CFA/SES joint training a success for Golden Square

At the first session, Bendigo SES crews demonstrated the side removal of a vehicle and extrication of a casualty from a motor vehicle accident. Soon after the hydraulic rescue tools were handed over to the Golden Square Firefighters to have a go at cutting and spreading parts of the car using the rescue tools.

 

Training on the night also included a familiarisation session on the Bendigo SES primary rescue truck and the layout of commonly used equipment. Golden Square CFA Captain Tim McNeilly said that these types of activities are a great opportunity for the firefighters to learn how they can support and assist their SES colleagues at a rescue scene by retrieving equipment from their vehicle and creates a greater understanding of the process required when it comes to the extrication of a casualty from a vehicle.

 

The second training night was the Golden Square brigade’s turn to return the favour and allow the SES crew to “play firefighter” for the night. After a briefing from Captain McNeilly, SES volunteers had the chance to don and start up in breathing apparatus and conduct search and rescue in a smoke filled building, hold and advance a flowing 38mm hose line, conduct a dummy drag and sit inside the tanker through a burnover drill.

 

“It is fantastic to see that there are no barriers between the brigade and SES unit, the two teams of volunteers come together and work as one which can only have a positive impact on the way we work together operationally and ultimately protect our community” said Captain McNeilly.

 

Both nights were wrapped up with a great night of mingling with a light supper. Further training nights are already planned between the Golden Square brigade and Bendigo SES unit before the end of the year.

 

Tim McNeilly - Captain, Golden Square Fire Brigade