By Callum Ludwig
Local fire brigades joined together in a recent training exercise to help improve their capabilities in protecting a large scout camp.
Alongside the Pakenham Upper CFA and Cockatoo CFA, Hoddles Creek brigade members were given a tour of Gilwell Park in Gembrook by the Gembrook CFA and park staff.
Hoddles Creek CFA’s First Lieutenant Brett Kerford said they learnt the park is a pretty significant area for local groups and events.
“The scouts are based there, a number of the tree companies train their new hires out there, they are putting in new infrastructure like rock walls and Tough Mudder type infrastructure for people to enjoy, as well as a lot of campers and big events,” he said.
“It’s a place where a huge amount of people can be there at any one time, which is something everyone has got to be aware of if a fire or other major emergency hits the area, which we have to factor into our plans when we are protecting them and the infrastructure.”
Scout activities have been held at the campsite since 1925 and by the end of the year, the land had been gifted to the Boy Scout Association.
Mr Kerford said it’s important to protect because some of the infrastructure has been there for so many years.
“There’s a few challenges in regards to access to water, being a bushy area, so for the Gembrook brigade and Gilwell Park staff to invite us out and pass on their knowledge is vitally important,” he said.
“Having a bit of a game plan for when you go there could make a huge difference, even though of course you do have to make it up on the fly based on the challenges presented to you.”
Gilwell Park is over 160 hectares in area with over 50 buildings on site to protect.
Mr Kerford said local knowledge, particularly in regards to a fire, is hugely important.
“Knowing where a fire might come from, which areas are safer than others, we saw with a the recent fire out past Gladysdale where the local knowledge of the Little Yarra, Yarra Junction brigades and ourselves helped direct supporting brigades as to where they could provide the most help,” he said.
“We’d like to thank the Gembrook brigade and the Gilwell Park staff for inviting us along, it was very much appreciated and our members got a lot out of it.”
The upcoming ‘Gaytimes’ music and arts festival will be held at Gilwell Park from 23 to 25 February, with thousands of attendees set to make the trip to the Dandenong Ranges destination for the event.
