Emergency services volunteers and leaders from across the Midwest-Gascoyne region gathered in Geraldton on 22-23 August for the Midwest-Gascoyne (MWG) Leaders Forum, providing an opportunity to discuss key challenges, share ideas and strengthen collaboration across the sector.
Representing the SES Volunteers Association (SESVA) were Vice President North Ross Jones and Hugh Bryan, SESVA representative for the Midwest Gascoyne region, who joined volunteer leaders, District Officers and DFES representatives for the two-day event.
The forum opened with an address from Chief Superintendent Andrew Wright, who spoke about leadership changes within DFES and outlined potential future developments, including the creation of Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services (VFES) units to support Incident Control Vehicle (ICV) crews and Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) operations.
Participants also heard from retired Police Superintendent Geoff Stewart APM, whose engaging presentation on leadership provided valuable insights drawn from his extensive police and emergency services experience.
On the second day, attendees took part in service-specific breakout sessions where SES leaders discussed a range of operational and organisational priorities. Topics included volunteer recruitment and retention, callout response rates, training attendance and currency requirements, operational preparedness, access to resources during operations, support for Unit Managers, financial guidance, library resources and planning for regional exercises in 2027.
A practical demonstration by Steve Cable and Henrick Strand showcased new Clark mast systems and Automated Traffic Units (portable traffic lights), giving participants an opportunity to see the latest equipment in action.
Ross Jones was also invited to address the forum on behalf of SESVA, highlighting the Association’s role in advocating for volunteers across Western Australia. His presentation covered SESVA’s advocacy efforts, the Association website and Facebook page, current vacancies for the ATAG and Secretary positions, the importance of units raising issues through their Regional Representatives, and information relating to AGM delegate forms.
An update was also provided on the Vehicle Assessment Survey, including the current status of the project as it awaits consideration by the new Minister and discussion through the Volunteer Advisory Committee (VAC).
The forum generated valuable discussion on a range of issues affecting SES volunteers and reinforced the importance of collaboration between units, volunteers and DFES to ensure a strong and capable emergency services network across Western Australia.
Events such as the MWG Leaders Forum play an important role in building connections, sharing knowledge and ensuring volunteers have a voice in shaping the future of emergency services across the state