How many new recruits does it take to prime a pump? Experience shows that this number is usually directly proportional to the number of scenarios attended by each, which is why last Saturday’s scenario at Newlands Fire Base saw a good turn-out of new recruits and active members. Gathered for the first official training scenario of the VWS 2010 season for the Newlands station, members were divided into small teams and were required to complete a 45 minute fitness walk before engaging in team-based skills training sessions. Abseiling, knots, GPS navigation, radio comms, pumps and hoses were all covered in the course of the morning.

Saturday’s session was followed by a night hike scenario on Wednesday 9 June. Members were divided into 6 crews and carried hand tools and packs for the duration of the three hour hike. Not for sissies, the hike covered a 10.7km route from Newlands Fire Base up towards the block house and back around towards the forest again.

With upcoming skills refreshers, evaluations, night hikes and scenarios planned for the five months over winter, VWS Newlands members certainly have their work cut out for them. Good luck for the training season. Special thanks to those who could assist with the session training which went off without hitch.

By Emma Lambert-Porter