More than 100 brigades have taken part in the Annual Brigade Review (ABR) Pilot project, which aims to provide a more holistic view of brigade health and capability.
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Over 100 brigades have taken part in the Annual Brigade Review
The ABR Pilot Project is testing a new approach to CFA’s traditional s29 inspections.
To comply with Section 29(b) of the CFA Act, a formal inspection and reporting process was introduced in 2004.
The ABR broadens the scope of the process to more fully identify brigade health and capability strengths, as well as gaps in conversation with brigade members.
More than 700 volunteers have taken part since the pilot started on 1 July and feedback has been positive, including:
- The broader exploration of non-operational aspects of the brigade
- The emphasis on the level of support needed by the brigade rather than a pass/fail
- The option to include a wider range of members in the process
- The availability of data in the Brigade Capability Profiling Application (BCPA) recently developed as part of another of the Chiefs Priority Projects.
Brett Myers, Commander in the North East (District 24) oversaw participation of the ABR at Rutherglen Fire Brigade.
“It was a pleasure to undertake the Annual Brigade Review with Rutherglen Fire Brigade,” Brett said.
“It was reassuring to have a large amount of brigade members present and engaged in the operation, function and review of the brigade.”
As the pilot phase of the project tests the ABR process, the project team are gathering lessons and suggestions and making improvements where possible.
“This milestone wouldn’t have been achieved if it weren’t for the cooperation of staff and volunteers,” ABR Project Manager Debra Salvagno said.
“As we kick-off the evaluation, we look forward to continued participation – as ultimately – the aim is to ensure our programs and services deliver the best possible outcomes for brigades and their communities.”
