO COMPLETE INSPECTION OF PROPERTY The relevant FCO after completing an inspection of the property will determine if the hazard reduction burn can be conducted in accordance with Section 33(6) of the Bush Fires Act 1954.

d. AUTHORISATION SECTION TO BE COMPLETED The Brigade is to have an authorisation section completed by the Community Emergency Services Manager or authorised officer.

e. COMPLETION OF ABOVE BEFORE PLANNED BURNING TAKES PLACE All parts of the above process to be completed before any protective burning takes place.

f. FORWARDING OF DETAILS Once the burn has been completed the completed form is to be forwarded to the Community Emergency Services Manager.

17.2 Roadside burning

Shire roadside burning is to be carried out by Bush Fire Brigades only and it will be the responsibility of the Fire Control Officer to liaise with the Community Emergency Services Manager prior to commencing the burn.

Prior to any Local Government roadside burning taking place the following steps are to be followed:

a. A ‘Request for Hazard Reduction Burn on Private Property’ form and a ‘Permit to Burn’ (if in the Restricted Burning period) will be completed and authorised by the CESM or another authorised officer of the Shire.

b. The Request for Hazard Reduction and Permit to Burn forms are to be issued to the land owner, being the Chief Executive Officer on behalf of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

c. The Shire will then provide the Brigade with a generic Traffic Management Plan which will provide the guidelines and requirements for signage.

d. The Brigade will arrange for someone with Basic Worksite Traffic Management (BWTM) accreditation to erect the signs before the burn and then remove the signs after the burn.

e. The Shire will provide the signs to the Brigade, however the Shire does not always have the resourcing to erect and remove them. Where the Shire is not available the CESM will need to provide an accredited person to do this.

f. The Brigade will conduct the burn as per normal practices taking into consideration the requirements of the ‘Request for Hazard Reduction Burn on Private Property’ document and the ‘Traffic Management Plan’.

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A minimum 5 year cycle is to apply to all Shire roadside burning. Main Roads Department is to be consulted in regards to roadside burning on Bussell Hwy, Brockman Hwy and Caves Road.

17.3 Burning prohibition

Burning on Sundays during the ‘Restricted Burning’ period is left to the discretion of the local FCO.

18. Fires outside Shire boundaries

A volunteer Bush Fire Brigade established by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River shall not attend any fire outside the district of the Council or inside a designated Fire and Rescue Volunteer Fire Brigade area unless it is authorised to do so by the Chief/Deputy Bush Fire Control Officer. Should the appropriate officer not be available the next senior Brigade Officer shall have discretion on all occasions and Chief/Deputy Bush Fire Control Officer shall be notified at the first opportunity.

19. Welfare

19.1 Meals

In the event that meals are required for volunteers on duty at the scene of a fire the following are authorised to purchase the required meals if considered reasonable in the circumstances. Proof of purchase will be required for re-imbursement.

1. Community Emergency Services Manager

2. Shire Ranger

The Chief or Deputy Bush Fire Control Officers, Fire Control Officers or the Officer in Charge of a local government incident may request through the CESM or Shire Ranger that refreshments are provided to crews. In circumstances where a local government officer cannot purchase refreshments a re-imbursement can be made to the purchasing volunteer. The CESM or Shire Ranger must be informed prior to the purchase for approval.

19.2 Peer support

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River and DFES have peer support programs.

Members are to be advised that DFES Peer Support personnel are available if required - contact Council’s Community Emergency Services Manager.

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a benefit provided by the Shire and is a free service available to all employees and volunteers. Access to EAP may be sought to help employees and volunteers deal with personal or work related issues, or

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problems that may be having an impact on general wellbeing, mental health and work performance.

To ensure the highest confidentiality is maintained, employees are able to contact the Shire’s EAP provider Willmott Health and Wellbeing whenever they feel the need, without anyone else needing to know. All you have to do is call Willmott Health and Wellbeing, identify yourself as an employee of the Shire, and quote the Purchase Order number which relates to the practitioner you will be seeing.

Willmott Health and Wellbeing 48 Willmott Avenue, Margaret River Simply Call 9757 2677 and state you are a Shire volunteer or employee All contacts remain strictly confidential.

20. Evacuation

Any Incident Controller considering evacuation must comply with State Emergency Management Policy, the Shires’ Bush Fire Response Plan and the Shires’ Emergency Evacuation Plan.

21. Duties of Shire Ranger at fire

Liaise with the Incident Controller to assist with the establishment of:-

1. a forward control point; 2. communications; 3. reconnaissance; 4. liaison between agencies; 5. provide logistical support; and 6. assist to investigate cause of fire.

The Ranger’s vehicle is to be fitted with a fire unit and be fitted with the relevant hazard warning equipment.

22. Campfires

1. Campfires are prohibited throughout the Shire of Augusta Margaret River during the ‘Prohibited Burning’ periods.

2. Campfires are prohibited on all beaches under the control of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

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23. Incident notification procedure

The following procedure is to be followed by Brigades attending an incident:-

1. Incident Controller/Appliance OIC a. The Crew Leader/OIC of responding appliance(s) shall notify the CBFCO,

DCBFCO or CESM i. when mobile to incident; and ii. upon arrival at incident.

b. Within 15 minutes of arrival, provide by radio communication a PAFTACS to

the CBFCO, DCBFCO or CESM.

c. Provide Situation Reports on a regular basis (not more than 60 minutes) to the CBFCO, DCBFCO or CESM. Within 7 days provide an ‘Incident Report’ to the Community Emergency Services Manager.

2. The CBFCO, DCBFCO or CESM

Shall on the commitment of four (4) or more appliances, relay the available information to DFES Lower South West Regional Headquarters.

3. DFES Lower South West Regional Headquarters Shall provide the incident details to DFES State Operations Centre (SOC) as per the ‘Regional Incident Report’ form.

24. Roles and responsibilities

24.1 Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

The principle responsibilities of the CBFCO include:-

1. During fire incidents manage the fire incident resources of the Local Government and Brigades. Co-ordinate and support the command functions undertaken by Brigade FCO/Captains. Requests activation of the Shire’s IMT and or ISG to support the incident if deemed necessary.

2. Establish and maintain effective communication and liaison with group personnel and Brigade Captains to facilitate prompt response and recovery at all incidents.

3. At Local Government level, establish and maintain effective communication and liaison with emergency services, statutory authorities and facilitate prompt response and recovery at all incidents.

4. Ensure that the Brigade Fire Controller Officer or Captain has taken command and established correct organisational structure; assigning resources to combat the incident(s) and undertaking tasks in accordance with established procedures (AIIMS).

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5. Represent the interests of the Local Government and its bush fire personnel at a regional level.

6. Ensure Bush Fire Brigades maintain a list of current Brigade members.

7. Attend any other meeting as required or his/her nominee.

24.2 Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

The principle responsibilities of the Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer include:-

1. During fire incidents, assist in the co-ordination and management of resources as directed, assist specific Brigades with operational activities.

2. Assist and contribute to the establishment and maintenance of effective communications and liaison with Brigades and other emergency services to ensure prompt response and recovery at all incidents with the Local Government.

3. Assist in ensuring that Incident Controllers have taken control, that Brigade Captains have assigned appropriate resources to combat emergencies and are undertaking tasks in accordance with established practice and procedure.

4. Act in the position of CBFCO in his/her absence.

24.3 Fire Control Officer

The role and responsibilities of a Fire Control Officer will be as depicted in Clause 39(1) of the Bush Fires Act 1954 (as amended). These include, but are not limited to: -

1. Assume the role of Incident Controller during incidents.

2. To issue permits to burn.

3. Request the use of, or to hire privately owned equipment to fight fires through the CESM, CBFCO or DCBFCO.

4. Use voluntary services etc.

5. Coordinate ‘Requests for Hazard Reduction Burn on Private Land’ forms.

24.4 Brigade Captain

The principle responsibilities of the Brigade Captain are-

1. Directs Brigade activities during wildfire suppression or during hazard reduction burns and is responsible to the FCO.

2. Is responsible for all personnel and crews of vehicles at all times, both at training and at incidents. Safety of personnel is his/her priority.

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3. May take on an ‘operations’ role or ‘sector commander’ role at incidents.

4. In the absence of an FCO may take overall charge of an incident.

5. Assists the Brigade’s Training Officer with training.

6. Undertakes responsibility for the proper management and maintenance of Brigade

property and equipment.

The Brigade Captain is also responsible for the issuing of keys (as required) for keyed alike locks on Brigade Sheds, standpipes and emergency access gates and maintaining a key Register. They are also required to maintain an issued PPE register.

24.5 Brigade Secretary

The Brigade Secretary is to:-

1. Be in attendance at all meetings and keep a correct minute and account of the proceedings of the Bush Fire Brigade in a book which shall be open for inspection by Brigade members at any reasonable time.

2. Answer all correspondence or direct it appropriately, and keep a record of the same.

3. Prepare and send out all necessary notices of meetings.

4. Receive donations and other monies on behalf of the Bush Fire Brigade, and remit

them to the Treasurer upon receipt.

5. Ensures that an incident report form in the format required by the Authority is forwarded to the Local Government within 7 days of attendance by the Bush Fire Brigade at an incident.

6. Maintain a register of all current Brigade members, which includes each Brigade

member’s contact details and type of membership.

7. Audit the register annually and follow up members who are failing to comply with the requirements of the ‘Membership Criteria’.

24.6 Brigade Treasurer

The Brigade Treasurer is to:-

1. Receive donations and deposits from the Secretary, and deposit all monies to the credit of the Bush Fire Brigade's bank account.

2. Pay accounts as authorised by the Brigade Committee.

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3. Keep a record of all monies received and payments made, maintain the accounts and prepare the balance sheet for each financial year.

4. Be the custodian of all monies of the Bush Fire Brigade.

5. Report on the financial position at meetings of the Bush Fire Brigade or Brigade

Committee.

6. Comply with the provisions of the Goods and Services Taxation Act and abide by the regulations of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) if required.

24.7 Maintenance Officer (or if not appointed the Captain)

1. The Maintenance Officer is responsible for the custody and maintenance in good order and repair of all protective clothing, equipment and appliances provided by the Local Government to the Bush Fire Brigade (or of the Bush Fire Brigade).

2. The Maintenance Officer is to ensure that the Brigades vehicle logbooks are correctly maintained.

3. The Maintenance Officer is responsible for ensuring that the Brigades fire vehicles

are serviced in accordance with the vehicle service book.

4. The Maintenance Officer is responsible for ensuring that the Brigades’ vehicles are driven a minimum of 30kms per fortnight (4 wheel drive is also to be tested). The firefighting pumps are also to be run at this time and all valves operated.

5. The Maintenance Officer is to ensure that Brigade service log and vehicle service

records are maintained for all the Brigade appliances and equipment

24.8 Storage of equipment

1. The Maintenance Officer may store all of the equipment of the Bush Fire Brigade at a place approved by the Captain (the ‘station’).

2. If there is to be more than one station in the Brigade area, the Maintenance Officer is to appoint in respect of each station, a person who is responsible for the custody and maintenance in good order and condition of all equipment and appliances at the station. Subject to any direction of the Maintenance Officer.

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25. Firebreaks

25.1 Newly created rural and special rural lots

Council requires, as a condition of subdivision, the provision of a Bushfire Management Plan (BMP), endorsed by DFES and the Shire. The BMP must take into consideration the ‘Planning for Bush Fire Protection’ guidelines.

25.2 Firebreak inspections

All firebreak inspections will be land based and conducted by the Shire’s duly appointed officers (Rangers).

25.3 Inspection commencement

Inspections to insure compliance with the provisions of Shire’s Fuel Hazard Reduction & Firebreak Notice will commence as near as practical to the compliance date indicated in the notice.

25.4 Firebreak requirements

These are set in the Shire’s Bushfire Management Notice and vary according to the size and type of land use. Shire’s policy is that a press release or paid advertisement be placed in a local circulating newspaper during November each year to help ensure residents are aware of their legal obligations in relation to fire control.

A copy of the Shire’s Bushfire Management Notice is to be published in a local circulating newspaper each year and made available on the Shire’s website.

25.5 Compliance

a. Where it is found that a land owner has not complied with the requirements of the Shire’s Fuel Hazard Reduction & Firebreak Notice, the land owner will be either sent a letter informing them of what work is to be done and a date given within which to comply, or an infringement notice issued and advised to rectify the fault immediately.

b. If an infringement notice has been issued and the work required has not been completed a Section 33 order will be issued.

c. Wherever infringement notices have been issued upon the same owner two years in succession, then in a third year of default the matter goes direct to summons.

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26. Bush Fires Act infringements

26.1 Breaches of the Bush Fires Act

Brigade officers shall report breaches of the Bush Fires Act, including details taken of Officers’ action to the Coordinator Ranger Services.

26.2 Bush Fires Act infringement notices

Bush Fires Act infringement notices shall be issued to the owner of land where either no or inadequate firebreaks have been installed or where there are other breaches of the Shire’s Fuel Hazard Reduction & Firebreak Notice.

26.3 Persons failing to pay infringement notices

Persons failing to pay infringement notices as required shall be referred to the Fines Enforcement Agency for collection. Failure to pay notices issued may result in the suspension of the offender’s driver’s license or motor vehicle registration.

26.4 Bush Fire prosecutions

Any landowner who has received two bush fire infringement notices on any one property is to be prosecuted by way of a summons, in the event of any further infringement, in an effort to encourage landowners to comply with the legal requirements.

Prosecutions are to be instigated by the Coordinator Ranger Services.

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27. Document management

Any proposed changes to this document can be presented by Brigades to the BFAC at its normal meeting.

Register of Updates

Date Issued Amendments Date Completed

May 2015 Whole document

July 2018 Whole document

Document Control

Date Issued

Issued To Ack. Letter Sent (date)

Ack. Letter Received (date)

Shire’s Corporate Library

Community Emergency Services Manager

Coordinator Ranger Services

Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

Alexandra Bridge BFB

Cowaramup BFB

East Augusta BFB

Gracetown BFB

Karridale BFB

Kudardup BFB

Molloy Island BFB

Rosa Brook BFB

Wallcliffe BFB

Witchcliffe BFB

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28. Glossary of acronyms

AIIMS Australasian Inter-Service Incident Management System BFAC Bush Fire Advisory Committee BFB Bush Fire Brigade CEO Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Augusta Margaret River CESM Community Emergency Services Manager CBFCO Chief Bush Fire Control Officer DCBFCO Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer DFES Department of Fire and Emergency Services DOAC District Operational Advisory Committee FCO Fire Control Officer IC Incident Controller IMT Incident Management Group IRS Incident Reporting System ISG Incident Support Group LEMC Local Emergency Management Committee LGA Local Government Authority OIC Officer in Charge PO Planning Officer OO Operations Officer LO Logistics Officer ROAC Regional Operational Advisory Committee SMEAC Situation – Mission – Execution – Administration -

Communications SOP Bush Fire Standard Operating Procedures SAP Bush Fire Standing Administrative Procedures

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29. EM Flowchart

AMR EVACUATION

PLAN

AMR RECOVERY

PLAN

AMR CONTACT & RESOURCE

LIST

RESPONSE PLANS

BUSH FIRE

STORM / TEMPEST

HOUSE FIRE

ROAD TRANSPORT EMERGENCY

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENT

FESA ACT BUSH FIRES ACT

WESTPLAN BUSHFIRE

REGIONAL BUSHFIRE

PLAN

SHIRE AMR BUSHFIRE RESPONSE

PLAN

Appendices:

BUSH FIRE POLICYBUSH FIRE PROCEDURES

FIREBREAK ORDERBRIGADE OFFICERS LIST

GROUP CALL LISTRESOURCE LIST

CATERING SUPPLY LISTDFES SOP’s & SAP’s

CAPES ZONE RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ACT 2005

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT

SHIRE OF AUGUSTA-MARGARET RIVER EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS

LOCAL WELFARE

PLANThis box is left intentially blank

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30. Terminology

‘Act’ means the Bush Fires Act 1954 as amended, Fire Brigades Act and Fire an Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia Act 1998 as amended;

‘Authorised Officer’ means the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer, the Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer or a Fire Control Officer;

‘Authority’ means the Department of Fire and Emergency Services of Western Australia established in accordance with the Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia Act 1998 as amended;

‘Brigade area’ is defined as the area of the Shire that has been allocated to a particular Brigade;

‘Brigade member’ means a probationary member, active fire fighter member, auxiliary member, honorary or life member of a Bush Fire Brigade;

‘Brigade officer’ means a person holding a position referred to in clause 1.3 , whether or not he/she was appointed by the Local Government or elected at an annual general meeting of a Bush Fire Brigade or otherwise appointed to the position;

‘Brigade Sub Area’ means an area within the Brigade area that is allocated to a particular FCO for that Brigade;

‘Bush Fire Advisory Committee’ (BFAC) means the persons appointed to a Bush Fire Advisory Committee under an in accordance with Section 67 of the Act;

‘Bush Fire Brigade’ is defined in Section 7 of the Act;

‘Council’ means the Council of the Local Government of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River;

DFES Standard Operating Procedures’ means the DFES Standard Operating Procedures adopted by the Local Government and Brigades as amended for time to time;

DFES Standing Administrative Procedures’ means the DFES Standing Administrative Procedures adopted by the Local Government and Brigades as amended form time to time;

‘Firefighting member’ is defined in clause 6.1;

‘Incident Controller’ mean the Officer in control of an incident;

‘Incident Management Team’ means a person or group of appropriately trained persons appointed by the Officer in Charge of a fire or incident to assist him/her to manage the fire or incident, according to the principles of AIIMS;

‘Incident Support Group’ means a group of personnel, including the Local Emergency Coordinator, drawn from the LEMC to support a particular incident;

‘LEMC’ means the Shire of Augusta Margaret River Local Emergency Management Committee;

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‘Local Government’ means the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and has the same meaning as ‘Shire’, it includes all areas of land, districts and localities within the gazetted boundaries of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River;

‘Officer’ means a person who holds the position of Captain, FCO, Lieutenant, Maintenance Officer, Training Officer, Secretary or Treasurer of a Brigade;

‘Regulations’ means Regulations made under the Act; and

‘Shire’ has the same meaning as Local Government.

31. Application

This procedure applies to Volunteer Bush Fire Services at the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

Related Procedures

Responsible Directorate Corporate and Community Services

Prepared by Community Emergency Services Manager

Approved by Director/CEO

Last Reviewed Date: August 2018

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32. Appendix 1 APPENDIX 1

BRIGADE OFFICERS for BUSHFIRE BRIGADE

20 / 20 BRIGADE OFFICERS: FIRE CONTROL OFFICERS: AREA: TELEPHONE: MOBILE: e-mail

BRIGADE CAPTAIN: ADDRESS

BFAC DELEGATE: ADDRESS

BFAC PROXY: ADDRESS

FIRST LIEUTENANT: ADDRESS LIEUTENANTS: ADDRESS MAINTENANCE OFFICER: TRAINING OFFICER: COMMITTEE OFFICERS: CHAIR: ADDRESS TELEPHONE: MOBILE: e-mail

SECRETARY: ADDRESS

TREASURER: ADDRESS

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FINANCIAL STATEMENT BUSHFIRE BRIGADE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDING / /20 BALANCE CARRIED FORWARD: $ EXPENDITURE: INCOME: CAPITAL EXPENDITURE: $ DONATIONS: $ OPERATING EXPENDITURE: $ FUND RAISING $

SHIRE CONTRIBUTION: MINOR EXPENDITURE: $

TOTAL EXPENDITURE: $ TOTAL INCOME: $

NET PROFIT/LOSS: $

END BALANCE: $

TREASURER:

CHAIRMAN:

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33. Appendix 2

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34. Appendix 3

VOLUNTEER BUSH FIRE BRIGADE MEMBERSHIP

MEMBERSHIP CRITERIA All potential members of a Bushfire Brigade within the Shire of Augusta Margaret River should be aware of the following conditions that apply when registering to be a new member. Types of membership are: - an active fire fighter or an auxiliary member.

The definition of ‘active’ is ‘a member who is committed to a function within the Brigade, i.e. operational duties, communications, equipment roles, administration, training, first aid, peer support or incident control’.

Please be aware of the following regarding the completion your ‘Membership Application’ form.

1. You will need to serve a minimum 6 months probationary period.

2. All members who register as a ‘Fire Fighter Member’ are requested to complete the Volunteer Firefighter Level 1 training within 24 months.

3. All ‘Fire Fighter Members’ are required to be assessed as competent with all Brigade

equipment on an annual basis.

4. All “Fire Fighter Members’ should attend regular training practices and drills.

5. All ‘Fire Fighter Members’ should be physically able to carry out their firefighting duties.

6. All members are to comply with any individual Brigade conditions (Brigade Captain

to advise if any). If you agree to the above conditions, fill out the ‘Membership Application’ form (if you have not already done so) under your Captains direction and he/she will forward the required copies to the Community Emergency Services Manager at the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, PO Box 61, Margaret River. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING (PPC) To assist with future ordering of PPC you are requested to enter below your PPC sizes. It is suggested that you obtain your sizes by trying on the PPC which is available in your station.

Jacket:……………………………… Trousers:…………………………… Boots:……………………………….

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35. Appendix 4

Date: To: I take this opportunity to remind you of the ‘conditions of membership’ that you agreed to at the time you completed your ‘Application to Join’ the _________________________________ Bush Fire Brigade’. They were:

1. All members who register as a ‘Fire Fighter Member’ are requested to complete the Introduction to Firefighting, Bush Fire Firefighting and AIIMS Awareness Courses within 24 months.

2. All ‘Fire Fighter Members’ are required to be assessed as competent with all Brigade

equipment on an annual basis.

3. All “Fire Fighter Members’ should attend regular training practices and drills.

4. All ‘Fire Fighter Members’ should be physically able to carry out their firefighting duties.

5. All members are to comply with any individual Brigade conditions (Brigade Captain to advise if any).

Unfortunately you have failed to comply with item: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) or gave false or misleading information on your declaration. As a result it has been determined that your membership of the Brigade will be terminated and any personal protective equipment (PPE) issued will be required to be returned to the Brigade by __________________ (date) in order to avoid recovery procedures. Yours sincerely CHRIS LLOYD Community Emergency Services Manager

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36. Appendix 5

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37. Appendix 6

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38. Appendix 7

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