Member for Davidson, Jonathan O’Dea, has spoken in Parliament to a Motion of Condolence following the devastating Victorian bushfires – and used the occasion to highlight the contribution of the local RFS and the possible need for changes to fire safety procedures.
In paying tribute to those caught up in the Victorian firestorms, Mr O’Dea said, “Numerous brave citizens stepped up and performed extraordinary feats during the devastating fires, risking life and limb to come to the aid of their families, friends and neighbours. These included hundreds who travelled from NSW. Many people have made generous donations, including a number from our local community.”
Mr O’Dea also paid tribute to the NSW Rural Fire Service when fighting a fire in the Garigal National Park in East Killara during January.
“I visited the site and was impressed with the organisation of the personnel on the ground,” he said. “However, I noticed journalists covering the fire were dressed in the same yellow fire protective clothing as the firefighters.
“I am all for the media having some access to fire areas, but I recommend they consider wearing a designated uniform colour to distinguish them from firefighters. In the heat of battle, trained firefighters should not need to ask a person similarly dressed if they are a fellow firefighter or not,” he said.
Mr O’Dea also used the Motion of Condolence to highlight the dedication of local firefighters, particularly from the Rural Fire Service.
“The Ku-ring-gai Brigade of the Rural Fire Service has its depot in Wahroonga. It is led by Captain Chris Hunter and its forty five members include David Cordery, who has been in the brigade since it was formed around fifty two years ago. Likewise, I was pleased to recognise the 50 years of RFS service of Peter Gatien of the Belrose Brigade at last week’s Warringah Pittwater District Awards,” Mr O’Dea concluded.
