NSW Fire Brigades Regional Commanders meet in Wagga
Published: 16th September 2010
Emergency Services Minister Steve Whan today announced that fire commanders from 19 NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) stations in the state's Riverina and Murray areas will meet in Wagga Wagga this weekend for their annual conference.Mr Whan said the two-day conference was the best opportunity for NSW fire station commanders from Tumbarumba to Barham, to share their experiences and build on their leadership skills.
"These are the frontline officers who manage fire stations, and respond to emergency calls," Mr Whan said.
"It is essential they have the skills and knowledge to keep providing outstanding fire and rescue services to local communities in times of need, which is why conferences like these are important."
Assistant Commissioner Steven Pearce, Acting Director of Regional Operations, said the topics covered would include training in new workplace policies and procedures, designed to offer firefighters better support.
"The station commanders will be updated on the latest information on NSWFB initiatives from across our organisation," Assistant Commissioner Pearce said.
"It is also an opportunity for the zone management team to hear first-hand about local issues and challenges faced by firefighters in the area."
Mr Whan thanked local firefighters for their commitment and hard work.
"Many of the officers who'll be in Wagga Wagga are on-call firefighters who give up time outside their regular jobs and family responsibilities to protect local communities," he said.
"Both these retained firefighters, and their full-time colleagues play a vital role in protecting families across regional NSW.
"Their commitment helps ensure residents in hundreds of local communities are kept safe."
For information about becoming a retained firefighter in the Riverina and Murray areas visit www.fire.nsw.gov.au