Standpipe

March 2010

G'day all, I'm back with some more news from Kariong Rural Fire Brigade for this month. First of all, an apology for missing last month's edition of Kariong Connection. Trust me I copped a little heat for that oversight but never-the-less here we go.

            It looks like the weather has resolved a lot of fears in people's minds about a major bushfire coming our way what with the amount of rain we've had but it hasn't stopped the planners getting their ideas in place in case the worst happens. The fire services in conjunction with local council have organised public meetings during February for locals to get involved in providing input into a draft bushfire risk management plan. This gave locals a forum to voice their ideas about bushfire strategies for their area and to learn about the fire risks associated to them. The plan will go for exhibition in early March for public comment for six weeks. The locations to view the plan are; Gosford Council Chambers, National Parks and Wildlife Offices Gosford, Gosford Library and at the Emergency Operations Centre Kariong. Folks, if you want to get involved in this project then get yourselves to one of those venues and have your say because every bit helps and that goes toward everyone's bushfire safety.

            Ok, onto some operational news. Kariong has had an average month with 20 call attended. Those being 1 oil spill, 2 truck fires, 2 bin fires, 3 MVA (motor vehicle accidents) 5 bush alight, 1 camp fire, 4 car fires, 1 smoke sighting and 1 hoax 000 call. People, the last item the hoax call is of particular concern. If you have kids and you suspect them of playing around on the phone please discourage it post haste. The emergency services take a very dim view of it as do the police who won’t mince words with you if you are caught.

            Kariong also participated in the Australia Day celebrations held on January 26. Thanks must go to the members who attended along with other RFS units and support groups including the Motor Cycle Squad, Communications group, Community Education group and Narara Brigade. Folks this brings me to the issue of joining the service. As you can see, there is much more to the RFS than fire fighting. A part from the groups mentioned, there is also Catering, Bulk Water Haulage, Air Base Operations, Logistics even down to answering the phone during an emergency. So you see, there is a job for everyone and if you've ever thought about being involved in a community based organisation then now is a great time to do it. "Fire Season" concludes on the 30^th of March and during the "cooler months" is a perfect time to get your training underway. Once you have completed your basic training then a whole world of opportunities arise for you in the NSW Rural Fire Service. Kariong Rural Fire Brigade train Wednesday nights from about 7:30pm and on Saturdays from 8:00am. We're in Dandaloo street right next to the Progress Hall and tennis courts so come up and see us to talk about your future with the service or conversely call Gosford Fire Control on 4340 2911 for details.

            Ok, lastly I must thank a few locals who have supported us over time namely Kariong General Store, Kariong Tavern, the Kariong Progress Association, Kariong Neighbourhood Centre and to all the local residents who made donations to the brigade. Your help is always needed and sincerely appreciated.