Things going well

[chook]

Hi guys, things going well - officially a member of NSWSES (Probationary of course).
Officially SA qualifications not recognised not the national accred ones anyway, however not hard to get that fixed (skills recognistion thru demonstration).
As the local unit is not RCR they have arranged for me to train with the closest rcr unit- to keep skills up.
Currently doing a comms course - the radios here far better than SA. The training is relaxed but competent - you actually have fun!
And finally already been asked to train people in the General rescue package, asked if I would mind going on a VR course early next year as well.
Life couldn't be simpler :-D
cheers

[rescue5271]

Nice to hear that your enjoying your move ken....

[chook]

Thanks Bill

[bittenyakka]

Good to hear.

How are the radios diffrent?

[chook]

Motorola xts 5000 instead of 2000 - bright yellow, every thing is done on the key panel, rated as intrisically safe,can talk to RFS, UHF CB, GRN,& ESO liaison channels Very easy to use and other special tricks (no emergency call button though). Down here we run on simplex thru repeaters (GRN only available closer to Sydney & is very expensive per call). However, State rescue board units (rescue accredited) are also issued police radios (remember VKG Shirl?)base station & vehicles.
Two portables per base station, vehicle & boat, trialing hands free headsets for RCR & VR crews.
Overall lots of buttons but very easy to use.
We also have a new director (ex NSWFB) & a new funding model being proposed (levy similar to the fire services).
Other things like training based on need not standards (hooray!), equipment based on need not standards  :-(
Relations between the services are not as sweet as first thought (VRA not allowed to call themselves NSW Rescue - ESO's complained to their sponsor),
VRA is well behind the other services as far as support goes & SES asking VRA units to join SES and to transfer responsibilities to SES ( even offering bribes like new vehicles, uniforms & equipment).
Anyway hope that answers your questions
cheers

[rescue5271]

Nice to see that you can See BRIBES in NSW......

[RescueHazmat]

Good to hear Chook. Stay safe. =)

[chook]

You too mate - looks like you are all in for a busy summer so take care!