Jensen Hughes expands Pacific presence with Warringtonfire Australia rebrand

by Breaking NewsConstruction

Rebranding announcement for Warringtonfire Australia

Jensen Hughes has announced the official rebranding of its partner firm, Warringtonfire Australia, to Jensen Hughes.

As reported by Jensen Hughes, Warringtonfire Australia joined the company in 2023 after operating under the Element Materials Technology Group. This Australian fire testing and fire engineering consultancy has played a critical role in advancing fire safety solutions across Australia and the Pacific.

Warringtonfire Australia’s origins trace back to Element’s acquisition of the Fire Testing Laboratory business from Exova and Defire’s Fire Safety Engineering operation in 2017.

Focus on Pacific region partnerships

Jensen Hughes has built a network of partnerships in the Pacific, collaborating with firms like BCA Logic and Morris Goding Accessibility Consulting.

According to Jensen Hughes, the rebranding aims to strengthen their position in the Pacific market while allowing Warringtonfire Australia to leverage the resources of a global network.

Jason Jeffress, Vice President of Jensen Hughes Pacific Operations, stated: “The rebranding of Warringtonfire Australia to Jensen Hughes marks a significant milestone in our global strategy to enhance and expand our range of fire testing and fire safety engineering services through one world-class fire safety engineering-focused organisation.”

Tailored expertise for local markets

The integration allows Jensen Hughes to better serve clients with region-specific expertise.

Stuart Boyce, Senior Vice President of the Pacific Region at Jensen Hughes, said: “Warringtonfire Australia’s understanding of the local regulations and practices enable us to tailor our services more effectively to meet the unique needs of our clients, fostering stronger, long-term relationships.”

Warringtonfire Australia’s team will continue to operate from their locations in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Canberra, and Perth.

Seamless transition for clients

Clients of Warringtonfire Australia can expect continuity of service during this transition.

The firm’s engineers and consultants will maintain their operations, supported by the expanded resources of Jensen Hughes.

According to Jensen Hughes, this rebrand ensures that existing clients will benefit from a seamless experience while gaining access to the company’s global expertise.

Jensen Hughes expands Pacific presence with Warringtonfire Australia rebrand: Summary

Jensen Hughes has announced the rebranding of its partner firm, Warringtonfire Australia, which joined the company in 2023. Warringtonfire Australia, a fire testing and fire engineering consultancy, has been rebranded to align with Jensen Hughes’ global identity.

This integration follows Jensen Hughes’ strategic focus on strengthening its presence in the Pacific region through partnerships with firms such as BCA Logic and Morris Goding Accessibility Consulting.

Clients will continue to receive consistent service from Warringtonfire Australia’s offices across Australia, now with access to the enhanced resources of Jensen Hughes’ global network.

Western Australia adds $10.1 million to expand aerial firefighting resources

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

WA government commits $10.1 million to expand aerial firefighting fleet

The Cook Labor Government has committed an additional $10.1 million to strengthen Western Australia’s aerial firefighting capacity in anticipation of a challenging bushfire season, as reported by the Government of Western Australia.

This investment will include the addition of two Black Hawk helicopters, which will be part of the state’s largest aerial firefighting fleet to date.

These helicopters, capable of carrying up to 4,500 litres of water each, will be operational for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 bushfire seasons.

They will be stationed in strategic locations to the north and south of Perth to provide rapid response to bushfire incidents.

Cardup fire station nearing completion

The new Cardup Career Fire and Rescue Service Station, currently under construction, is expected to be completed by December 2024.

The $14.5 million facility is part of a broader effort to improve emergency response services in Perth’s south-east, which is experiencing significant growth.

Premier Roger Cook said: “The completion of Cardup Fire Station this year and the delivery of additional frontline career personnel is another important milestone for public safety.”

The station will house 36 firefighters and receive three advanced firefighting appliances.

DFES urges bushfire preparedness ahead of early campaign launch

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has launched its annual bushfire safety campaign earlier than usual, reflecting the heightened risk of bushfires this season.

This year, Western Australians are encouraged to make bushfire plans now, with only 1.95% of households having a documented plan despite 93% of the state being bushfire-prone.

Minister for Emergency Services Stephen Dawson urged the public to act: “Making decisions when the heat is on is extremely difficult and dangerous, so don’t leave it too late or you could be putting your family at risk.”

My Bushfire Plan app promoted to aid in emergency planning

The My Bushfire Plan app and website have been highlighted as essential tools to help residents prepare for bushfires.

These resources guide users in creating a bushfire plan, including critical decisions like whether to evacuate early or stay to defend their homes.

DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm emphasised the importance of preparation: “Firefighters can’t be at every home during an emergency, so it’s important that people sit down with their family now, complete a bushfire plan and agree on a course of action.”

Western Australia adds $10.1 million to expand firefighting resources: Summary

The Cook Labor Government has allocated an additional $10.1 million to Western Australia‘s aerial firefighting fleet, ahead of what is expected to be a challenging bushfire season.

Two Black Hawk helicopters, each capable of carrying 4,500 litres of water, will join the state’s firefighting resources for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons.

The new Cardup Career Fire and Rescue Station, set to open in December 2024, will host 36 firefighters and enhance response capabilities in Perth’s south-east.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has launched an early bushfire safety campaign, urging residents to make use of the My Bushfire Plan app to prepare for emergencies.

FPAS scheme extended

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Engineering

FPA Australia has negotiated with the Building Commission NSW for a one-year extension to the Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme (FPAS) transition period. Additionally, FPA Australia’s approval to act as an accreditation authority under the Building and Development Certifiers Act 2018 has been extended until 30 June, 2026.

The extension means all transitional practitioners will have an additional year to complete the training required to transition to qualified accreditation. Once transitioned, practitioners will still need to renew their accreditation and participate in CPD.

Our approach to the Building Commission NSW was based on feedback from members regarding hurdles experienced to achieve the required competencies.
As FPA Australia will not be seeking any further extensions to the FPAS transitional period, to ensure you retain your accreditation moving forward we strongly recommend transitioning to qualified by the new deadline.

FPA Australia recognises the efforts of those who have already attained qualified accreditation. We have revised our FSA and FSD registers to indicate whether a measure/category held by the practitioner is transitional or qualified. We’re also enhancing certificates for qualified practitioners by adding the term “Qualified” and exploring options for providing marketing materials that highlight their qualified accreditation status to clients.

The extension of the approval for FPA Australia to act as an accreditation authority indicates the trust Building Commission NSW has in the Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme and our commitment to professionalism within the industry. We aspire to continue administering the FPAS in NSW as an accreditation authority for many years to come.

For more information, go to www.fpaa.com.au

Australia’s aerial firefighting fleet to include multi-use aircraft for disaster response

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

“The key focus is to broaden the fleet so that it’s multi-use,” says NEMA deputy coordinator

Australia’s aerial firefighting fleet is set to expand to enhance response capabilities for natural disasters, as reported by ABC News.

The expansion aims to address the increasing pressure on the current fleet due to longer and overlapping fire seasons.

The recent federal budget allocated an additional $35 million to procure more multi-use aircraft.

A national audit is also underway to ensure that the country can meet the rising demand for such resources.

Joe Buffone, deputy coordinator general of the National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA), stated that the recent fire seasons highlighted the need for more versatile aircraft.

Buffone said: “The key focus is to broaden the fleet so that it’s multi-use.

“This means aircraft will be able to be changed around so they can do evacuation, resupply, support remote communities, and help other emergencies way beyond just fire.”

Increasing demand for aerial resources

Australia has approximately 162 aircraft contracted under the National Aerial Firefighting Centre (NAFC), with about 133 being Australian owned and registered.

This fleet includes several large air tankers, 15 rotary-wing helicopters, and a mix of smaller aircraft.

The expansion is partly due to the overlapping fire seasons in the northern and southern hemispheres, increasing the demand for these resources.

Buffone emphasized the pressures on the system, saying: “We’re trying to make sure that we can actually have aircraft for aerial firefighting and for other emergencies, for longer periods of time as well.”

The expansion aims to lessen the need for the Australian Defence Force to intervene during disasters.

South Australia’s fleet enhancement

South Australia has deployed its largest-ever aerial fleet, with 31 aircraft for the current season, a number that will remain for the next four seasons.

Country Fire Service state aviation operations manager Nik Stanley highlighted the continuous evaluation of the fleet’s capabilities.

Stanley said: “We are continuously evaluating our fleet every year, looking at the capabilities that we have available, are they still suitable for us moving forward, and then also looking at what’s emerging nationally and internationally with different airframe types.”

The fleet includes a helicopter called the “multi-mission machine,” which features a side basket for extra equipment and a bucket for water drops.

Stanley added: “We just don’t look at firefighting aircraft as in dropping water, but we also look at them for the other capabilities that they’re able to do.”

International fire season overlap challenges

Competition for aerial resources between the northern and southern hemispheres is an increasing challenge.

Nik Stanley noted that traditionally, large air tankers from North America and Europe would come to Australia for its summer season.

However, Australian companies are now deploying their fixed-wing bombers to Europe, adding to the challenge of maintaining these resources.

Stanley explained: “As our season extends longer, there’s less time for maintenance for the contractors to get their aircraft ready to deploy over to Europe or North America.

And then conversely, once the season finishes in the northern hemisphere, they’ve got to get them back so they’re ready for us to commence contract when our season starts.”

IFSJ Comment

The expansion of Australia’s aerial firefighting fleet to include multi-use aircraft is a strategic response to the increasing pressures of longer and overlapping fire seasons.

By broadening the fleet’s capabilities, Australia aims to enhance its disaster response effectiveness beyond just firefighting.

This development not only addresses the immediate need for versatile aircraft but also ensures better preparedness for various types of emergencies.

The continuous evaluation of fleet capabilities, as demonstrated by South Australia’s efforts, underscores the importance of adaptability in disaster management.

The inclusion of multi-mission machines in the fleet showcases the innovative approaches being adopted to maximise the utility of available resources.

Review of fire systems installation work in Western Australia underway

by Featured NewsSafety

State government reviews fire systems regulations

Building and Energy is examining the regulation of fire systems installation work in Western Australia as part of the State Government’s response to recommended building reforms.

The review will focus on regulation in apartment, commercial, and industrial buildings.

It will consider the installation and testing of hose reels, hydrants, sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, alarms, exit lighting, and passive fire-rated construction elements required by building codes.

Examination of compliance and stakeholder feedback

Building Commissioner Saj Abdoolakhan highlighted the complexity of regulating fire systems due to the involvement of multiple regulatory frameworks: “We will examine evidence of any non-compliance with the current installation and testing requirements for these critical building fire systems.”

The review process will include two forums this winter to gather feedback from industry, unions, and other stakeholders.

The review will progress through several phases, aligning with the State Government’s commitment to effective regulatory design.

More information is available in the Review Paper.

Response to the Building Confidence Report

The project is part of the State Government’s broader response to the Building Confidence Report, which recommended improvements to building regulation across Australia.

The WA response has included a code of conduct for building surveyors, a registration scheme for building engineers, including fire safety engineers, and the Building Better decision paper on significant reforms to WA’s building regulatory framework.

The State Government is actively working to implement these reforms to enhance the safety and compliance of building practices in Western Australia.

WA Large Air Tanker’s deployment extended amid heightened autumn bushfire risk

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Department secures extension for aerial firefighting resources as Western Australia bushfire season extends into autumn

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has announced the extension of the WA Large Air Tanker’s (LAT) deployment into autumn, responding to the Australasian Fire Authorities Council’s Autumn Seasonal Bushfire Outlook.

The outlook forecasts hot, dry, and windy conditions over the coming three months, signaling an increased risk of bushfires.

A challenging bushfire season ahead

The South West Land Division recorded its second hottest year in 2023, leading to a drier landscape entering autumn.

While central and northern WA maintain a normal risk level, parts of West Kimberley also present drier conditions, potentially limiting prescribed burn opportunities.

To bolster firefighting efforts, the LAT will now remain in WA until 27 March, supported by Helitaks and Black Hawk helicopters until April.

Urgent call for community preparedness

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM has emphasized the ongoing bushfire risk and the importance of household preparedness.

“The most severe heat may be gone, but the bushfire risk hasn’t,” Klemm stated.

He highlighted the extension of the ‘Got 15 minutes to burn?’ campaign to encourage Western Australian households to devise a comprehensive bushfire plan.

Currently, only 1.5% of households have a documented plan, despite 93% of the state being bushfire prone.

Klemm urges the use of the My Bushfire Plan app or website for life-saving planning, taking as little as 15 minutes.

A tribute to firefighters and volunteers

Commissioner Klemm also acknowledged the efforts of career firefighters and volunteers throughout a challenging season, which saw the aerial fleet activated earlier than usual due to the increased fire threat from hot, dry conditions in spring.

“It has been a long, challenging season with firefighters responding to 3757 bushfires since October,” he remarked.

The DFES aerial fleet has been instrumental, flying over 1640 hours across 152 incidents and dispersing over 12 million litres of water and retardant to combat fires, including in suburban areas like Kwinana, Gwelup, and Bibra Lake.

Increased firefighting efforts and community action

The extended deployment of the LAT and other aerial assets underscores the severity of this year’s bushfire season, with the LAT alone having flown 74 hours and dropped 856,372 litres of water and retardant.

The State Government-funded aerial fleet, exceeding 30 aircraft, plays a critical role in bushfire management, jointly managed by DFES and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions.

With bushfires increasing by 33% compared to the previous season and emergency warnings in the Perth metropolitan area, the urgency for community preparedness and government action has never been greater.

IFSJ Comment

The decision to extend the deployment of the WA Large Air Tanker and other aerial firefighting resources into autumn is a measured response to the heightened bushfire risk facing Western Australia.

The concerted efforts of DFES, along with the dedication of firefighters and volunteers, demonstrate a committed approach to managing this risk.

Community engagement, particularly in developing and executing bushfire plans, remains paramount.

This scenario highlights the dynamic nature of bushfire management and the necessity for adaptability in response strategies, ensuring the safety and preparedness of the community.

Firefighters union in legal battle with Victoria’s attorney-general

by Featured News

Accusations of coercion and unlawful intervention

The United Firefighters Union has initiated legal proceedings against Victoria’s attorney-general, Jacylyn Symes, in the Federal Court.

The union alleges coercion and unlawful intervention by Ms Symes in relation to Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV).

The dispute revolves around letters sent by Ms Symes in August and September 2022, instructing FRV not to support a new fire registration board established by the union.

The heart of the dispute

At the centre of this conflict is the control over FRV’s operational member employment.

The board, set up by the union, was designed to have complete control in this area.

However, Ms Symes, who also serves as the emergency services minister, raised concerns about the board’s transparency and oversight.

She indicated that FRV’s agreement to collaborate with the registration board required her approval, which she refused to provide.

Legal arguments presented in court

Herman Borenstein KC, the union’s barrister, argued in court that FRV does not require the minister’s consent for this agreement.

Mr Borenstein said: “She’s taken upon herself a power she didn’t have.” He referred to the Fire Rescue Victoria Act, highlighting that FRV is authorised to enter agreements autonomously when receiving goods or services.

In contrast, solicitor-general Rowena Orr, representing the government, contended that the agreement involved FRV providing a service, necessitating Ms Symes’ consent.

Ms Orr argued: “There’s no suggestion there was any element of deliberateness. This is not heavy-handed … it has a good faith flavour.”

IFSJ Comment

The ongoing legal dispute between the United Firefighters Union and Victoria’s attorney-general, Jacylyn Symes, presents a complex situation concerning the governance and operational autonomy of Fire Rescue Victoria.

This case underscores the intricate balance between union rights, governmental oversight, and the operational independence of emergency services.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome will likely have significant implications for the management and control of fire services in Victoria, setting a precedent for how similar situations might be handled in the future.

Eight Rural Fire Service members honoured in Australia Day recognitions

by Featured NewsPeople

Rural Fire Service members receive Australian Fire Service Medal

Eight members of the Rural Fire Service (RFS) have been honoured with the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) as part of the Australia Day Honours.

This recognition is a testament to their unwavering commitment and exemplary service to the community.

The AFSM, established in 1988, acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated distinguished service in Australian fire services.

Commissioner praises dedicated service

Rob Rogers, Commissioner of the RFS, expressed his congratulations to the honoured members, highlighting their significant contributions to protecting the state.

He said: “These eight RFS members have shown diligence and sustained dedication in keeping communities safe.”

He emphasised the importance of acknowledging their collective service of over 350 years, which includes leadership roles, training, mentoring, and skilled response in major fires and emergencies.

Commissioner Rogers also noted the selfless nature of RFS members, stating: “Our members don’t do it for the awards or praise, but it is important that they are recognised for their commitment to help others.

“They, like all our members, are a credit to the Service, and they truly deserve this honour.”

Recipients of the AFSM

The RFS members recognised are:

  • Deputy Captain Roberta (Bobbie) Colbran, Hawkesbury Communications/Grose Wold Rural Fire Brigades (Hawkesbury)
  • Group Captain (Retired) Keith Thomas Driver, Lowanna Rural Fire Brigade (Coffs Coast)
  • Group Captain Michael Gilder, Gummun Rural Fire Brigade (Upper Hunter)
  • Superintendent Paul William Jones (Lake George)
  • Group Captain Barry William Myers, Kariong Rural Fire Brigade (Central Coast)
  • Group Officer George Alfred Nicholson, Grattai Rural Fire Brigade (Cudgegong)
  • Group Captain John Thomas Page, Coaldale Rural Fire Brigade (Clarence Valley)
  • Group Captain Barry Lawrence Richard, Jenolan Caves Rural Fire Brigade (Chifley Lithgow)

Full citations for all recipients are available on the RFS website.

IFSJ Comment

The recognition of eight members of the Rural Fire Service (RFS) in the Australia Day Honours with the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) is a commendable event, highlighting the dedication and service of these individuals to their communities.

This honour serves as a reminder of the crucial role firefighters play in safeguarding lives and properties against the devastating effects of fires.

The commendations received by these RFS members, each with unique and lengthy careers in fire service, underscore the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices and efforts of those who work tirelessly in emergency services.

This recognition not only honours the recipients but also serves as an inspiration for current and future members of fire and emergency services, emphasising the value of commitment, skill, and community service.

Western Australia’s emergency rescue helicopters seek naming rights sponsorship

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) in Western Australia has made a public call for expressions of interest for the exclusive naming rights sponsorship of the state’s emergency rescue helicopters.

The sponsorship opportunity arises as the service prepares to upgrade its fleet at the end of the year.

The new helicopters will boast enhanced range and cutting-edge aviation rescue technology.

Western Australia’s rescue helicopters call for sponsors

Funded by the State Government and managed by DFES, the emergency rescue helicopters offer a critical service, responding to a variety of emergencies across the state, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

The service includes two helicopters based in Perth and Bunbury, with a third available for additional support, notably during extended periods such as the Carnarvon and Kimberley floods.

Upgraded fleet to enhance rescue operations

The State Government has allocated $26.7 million towards the asset upgrade, which will extend the operational reach of the service over an area of more than 334,000 square kilometres, providing coverage for over 91% of the state’s population.

Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM highlighted the critical nature of the service: “DFES is proud to manage WA’s only dedicated rescue helicopter service, responding to calls for help around the clock.

He added: “The Emergency Rescue Helicopter Service is capable of being airborne in less than 15 minutes and provides vital search and rescue capability and critical aeromedical services.”

He also underscored the impact of the service, “Over the last 20 years the flight crew have assisted in saving thousands of lives and helped return loved one’s home to family and friends.”

Further emphasising the significance of the sponsorship, Commissioner Klemm stated, “This is an outstanding opportunity for a community-focused organisation to join us in putting others first and working together to keep Western Australians safe.”

Interested organisations have been invited to apply since Tuesday, 17 October 2023.

More information about this opportunity is available on the government’s tender website, tenders.wa.gov.au.

For additional details about the DFES and its services, visit their official website through this link: Applications open for lifesaving sponsorship.

IFSJ Comment

The announcement from the DFES heralds a new chapter for emergency services in Western Australia, aligning the interests of public safety with corporate partnership.

The upgrade to next-generation rescue helicopters will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of these lifesaving services, ensuring faster response times and greater reach across the vast expanse of the region.

The sponsorship opportunity allows for a synergy between the dedication of rescue services and the social responsibility ethos of private entities.

It is a testament to the ongoing commitment to public safety and corporate citizenship in Western Australia.

Queensland wildfire: Week-long blaze claims life and destroys over 50 homes

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Forecasters warn that the impending wildfire season could surpass the devastation of the Black Summer fires of 2019-20

A wildfire in eastern Australia is suspected to have resulted in the death of a man, while also decimating more than 50 homes and burning approximately 20,000 hectares of farm and scrubland, according to authorities.

Firefighters have been relentlessly fighting the fire that has engulfed the Queensland state town of Tara.

Fire management and response efforts

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Acting Superintendent Cameron Herbert said: “No new property losses were reported on Tuesday as crews battled the 37 degrees Celsius weather to bolster containment lines established on Monday.”

He added: “It’s not a fire that you can put out. We can’t actually extinguish it, but we just need to control it.”

Reinforcements from Victoria state and New Zealand are en route to the fire’s epicentre to provide relief to the exhausted local fire crews.

“The fatigue is definitely setting in,” Herbert expressed.

Support and fatalities amidst the Queensland wildfire devastation

During a visit to Queensland, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese voiced his support for those affected by the wildfires.

A tragic discovery was made last week when police reported a charred body of a man on the fire ground. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear.

Western Downs Mayor Paul McVeigh shared: “The number of homes lost in Tara’s vicinity was 53 by Monday and numerous residents have evacuated. Some areas are still too hot to enter, and we anticipate this count to increase.”

On Tuesday, approximately 70 fires raged across Queensland, with an additional nine in New South Wales to the south, signifying an early commencement to Australia’s wildfire season which climaxes during the Southern Hemisphere summer.

PM Albanese strongly advised residents in affected areas to heed safety guidelines to avert further sorrow.

“These are heartbreaking scenes when people lose their homes,” he said. “This is a challenging time, and the upcoming summer will be tough.”

Predictions for the future and the changing climate

Forecasters warn that the impending wildfire season could surpass the devastation of the Black Summer fires of 2019-20.

These catastrophic fires culminated at the end of 2019, marking it as Australia’s hottest and most parched year, ranked second historically.

Recent weather trends, including three successive La Nina patterns, brought milder conditions.

However, the current El Nino weather pattern threatens hotter and drier circumstances for Australia’s densely populated southeast.

IFSJ Comment

The ongoing situation in Queensland underscores the escalating challenges that regions worldwide face with wildfires, especially amidst changing climate conditions.

With predictions of the upcoming wildfire season possibly being among the worst, it’s crucial for communities, governments, and organisations to come together, ensuring preparedness, effective response, and recovery systems.

Such events remind us of the importance of continuous learning, collaboration, and adaptation in the fire and safety domain.