WICEN NSW stood down in fires

The immense devastation caused by the bushfires in New South Wales has destroyed more than 220 homes, caused the evacuation of thousands and on insurance claims alone cost $100 million. Although cooler weather with a southerly change dampened many fires, it still was one of the largest ever outbreaks in New South Wales.

At the height of the disaster a State of Emergency was declared. The Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) activated WICEN NSW on Tuesday fearing the worst. WICEN's job was to help the VRA with manpower for police type duties like road blocks, advice to residents and evacuations.

WICEN Publicity Officer Julian Sortland VK2YJS said on Thursday that due to an improvement in conditions in the Lithgow region, WICEN has been stood down. Julian VK2YJS said while members of other Volunteer Rescue Association squads did work overnight on October the 23rd, it appears no further involvement is required.

The VRA was very impressed by WICEN's ability to provide personnel at such short notice.

(Jim Linton VK3PC, Chairman IARU Region 3 Disaster Communications Committee).

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