SA Firefighter

General Discussion => SAMFS => Topic started by: mattb on February 07, 2006, 03:38:55 PM

Title: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: mattb on February 07, 2006, 03:38:55 PM
Looks like the retained boys in Mt Gambier are getting some paid assistance.

From a Liberal party media release

Preference must be given to local firefighters

The Liberal Party has been informed that the Labor Government intends to transfer Adelaide Metropolitan Fire Service firefighters to Mount Gambier.

While welcoming additional positions at the Mount Gambier station, Liberal Emergency Services Spokesman Angus Redford said any new day-time positions for city should be offered to the local retained (part-time) firefighters.

He said local firefighters have been told that at least two positions will be filled from Adelaide and that locals may be able to apply for the other positions.

They have also been advised that they will be required to undertake all basic recruitment tests.

Mr Redford said it’s important that prior service is recognised in selecting the firefighters for the positions.
"Their local knowledge and dedication to the part-time positions must be taken into account," Mr Redford said.

Liberal Candidate for Mount Gambier Peter Gandolfi said the former Liberal Government invested heavily in building Mount Gambier’s new fire station.
"It’s an insult to locals for the Government to give priority to Adelaide firefighters.

“It is also vital that the Government consult fully with the local CFS Brigades regarding any changes to fire services in the region,” Mr Gandolfi said.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 24P on February 07, 2006, 04:43:05 PM
Bit rough that transferring 2 from Adelaide. You would have thought any positions would be filled by the members down there.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Firefrog on February 07, 2006, 07:01:45 PM
Unbelievably retained MFS are not treated any different to joe blow off the street when it comes to recruiting.. Very sad that!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on February 07, 2006, 08:34:25 PM
Speaking to some local retained a while back and they mention that some full time F/F in Adelaide would rather work with CFS than retained F/F any day, which i realise is hearsay but if true it's pretty bad??

Would they run Mt Gambier like pirie with 24hr shift on one truck and retained on page for the other???
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: oz fire on February 09, 2006, 11:15:05 AM
Hang on ........ :-o :-o

Why should a retained MFS fire fighter be treated any differently to a CFS fire fighter.

A CFS fire fighter with L3, BA has more training than a retained fire fighter (actually probally with BFF1 and BA) yet a CFS fire fighter still needs to go through the recruit process.

Well done MFS - good to see a consistant approach across the state.

I don't agree with the recruitment process adopted by MFS, in relation to fire fighters with experience - Volunteer or retained, however at least they are consistant.

Re the comment about working with CFS rather than retained - have heard that many times - sad but true!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Firefrog on February 09, 2006, 02:10:17 PM
Very good point!! Oz fire.

I would actually like to see a complete opening up of Fire Services across the country.

When a person is qualified then that should mean qualified anywhere nation wide.
 
Imagine if I am a Plumber, when I move to another state I don't have to go through recruitment and then do a new trade certificate. I just carry on with apprropriate licensing and earn a living.

But not in the fire industry. I am talking in the context of full national fire qualifications not parts of or individual units of training.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: rescue5271 on February 09, 2006, 06:56:20 PM
you have to feel sorry for these guys they have served the mount for years,now the goverment wants to put paid staff in a station that only attends more fixed alarms than fires.

I have spoken to a couple of the guys from the mount and they would like a full time job with the mfs,mind you paid staff will still have to use the retain members for call outs day or nite. Once again we will see the bus bring the paid guys up from adelaide as there is not enough action for the new young guys... better still just turn the station into a retirment station... its also unfair that the union will not let retain members join................
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: fire03rescue on February 10, 2006, 06:55:33 AM
some of the ff like no action, they work other jobs on days off
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: strikeathird on February 10, 2006, 11:01:23 AM
I have also heard Retained and Paid MFS relationships are not the greatest...


 :oops:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: rescue5271 on February 10, 2006, 01:11:38 PM
How about a joint cfs/mfs station??? may aswell as the cfs group are looking for a new home :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: pete on February 14, 2006, 08:39:31 PM
It seems crazy that the MFS and CFS boarders have not really changed in the last 20 years but yet our urban areas keep on increasing in numbers.I heard about a government document called the Dawson Report which suggests alot of trade offs between both services?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: oz fire on February 15, 2006, 12:16:46 PM
There have been numerous reviews/reports into the fire services boundaries over the past couple of decades (Bruce Report, Dawkins Report) - maybe not down to brigade level, but certainly at government and fire service management level.

Ultimately I guess both services could grow - there are many cities around the world with larger populations than Adelaide's who operate solely on Volunteer Fire Fighters, just as there are many areas with small populations who have career fire fighters.

How do you decide though when a geographic location should be serviced by career or volunteer fire fighters - population, risk (urban, rural, special, inductrial etc) geography, topography, infrastructure, dispertion, demographics???????

A boundary review may be in order again, but at what cost to the community - I haven't heard of any station in CFS area saying we need to close due to volume of calls or changed population, likewise I haven't heard of an MFS stations where they think they should close due to diminishing population, call numbers etc.

Pete - what areas were you thinking????
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on February 15, 2006, 03:24:07 PM
Heard on the radio today that it was announced that 6 fulltime firefighters are going to Gambier, did anyone hear the full announcement
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Ports on February 15, 2006, 04:28:44 PM
From ABC News:


Firefighting boost announced for Mt Gambier
The South Australian Government has announced six full-time firefighters will be employed in Mount Gambier from next year.

A total of $460,000 will be spent on employing six firefighters to Mount Gambier, which is the state's busiest fire station outside of Adelaide.

Currently 25 part-time firefighters man the station's four appliances.

Many of these crew members are on-call during their normal working hours.

The Government says the shift to a full-time permanent day shift will ensure appropriate response times and boost the city's fire coverage.

Five of the positions are expected to be filled by existing firefighting ranks, with only the position of station manager to be filled from applicants further afield due to the expertise needed.

The funding will come from the state's Community Emergency Fund.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on February 15, 2006, 05:00:46 PM
If they are going full-time then wouldnt they have to employ those who passed the recruit test and are fully trained to the extent of those in metro areas?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Robert-Robert34 on February 15, 2006, 05:38:34 PM
I reckon they should be giving the new full time MFS positions that are gonna be based in Mount Gambier to us volunteer firies cause we know how to deal with rural & structual fires

Plus those recruit aptitude tests are filtered hard  :x i tried to go for a part time retained MFS job and the test was just to hard to pass
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: strikeathird on February 15, 2006, 07:09:58 PM
There are such tests for a reason tho..  THey are scored to a national standard..
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: rescue5271 on February 15, 2006, 07:20:48 PM
It was on the local news here tonight,that this will happen next year and that way the loacl retain guys can get their skills up and apply for the 6 positions that will be on offer. Days hift will be from 0830 till 1600 hrs...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on February 18, 2006, 02:45:56 PM
I am a retained Fire fighter in the M.F.S.
 Dont tar all country stations with the one brush. We have all heard stories coming from Pt Pirie about retained and full time not getting on but that is the only place. All other country stations have nothing to do with full time fire fighters apart from Senior full timers who give us training and administration etc so all this talk about full time fire fighters and retained not getting on is a load of BS really.
 As for recruitment into full time MFS positions, we are treated like everyone else off the street. Being a retained may only help you near the end of the selection process.This has always been a sore point with us in the Country Command as we are now called.You all know its very hard to get a full time job in the MFS.Getting a retained job is very very easy. The written test is very basic and the physical tests...well anyone with a bit of fitness should pass.
Think about this, Ive been in 8 years why cant I apply for Mt Gambier full time position!!!What happens if a retained fire fighter does go full time, can he tranfer to Adelaide 2 months later? Should I TRANSFER to Mt Gambier in the hope off a "back door" entry to full time? Its going to be good to see how this all pans out.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: rescue5271 on February 18, 2006, 08:29:51 PM
My understanding is that the retain guys will have time to get the skills to apply for the positions and one would hope that they get the jobs rather than the guys from adelaide... Any retain member should be allowed to apply as they have all done the courses but I would say that the union would rather have its say....So if you have all the ticks apply for the positions on offer and good luck as the MFS will have a hard time filling them....
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: strikeathird on February 20, 2006, 12:13:30 PM
Quote
talk about full time fire fighters and retained not getting on is a load of BS really


Well if there is problems at Pirie, its not BS is it ?

Have these 'problems' been addressed / identified ??
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: oz fire on February 20, 2006, 01:24:37 PM
Think about this, Ive been in 8 years why cant I apply for Mt Gambier full time position!!!

K99 - you can apply for a position with MFS, just as anyone else can. Regardless of years of service or experience - I think we all acknowledge this fact.

It's Good to see some consistency - career fire fighters from interstate need to go through the application/recruitment process, as do fire fighters from CFS and other highly trained fire services - at least MFS is consistant and there is no bias at any levels in relation to recruitment.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: medevac on February 20, 2006, 03:03:37 PM
from the rumours that i have heard the behaviour of the full timers towards the retained at pirie, plus the SOPs involved in there interaction are basically just BS and are likely to endanger public safety...

they greatly effect response times, resource response, etc/// not cool.

my favourite rumour i heard was that if the retained truck was goign to beat the full timers to the call ( say the full timres had gotten lost, whatever...) then the retainess had to stop and allow the ulltimers to get there first... no matter what the circumstances. what a load of BS imagine ifthe public knew that...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: strikeathird on February 21, 2006, 02:11:21 PM
Agree.. Total BS !  If that is occuring, the full time crew should be sacked !

That is a total and blatent(sp) disregard for life and safety!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on March 04, 2006, 11:33:34 AM
So why would full timers in Mt Gambier have to come from Adelaide?? The firefighters there now are doing the job fine and have been for a number of years. Full timers are not going to do the job any better, just get there quicker, doesnt matter whether they have done the drill squad or not. The reason MFS probably doesnt recognise CFS service during recruiting of full timers is you may have been in brigade X for 10 years and never been to a structure fire. so where is your experience??
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: medevac on March 04, 2006, 11:36:52 AM
^^ATH
i dont wuite have any idea what your talking about...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on March 04, 2006, 01:50:00 PM
Well, here we go, these are my views as a member of the Mount Gambier retained crew interested in changing to full-time!

First of all, many of us that are looking at changing from retained (permanent part time) to a fulltime position have been with the service for many years (13 in my case)

Looking at it from my point of view, if you are doing the job now 24/7 successfully with all the necessary training qualifications and real on the job experience, and all that is changing is that you would start a day shift at 0730 and finish at 1700 hrs then why shouldn't our local retained crews be allowed to transfer directly over to fulltime positions in our own station.

It is now a common occurrence that other government and private industries will allow permanent part time employees to change to full time positions with little or no change, so why the difference here!

All our crew are asking for is really a fair go........
Not too much to ask for really, after all the hard work and dedication that our crews put into the station to serve our community faithfully!!

Regards, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: rescue5271 on March 04, 2006, 02:21:01 PM
Mat, I would have to agree with you 100% you guys should have the first right at the jobs for a number of reason's but I would say that as its a government job you would still have to apply for the postion. i know you guys all have been and completed all the courses and that should go in your favor,but I would say that more than likely that the union are having there say about what should be done... keep in mind that MFS would not have the man power to do this day shift with the staff that they have(full time) guys as there are short crews in some MFS stations..

You guys should have the right and its a pitty that you don't have the UFU on your side or do you :?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Robert-Robert34 on March 04, 2006, 02:31:26 PM
Also to add to that rescue5271 it wouldn't harm to put some CFS Volunteers who have CABA,RCR,HAZCHEM & MR Truck Licence at stations where the MFS have difficulty in getting day crews  :-)

Senior Firery70 has every reason to express his views as well as demand to be switched from part time to full time MFS Fire Fighter cause he has 13 years of service with the Metropolitan Fire Service under his belt giving him and fellow part time firies at that station first preference 8-)
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on March 04, 2006, 03:10:38 PM
In reply to rescue 5271 regarding UFU support,I and many others in our retained crew are paying members, but the "jury is still undecided" whether they support us fully.

I would like to believe they do! but I'm still skeptical.......

Further info to my post is that from what we understand, the retained crew will still get turned out to calls during the day when the full time dayshift are working to back them up, so I cannot see any reduction in the work load or call numbers attended of the retained crew.

The issues of fatigue alone, that contributed to full time staffing being considered in this high call station, have still not been resolved with this day staffing model.

Regards, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: oz fire on March 06, 2006, 08:16:35 AM
So why would full timers in Mt Gambier have to come from Adelaide?? The firefighters there now are doing the job fine and have been for a number of years. Full timers are not going to do the job any better, just get there quicker, doesn't matter whether they have done the drill squad or not. The reason MFS probably doesn't recognise CFS service during recruiting of full timers is you may have been in brigade X for 10 years and never been to a structure fire. so where is your experience??
ath - your right a CFS member may have been in a brigade for 10 years and not participated in a going structure fire - and how is that different from an MFS retainee in Country Command - there are many MFS Country Command stations who do less than 100 calls a year, as there are CFS stations - odds are they too may not have attended a going structure fire.
I personally know a number of career MFS staff and career staff in other fire services who have not actively participated in a going structure fire for many years - purely due to shift rotation and never knowing what your going to get ..... generalising on CFS is a very short straw!

Also - why should Mt Gambier be any different from Port Pirie???????
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: rescue5271 on March 06, 2006, 04:24:57 PM
What is the point at all of making the MOUNT full time when the retain guys still have to turn out with the second appliances??? They are a busy brigade so if your going to do the job right do it the first time,but give the guys who are already there the chance at the positions first. The mfs could also look at opening a satelite station in the mount just for the retain guys should it be needed,it should be noted that any cfs help to the mfs is only by 34 units and not any pumper or 24/34p's.....And they do support them alot.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: TillerMan on March 07, 2006, 08:35:22 AM
What says they won't have 2 paid crews at Mt Gambier?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on March 07, 2006, 04:09:50 PM
The only information that we know about is what has been officially released in the media, and it was that there would one fulltime crew for one appliance for a day shift (0800-1700 hrs?) with retained backup.

All Weekends and 1700-0800 hrs? weekdays would be retained crew.

So still quite different from Pt. Pirie which has fulltime crews 24/7 for one appliance with retained backup.

Still doesn't come close to solving retained crew fatigue levels!

Regards, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on March 07, 2006, 10:12:27 PM
In some Tasmanian stations i believe during the day a career (fulltime) crew man the appliance(s) and then after hours the volunteer crew handles all the calls i believe it works there pretty good. :|
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on March 08, 2006, 07:19:15 AM
I visited down to Tasmania 12 months ago and the interesting thing is that there is only one fire service and it is known as the Tasmanian Fire Service.

One station I visited had fulltime crewing 24/7 with retained AND volunteer backup and was told that this system seemed to work well!

They seemed to have pretty good gear too!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: rescue5271 on March 08, 2006, 09:35:22 AM
There are alot of good systems CFA have both paid and volunteers in some the of the main brigades and they work well. sure there where some problems at first but it worked. At Portland they have 3 paid staff and they are backed up with a full volunteer crew during the day,at nite the volunteers run the show with a full set of volunteer officers(capt/LT) so it does work but they do know where near as many calls at the guys in the mount...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on March 08, 2006, 03:10:44 PM
I believe the busiest completely volunteer station in Australia is a place in Victoria (Can't remember the name when i need it most :oops:) and they do 650-700 jobs a year.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 24P on March 08, 2006, 05:49:03 PM
Maybe Melton CFA? On the highway west of Melbourne
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Robert-Robert34 on March 08, 2006, 07:20:30 PM
I can remember going to Riddles Creek several years ago with my parents to spend easter with my dad's little brother this is when my dog was a little puppy... on easter morning i slipped out while my cousins were still a sleep and walked down to the Riddles Creek CFA station

Boy was i impressed not only was the station large but it also had 3 fire appliance kinda like Mount Gambier does and plus the crew there were very kind & friendly in sharing their hot cross buns with me a fledging young CFS cadet at the time & my puppy

I know that i've gone completely off topic here but to tell you the truth before i visited Riddles Creek i was under the impression that one of the Major CFA stations that has paid staff were covering that particular town
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on March 09, 2006, 10:15:53 PM
Just curious Senior Firey 70 how does the retainer system work, payment wise that is??? You get your retainer and then for calls do they pay you for the exact time you spend at the station???
Being at a busy station do you or could you make a decent living or do you need to work another full/part time job???
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: fireygal on March 10, 2006, 02:12:31 PM
We get paid a retainer as well as hourly rate when we attend jobs. It is a minimum call in period of 1 hour even if the job only takes 20 minutes.
Even though we do 500 calls a year (Mt Gambier) pretty much everyone has another job to survive on. As most jobs are only the hour so you cant really survive on say $10k a year.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on March 10, 2006, 02:51:38 PM
Cheers for that.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on March 10, 2006, 09:06:24 PM
Further to Firerygal's comments, we supposedly don't really get a true retainer but are paid for three hours per week (for training and cleaning) with firecalls the extra amount on top.

You definitely couldn't live off it as an only source of income.

It does however, help some of us (myself included) to offset lost pay when away from my primary work.

The volunteer time that the crew put in is still enormous, which I must say that, no one I know of at our station would be "doing it for the money"

I hope the last couple of posts shed some light on our situation.

Cheers, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on March 10, 2006, 09:38:59 PM
Thanks for that Mat, definatly does shed some light on it.  I thought being in such a busy station you would get more than what you do but i guess thats the way the cookie crumbles.  Would definatly be a good second income for a family.

Also do you have to be available for every call or if your tied up at normal work and you can't go then it's tough luck, or if the pager goes then it's the first priority???
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on March 10, 2006, 09:45:07 PM
No you dont have to go to every call. If you are at work and cant get away so be it. We have a book where we can sign off for certain hours if we are unavailable. There is a bench mark that you must attend 50% of all jobs. Also to ride the appliance to 50% of those. Hope this helps.

cheers
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on March 10, 2006, 10:19:26 PM
What "Ath" points out is correct.

We have a more formalized approach to who is on duty and who isn't rather than seeing who turns up at the time!

I think to a certain degree, it boils down to because they pay us they expect more from us.

Supposably, it might make us more accountable for our actions!

Even though we are paid, we still struggle like any other service to keep crews due to the amount of calls and hence interuption to your normal life!

Until next time, cheers,hope to talk again soon!
Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: pumprescue on March 11, 2006, 06:31:04 AM
I see what your saying Mat, the thing that confuses me is a lot of retained station have 6min plus turnout times and only manage to muster one engine out the door with Murray Bridge MFS defaulting to CFS the other day for an alarm. I know there is talk of Mt Barker going to MFS in the future and the reason they would never go retained is it wouldnt make any difference, with the current CFS volly roster system at Mt Barker they can turn out 2 trucks within 5mins any time of the day most days. If you made them retained only difference would be the $ and engines.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on March 11, 2006, 07:20:51 AM
Yeh, having busy stations retained isn't necessarily the answer.
But trying to come up with a good answer to suit all can cause problems within itself.
If the system at Mt. Barker works, then leave it!

I think we have been very lucky with the dedication of some within our station, as we still get an appliance out the door under 5 minutes and followed by a second appliance maybe 1 minute after.

Regarding fire alarm response, I notice a few groups complain about having to respond to these, but the way I see it is, you have to do the more mundane thing occasionaly (I love PRIVATE fire alarms...NOT!!) and take the good with the bad.

After all, that fire alarm, could be a going fire!

Cheers, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on March 11, 2006, 02:33:13 PM
Tell me about it you should have seen the look on our members faces when we were called to an alarm at the local servo and i'm telling them it's a going job, they certainly moved alot quicker then :evil:.

I'm quite surprised that Gawler is a full time staion they only do 350-450 calls a year and were only doing 140-170 5 years ago, but i guess there would be reasons why they are full time.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on March 11, 2006, 03:11:12 PM
Seeing as its tripled in 5 years, and Gawler is expanding rapidly they should stay a full time station.  I thought we had 2 trucks though, unless they did and one has been taken away cause they didnt have enough calls. 

Also it needs to be kept open so there will be a place for me when I get into the MFS. :-P
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Firefrog on March 11, 2006, 03:43:20 PM
Gawler has always been a single appliance station.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on August 21, 2006, 08:39:50 PM
Just a quick announcement to the members of SAFF who were interested to see how I went in the selection for the day manning crew at Mount Gambier.

I have been selected today, along with 4 others, to start our recruit squad starting in Adelaide on the 4th September.

We finish in Adelaide on December 8th, and start our first shift on January 2nd 2007.

You will all still from me, as I will probably take my notebook with me to keep in touch whilst we are in Adelaide.

Regards, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Firefrog on August 21, 2006, 09:20:51 PM
What was the selection process like?

Exactly the same as all other SAMFS intakes or did it differ?

AND A BIG CONGRATULATIONS!  :-D :-D :-D
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on August 21, 2006, 10:24:45 PM
Good on ya Matt, thats great!



How do the ones that didnt get selected take it, are they resntful now that youse are paid crew or is it all good between everyone.

(not trying to create a stir up, serious question)
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on August 21, 2006, 11:02:34 PM
The only difference with the selection process was that you were only competing with others from the Mount Gambier Station and not everyone "off the street" as such.

We still had to complete everything to a satisfactory level like the physical aptitude test (PAT) 1 and 2, literacy and numeracy, abilities profiling etc.

Obviously, some missed out and were disappointed, but they seem to be dealing with it and have moved on to maybe, promotions within retained ranks down the track to replace some of the senior firefighters accepted into career ranks.

Regards, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: fire03rescue on August 22, 2006, 08:38:57 AM
well done Mat
Must be hard for the ones who just missed out, because they are probally all good fire fighters.
Funny how you think that a firefighter you have worked with and is good misses out.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on August 22, 2006, 12:25:42 PM
The sad thing is that great firery's that you have worked with for a long time have missed out.

We still will get to work and train with them, but it would have been good to have some of them "on shift" with us.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: corecutters on August 22, 2006, 03:30:02 PM
Congratulations mate !!  All the best.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: rescue5271 on August 22, 2006, 08:34:34 PM
Well done Matt and to the others that got in,I hear there may be a party before you guys go to the city :roll: wounder how much beer we can get in that engine bay :lol: Well done mate..
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on August 23, 2006, 08:02:44 AM
Does this mean you can transfer and work in the other paid stations or are you stuck working at Mt Gambier?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on August 23, 2006, 09:14:42 AM
They asked for you to commit to 4 years at Mount Gambier and then you can transfer if you wish.

And Blinky, we can't fit much beer in the engine room at the moment because we have 5 appliances at the moment :-D(one is for training though)

I'd like to also take the time to thank everyone here at SAFF for their support and best wishes.

I will stay in touch whilst we are in Adelaide, as I will have my new laptop with me.

Cheers, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on September 13, 2006, 05:17:57 PM
So peoples opinion on this:

Now that Gambier MFS will have one fulltime crew at the station should or would Gambier MFS be made first response RCR for the City of Gambier (Not outside of the town)???
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on September 13, 2006, 05:24:18 PM
sure why not.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: medevac on September 13, 2006, 05:42:38 PM
no.

they already dual respond with SES so there shouldnt be an issue anyway, they'll get both resources. and besides, its only a fulltime day crew, so there is the same boat as present at night time.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: oz fire on September 18, 2006, 11:59:18 AM
So peoples opinion on this:

Now that Gambier MFS will have one fulltime crew at the station should or would Gambier MFS be made first response RCR for the City of Gambier (Not outside of the town)???

I guess one would ask WHY?

After all the precendent is already set across metro Adelaide - where we have MFS and CFS stations who are neighbours and both have RCR rsponse.

It's called pre planning, resource sharing and stopping duplication!

Being devils advocate - why would MFS even contemplate RCR response with a full time crew - wasn't the full time crew put in due to the hight alarm rate and increasing fire rate????
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on September 19, 2006, 07:03:17 PM
Howdy Everybody,

Just a quick hello before I disappear again without internet connection!!
Now in the third week of Recruit Course 32/2006 and things moving along pretty quick.
Been fairly long days with plenty of drills happening(hose and ladder), but is all good.
Maybe except the STAR Police Group giving us a flogging last Tuesday, but hey, it's called teamwork.
I will be back here on SAFF sometime soon when I next have a connection, so don't think I'm being rude if I don't reply for a while.

Cheers, Mat

Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on September 19, 2006, 07:19:45 PM
what did you do with STAR force
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on September 19, 2006, 07:38:27 PM
Team building exercises like lots of pushups,running and obstacle courses.

I was feeling fairly sore for the rest of the week as was everyone else.

This day was one of those things that are good to experience.........once!!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: probie_boy on September 19, 2006, 11:51:56 PM
congratulations mat on getting the job.


its great to see someone get into a job thats so tough to get to.



good job and good luck mate
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: rescue5271 on September 20, 2006, 09:00:51 PM
hurry up MATT and complete the course still need to fill that engine bay with beer and the spa before you start on shift..So who is the new S/O going to be???
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on September 21, 2006, 05:25:28 PM
Interviews are still to be conducted. A serving station officer will get the job.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on September 30, 2006, 11:45:46 AM
Howdy everyone,

Back in the Mount for the weekend so I thought I'd say hello!

Just finished week four of fourteen with BA training being this and next weeks activities.

Recruit course has been very demanding and thorough, but is enjoyable and really hones your skills well.

Anyhow, better go and disappear for a while again, and I will be back on when internet connection dictates!

Cheers!, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 01, 2006, 12:48:33 PM
what are you doign for accomodation, are SAMFS putting ypou up somewhere?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on October 01, 2006, 09:00:11 PM
yes an MFS house.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 02, 2006, 02:02:25 PM
As you all know, when you apply for MFS you must do a "beep test". You get one go and if you fail thats the end, see you next time.

My question to the new Mt Gambier recruits, how many times did you do the "beep test?"
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Toast on October 02, 2006, 03:26:39 PM
Atleast you get a foul line...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on October 02, 2006, 09:05:47 PM
The 5 successful candidates all passed the 9.6 level so whats your beef??
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: RescueHazmat on October 02, 2006, 09:27:20 PM
Glad I wasn't the only one who felt the "tone" in K99's post...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 03, 2006, 01:42:35 PM
So are you saying you only did the beep test once and all reached 9.6?

Thats all I wish to know.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 03, 2006, 01:53:11 PM
did you fail a beep test once to get into MFS?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 03, 2006, 02:01:08 PM
I have never failed beep test. Easiest thing to pass when going for MFS.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 03, 2006, 02:04:40 PM
why do you appear os cynical then?

are you in MFS?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Robert-Robert34 on October 03, 2006, 02:06:40 PM
Trust me Federer if you want to get a job doing fire fighting try and start at the bottom and apply for a summer crew job with NPWSA or Forestry SA as their fitness requirements are alot different
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 03, 2006, 02:09:06 PM
I have just asked the question.... Did they do it once (like everybody else) or were they given plenty of opportunities to pass the beep test?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 03, 2006, 02:18:09 PM
Trust me Federer if you want to get a job doing fire fighting try and start at the bottom and apply for a summer crew job with NPWSA or Forestry SA as their fitness requirements are alot different

huh, Im not worried about fitness requirements quite the opposite as Im rather fit so not worried.

K99, just seemed like you were being cynical and tohught you might be that way cause you might have failed a beep test once.  Just me analysing, sometimes right sometimes wrong.

P.S, you can still call me PF, only changed it to Federer cause Im now no.1 on the post rankings and decided to change.  :-P :lol:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 03, 2006, 02:21:57 PM
No one doubts the accomplishments of the team at Mt Gambier, but a simple question was asked.  Was the selection process adjusted for this particular intake? i.e Applicants being given multiple opportunities to pass the "beep test".  Or did they have to undergo the exact same selection process as every other applicant for the SAMFS and that is, if you fail to meet the requirements for any portion of the test on the first occasion you automatically fail the entire process.  Not a hard question to answer without all the rhetoric and cynicism. Because its got me intrigued now.  :|
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 03, 2006, 02:27:31 PM
I should hope they went to the same standard as they are full time paid firefighters now.

Nothign wrong with analysing comments and cynicism.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: RescueHazmat on October 03, 2006, 03:12:08 PM
Your swinging that gong way too hard if you try to tell me the original question wasn't cynical or provocative...



A simple observation of a question which could have just as easily been asked in a private message, rather than bring public doubt on the testing methods and procedures undertaken with the Mt. Gambier recruits.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 03, 2006, 03:20:13 PM
I agree with RescueHazmat.  It did appear as a way of brinigng in doubt.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 03, 2006, 04:22:23 PM
Whatever!!! Is anyone going to answer my question or not.

Its not a hard question, a simple yes or no would be sufficient.

Isnt anyone else interested in the answer.

How about we wait for an answer from someone who knows then we can discuss the matter further if need be.

Did they do the beep test once and all reached the required level of 9.6....on their first go?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 03, 2006, 04:33:22 PM
Your swinging that gong way too hard if you try to tell me the original question wasn't cynical or provocative...



A simple observation of a question which could have just as easily been asked in a private message, rather than bring public doubt on the testing methods and procedures undertaken with the Mt. Gambier recruits.

  I would observe that the question is provocative rather than cynical.  But the point you raise about brining public doubt on testing and procedures (irrespective of weather its Mt Gambier SAMFS or Kalangadoo CFS) is actually a public issue.  Transparency and equity are a key element of the testing and selection procedures. If as you suggest it be kept quiet and just among the boys, this actually brings more public scorn upon a service that would then just give jobs to the boys.  Maybe next time a more analytical observation of the question would reveal where that particular post is heading. I would suggest it has something to do with "keeping the b@#$^%&**ds honest"  after all i'm sure if you missed out on a position with the SAMFS because you failed a fitness test by 1/2 second i'm sure you'd be wanting to know that the process was equal for all.

 Oh and for the record, I ain't swinging the gong as hard as some around here!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: RescueHazmat on October 03, 2006, 04:53:28 PM
I will accept that, point taken.

If, and I bring huge emphasis on the word IF, the testing standards were different or "adjusted" then by all means it should, like anything out there, be open to public discussion.


But, I believe a more diplomatic approach to asking the question in the first place will get people alot further.  I also have a feeling the answer is already known...(Hence being provocative) And if the answer is already known, please share your knowledge...


And on a side note, congratulations to all those that did succeed in their application for the Mt Gambier fulltime crew.  Job well done ! :)
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Toast on October 03, 2006, 07:29:43 PM
Did they do the beep test once and all reached the required level of 9.6....on their first go?
I would suggest that the lads down at the Mt. knew about the need for permanent staff a while ago. Hence they've had months to build up fitness, even if they were'nt that fit to begin with.

After a month or two of running 9.6 is like a walk in the park.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 03, 2006, 10:24:19 PM
also that doesnt paint a good picture for Mt Gambier, insinuating theyre unfit and slobbish needing more than 1 go to get 9.6.  As has been said after a bit of basic fitness training you can get through easily enough. 
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 04, 2006, 08:14:57 AM
I am not calling anyone unfit etc. Im sure the Gambier boys are up to any task.

Dont put words in my mouth or cast dispersions about what I am saying. Are you trying to turn this into a huge filtered fight.

Its a simple question.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Mike on October 04, 2006, 08:45:56 AM
Unfortunately it a question many of us cant answer, and the man to answer is off doing training at the moment (with very limited web access).

I believe the others were just wondering why the question was asked. Is there something that makes you believe that the selection process was altered in some way, shape or form?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 04, 2006, 01:51:48 PM
Unfortunately it a question many of us cant answer, and the man to answer is off doing training at the moment (with very limited web access).

I believe the others were just wondering why the question was asked. Is there something that makes you believe that the selection process was altered in some way, shape or form?

Great point Mike, it would appear that it is a question that many of us can't answer it (I know I can't), so it is again though no suprise that other's want to put their two bobs worth in before someone who can does.
  Yes one would suspect that K99 may just know something that the rest of the world doesn't and it is a provocative question, but does this in anyway
give the rest of the gongbeaters the right to start manipulating a simple yes or no question, I think not.  If someone does in fact answer the question, if it is a yes, well then i'm sure K99 will probably sleep better at night and everyone else will bag him for a bit and continue to gongbeat along. But if the answer is NO, then i'm sure K99 will have done some people favours, and maybe he isn't just being a filtered for asking such a question. So weather you're a moderator, Capt, Lt or whatever, how about waiting for an answer before gobbing off (as usual)

Mod note: Please let the filter do its thing...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 04, 2006, 02:06:03 PM
dont circumvent the language filter.



capt lt on this forum means nothiong to do with rank, but it really di appear to be a loaded question and if you couldnt see that then you need to stop gonging yourself.  Yes it would be good to get an official answer.  In time it will happen.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Mike on October 04, 2006, 02:09:36 PM
Lets all take a deep breath and wait until Mat has an opportunity to get back online.....
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 04, 2006, 02:13:19 PM
Yeah everybody just calm down, your not at a fire call now. :-D
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: oz fire on October 04, 2006, 02:15:22 PM
OR ..... if you really can't sleep, phone the Regional MFS manager and as him or phone the DO in charge of training and as him.

At the end of the day, it makes little difference, Mt gambier was an execption to the traditional intake in MFS - time will tell if they use this style again (i.e. offer retained firies first)
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 04, 2006, 02:15:33 PM
 I for one hear what ya saying Mike.  :lol:
And is it really bad language if the filter doesn't filter it?

Ahhh Fedex chill man we all know the difference between a cyber captain and a real one.   :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 04, 2006, 02:28:03 PM
OR ..... if you really can't sleep, phone the Regional MFS manager and as him or phone the DO in charge of training and as him.

At the end of the day, it makes little difference, Mt Gambier was an execption to the traditional intake in MFS - time will tell if they use this style again (i.e. offer retained firies first)
  I mean ohhh really, you try and tell that to Little Johnny Binglebum's mum.  He committed suicide last month because he failed his beep test by .027secs on the first go and therefore failed entry to the SAMFS.And that's all he ever wanted to do when he grew up, poor bugga won't get the chance now will he  :-(. His poor mum can't even look at a BRT and when she hears a siren poor woman ends up in the fetal position.  So don't tell me it makes little difference, more importantly you tell Little Johnny's mum
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 04, 2006, 03:56:52 PM
Little Johnny Binglebum would ahve failed the psych test if a beep test can throw him over the egde.  (had to put in that pun, just had too) :-P 

Dont worry Johnny Slob is trying out for MFS next intake, he might make the beep test.

Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 04, 2006, 04:30:14 PM
 yey, finally some humour back in the post. he he he   :-)
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on October 04, 2006, 06:57:48 PM
I really dont think the question is anyones business. You can ring whoever you like but I am very doubtful they will talk to you about it, its called the privacy act.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 04, 2006, 07:51:33 PM
  Well i'm proud to say, I passed my beep test on the first go, don't have a problem sayin it loud and sayin it proud  :-)
  Oh and by the way, the privacy act will only prevent the release of the individuals name or any method of identifying them, not the fact that the process was altered.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 04, 2006, 07:56:31 PM
Where are you based?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 04, 2006, 08:02:45 PM
You got something to hide Ath?

Know something we dont...hey,,hey...something we dont,,hey hey,trying to hide behind privvy act, hey, come on "do tell"
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on October 04, 2006, 09:34:56 PM
Mines bigger than yours nuh uh mines bigger., please. :roll:
Honestly who gives a toss
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Toast on October 04, 2006, 09:58:51 PM
YEAH WELL IM SO GOOD THAT I DIDNT NEED TO DO THE BEEP TEST SAMFS LOOKED AT ME AND I WAS IN, BUT THEN I DID IT ANYWAY AND GOT TO LEVEL 143.32 I WASNT EVEN BREATHING HARD THATS HOW GOOD I AM.

Now, shall we all stop the cock measuring?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: RescueHazmat on October 05, 2006, 03:00:41 AM
Where are you based?

Just for info, passing the beep test doesn't ensure selection.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Robert-Robert34 on October 05, 2006, 09:39:27 AM
Now Now Children play nice  :lol: by the sound of things becoming a Full Time MFS Fire Fighter is much harder than getting in as a Part Time Retained one as the fitness and other requirements are much more rigorous
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: PF_ on October 05, 2006, 10:21:40 AM
Where are you based?

Just for info, passing the beep test doesn't ensure selection.

yeah I know.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: pumprescue on October 05, 2006, 09:52:52 PM
K99 you are obviously in the MFS, so I ask can you still maintain 9.6 or have you slipped to the way side a tad....The Mt Gambier boys and girls would prob run rings around most full time MFS people now, cause they actually see fire and have to get gear off the truck.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 05, 2006, 10:38:18 PM
K99 you are obviously in the MFS, so I ask can you still maintain 9.6 or have you slipped to the way side a tad....The Mt Gambier boys and girls would prob run rings around most full time MFS people now, cause they actually see fire and have to get gear off the truck.

 I don't know why I'm stickin up for him coz he's a turd , but K99 still exceeds 9.6  and yes all it doesnt guarantee selection, but it's the first step (well meant to be)  :-o
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 06, 2006, 08:00:53 AM
 
K99 you are obviously in the MFS, so I ask can you still maintain 9.6 or have you slipped to the way side a tad....The Mt Gambier boys and girls would prob run rings around most full time MFS people now, cause they actually see fire and have to get gear off the truck.
                                                                      I get it pumprescue, If my fitness ever falls to your level, which will probably happen when I turn 80 years old, all I have to do to keep my fitness up is to look at fire and takes things off a truck.

Quick ring up Australias Institute of Sport and tell them your secret on how to maintain fitness. Imagine how fit our athletes would be if they justed looked at fire and remove gear from a truck!!.What about if they put the gear back on the truck. They would be so fit.

Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: bajdas on October 06, 2006, 04:49:46 PM
Is a MFS Retained firefighter on a employment contract for a certain number of years or permanent ?

I understand that two types of MFS retained exist, like the new Mt Gambier permanent day crew & the standby crew.

Just comparing the work provisions to other forms of work. eg permanent part-time, part-time, permanent full-time, etc.

It was posted earlier that the commitment was to stay for 4 years at Mt Gambier before moving stations, so i was wondering if this was controlled by a contract.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: medevac on October 06, 2006, 05:16:41 PM
well i have to say, even if your not actually in the service.... you (K99 & gongbeater) definitely sound like a stereo typical firefighter.....


full of scheiße and cocky as hell

but i wonT hold it against ya, it makes for ammusing reading
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 06, 2006, 07:23:16 PM
well i have to say, even if your not actually in the service.... you (K99 & gongbeater) definitely sound like a stereo typical firefighter.....


full of filtered and cocky as filtered

but i wonT hold it against ya, it makes for ammusing reading

tssk tssk tssk, Medevac personal attacks I mean really  :-D
"cocky as filtered" yeah pretty much you can afford to be when ya actually know ya stuff  :-D

"full of filtered" man that cuts to the bone  :lol: as opposed to  soo many of the "supposed learned ones" who post here and have actually attended less fire calls in the last ten years than I attended last week :-D

  but I won't hold it against ya medevac, after all "I know it's only rock'n'roll and I like it"   8-)

Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: medevac on October 06, 2006, 07:27:48 PM
sorry mate, dont take it as personal...

im just noticing by the trend of your posts that you are extremely full of yourself.

Its all well and good to know YOUR stuff.

you just sounds liek a bit of a crank.... 'tis all good.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: RescueHazmat on October 06, 2006, 07:31:52 PM
The joys of forums, multiple accounts to single users and hilariously outlandish discussion...


Maybe we could get back to the Mt. Gambier MFS topic..?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 06, 2006, 07:34:20 PM
The joys of forums, multiple accounts to single users and hilariously outlandish discussion...


Maybe we could get back to the Mt. Gambier MFS topic..?

Im still waiting for my question to be answered. HO HUM :|
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 06, 2006, 07:39:17 PM
 ha ha ha all good I don't take it personal, its all a laugh.  
Why a laugh, because take a step back and really have a look at the majority of posts around here, bucket loads of firey's  (MFS and CFS) do actually come here and have a look, and then the general conversation is "OMG did you see what those gongbeaters have been sayin on that website?" So to me that suggests the actual cranks and gongbeaters are several of the posters located here.  :-) So kickback, relax and enjoy the ride  :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 06, 2006, 07:43:27 PM
The joys of forums, multiple accounts to single users and hilariously outlandish discussion...


Maybe we could get back to the Mt. Gambier MFS topic..?

  Everyone step into my cone of silence because i'll say this only once, I am not, have not, never been anyone other than BYGB, i'm not a multiple account single user, my comments are attributed to me and only me, i'm more than happy to offend everyone under the one username.  :-)

Yeah and lets get back to K99's question........ :lol:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: medevac on October 06, 2006, 07:45:24 PM
The joys of forums, multiple accounts to single users and hilariously outlandish discussion...


Maybe we could get back to the Mt. Gambier MFS topic..?

lol but it keeps us amused...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on October 06, 2006, 07:55:29 PM
I am the one and only as well and as my user name suggests, I am fully involved.

Step into my world and i will show you a place of professionalism and courage.

I am one but still do the work of ten men.

I am not a firefighter I am the firefighter.

Step back and be prepared to be burned.
Step up and prepare to learn.

Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: medevac on October 06, 2006, 07:56:42 PM
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHHA AHAHA ahahah AHAHA ahhaha...


Aaaaahhhh ba-jesus...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on October 06, 2006, 07:59:25 PM
I am the one and only as well and as my user name suggests, I am fully involved.

Step into my world and i will show you a place of professionalism and courage.

I am one but still do the work of ten men.

I am not a firefighter I am the firefighter.

Step back and be prepared to be burned.
Step up and prepare to learn.



  OMG now i'm inspired !!!!!!!!! :-D
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: pumprescue on October 06, 2006, 09:49:02 PM
You guys must be quiet on C shift!!!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on October 08, 2006, 08:11:39 PM
Man....There has been some activity here since I was last on!!!

I will clear one thing up though!

I passed the "beep test" first time running 9.7 before they stopped me and I am still working on a higher mark.(highest I made it was 10.3 in training)

This subject is a sensitive one among the crew, as many unfortunately didn't "make the cut"

You also re-run the test in the drill squad around 3 more times of which we have done it again once and I passed again.

If you didn't pass it again, you would have a chance to achieve it again, otherwise your out of the squad.(that's what we were told anyway)

Anyhow, we have just finished week 5, so we have 9 weeks to go!

Have been doing BA rotation for the last 2 weeks with the new Auer airsets with the new Telemetry reporting systems and finish it tomorrow before moving on to pumps.

Anyhow, I will disappear for a while,

Cheers Mat.



Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Mike on October 16, 2006, 09:52:08 AM
Thanks Mat...... keep up the hard work ;)
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Tone7 on October 31, 2006, 11:05:40 PM
so when is lincoln going full time with all its false calls
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on October 31, 2006, 11:23:58 PM
In line behind port augusta, whyalla, murray bridge.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Ports on November 01, 2006, 06:53:42 AM
Linc24p, I am wondering what you are basing your comments on when you refer to Port Lincoln MFS's so called false calls?

Also, most of the major regional MFS stations will be looked at in the near future for day crewing as per Mt Gambier but I would expect this will be done progressively over the next 3,4,5 to 10 years.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 02, 2006, 06:56:27 PM
 Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
« Reply #133 on: October 31, 2006, 11:05:40 PM »   

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

so when is lincoln going full time with all its false calls

Since the invention of fire alarms in 18??  we have been going to false alarms you know. Doesnt mean we dont need fire services.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: RescueHazmat on November 02, 2006, 11:11:24 PM
One of the largest incidents I have attended to date came through as a fire alarm...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on November 04, 2006, 06:01:49 AM
Well it wont be long that the full timers will be on shift,hope mat can provide a update soon once he has a free min....TONE 7 mate you need to get a life,there is no such thing as a false fix alarm.they are caused for a reason and if you and any idea you would look into the whole set up of alarm system rather than sit in here and attack the system. mat you would have to be the most negative person in this site,do you ever say anything nice or are you just a brown stirrer......
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on November 04, 2006, 08:58:05 AM
One of the largest incidents I have attended to date came through as a fire alarm...

No sh!t Sherlock... A lot of jobs come through as fire alarms. Why do you think buildings etc have alarms fitted!!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on November 04, 2006, 01:56:30 PM
 I've been to heaps of false alarms, earlier this morning, I went for my morning constitutional.  False alarm, got comfy with the paper, seat all warm, and that was it, big loud smelly noise and nothing else. :lol:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: RescueHazmat on November 04, 2006, 02:06:04 PM
One of the largest incidents I have attended to date came through as a fire alarm...

No sh!t Sherlock... A lot of jobs come through as fire alarms. Why do you think buildings etc have alarms fitted!!

I was reinforcing the fact that alarms shouldn't be taken with any less apt or professionalism... Now, can we grow up a little and leave the snarly and sarcastic posts in the gutter where they belong?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on November 04, 2006, 02:08:21 PM
Quote
Now, can we grow up a little and leave the snarly and sarcastic posts in the gutter where they belong?

  That hurt, I want my moderator rep to take action on this  :x
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: RescueHazmat on November 04, 2006, 02:12:16 PM
 :-)


On the topic of Mt Gambier, will both shifts be training with each other? - I would be assuming so? But just wondering how it works, and if it would be like a Pt Pirie setup?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Camo on November 04, 2006, 02:46:36 PM
Mt Gambier is only going to be a day shift 8am - 4pm. Mon - Fri.

Fires dont happen outside those hours  :-D
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 24P on November 04, 2006, 02:49:14 PM
Mt Gambier is only going to be a day shift 8am - 4pm. Mon - Fri.

Fires dont happen outside those hours  :-D
Isnt it the other way 'round? All the alarms happen 8-4 and the real stuff after?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Camo on November 04, 2006, 03:00:35 PM
Well that is a valid point!

I guess they know what they are doing but i have always wondered whether taking 5 highly qualified fire fighters out of the equation was the right thing to do.

Majority of large fires in Mt Gambier (and probaly everywhere else) happens at night.  Therefore im guessing these full time FF's will not be able to respond to.  And although the rest of the station are still qualified it does leave them a bit short staffed.

Until 1 appliance goes completely full time there will be issues but i can only presume these will be sorted out as they happen.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 04, 2006, 03:19:07 PM
Dont know what will be happenning with training yet. The full timers will be doing most/all of their training during the day. Will see what the new SO will want to do when he starts. Our station will be nothing like Pirie (hopefully) with only day staffing at this stage.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on November 04, 2006, 03:26:36 PM
What's that full time crew get paged and then the retained get a page 4 minutes later saying "FIRE CALL ATTEND STATION" :|
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on November 04, 2006, 03:31:26 PM
  Well i'm proud to say, I passed my beep test on the first go, don't have a problem sayin it loud and sayin it proud  :-)
  Oh and by the way, the privacy act will only prevent the release of the individuals name or any method of identifying them, not the fact that the process was altered.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on November 04, 2006, 03:33:57 PM


tssk tssk tssk, Medevac personal attacks I mean really  :-D
"cocky as filtered" yeah pretty much you can afford to be when ya actually know ya stuff  :-D

"full of filtered" man that cuts to the bone  :lol: as opposed to  soo many of the "supposed learned ones" who post here and have actually attended less fire calls in the last ten years than I attended last week :-D


Dunno Gong kinda sound like a full timer?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 04, 2006, 03:44:06 PM
Apparently some of the calls station 50 get come in on a local phone line. Ours will come through town on the pagers just like now.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Ryan on November 04, 2006, 06:12:14 PM
maybe we need a false alarm thread for all this.

Good idea Ryan!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Big Yellow Gongbeater on November 04, 2006, 07:27:06 PM


tssk tssk tssk, Medevac personal attacks I mean really  :-D
"cocky as filtered" yeah pretty much you can afford to be when ya actually know ya stuff  :-D

"full of filtered" man that cuts to the bone  :lol: as opposed to  soo many of the "supposed learned ones" who post here and have actually attended less fire calls in the last ten years than I attended last week :-D


Dunno Gong kinda sound like a full timer?
Ha ha ha ha, love ya work MundCFS, just coz I passed the Pat1 doesn't necessarily mean i'm a SAMFS fulltime firie. I could've failed the Pat2 and or interview. And I may just be a member of one of an extremely busy Urban Fringe CFS brigade (remember there's a huge difference in call outs between the top 10 responding brigades and the rest of the state)   :-P

"The seek him here, they seek him there"
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on November 04, 2006, 08:13:54 PM
Apparently some of the calls station 50 get come in on a local phone line. Ours will come through town on the pagers just like now.

Quite often see a page from MFS for 501 to respond with the fulltimer's pager and then 4mins later for the retained with that "FIRE CALL ATTEND STATION".
I think it has been discussed on here before about retainee's at pirie only being called for some calls
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Ryan on November 04, 2006, 08:47:20 PM
maybe theyre not needed for the incident. 

What is the official starting date for Mt Gambier to start their fulltime work?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on November 05, 2006, 05:17:51 AM
I think its the 1st of Jan 2007
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 05, 2006, 09:15:33 AM
Actually its the 2nd of January as they wont be working on public holidays.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on November 05, 2006, 01:00:29 PM
So what they will get ever public holiday off?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 24P on November 05, 2006, 02:47:37 PM
^ sounds like the easy life to me, weekends off + public holidays. I wonder how many MFS S/O's applied for the job down there?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Ryan on November 05, 2006, 04:10:13 PM
Did the current retained captain/SO get the full time job?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Camo on November 05, 2006, 06:26:01 PM
nope didnt apply as far as i know...probaly getting along a bit to be worried about it as well.  65 i think?  ath?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Ryan on November 05, 2006, 07:17:41 PM
so is S/O being taken from those that applied for the full timer job or a current MFS S/O?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 05, 2006, 07:22:24 PM
A current SO from Adelaide has been appointed to Mt Gambier.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on November 09, 2006, 06:41:09 PM
Howdy!!

I'm back online for a moment so I thought I'd say G'Day to everyone.

Just about thru week ten of fourteen, so things are moving along quite quickly now!

Finished all modules such as BA, RCR, Pumps, Hazmat etc and are starting scenario drills shortly before going to Brukunga for Hot Firepad in the second to last week.

Cannot wait to get home and be operational again as I am sure I am getting withdrawal symptoms!

Anyhow, until next time, keep safe!

Regards, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Robert-Robert34 on November 09, 2006, 08:45:55 PM
I got one question when Mount Gambier becomes a full time station will it be using a dispatch talkgroup for turn outs during day time like Adelaide MFS does or will TG 195 bee for all comms including dispatch  :? 
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: medevac on November 09, 2006, 09:07:47 PM
robert - i would presume it will remain on regional talkgroup.

pirie is a retained country station, they have an 'extra crewman' that is in station for comms
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: RescueHazmat on November 09, 2006, 11:01:02 PM
At Pirie, I believe the initial paid crew goes (leaving the 5th behind), and if retained are required they are responded to station. The fulltimer which was left goes on the truck with the retained crew, then one retained member stays back for comms.

I think that's how they work it? Been a couple years since I have asked / heard...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 10, 2006, 01:41:50 PM
That hasnt been worked out yet Robert. There may only be enough crew to man the first appliance so the comms may go initially through Adelaide until someone arrives from the retained crew to open the local comms. Mt Gambier will not have a 5th person to ride in charge of the 2nd Appliance like Pirie do. They have a Senior Firey who does that or comms. Mt Gambier will only have a Station Ofiicer and one or two crew leaders on station and maybe only 4 people on some days.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: medevac on November 10, 2006, 07:14:01 PM
perhaps MFS could employ robert to do it from Kalangadoo sub-base?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Camo on November 10, 2006, 07:30:48 PM
perhaps MFS could employ robert to do it from Kalangadoo sub-base?

Thats using your noodle!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on November 10, 2006, 07:42:08 PM
dont know if the string and can are that long.... :evil:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Ryan on November 10, 2006, 08:27:59 PM
and maybe only 4 people on some days.

maybe, isnt a fulltime crew only 4 people anyway to go with the 1 and 3 ruling of 1 man in charge of 3 crew.  Most MFS appliances are only run with 4.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on November 11, 2006, 08:25:52 AM
have seen some mfs crews of late with only 3 in the appliances.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 11, 2006, 09:00:55 AM
Well the thing is there will be 6 people in total. Most of the time there may be one person on leave and that would leave 5 but if someone is away sick or whatever there will be 4. But of course if there is 5 there then yes one will stay to do radio initially at least at there are only 4 seats on the Scania.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Ryan on November 11, 2006, 11:33:45 AM
have seen some mfs crews of late with only 3 in the appliances.

not on a  fulltime I wouldnt think, they call people back if theyre 1 short. 

Okay, so does every few weeks or so a firefighters gets a week holiday  or whatever to leave it with 5?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 11, 2006, 11:35:31 AM
They get 4 weeks every 200 days or something like that. Someone else on this list should have better idea.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: SA Firey on November 24, 2006, 03:03:55 PM
They get 4 weeks every 200 days or something like that. Someone else on this list should have better idea.

385 members on here there is bound to be someone :wink:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Robert-Robert34 on November 24, 2006, 05:34:30 PM
I tried to get into MFS but the maths test was really hard  :-( however i do enjoy listening to our metro boys responding to a fire call via my scanner  :-D also it was an added bonus yesterday getting some footage of them respond to the alarm at K-Mart  :wink:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 24, 2006, 07:36:00 PM
Did you apply for retained in Mt Gambier or full time in Adelaide Rob?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Robert-Robert34 on November 24, 2006, 07:50:13 PM
i applied for a retained position in Mount Gambier ath but due to the difficulty of the math questions i didn't pass
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Ryan on November 24, 2006, 09:08:13 PM
To be retained you need to live within 7km of the station too.  I didnt think retainers had tests like that to get into.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 25, 2006, 07:51:11 AM
Retainers have to live within 10 minutes travelling time of the station. You have to pass a screening process which includes
-Police check
-Short numeracy and literacy test
-Panel interview
-Physical aptitude test (differnt from pat1/2)
-Medical
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: SA Firey on November 25, 2006, 01:04:06 PM
And watch out for the CFA physical at Fiskville.....they dont tell you when you go till you get there.....10km run in under 40 minutes carrying a 20kg knapsack...in your turnout gear minus the coat :?
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on November 25, 2006, 03:25:48 PM
Howdy Guys and Gals,

Just dropping in for a moment whilst online again!
Finished week 12 of 14 and are getting ready to head up to Brukunga for Compartment and Hot Pad training this Monday.
Should be good and everyone is looking forward to being there!

Anyhow, Catch you all later probably next weekend!

Cheers, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on November 26, 2006, 08:18:37 AM
Have fun there mat,any photos of you guys doing ya training????
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: K99 on November 26, 2006, 01:39:47 PM
And watch out for the CFA physical at Fiskville.....they dont tell you when you go till you get there.....10km run in under 40 minutes carrying a 20kg knapsack...in your turnout gear minus the coat :?

This has got to be a joke. 10 kms in under 40 minutes is good but in your turn out pants etc and carrying a 20 kg knapsack, I dont think so.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: RescueHazmat on November 26, 2006, 05:18:37 PM
I have to agree, that is a rather rough test...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: SA Firey on November 27, 2006, 08:56:34 AM
And watch out for the CFA physical at Fiskville.....they dont tell you when you go till you get there.....10km run in under 40 minutes carrying a 20kg knapsack...in your turnout gear minus the coat :?

This has got to be a joke. 10 kms in under 40 minutes is good but in your turn out pants etc and carrying a 20 kg knapsack, I dont think so.

Would like to think the same but a friend of mine went in and out of 680 they only took 20 :wink:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 27, 2006, 04:00:50 PM
Think we are getting off topic here.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on November 28, 2006, 08:44:48 PM
So Athol, what do the others think of the new paid staff coming on board? and will it really help you guys out seeing as you still have to turn out with the second appliances....
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on November 29, 2006, 03:11:26 PM
Well it will be interesting for everyone. Some things are still to be worked out. The 1st appliance will certainly be on the road quicker during the day but we will still need to take out the other appliance(s) as you said. Also we (retainers)will be the only ones responding to all night/weekend/public holiday incidents. Its a start I guess, will have to build an accomodation block before we can get too carried away.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on December 03, 2006, 05:26:14 PM
go up and put in a firemans pole.......
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Timbo on December 03, 2006, 09:25:04 PM
Howdy Guys and Gals,

Just dropping in for a moment whilst online again!
Finished week 12 of 14 and are getting ready to head up to Brukunga for Compartment and Hot Pad training this Monday.
Should be good and everyone is looking forward to being there!

Anyhow, Catch you all later probably next weekend!

Cheers, Mat

Hey Mat, Great display Thursday Night - you guys did a great job - well done.
You all looked very professional, and very well drilled.
Jeez the Bullet was toasty warm though.
MrT
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on December 06, 2006, 07:45:14 PM
Your right about the bullet being toasty!! :-D

I was on one of the advancing hoselines and it was a bit warm, but impressive to watch thru the fog pattern!

Brukunga was a great part of the course, which I think everyone enjoyed.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on December 06, 2006, 07:55:07 PM
To answer a question that had been asked on this forum, communications will still go through Mt Gambier fire on GRN 195 when the day staffing begins. Occasionally if the comms room is not manned the first responding appliance can log on with Adelaide fire on 154. This rarely happens now but is available to us.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on December 15, 2006, 12:30:47 PM
Howdy everyone!
I'm finally back home! :-D

It's great to be back home again, but for good this time.
We start on station this coming Monday which we are all looking forward to, but will probably feel a bit strange for a few days until we settle in again!
I will be on this site more often again as I am back on the good old reliable home internet connection which I lacked whilst in Adelaide.

Anyhow, chat to you all soon!

Regards, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on December 15, 2006, 03:20:52 PM
Welcome home MAT, hope you enjoy your new full time job I may have to pop in and say gday now that the station is manned...
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Camo on December 15, 2006, 04:00:00 PM
Will have to catch up Matt.

Think i have a couple of BA cylinders that need filling anyway.  :-D
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: F.B.R.T on December 15, 2006, 08:04:11 PM
Yes guys you will have to drop in and say g'day! :-)
We will be there from 0830 to 1630 weekdays so pop in and have a chat!
Cheers, Mat
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: mengcfs on January 19, 2007, 09:55:38 AM
Confirmed in todays Advertiser 6 full time positions have been filled at Mt Gambier.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: probie_boy on February 10, 2007, 09:48:18 AM
sweetest gig in the state. congratulations boys!
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Blue on February 18, 2007, 05:06:49 PM
This thread has gone very very quiet....it's all been in place now for about two months, so how goes it?  :-P

Blue
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Scania_1 on February 18, 2007, 07:31:59 PM
Things are going very well so far. Not a lot to post.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Ryan on February 18, 2007, 08:45:43 PM
what was the first job they did
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on February 21, 2007, 03:43:05 PM
more than likely a fixed alarm :-D
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Alan (Big Al) on February 21, 2007, 03:48:11 PM
I think somebody said it was a secondary alarm. :roll:
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Camo on February 21, 2007, 06:12:41 PM
Think it was a No carrier Alarm at Boandik Lodge (local nursing home).  Dont think they even dragged the truck out the door.
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: 5271rescue on February 22, 2007, 03:09:29 PM
well what do I win?????
Title: Re: Mt Gambier MFS going full time
Post by: Camo on February 22, 2007, 04:11:27 PM
a kick up the donkey     :-D