This year SAVEM presented a new program for Radio Comms training, changing the format to a single six-hour session rather than two three-hour sessions. Trainees were expertly instructed by Mark Thomason – Mark has many years experience as a Level 3 Incident Controller with the South Australian Country Fire Service, as well as volunteering with his local CFS brigade. SAVEM Training Team member and former air traffic controller Steve Selwood assisted in the practical exercises.
The morning was devoted to theory with a short revision of Action Plans and Communications Plans, followed by radio pro-words, the phonetic alphabet and formulating messages. Radio systems, limitations and troubleshooting completed the morning sessions.
Four practical exercises held after the lunch break gave trainees opportunities to practise initiating and answering radio transmissions, using the phonetic alphabet and transmitting several SitReps scenarios.
SAVEM volunteers will have another opportunity to practise radio skills at Exercise Respond 2022 in October.
Thanks to all participants and trainers.
Photo: trainers Mark and Steve with a group of trainees.
