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VFRSA WA NEWS

  • 22 minutes ago
  • 5 min read

From the Executive Officer's Desk:


Over recent months, the Volunteer Fire & Rescue Services Association of Western Australia has continued to strengthen its presence across the State through brigade engagement, advocacy, member support, and continued organisational growth.


Honouring Service and Supporting Our Members

This past week, I had the privilege of attending the Firefighters’ Memorial Services held at Kings Park and Northam. Both services were a beautiful time of reflection and honouring our fallen firefighters.  The Northam service, led by the Northam YES Cadets, was conducted exceptionally well and reflected the professionalism and respect shown by the future of our emergency services community. 


These memorials provide an important opportunity to pause and reflect on the sacrifice made by our colleagues through their service. They also allow us to stand alongside grieving families and remind them that the firefighting family honours their loved ones and stands with them in support.


The strength and connection of the VFRS family is often most visible during times of loss. In February, VFRSAWA President Tony Dodd and I travelled to Esperance, alongside Vice Presidents Paul Munro and Trevor Jones, to represent the Association at the funeral of Brian Willoughby AFSM. Brian, affectionately known as the “Grandfather of Esperance VFRS,” was farewelled through a deeply personal and meaningful service. It was inspiring to see members travel hundreds of kilometres to support Brian’s family and the Esperance Brigade — a powerful reminder of the care and unity that exists within our firefighting family.


In March, Max Osborn and I attended the funeral of former Geraldton VFRS member Brodie West. Brodie’s passing was deeply felt by his brigade and community. Hearing his family speak with pride about his commitment to VFRS and his heart for service was incredibly moving. Brodie’s final act of generosity as an organ donor, helping to improve the lives of four people, reflected the selflessness and compassion that define so many within our service.


Brigade Visits and Member Engagement

Since February, I have had the opportunity to visit several brigades across Western Australia, including Esperance VFRS, Armadale VFRS, Geraldton VFRS, Dongara VFRS, Williams VFRS, Albany VFRS, and Katanning VFRS.


These visits remain one of the most valuable parts of this role, providing opportunities to hear directly from volunteers, understand local challenges and successes, and strengthen relationships across both metropolitan and regional brigades. The hospitality, professionalism, and dedication shown by our members continues to highlight the strength of the VFRS culture and the commitment our volunteers have to their communities.


Advocacy and Department Engagement

The Association continues to maintain positive and productive engagement with DFES leadership and corporate staff. Over recent months, I have participated in several meetings with Chief Superintendents and senior departmental leadership to advocate for matters important to our volunteers, including advocating

·         Heavy Rescue in South Hedland

·         Internet connectivity concerns in stations

·         Concerns over mobile coverage in regional areas, and the possibility of starlink or similar system.

·         SOSF fleet state of vehicles arriving on station

·         Concerns over deployment processes for interstate deployments.


For in depth minutes of the Chief Superintendent meeting please contact myself via email or phone.


Tony Dodd and I met with the Director of Human Resources Stacey Naughtin regarding workforce and volunteer matters, including discussions surrounding PTSI legislation and health screening initiatives for volunteer firefighters. These conversations remain important in ensuring volunteers continue to be represented and supported appropriately into the future.


As Executive Officer, I remain committed to advocating respectfully and constructively on behalf of our members. The strong working relationship currently shared between the Association and DFES continues to assist us in presenting ideas, discussing concerns, and collaboratively working toward practical solutions that benefit our brigades and volunteers.


Easter Volunteer Firefighting Championships

Our Easter Volunteer Firefighting Championships held in Bunbury were an outstanding success and once again showcased the skill, teamwork, and camaraderie that exists within the VFRS community.


A huge thank you must go to Bunbury Brigade, whose members worked tirelessly to prepare the track and warmly welcome competitors and supporters from across the State. The Championships remain one of the most important and valued events on our calendar, bringing members together to build friendships, develop skills, and celebrate the spirit of volunteer firefighting.


It was fantastic to see Mount Magnet return to competition this year, bringing incredible energy and enthusiasm back to the track.


I would also like to sincerely thank Deputy Commissioner Craig Waters AFSM for officially opening the Championships alongside Assistant Commissioner Danny Mosconi. Thank you also to Assistant Commissioners John Broomehall and David Gill for attending the closing presentations, and to Southwest Superintendent Matt Folini and his team for their support throughout the event. Most importantly, thank you to every judge, official, volunteer, and competitor who contributed to such a successful weekend.


Association Growth and Sportsbet Donation

A significant milestone for the Association has been the announcement of a major donation totalling $280,000 from Sportsbet.


The Association was approached by Sportsbet regarding a potential donation linked to the Sandgroper greyhound event and the Quokka horse race held at Ascot Racecourse.


Following careful consideration and appropriate consultation, including valuable guidance from Rick within Professional Standards, the Association proceeded with the arrangement.

With greyhound Canya Excite Me winning the Sandgroper and horse Rey Magnerio placing second in the Quokka, the resulting donation provides a substantial investment into the future capability and sustainability of the Association.


This funding will directly support important initiatives including HR and Youth Scholarships, member support programs, and future Association projects that will benefit brigades and volunteers across Western Australia. We sincerely thank Sportsbet for recognising and supporting the important role volunteer firefighters play within our communities.


The Association would also like to thank the Women’s religious Organisation for their generous donation that provided funding for our two youth scholarships to AFAC and the HR licence scholarships awarded in both 2025 and 2026.  Your generous donation has made a tangible statewide impact.


Acknowledging Leadership

Many members will now be aware that Deputy Commissioner Craig Waters AFSM will retire at the end of July. Since my first day in this role, DC Waters has been supportive, approachable, and encouraging of both the Association and volunteer brigades throughout WA.


On behalf of the Association, I would like to sincerely thank DC Waters for his longstanding commitment to our members and wish him a very well-earned and enjoyable retirement.


Looking Forward

As volunteers, we are all part of a proud command organisation and custodians of the respected VFRS brand. The professionalism, respect, and support we show one another remains critical to maintaining the strong culture that exists within our brigades and across the wider VFRS family.


I encourage all members to continue looking after one another, supporting positive brigade culture, and addressing concerns through the appropriate channels and processes available. By continuing to work together respectfully and constructively, we strengthen both our Association and the future of volunteer firefighting in Western Australia.


Finally, to all our incredible Mum’s throughout our service, who are Brigade officers, active firefighters, support members and to the Mum’s who’s loved ones volunteer, we say thankyou for how your service, dedication and care shape both our service and the community and we wish you a truly happy mother’s day.

 

Tim Sonsee

Executive Officer

VFRSAWA


Executive Committee with giant check from Sportbet
Executive Committee with giant check from Sportbet

Executive Officer, Tim Sonsee, with some Northam Cadets on the Memorial Day
Executive Officer, Tim Sonsee, with some Northam Cadets on the Memorial Day


Merchandise - Sale & Discontinued Items

We have some items on sale at the moment. Some sizes are selling quickly, so get in quick. Some items are discontinued, so if you’ve had your eye on a discontinued item, grab it while you still can.


Please note the shop will be shut from the middle of June for Stocktake


Items on sale:

Adults Rugby Jumper - $49.50 www.vfrs.asn.au/product-page/rugby-jumper


Discontinued Items:

Franklin Zip Hoodie (Navy & Red) – $45.00

United Zip Hoodie (Black & Red) - $45.00



 
 
 

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