Training exercise prepares the south west
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More than 80 personnel from CFA and other emergency services gathered at the Colac Incident Control Centre to simulate an emergency scenario to sharpen skills and train some fresh faces last week.
The training exercise, last Friday 19 December, involved a hypothetical bushfire in the Great Otway National Park that had the potential to threaten Apollo Bay.
There was involvement from CFA, Forrest Fire Management Victoria, SES, Victoria Police, Fire Rescue Victoria, Emergency Management Victoria, and The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer and Regional Commander, Peter Creak, said it was a good opportunity to simulate a real event.
“Emergency response is always developing and regular training exercises help keep our people as prepared as they can be,” Peter said.
“It was good to get in there before the thick of fire season and make sure everyone feels supported and comfortable.
“We had some fresh faces in there as well as people who come with a raft of experience, so we were able to mentor and support those that might have been stepping into a role for the first time.”
George O’Dwyer AFSM from the Barongarook Fire Brigade was the Public Information Section Coach and Mentor during the exercise and said it was a very successful day.
“As an experienced Public Information Officer, the exercise is a great opportunity for newer Public Information team members to practice their skills in a supportive team and develop in their IMT role,” George said.