The United Firefighters Union ACT Branch is seeking a part time industrial officer / organiser to assist the Branch Secretary in representation of UFU members. The position is offered as a six month position, 3 days per week with some flexibility. The position is based at our office in Dickson, Canberra. Applications addressing the attached position description (UFU ACT … [Read more...]
More to the PFAS story ….
For more on emerging developments in the PFAS story … The Canberra Times reports on 28 June 2018 that Emergency Services Commissioner, Dominic Lane, says "there is no 'conclusive proof' that toxic PFAS fire fighting foams are linked to specific human diseases or illnesses". Now they report on 16 July 2018 that a "nature reserve next to Ginninderra Creek will be tested for … [Read more...]
When Helping Hurts: PTSD in first responders
This is the report of Australia21/FearLess Roundtable discussions and consultation A new report is available that explores better ways of preventing the debilitating mental consequences of traumatic stress and improving mental health outcomes for front-line first responder personnel. The report was produced by Australia21 and Fearless following a roundtable discussion … [Read more...]
Confusion reigns about the use of PFAS and its effects
Concerns expressed by the United Firefighters' Union and many others about the uncertainties surrounding the use and residual effects of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the ACT and beyond continue to grow. The latest story in the Canberra Times of 26 June 2018 reports on confusion within the Emergency Services Agency about whether fire fighting trucks carry … [Read more...]
17 new firefighters recruited to ACT Fire & Rescue
The Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Mick Gentleman, announced on 15 June 2018 that 17 new firefighters have been successfully recruited to join the ranks of ACT Fire & Rescue after completing their 20-week intensive training course. Among the new firefighters graduating were four females and two indigenous recruits. … [Read more...]