Jamieson CFA on alert after realistic fire drill

JAMIESON CFA members attended the breathing apparatus maintenance drill on Sunday at the Fire Station. The six-monthly exercise of equipment and the drill is vital for the survival of firefighters in structure fires, both internal and external, and other fires where toxic smoke is present. The smoke used in the drill is sugar smoke, similar to that used in entertainment venues. The Fire Station in Jamieson was belching ‘smoke’; First Lieutenant Steve Garito contacted the ‘Burn Off Hotline 1800 668 511’ as the drill was very realistic and Fire Ban restrictions are still active. The members all wore the breathing apparatus, which is quite different from the firefighting uniform worn at an accident or external bushfire action. The maintenance exercise is vital as breathing skills are lifesaving. Jamieson Brigade has two sets of breathing apparatus in each of the Brigade’s two tankers. Necessary when the location of a fire with toxic smoke is evident, the drill training is lifesaving in rescue events. LAST Saturday evening at 6:00 pm, the Jamieson Primary School Trivia Night was held in the Jamieson Memorial Hall. Over 100 competitors attended the school fundraiser. Tables of teams—families, friends, and visitors—who came to support the school enjoyed the fun and competition. The winners of the Trivia competition were the Bolwell Team. Former Jamieson Primary School Principal, Genevieve Bolwell, and family were delighted with their win. The attendees all arrived with platters of food to share and refreshments. Attendees enjoyed door prizes, and a silent auction was also a great success, with many items donated by friends of the school, local artisans, and businesses. School Principal Sonja Kalbitzer was delighted with the wonderful support for the primary school and the successful social event. JAMIESON Primary School students are enjoying breakfast at school in the school kitchen dining area under the supervision of school staff. This initiative is a wonderful health program for the young recipients and is appreciated by families. NAPLAN tests for Grades 3 and 5 students commence this week. Tuesday, the annual school photos will be taken—a very exciting time for students and parents. The School Council AGM will be held on Wednesday with elections. THE Jamieson Craft Ladies held a meeting on Monday concerning the running of the annual Biggest Morning Tea. For over 25 years, the Craft Ladies have presented the Biggest Morning Tea. This year, with the cooperation of local Jamieson ladies, the annual event will be held in May. The fundraiser for the Anti-Cancer Council has raised large donations each year. Eager attendees include primary school students and teachers, local residents, business operators, and many tradesmen who relish the amazing offerings. It has also been a great drawcard for visitors, many of whom attend this special event annually. A wonderful tribute from a small group of talented cooks for so many years. THE Jamieson CFA was called out to an unattended campfire last week near 12 Mile. When the firefighters arrived, they found a fire had been left burning by campers. The fire was extinguished. The frustration at the carelessness and lack of concern, especially in a time of total fire bans when the area is so dry, is difficult to understand.