The members of Arcadia have been busily working in the background for a future hazard reduction (HR) in the Arcadia and Berrilee area. You may have seen a number of trucks in the area on the weekends, and a number of yellow figures working in the bush. We've been preparing for the future Banks Creek HR. The preparation for these activities are extensive and there are a multitude of factors that influence when we can undertake a hazard reduction burn. A hazard reduction does not always mean fire, however, it also includes general property maintenance that involves reducing the ground fuel. This can be slashing undergrowth and removing ground fuel by hand. Crews from the district, including Galston, Dural, Cherrybrook, Hornsby and Berowra, have been assisting us with this strenuous task as many hands make light work. As more information comes available in regards to this hazard reduction, we will be notifying the residents so they can best prepare themselves and families as there will be smoke in the area.
Residents may have also noticed a lot of activity on Calabash road. The Hornsby/Ku-Ring-Gai district held their crew leader assessment in Arcadia. It is a day where crew leader candidates are faced with a number of varying scenarios, which may include live fire, and a theory exam. We also took advantage of the favourable weather and multitude of crews to conduct a small pre-hazard reduction burn, again in preparation for the Banks Creek HR.
In March we celebrated International Women's Day. We have many skillful and versatile women that hold many positions from officers, drivers, operational fire fighters, and support roles. If you have ever considered joining, or are curious as to what roles you could participate in, send us an email at enquiries@arcadiarfs.org.au, there is a role for everyone! Or come say G'day at the Arcadia Market Day on the 4th of May!
Hazard Reduction information: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/hazard-reductions
Photo credit - James Manning/Arcadia RFB