THANK YOU TO OUR RFS VOLUNTEERS
With the recent bushfires in Hawkesbury, we have seen the stellar commitment and perseverance of our RFS volunteers, staff and crew, Emergency Services personnel and National Parks teams. I want to say “thank you” on behalf of the people of Hawkesbury for protecting our houses, property and livestock. I also extend my appreciation to their families who have been understanding of the time and effort crews spent away and I want to also acknowledge employers for their flexibility and support of RFS volunteers. It is early in the fire season but we are grateful!
Just recently NSW has had a DC-10 Air Tanker drafted in from North America which can drop up to 38,000 litres of water and retardant on the blazes. This complements the Hawkesbury based Marie Bashir LAT, which can drop 15,000 litres of fire suppressant. Clearly, the NSW Government’s investment in these assets, together with ongoing replacement of fire trucks for brigades and the $17.5 million spent on the new Emergency Services Headquarters at Orchard Hills has aided these teams to work efficiently. We need your help too. I encourage all residents to be fire wise and to visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/ bush-fire-survival-plan as you make your home bushfire ready.
Why not reduce clutter in your life by accessing the new Digital Driver Licence (DDL). If you have a smartphone you can use this DDL for proof of identity and for roadside police checks. I encourage you to download the DDL and give it a go! To get a DDL, you will need to create a MyServiceNSW account at www. service.nsw.gov.au and download the Service NSW mobile app on your smartphone. If that sounds a little onerous visit your nearest Service NSW Centre, where staff can assist you. The Digital Driver Licence will always be opt-in only and it is recommended that you carry your plastic licence in the initial stages.
