Rutherglen Group local command facility exercise

Linda Huzzey, Joanne Martin and Sara Reid taking the reins as the incident management team using Chiltern LCF for a Level 2 training exercise.

 

The Rural Fire Service's Exercise Alinta in NSW set the scene for the Rutherglen Group's local command facility (LCF) training event conducted on Tuesday 19 September.

 

Using information from the recently held RFS Exercise Alinta, Rutherglen Group's two LCFs and CFA members were put through their paces. The two teams were tasked with having the Chiltern and Rutherglen LCFs operational in preparation for two Level 2 incident control teams coming to support from adjoining groups and districts. 

For training purposes the two teams were advised that because of the significant amount of operational activity in the area, two external teams were coming to support. 

Exercise Alinta included a fire in the Rutherglen Group area on Keoghs Island, Nth Est Map book, Map 227 grid reference 548190. The challenge was set for the crew at Chiltern and Rutherglen to work through what they could have in place to hand over to incoming crews.

This included ensuring the current operational status of the facilities, nominating radio channels, faxs shared, MS Team channel set up and, importantly, a briefing prepared for the incoming crews.

Some of the details in the briefing were:

• what works and what doesn't
• How we can assist with some AIIMS functions
• a list of some local contacts you may find useful, including RFS contacts
• agreed processes and ways of working in District 24

Each team shared their briefing with each other. 

Including members of Southern Border (RFS) and the District 24 team added to the event, and in future we would like to include members of the Yarrawonga Group (District 22) and Wangaratta Group (District 23).

One of the many outcomes from the training was that within the Rutherglen Group we certainly have the skills to have both these facilities up and running if called upon, though the consensus of those involved was that plenty was learned.

Being able to work through the issues as they arose was rewarding. It was also suggested that when this type of training is carried out in the future, participants should be able to watch other members with higher skill sets carry out these roles. This would further enhance the learning experience.

At the GMT following the training it was put forward that a field-based group exercise may also use Exercise Alinta for inspiration.

Well done to all involved.

Special thanks To Greyd'n Davis, Group Captain Federation Shire (NSW) and District 24 Commander Trevor Logan.

 

Submitted by	Geoffrey Barter