It has been a busy few months at Arcadia station! In May we had our AGM, which saw some changes and we welcome Mike Melis into his new this role of Senior Deputy. Alongside this we had our members receive their National Emergency, Long Service medals, and Brigade received a Commissioner’s Unit Citation for Service. Arcadia hosted for the Ride for HOPE ONE80TC’s major annual fundraising event, the brigade participated and had a great time at the Hornsby/Ku-Ring-Gai Districts annual exercise that puts crews through different scenarios which they need to complete, plus a navigation exercise. We attended the Blessing of the Fleet ceremony, an event held by Galston Uniting Church, where brigades from the Hornsby and Hills districts come together alongside the community and bless the trucks and crews before the next Bush Fire Danger period.
The brigade members have been busy with flood and storm damage work throughout the Hawkesbury and have attended fire calls within the local area due to rapidly drying vegetation. It has highlighted the consistent need to always have your bush fire plans up to date, and wherever possible, to have your property prepared for fire. The vegetation has been quick to dry, however, the ground has stayed soggy, creating challenges for firefighters as we are reduced access with our vehicles.September is gearing up to be a busy month! On September 1st the Fire Danger Rating’s you’ve been familiar with will change. The new system is a nationwide system called the Australia Fire Danger Rating System, and it’s been developed using the latest research to increase its accuracy and relevancy to where you live. It will be used Australia wide, which is great for travelling and consistency! There are 4 ratings instead of 6, and when there is minimal risk the signs will be set to a “No Rating”. Please visit the RFS website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au to read more information on this new system.
Arcadia is also on the move in September. We’ve got 2 street meetings for the community, and we hope you can join us! Saturday 17th September 12pm – 2pm corner of Cobah Rd and Nollands Rd, Fiddletown 2159Saturday 24th September 12pm – 2pm corner of Calabash Rd and Bay Rd, Arcadia 2159We’re looking forward to seeing familiar friends, meeting our new neighbours, and answering your questions!