Major events and CFA: Bass Coast update

Casey Stoner leading Valentino Rossi and the rest of the pack around Turn 11 at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

Words and photos supplied by Scott Hamilton, Brigade Support Officer, Bass Coast Catchment

Bass Coast is quickly becoming the hub for major local and international events within Westernport area, attracting some one million visitors annually. This has proved challenging for CFA and the local brigades in terms of emergency management and response.

CFA was on scene at this year’s MotoGP in the first weekend in October. A CFA pumper and tanker were stationed at the event, along with the Patterson River MCV and the CFA HQ mule (a four-wheeled motorised cart). A full Operational Management Plan was developed for each event, with unit crews made up of volunteers and staff from the Westernport Area.

Grand Prix Pumper and the CFA’s Mule at the Infield Fire Station along with some of our crews at the end of the event

CFA plays a leading role in preparing for these events. Preparations include a major emergency exercise to ensure that all plans and agencies involved work seamlessly. This level of inter-agency cooperation extends beyond the MotoGP, with all agencies meeting regularly during the year to assess the impact of such events on Bass Coast. In addition, CFA’s Fire Safety Officers and Dangerous Goods Officers conduct regular inspections and audits of these events.

Many brigades also roster crews on during these events, due to the increased potential for incidents. CFA conducts a special egress phase operation for major events on Phillip Island.

The rewards for CFA in having these events is we are exposed to major event planning and this allows for greater working relationships with our sister agencies and Bass Coast Shire.