MORE than 200 people took the opportunity to ‘Get Fire Ready’ for summer by attending the Phillip Island Fire Brigade’s open day last Saturday ahead of the onset of the Fire Danger Period for 2025.
Also, at Foster on Saturday, and Kongwak and Nerrena on Sunday, the message was the same, learning how to prepare your property, your home and your family for the fire season ahead while taking the opportunity to meet the staff and volunteers who help to keep us safe.
At their new Cowes fire station, the message was consistent from Captain Lino Drazzi, 1st Lieutenant Rhyce Davis and 2nd Lieutenant Joe Myall.
“The engagement we’ve had from the community today has been fantastic and a lot of that is due to the tremendous support from the other services; from Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, SES, Phillip Island Nature Parks, and Phillip Island and San Remo Rotary on the barbecue,” said Captain Lino Drazzi.
“Yes, very successful, the best we’ve had and not just coming and going. Due to the collaboration, we’ve had from the other services, with quality displays, information and activities, people have hung around as well as getting involved,” said 1st Lieutenant Rhyce Davis.
“Whether it was Ambulance Victoria encouraging kids to participate in CPR, the interactive fire behaviour display, talks about planning to be fire ready, tours of the fire station, and kids’ activities including fire-hose target practice, face painting and a lot more.
“There were a variety of ways to get the message across, but the commitment made by the other services to put on well-resourced displays and activities really made the day,” said Rhyce.
“We did a fair bit of pre-publicity which was important but yes, the engagement we’ve had today indicates that more people are aware of the importance of preparing your home and your family for the upcoming fire season, you’d hope so anyway,” said 2nd Lieutenant Joe Myall.
But as for using the day as a chance to recruit more fire fighters, Captain Lino Drazzi said the Phillip Island Fire Brigade was in the enviable position of having a full book of volunteers.
“I think the SES was talking to people about volunteering but we’re in very good shape in that regard,” said Lino.
Not so at other brigades. Many local fire brigades would love to hear from you if you have an interest in getting involved, not only in operational roles but in a range of positions including fundraising and safety education.
Phillip Island posted the following message on social media:
“It was fantastic to see families, friends, and locals learning how to stay safe this summer and having a great time while doing it!
“From all of us at Phillip Island CFA, thank you for making our Open Day one to remember.
Remaining local ‘Get Fire Ready’ open days to follow include Mirboo North on Saturday, October 25, Kilcunda and Hallston on Sunday, October 26.
