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VFRSA WA NEWS: June 2024

Read our latest news here:

From the Executive Officer's Desk:

 

Since the last update I have been involved with the following: 


Brigade Visits:

I have had the privilege of meeting with Bunbury VFRS, Toodyay VFRS and Armadale VFRS. 


Kalamunda VFRS recently celebrated their 65th anniversary! Congratulations to all Brigade volunteers on 65 years of dedicated service to your local community, and for a wonderful evening celebrating your 65 years.


OEP: 

The OEP review team members met and discussed a further draft of the Valued Service Payment and OEP system overhaul. It was a great opportunity for all Volunteer Emergency Service Associations to come together to see their respective services have a voice in the review.


UPT2 PAT:

The new Volvos are on our shores, and in June the UPT2 PAT met to finalise the layout and configuration in the back of the UPT2. They look like a very impressive pump, and we are hoping we can work with DFES to see these vehicles moved into the operational space as soon as possible. 


Upcoming Executive Meeting:

The Association Executive have their upcoming August meeting on August 10th. Please remember to reach out to your Executive member and discuss any ongoing issues or matters you wished to be discussed within the Executive meeting. 


Our AGM is booked for Sunday the 8th of September at 9:30, and I look forward to seeing you all there. 


Finally, this week we heard of the passing of Association Life Member Brian “Rigor” Mortiss AFSM. Speaking with volunteers from Exmouth, Brian was extremely committed to his Brigade and extended community. People like Brian and yourselves are the pillars on which our communities are built. Volunteers who see a need, and step into the space to care for their communities and beyond. 



Tim Sonsee

Executive Officer


Perth Children's Hospital Visits

 

I have had the privilege of visiting the young legend Nic Reeves who is battling leukemia in PCH at the moment. Nic, you and your family; Scott, Alana and Blaise are an inspiration to each of us. Remember the entire VFRS is throwing their support behind you getting better! Nic and his family (of the Narrogin VFRS) are facing not only the emotional stress of Nic's diagnosis but also the financial burden of ongoing medical expenses, travel for treatment, and the need for time off work to be by their son's side. If you’d like to donate to Nic’s Gofundme use the link below: 


Also at PCH this month Tim was involved in a Burns Awareness Month education day with the most popular Freddy the Fire Truck and Mars the Helpaw from the Starlight Foundation. If you think a fire truck draws a crowd, then throw a cute little dog on it who loves kids and well it’s a showstopper!


Zone Executive Member Elections

 

A reminder that nominations are due for Zone Members. In particular the Association has not yet received a nomination from the Metropolitan Zone.


Zone Members are the voice for their zone, serving as the bridge between brigades and the Executive. They are drivers of positive change that advocate for solutions that benefit both brigades and the Association. 


A Zone Member is expected to:

  • Attend all Association Executive meetings

  • Attend Zone meetings

  • Attend relevant Zone Championsips

  • Attend State (Easter) and Junior Championships

  • Attend Committee meetings as appointed

  • Attend leadership forums/ conferences

  • Be in regular contact with brigades within the Zone to provide feedback and reports to the Executive meetings


Step Up for MS

 

It has been so fantastic seeing all the photos come through of our Volunteers completing the Step Up for MS on 23rd June! Well done to all involved!



United Petroleum Fuel Discount Card

 

Before she left, Jamie had set up two discount/ fundraising programs with United Fuel. The first of these programs allows family, friends and supporters of the VFRSA to receive a discount of 2 cents per litre, plus 2 cents per litre rebated to the Association. Simply register online, download the digital card and scan when paying for fuel. United have over 30 service stations in WA, spanning the whole state; from Kunnunurra in the north to Albany in the south. Use the link below to register for your discount card, it takes less than a minute!



COMING SOON: 

Volunteer United Fuel Discount Card

We are in the final stages of setting up the program for our wonderful Volunteer Fire Fighters to receive a 4 cent per litre discount on fuel from United. Once this program is ready we will let you know! Keep an eye on our Facebook page to find out first!


Captain's Development Forum

 

One of the most exciting projects I am involved in is the Captain’s Development Forum that DFES is facilitating. It will be such a great opportunity to bring our captains together and build on skills and knowledge around Brigade and Volunteer management. It is being held at the WACA which is even more exciting for me as I love my cricket. Please make space in your calendar to attend this exclusive one-off event- Tim.


Designed to upskill you as a leader and empower you to lead an effective brigade, this program has been specifically developed with the FES Academy and encompasses key learning areas from the Station Officer Development Program.


Whether you have been a Captain for 2 years or 20 years – this program will provide you with new skills and techniques to support your leadership journey. 


This opportunity is extended to 2024/2025 VFRS Brigade Captains only. If you are not returning as the Captain following this year’s election, please forward the invitation to the incoming Captain.


Please confirm your attendance, travel, and dietary requirements by no later than Friday, 12 July 2024 to vlo@dfes.wa.gov.au or contact Andrae Moore on 9395 9733 for information. 





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