Hallam Fire Brigade open day

Words by Audrey Corcoran, Hallam Fire Brigade Media Liaison Officer
Photos by Keith Pakenham

Hallam Fire Brigade held its annual Open Day on Sunday 5 October 2008.

Juniors showing off their skills

The day was a great success, with a strong crowd of well over 850 people. Members of the public were able to view emergency appliances from other fire stations such as Dandenong, Hampton Park and Frankston.

Activities on the day included Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) response exercises, junior brigades running team demonstrations, Thermal Imaging Camera and trench rescue displays with station tours conducted throughout the day.

Children were able to learn about what to do in a fire through home safety displays and the very popular smokehouse activity. They also had the opportunity to participate in a treasure hunt and colouring-in activities. The Hallam Brigade Auxiliary provided a sausage sizzle and complimentary cups of tea or coffee with cake.

(L to R) M Tiberi, Second Lieutenant Paul Roberts, Dennis Vlug participate in a HAZMAT Training Exercise

Great interest was shown in the junior brigade; young members were on hand during the day to demonstrate their fire fighting skills. The junior brigade is open to 11 – 16 year olds who are keen to develop basic firefighting and teamwork skills.

Some of the appliances there on the day were Hampton Park’s new tanker, Frankston’s Teleboom, and Dandenong’s platform. Local Police were also there with a police car and control unit.

The day was well supported by the local community and Hallam Fire Brigade members would like to thank all those who came along for their support - the day could not have been the success it was without them.

Special thanks to our supporters Susan Day Cakes, Tip Top and also to Anthony Byrne, Federal Member for Holt, for his surprise visit.

Dandenong Fire Officer Andrew Turner suspended mid-air

(L to R) Janet Smith, Joan Kolbe, Fred Kolbe and Lyn Reading cooking up a storm