The Newstead Group Exercise took place on Friday night, September 11. It proved to be a valuable learning experience for the crews, support personnel and town residents.

Many of the crews were already tired after a day’s work; this is a common scenario for CFA incidents, and all performed very creditably. There were about 12 Newstead members present, with a high proportion of new members. To quote one member on her first exercise: ”There were many complicated things to do, with the night-time aspect having a multiplier effect. This was a good learning experience, and good preparation for the real thing.” With the aim of the exercise being to give new crew an opportunity to carry out tasks in a supported environment, this was a fine endorsement.

The road “accident” with many hazardous materials on board, the house “fires” and the pole “fire” were all dealt with in turn. The problems that arose have focussed crews’ minds on what to look for in genuine incidents. Several townspeople were surprised by all the activity, but not Echo readers or website followers, who have had good warning of the event. It also provided a mental preparation for the fire season to come.

Group Officer David Farrell gave a debrief at the post-exercise barbecue, and thanked crews and our generous supporters: Mrs Bright of Hilliers St and the O’Sullivan family of Panmure St for kindly making their houses available; St John Ambulance of Daylesford for rescue facilities; the Salvation Army for the excellent catering. Our sincere thanks to you all.