Message from DCO North West Region, Gavin Thompson

A late start to the harvest could impact the fire season in North West

 

Last week I was speaking with some of our emergency service partners about the coming fire season, and the consensus of the group was that it was still some time off. Yesterday we had our first total fire ban for the season, highlighting how tough the science of predicting fire weather really is.

 

As we start to see some real easing of COVID restrictions, we are also heading into another set of restrictions across Victoria with the official start of the Fire Danger Period (FDP). The Mallee had its first total fire ban yesterday due to predicted hot and windy conditions.

We had two fires near Ouyen late in the day. Thankfully both were brought under control quickly, and I commend the efforts of all our members in supporting not only each other but our fellow emergency services agencies.  

In the North West, District 18, District 20 and the Shire of Gannawarra are already in their Fire Danger Period with Loddon and Campaspe Shire's coming into force on November 22.  The rest of the region will progressively follow suit as we head south throughout December and January.   

I recently spent time in all four districts in the North West discussing the coming season and other issues with our ACFOs and senior volunteer leaders. 

Much of our discussions have centred around the late start to harvest this year - with this behind schedule there is every chance this period will more drawn out than in previous years. It’s important that we all remain vigilant to the changing conditions and in particular remember that our prevention work is as critical as the suppression work we undertake. 

It is pleasing to see that we are getting back to running exercises and training. I remind all operational members to complete your mandatory skills maintenance. I also encourage you complete the tree hazards module online and to encourage your brigade or group to complete the entrapment drill as soon as possible. 

It’s been a tough couple of years – the prolonged 2019/20 fire season followed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Remember safety is our number one priority. We want our firefighters to come home safely and we want the community kept safe. Taking the time to prepare will undoubtedly ensure the best level of service to the community and most importantly the best level of safety to you and your team. 

Stay safe and look out for each other.

 DCO Gavin Thompson, North West Region

 

 

Submitted by	Gavin Thompson, Deputy Chief Officer North West Region