On fire front lines

THE 10 Ovens Valley Group of fire brigades have completed their biennial elections and the group and brigade management teams are ready to protect their respective communities for the next two years. The brigades in the Ovens Valley Group include Gapsted, Myrtleford, Mudgegonga, Buffalo River, Rosewhite, Ovens Eurobin, Porepunkah, Bright, Harrietville, and Mt Hotham/Dinner Plain. The brigade members are all well trained and equipped to protect their communities, group officer Michael Freudenstein said. “The fire risk profile of our region is diverse,” he said. “We have farmland, forest, urban environment, year-round tourism, snowfields, and special needs facilities, such as hospitals, aged care and community buildings. “But, each brigade is equipped with the special resources to handle these situations, whether it is tankers and pumpers of various sizes, or specially equipped ultra-lite, snow-tracked or command vehicles.” Non-operational members of the brigade also play an important behind-the-scenes role in supporting the brigades’ front line teams. “Without the support of communications, training, safety and administration personnel, the operational members could not do their job,” Mr Freudenstein added. “The group management team also provides support and assistance to each of the brigades, when required. “It could be on the fire ground, logistical and communication support, formation and rostering strike teams, training coordination, or a link to the regional office. “Providing regular community safety updates and reminders is also an important function of the brigades and the group.” The group officer urged residents who would like to know more about ways they can support their local brigade, or if they need help preparing a fire plan for their property to contact their local brigade captain.

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