Big thanks for the firies

ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Emergency Management Minister Nicola Roxon visited the Sassafras-Ferny Creek Fire Brigade recently to thank firefighters for their hard work.
Firefighters from Sassafras-Ferny Creek were joined by a host of others from around the hills, as well as SES volunteers from Narre Warren.
Ms Roxon, who was accompanied by La Trobe MP Laura Smyth, said with many communities across the country experiencing severe bushfire conditions, it was time to remember the crucial role the CFA, SES and other emergency service volunteers played in safeguarding and supporting communities.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our firefighting efforts and Victorian communities are better protected because of the work they do,” she said.
She urged residents to have bushfire plans in place and to be prepared.
“It’s important to be aware of your local emergency services, how you can support the volunteers that support you, the local evacuation plan for your child’s school or who to call if you’re in trouble,” Ms Roxon said.
“Up-to-date information is critical when disaster strikes. Thanks to our improvements to the Emergency Alert system, locals and visitors to Sassafras or Ferny Creek or the Hills generally will be able to receive emergency alerts to their Telstra mobile phone if disaster does strike.”
Narre Warren SES deputy controller John Wall said it was nice to speak to Ms Roxon.
“She and Laura have a great appreciation for what we do as volunteers, and it was good to let them know about the issues we face and how the government could help us manage them,” he said.
“What I like about both of them is not only do they hear what you are saying but they take in what you are saying as well.”