bushfire evacuation plan€¦ · sub-plan to a general emergency evacuation plan currently in place...

Sydney Bushfire Consultants ______

Bushfire Evacuation Plan – Bundeena Coast Eco Lodge – Version 9.3 Ref: 100B - 085 18 April 2017 60 – 70 Bournemouth Street Bundeena NSW 2230 1 of 28

BUSHFIRE EVACUATION PLAN for

Bundeena Coast Eco Lodge

60 – 70 Bournemouth Street

Bundeena NSW 2230

18 April 2017

Prepared by; Sydney Bushfire Consultants

BPAD-A Certified Business BPD-BA-18593

Corporate Member No. 18593 FPAA

Scott Jarvis (Principal Consultant),

BPAD-Level 3 Certified Practitioner BPD-PA-18593



General

The Bundeena Coast Eco Lodge Bushfire Evacuation Plan (herein ‘the plan’) has been prepared in

accordance with approved standards (where relevant & applicable), including;

the acceptable solutions for emergency and evacuation planning as outline in section 4.2.7 of NSW

Planning for Bush Fire Protection 2006 (PBP 2006),

Australian Standard 3745 (2010) – Planning for emergencies in facilities, &

NSW Rural Fire Service – Guidelines for the Preparation of Bush Fire Evacuation Plans.

The plan is considered suitable and fit-for-purpose to ensure staff and guests within the Bundeena Coast

Eco Lodge are aware of safe emergency evacuation procedures and locations during or preceding a

bushfire emergency or facility closure.

The undersigned confirm only that they have received and reviewed the plan and have no objection to

the detail and recommended bushfire emergency management procedures contained therein. The

undersigned do not accept any liability or responsibility for any errors or omissions contained in the plan

and shall not be liable for any damages whatsoever (including loss of life or property, incidental damages

or damages for loss of profits, revenue, or loss of use) arising out of or relating to the plan.

…………………………………………………………………………. Name On behalf of the Sutherland Shire Council

…………………………………………………………………………. Name Georges River Local Emergency Management Officer - LEMO …………………………………………………………………………. Name On behalf of the NSW Police Sutherland Local Area Command …………………………………………………………………………. Name On behalf of the Fire Rescue NSW Metropolitan South 2 (Georges River) …………………………………………………………………………. Name On behalf of the Sutherland Rural Fire Service District Office



TABLE of CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................... 4

1.1 AS3745 and its relevance to the plan ......................................................................................................... 4

1.2 NSW Planning for Bush Fire Protection 2006 and its relevance to the plan............................................... 5

1.3 Resort details .............................................................................................................................................. 6

1.4 Bushfire Risk (General Comment) .............................................................................................................. 8

2.0 EVACUATION PLAN ......................................................................................................................................... 8

2.1 Triggers for Evacuation of the Resort ......................................................................................................... 9

2.2 Forest Fire Danger Index .......................................................................................................................... 10

3.0 BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON THE RESORT ..................................................................................... 11

4.0 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES ....................................................................................................................... 11

4.1 Nominated Staff to Coordinate and/or Implement Bushfire Evacuation Procedures ................................ 13

4.2 Chief Warden ............................................................................................................................................ 14

4.3 Deputy Chief Warden ................................................................................................................................ 14

4.4 Assistant Warden ...................................................................................................................................... 15

5.0 PREPAREDNESS / PROCEDURES FOR STAFF ......................................................................................... 15

5.1 Precautions for a prevailing LOW-MODERATE FDI (0-11) ...................................................................... 15

5.2 Precautions for a prevailing HIGH FDI (12-24); ........................................................................................ 15

5.3 Precautions for a prevailing VERY HIGH FDI (25-49); ............................................................................. 16

5.4 Precautions for a prevailing SEVERE FDI (50-74); .................................................................................. 16

5.5 Precautions for a prevailing EXTREME FDI (75-100); .............................................................................. 17

5.6 Precautions for a prevailing CATASTROPHIC FDI (100+, CODE RED); ................................................. 17

5.7 Additional precautions for a confirmed Bushfire Event at any level of FDI ............................................. 178

6.0 HOW TO ACCOUNT FOR PERSONS ........................................................................................................... 21

7.0 HOW TO CONTACT FAMILY MEMBERS ...................................................................................................... 22

8.0 DESIGNATED ASSEMBLY POINT ................................................................................................................ 22

9.0 TRANSPORT DETAILS .................................................................................................................................. 22

10.0 EVACUATION LOCATIONS / SAFE REFUGE (SAFE PLACE) AREAS ....................................................... 23

10.1 Offsite Safe Refuge Location (Primary) .................................................................................................... 23

10.2 Onsite Refuge Building ............................................................................................................................ 24

11.0 CONTACT DETAILS ....................................................................................................................................... 24

12.0 SECURITY DETAILS ...................................................................................................................................... 25

13.0 EVACUATION PROCEDURES ...................................................................................................................... 25

14.0 ADDITIONAL EVACUATION PROCEDURES ……………………………………………………………………26 15.0 NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE - ALERT LEVELS…………………………………………………………………26 Appendix 1 – Safe Refuge Location ............................................................................................................................ 28

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DISCLAIMER This report was prepared by Sydney Bushfire Consultants in good faith exercising all due care and attention, but no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to the relevance, accuracy, completeness or fitness for purpose of this document in respect of any particular user’s circumstances. Users of this document should satisfy themselves concerning its application to, and where necessary seek expert advice in respect of, their situation. The views expressed within are not necessarily the views of the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) and may not represent OEH policy. © Copyright State of NSW and the Office of Environment and Heritage



1.0 INTRODUCTION

Bundeena Coast Eco Lodge is an ‘Ecotourism Resort’ facility located along the South Eastern

edge of the residential suburb / area of Bundeena, within the Southern section of the Sutherland

Shire Council local government area (Sutherland LGA). It is located on the edge of the Royal

National Park, within a forested area, approximately 1km South of the Bundeena Town Centre

and 25km by public roadway from Sutherland.

The plan has been formulated to facilitate pre-planning for the possible evacuation of the resort or

temporary relocation of guests and staff in the event of a current or impending bushfire threat,

Total Fire Ban or closure of the Royal National Park. The plan provides a set of procedures to

manage the safety of people whist they may leave the site or otherwise relocate to an identified

safe location during any of these events.

The aim of the plan is to increase the preparedness of staff and guests and facilitate the safe

removal of some or all persons from the site to safe locations before the bushfire threat becomes

serious. The plan provides employees with information so they should understand their roles and

responsibilities and know when and where to take action during a bushfire event, Total Fire Ban

or park closure.

The plan is to reviewed on an annual basis by a competent and accredited bushfire consultant

prior to the commencement of the Bushfire Danger period (i.e. September annually) to ensure

ongoing compliance and currency.

1.1 AS3745 and its relevance to the plan

Where relevant and applicable, the terminology and preparation of the plan has been prepared in

accordance with Australian Standard 3745 (2010) – Planning for emergencies in facilities.

The resort will also have formal Emergency Evacuation Plan & Procedures in place, prepared in

accordance with AS3745 (2010), e.g. for a structural fire, severe weather or storm surge, flooding,

hazardous material, cyclones, tsunami, cyclone etc. This plan (Bushfire Evacuation) will become a

sub-plan to a General Emergency Evacuation Plan currently in place for the resort.

This plan does not detail any specific requirements or information for associated education and

training or normal fire (e.g. structural - not bushfire) procedure guidelines as described by

AS3745. Again it is assumed that a General Emergency Evacuation Plan for the resort will

include specific detail addressing AS3745.



1.2 NSW Planning for Bush Fire Protection 2006 and its relevance to the plan

For the purposes of establishing bushfire safety compliance, the resort is considered to be a

Special Fire Protection Purposes (SFPP) development.

PBP identifies a hotel, motel or other tourist accommodation as a SFPP.

PBP states a number specific requirements (or acceptable solutions) for SFPP emergency and

evacuation planning which are considered relevant and applicable to the resort. The following

table outlines the acceptable solutions and how the plan addresses the relevant and applicable

requirements.

Acceptable Solution Plan Compliance

an emergency/evacuation plan is prepared

consistent with the RFS Guidelines for the

Preparation of Emergency/Evacuation Plan.

Where considered relevant and applicable, the

terminology and preparation of this plan have been

prepared in accordance with current NSW Rural Fire

Services guidelines for the Preparation of Bush Fire

Evacuation Plans.

compliance with AS 3745-2010 ‘Planning for

emergencies in facilities’. The developer

should provide a copy of the above

document to the local Bush Fire

Management Committee for their information

prior to the occupation of any

accommodation of a special fire protection

purpose or community title subdivision

Where relevant and applicable, the terminology and

preparation of this plan have been prepared in

accordance with Australian Standard 3745.

The plan will be provided to the Sutherland District Bush

Fire Management Committee and its relevant

Emergency / Fire Services Representatives for their

information and endorsement.

an Emergency Planning Committee is

established to consult with residents (and

their families in the case of aged care

accommodation and schools) and staff in

developing and implementing an Emergency

Procedures Manual.

The Caretakers and/or Management will form an

Emergency Planning or Management Committee.

Apart from caretakers (and family) there are no other

permanent occupants residing within the resort to

consult with.

detailed plans of all Emergency Assembly

Areas including “onsite” and “offsite”

arrangements as stated in AS 3745 - 2010

are clearly displayed, and an annual (as a

minimum) trial emergency evacuation is

conducted.

Details of safe refuge locations (or safe places) are

described section 10 and denoted Appendix 1 of this

plan. Early offsite evacuation is generally considered

the most appropriate in this instance, however, the site

will also contain an onsite refuge building for times

when offsite evacuation is not considered safe, due to

the imminent impact of the bushfire.

This plan assumes that the specific detail and

associated requirements for trial emergency evacuation

(if required) will be outlined within a General Emergency

Evacuation Plan prepared in accordance with AS3745.



1.3 Resort details

Name of Premises: Bundeena Coast Eco Lodge

Address of the Premises: 60 – 70 Bournemouth Street Bundeena NSW 2230

(being Lot 3 within Deposited Plan 213924)

Local Government Area: The Sutherland Shire Council (Sutherland LGA)

Owner: RVA Australia Pty Ltd

Type of Facility: Eco - Tourist accommodation – 6 Campsites + ancillary

buildings, including;

6 individual Campsites,

1 x Refuge Building / Garage / Caretakers

Accomodation / Office / Reception

1 x Kitchen / Dining tent

Contact Persons(s):

Ron van Ardenne (On Site Manager / Caretaker)

02 9*** **** (Phone)

0400 069 994 (Mobile)

***** ***** ***** (Satellite Phone)

02 9*** **** (Fax)

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]



Figure 1.0 – Bundeena Coast Eco Lodge Map



1.4 Bushfire Risk (General Comment)

The resort is located upon a large bushland allotment. It contains significant bushfire prone

vegetation within, and beyond its boundaries. The resort directly adjoins the Royal National Park,

to the South, East and West, unformed road reserves and residential development to the North

(Bundeena Township).

The resort is basically surrounded by forest vegetation (S, E & W) and the surrounding areas (i.e.

Royal National Park) generally have a long and active fire history.

The resort will maintain a strict ‘No Smoking’ policy (indoors and outdoors). Cooking fires will be

contained within purpose built environments and subject to strict control measures.

Particular consideration should be given to any decision to evacuate guests through the Royal

National Park access road, to the NE. Travel, in this direction, takes the evacuee, via the sealed

road, through the forested Royal National Park, which may be considered an unacceptable risk

depending on bushfire emergency locations, prevailing weather conditions and fire travel paths.

Obviously, only a decision to evacuate well in advance of any fire would be considered

acceptable. This decision would generally be made after consultation with the relevant authorities.

2.0 EVACUATION PLAN

Date of the plan: April 2017

Date of first review of the plan: September 2018

The purpose and scope of the plan is to provide details of:

The circumstances under which consideration should be given to evacuating the resort.

The locations of safe places that staff and guests will be evacuated to or else advised to

temporarily take refuge.

The role and responsibilities of staff coordinating the evacuation.

The role and responsibilities of persons remaining within the resort if the ‘onsite refuge’ is

activated due to offsite evacuation not being a safe option, during a passing bushfire event.

A procedure to account for evacuees.

A warning system, including easily identified signage and access to associated information.

This plan is considered a sub plan under Australian Standard AS3745 (2010), and is based on the

general requirements outlined by the NSW Rural Fire Service guidelines for a bushfire evacuation

plan.



2.1 Triggers for Evacuation of the Resort

There are a number of triggers which will cause this evacuation plan to be enacted.

1. An evacuation order issued on advice from NSW Police or delegated emergency services organisations (e.g. NSW RFS or FRNSW etc.)

2. The enactment of a ‘Total Fire Ban’, within the Greater Sydney Region (See Section 5.7.3) 3. An actual fire event within the Royal Nation Park, at any time of the year (See Section 5.7) 4. Any period of elevated Fire Danger Ratings of Extreme (FDI 75 – 100) or Catastrophic (FDI

>100) – It should be noted that these conditions will also be very likely trigger the enactment of a Total Fire Ban.

5. At any other time that the Royal National Park is closed to the public.

Evacuation will occur utilising the processes described within this evacuation plan.

On days where a Total Fire Ban is enacted or where elevated fire danger ratings are predicted the

resort is to be closed (and evacuated) by 09.00hrs.

If the Total Fire Ban or elevated fire danger extend over consecutive days, the facility will remain

closed for these consecutive days, until the ban is lifted.

In the case of the facilities closure, authorisation must be obtained from the emergency services before any persons reenter the Park and/or Site, including a reentry for any short periods, to ensure site security has not been compromised etc.

Some of these triggers for evacuation are derived from the potential speed an uncontrolled

bushfire front may travel at and the distance of a potential bushfire event from the resort.

The rate of forward speed of a bushfire event (burning in forest vegetation) is determined by an

index of fire danger, which is calculated using weather parameters of air temperature, relative

humidity, days since rainfall (drought factor), wind speed. The forest fire danger index (or FDI) is

generally identified between 0 – 100, but can occasionally exceed 100 on very bad fire days. The

forest fire danger index is further described section 2.2 of this plan.

The plan identifies two separate ‘trigger’ points (known as Zone 1 and Zone 2 in the vicinity of the

resort - as shown within Section 5.7). Bushfire events occurring within these distances

(particularly within significant areas of forested vegetation) pose a significant threat to the resort.

As an example, a bushfire moving towards the resort from within the forested lands SW of the

resort, nearer to Sir Bertram Drive, (approx. 6 km from the resort) would take approximately 2

hours to reach the resort when the FDI Very High. The same bushfire would take approximately 1

hour (or less considering new spot fires) when the FDI is Extreme.



2.2 Forest Fire Danger Index

Some evacuation timing and triggers identified by the plan are based on nationally recognised fire

weather danger / rating warning system, or Fire Danger Index (herein ‘FDI’).

For the purposes of this plan, the following FDI chart graphical representation is used.

Figure 1 – Forest Fire Danger Index Chart

The FDI is divided into six categories, including;

Low – Moderate, being a FDI of 0 - 11 Severe, being a FDI of 50 - 74

High, being a FDI of 12 - 24 Extreme, being a FDI of 75 - 99

Very High, being a FDI of 25 - 49 Catastrophic (code red), being a FDI 100

Forecast or daily FDI categories are determined by the Bureau of Meteorology for individual

Weather Districts and are normally displayed by roadside FDI signs maintained by the local Fire

Authority. Bundeena & surrounding areas are located within the Sydney Metropolitan Weather

Forecast District.

Information relating to Total Fire Bans, forecast or daily FDI categories is also be readily available

through the NSW Rural Fire Service (www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fdr-and-tobanslocal)

and the Sutherland District Rural Fire Service Office (contact phone numbers shown section 11.0

of the plan).

LOW - MODERATE

HIG

H

VE

RY

HIG

H SE

VE

RE

EXTREM

E

CATASTROPHIC

0 -

11 F

FD

I

12 -

24 F

FDI

25 - 49 FFDI 50 - 74 FFDI

75 - 100 FFDI

100+ F

FD

I

http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fdr-and-tobanslocal



3.0 BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON THE RESORT

Number of employees: 2 Caretakers

1 Part Time Housekeeper

2 Part Time Host / Chef

Maximum (estimated) number of guests: 12

Guests with special needs1: The resort does not specifically cater for

guests with special needs. However, as the

resort does not preclude any persons of

groups with special needs, the potential

number of guests within the park with special

needs cannot be accurately determined.

Number of fixed buildings: 6 Campsites, 1 x combined Refuge Building /

Caretakers Accommodation / Office /

Reception, 1 x Kitchen / Dining

Note 1: Elderly or disabled guests (including persons having physical, intellectual, visual or auditory disabilities or impairments, either temporary or permanent), school groups or children without parental care, persons with a medical or respiratory condition, persons considered vulnerable due to anxiety or fear etc.

4.0 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

For the purposes of implementing this plan, ‘Fire Wardens’ and specific duties are outlined below.

The role of a Fire Warden is more specifically described by Australian Standards 3745 (2010).

Broadly, the responsibility of a Fire Warden is to ensure;

The formation of an emergency planning committee;

Duties and responsibilities of positions;

Procedures;

Education & training of employees; and

Annual exercises.

To provide for the safety of staff and guests during a bushfire emergency, it is important that an

emergency planning committee be formed for the resort. The committee should be comprised of

members of staff and/or management to oversee and review emergency evacuation training and

preparedness for the resort.



The emergency planning committee shall be responsible for the reviewing and refining the plan.

This includes refining and updating contact names and numbers, the evacuation triggers,

procedures and location of safe refuge areas for guests and staff in the event of evacuation or

relocation during a bushfire event.

During a bushfire emergency evacuation, Fire Wardens should also ensure;

that designated refuge areas are suitable and easily located or identified in the event of a

bushfire;

that co-ordinated transport arrangements are in place to assist guest with special needs (if

required);

that all buildings and structures properly ‘locked up’ and installed screening properly fixed to

limit the impact of a bushfire; and

Regular contact with emergency services throughout any evacuation or temporary relocation

of guests.

The Chief Fire Warden (Resort Caretaker) should also ensure that bushfire evacuation

procedures, safe areas and refuge locations are incorporated into future versions of the resorts

tourist maps and advertised literature.



4.1 Nominated Staff to Coordinate and/or Implement Bushfire Evacuation Procedures

Position & Name

Area of Responsibility

Contact Phone Number

CHIEF FIRE WARDEN & RESORT MANAGER

Ron van Ardenne

Entire Eco-Tourist Resort.

Coordinating and managing evacuation or relocation procedures and notifications as required.

02 9*** ****

0400 069 994

DEPUTY FIRE WARDEN & RESORT ASSISTANT MANAGER

Nicky Bangma

Assisting the Chief Fire Warden as instructed or undertaking the role of Chief Fire Warden if required.

Ensuring the display of clearly visible warning signage and personal warning notification for all registered guests staying within the resort.

02 9*** ****

0400 154 572

ASSISTANT FIRE WARDEN

No further staff members are currently employed at the resort. If another was employed, at a later date, the responsibilities of an Assistant Fire Warden would see duties more evenly distributed between the Emergency Planning Committee.

Assisting the Chief or Deputy Fire Warden as instructed.

Ensuring the display of clearly visible warning signage and personal warning notification for all registered guests staying within the resort.

Ph…………………...

Mobile………………



4.2 Chief Warden

The Chief Warden will be responsible for:

The overall management and overseeing of any evacuation or relocation of guests.

As far as practicable, ensure that all guests on arrival are registered so they can be

accounted for should an evacuation be required. Obtain information on the number of people

with special needs (particularly during the Bushfire Danger Period).

Checking and refining of the plan as required (at least annually prior to the bushfire season).

Ensuring designating safe areas are available when required.

The assignment of daily duties to other staff in accordance with the procedures in the following

section.

Training of employees in evacuation procedures and identifying safe refuge locations (in

accordance with a General Emergency Evacuation Plan prepared for the resort).

Reviewing the effectiveness of evacuation exercises and arrange for procedure improvements.

Accounting for all staff and registered guests during any evacuation or relocation.

Liaison and notifying the local emergency services of the number of evacuating staff and

guests.

The welfare of guests and staff who remaining on site during a passing bushfire event (i.e. only

when early evacuation is not possible and the ‘Refuge’ is utilised for onsite evacuation).

Nominating safe places or refuge sites for evacuation of staff and guests.

The Chief Warden shall be clearly identified by wearing white (e.g. white hard hat or other clearly

visible white apparel) with the words prominently marked ‘CHIEF WARDEN’.

4.3 Deputy Chief Warden

The Deputy Chief Warden will be responsible for:

Assisting the Chief Warden or undertaking the Chief Warden duties if required.

Assisting with the registration and/or evacuation or relocation of staff and guests.

Notifying guests and visitors within the resort of any impending bushfire danger and placing

bushfire danger warning around the site as instructed by the Chief Warden.

Maintaining a calm atmosphere and providing assurance to staff and guests.

Following established procedures.

Following the direction of the Chief Warden.

Proceeding with evacuation of guests and themselves when instructed to do so.

The Deputy Chief Warden shall be clearly identified by wearing white (e.g. white hard hat or other

clearly visible white apparel) with the words prominently marked ‘DEPUTY CHIEF WARDEN’.



4.4 Assistant Warden

If available, the Assistant Wardens are responsible for:

Assisting with the registration and/or evacuation or relocation of staff and guests.

Notifying guests and visitors within the resort of any impending bushfire danger and placing

bushfire danger warning around the site as instructed by the Chief Warden.

Maintaining a calm atmosphere and providing assurance to staff and guests.

Following established procedures.

Following the direction of the Chief or Deputy Wardens.

Proceeding with evacuation of guests and themselves when instructed to do so.

The Assistant Wardens shall be clearly identified by wearing red (e.g. red hard hat or other clearly

visible red apparel) with the words prominently marked ‘WARDEN’.

5.0 PREPAREDNESS / PROCEDURES FOR STAFF

5.1 Precautions for a prevailing LOW-MODERATE FDI (0-11)

Ensure that staff and Fire Wardens are aware of

bushfire evacuation procedures for the resort.

5.2 Precautions for a prevailing HIGH FDI (12-24);

Shall be as for Low to Mod FDI, &

Ensure that the grounds are well maintained and

that the Asset Protection Areas are fully

maintained.

LOW - MODERATE

HIG

H

VE

RY

HIG

H SE

VE

RE

EXTREM

E

CATASTROPHIC

0 -

11 F

FD

I

12 -

24 F

FDI

25 - 49 FFDI 50 - 74 FFDI

75 - 100 FFDI

100+ F

FD

I

LOW - MODERATE

HIG

H

VE

RY

HIG

H SE

VE

RE

EXTREM

E

CATASTROPHIC0 -

11 F

FD

I

12 -

24 F

FDI

25 - 49 FFDI 50 - 74 FFDI

75 - 100 FFDI

100+ F

FD

I



5.3 Precautions for a prevailing VERY HIGH FDI (25-49);

Shall be as for High FDI, &

Ensure that the roof areas of all buildings are clear of accumulated debris.

Ensure that a staff and guest register is maintained.

Check water supply / hoses for water flow.

Warning signs shall be displayed in prominent locations

around the resort to notify staff and guests that there

is an impending fire danger.

Any open fires must be contained within properly

constructed fire places (e.g. fire rings) with a static

water supply (e.g. bucket of water) available within 5 metres.

Occupants to be warned of the potential risk and be asked to be careful with potential

sources of ignition (e.g. cigarette butts).

Ensure that signage or information informing occupants of the evacuation procedures in the

event of a bushfire is provided within the resort (i.e. near or within the site Office). The sign

should be located in a prominent position and clearly visible for visitors or guests accessing,

or egressing, the park.

Assistant Fire Wardens & other staff members who are within the resort should carry a two-

way radio or mobile phone to keep in touch with the Chief Warden.

Ensure that vehicles that may require relocation are parked in such a way as to facilitate the

prompt and safe egress of vehicles from the park.

5.4 Precautions for a prevailing SEVERE FDI (50-74);

Shall be as for Very High FDI, &

If the prevailing weather conditions cause for the

enactment of a Total Fire Ban. The resort is to be

evacuated in terms of Section 5.7.3 of this plan.

No open fires, naked flames or any other potential

ignitions sources, including the banning of smoking from all outdoor areas within the resort.

Ensure that the details of all guests and visitors entering and exiting the site are recorded in a

register.

Ensure that all guests and visitors are made aware of the potential threat and informed of the

evacuation plans, meeting points, egress routes and safe refuge locations.

Chief Warden is to call the local fire control centre to check for fire activity in the area each

day when guests, or staff, are within the resort.

Chief Warden is required, or nominate a member of staff to, remain within the resort at all

times and monitor the local fire conditions and inform all staff and guests either in person or

by any other reasonable means if conditions deteriorate.

LOW - MODERATE

HIG

H

VE

RY

HIG

H SE

VE

RE

EXTREM

E

CATASTROPHIC0 -

11 F

FD

I

12 -

24 F

FDI

25 - 49 FFDI 50 - 74 FFDI

75 - 100 FFDI

100+ F

FD

I

LOW - MODERATE

HIG

H

VE

RY

HIG

H SE

VE

RE

EXTREM

E

CATASTROPHIC0 -

11 F

FD

I

12 -

24 F

FDI

25 - 49 FFDI 50 - 74 FFDI

75 - 100 FFDI

100+

FF

DI



5.5 Precautions for a prevailing EXTREME FDI (75-100);

Shall be as for Severe FDI (where applicable), &

If the prevailing weather conditions cause for the

enactment of a Total Fire Ban. The resort is to be

evacuated in terms of Section 5.7.3 of this plan.

The Resort will be closed by 9.00am.

Advise guests to pack in preparation for an evacuation / relocation to safe refuge areas or as

otherwise directed by the relevant emergency service.

Guests will be evacuated offsite.

Immediately notify the local Fire Authority that the resort has been closed and all occupants

have been evacuated.

Immediately notify Police of any guests or visitors within the park that refuse or have failed to

vacate the resort.

The resort will be evacuated using a two traffic movement system. Initially all guests and

non-essential staff will be relocated offsite, secondly the emergency management team will

evacuate after securing the site, locking up buildings, securing fittings, and shutting off

power).

5.6 Precautions for a prevailing CATASTROPHIC FDI (100+, CODE RED);

Shall be as for Extreme FDI (where applicable), &

The Resort will be closed by 9.00am

Advise guests to pack in preparation for an evacuation

/ relocation to safe refuge areas or as otherwise

directed by the relevant emergency service.

Guests will be evacuated offsite.

Immediately notify the local Fire Authority that the resort has been closed and all occupants

have been evacuated.

Immediately notify Police of any guests or visitors within the park that refuse or have failed to

vacate the resort.

In addition, the resort will be closed, and evacuated, at any time (e.g. Total Fire Ban Days,

storm warnings etc.) that the NPWS has advised that the Royal National Park will be closed

to the public.

The resort will be evacuated using a two traffic movement system. Initially all guests and non-

essential staff will be relocated offsite, secondly the emergency management team will

evacuate after securing the site, locking up buildings, securing fittings, and shutting off

power).

LOW - MODERATE

HIG

H

VE

RY

HIG

H SE

VE

RE

EXTREM

E

CATASTROPHIC0 -

11 F

FD

I

12 -

24 F

FDI

25 - 49 FFDI 50 - 74 FFDI

75 - 100 FFDI

100+ F

FD

I

LOW - MODERATE

HIG

H

VE

RY

HIG

H SE

VE

RE

EXTREM

E

CATASTROPHIC0 -

11 F

FD

I

12 -

24 F

FDI

25 - 49 FFDI 50 - 74 FFDI

75 - 100 FFDI

100+ F

FD

I



5.7 Additional precautions for a confirmed Bushfire Event

A Bushfire may occur at any time of the year. Bushfires do not only occur during the bushfire danger period, nor occur only during a Total Fire Ban declaration, nor occur only on days of elevated FDIs (i.e. fire weather conditions of Extreme or Catastrophic). This plan is to be enacted if any bushfire event occurs at any time of the year, under all conditions. For the purposes of this Bushfire Evacuation Plan, two individual bushfire zones have been identified. The actions below are to be implemented at the time a bushfire event has been identified within the relevant zone. Zone 1

Zone 1 is the area North of Wattamolla Road and East of Sir Bertram Stevens Drive, up to the Northern & Eastern boundaries of the Royal National Park.

Zone 1

Resort

Sir Bertram

Stevens Drive

Wattamolla Road



Zone 2

Zone 2 is the area East of the Princes Highway, North of the townships of Helensburgh and Otford, South of Wattamolla Road and West of Sir Bertram Stevens Drive.

Zone 2

Resort

Otford 3

Helensburgh

Princes

Highway

Wattamolla Road

Sir Bertram

Stevens Drive



5.7.1 Actions for a confirmed Bushfire Event within Zone 2

Where the presence of a bushfire is confirmed within Zone 2 the Chief Fire Warden shall;

Stay informed of the fire’s progress and determine the level of threat to the resort by

contacting the local Fire Control Staff (i.e. The Sutherland District Rural Fire Service).

Should the bushfire be confirmed as moving into Zone 1, from Zone 2, immediately

implement the Zone 1 actions (below) and evacuate the resort, taking the staff/guests and

easily transportable valuables and relocate to ‘Offsite Safe Refuge Area’ location (see

Appendix 2).

If contact with the Fire Control Staff is not achieved/forthcoming the Chief Warden shall;

Advise guests to pack up in preparation for an immediate evacuation / relocation to the

‘Offsite Safe Refuge’ area or as otherwise directed by the relevant emergency service.

Immediately relocate all guests and staff to the ‘Onsite Refuge’ location, board the evacuation

vehicle and immediately evacuate the resort.

Relocate all guests / visitors to the ‘Offsite Safe Refuge Area’ location (see Appendix 2).

Immediately notify the local Fire Authority of the relocation of guests and staff from within the

resort, the number and type of guests and staff, and where they are being relocated to.

Notify the local Fire Authority once the relocation/evacuation is complete, and confirm all

persons are accounted for from within the resort, and that the resort is effectively closed.

5.7.2 Actions for a confirmed Bushfire Event within Zone 1

Note: The presence of a bushfire within Zone 1 would be considered an extremely

dangerous event. The life risk to guests and staff may be considered critical. An

uninformed decision to evacuate the resort at this time may prove fatal. Given the speed of

a bushfire, under certain conditions, smoke, radiant heat and direct flame contact could

seriously impede any evacuation attempt along the access road. At this stage, it would be

considered more appropriate to relocate any guests and staff to the ‘Onsite refuge’

building and seek immediate information/assistance from the local Fire Authority. Offsite

evacuation, at this stage, should only be considered at the request of the local authorities,

following careful evaluation of the fire location, predicted travel paths and prevailing local

fire weather conditions.

As such, where the presence of a bushfire is within Zone 1 the Chief Fire Warden shall;

Relocate all guests / visitors away from vegetated areas within the resort to the ‘Onsite

Refuge’ building within the APZ until the bushfire event passes, abates or the local Fire

Authority confirms the fire front will not directly affect the resort.



Immediately notify the local Fire Authority of the relocation of guests from within the resort to

the ‘Onsite Refuge’ building within the APZ, the number and type of guests and the details of

the ‘Onsite Refuge’ being used.

Provide the local Fire Authority regular updates which include the condition of all guests and

staff and any obvious local fire indicators (smoke levels, visual descriptions, wind directions

etc.).

Remain within the ‘Onsite Refuge’ building, within the resort, until the local Fire Authority

confirms that the bushfire event has passed, abated or confirmed that the fire front has not, or

will not, directly affect the resort.

5.7.3 Actions when there is a Total Fire Ban or if the Royal National Park is closed to the public

In addition, the resort will be closed, and evacuated, at any time that a Total Fire Ban is gazetted

for the Greater Sydney Region, or at any time the NPWS has advised that the Royal National

Park will be closed to the public (e.g. any storm warnings etc.).

Evacuation will occur utilizing the same processes as described above, by 09.00hrs on the

morning of the Total Fire Ban, unless the Total Fire Ban extends over consecutive days, whereas

the facility will remain closed for these consecutive days, or until the ban is lifted.

This evacuation, as is the case for all evacuations, will occur using 2 separate traffic movements.

The first will ensure all guests and any staff without emergency management responsibilities are

removed from the site.

The second traffic movement will remove the remainder of the emergency management team

from the site, after the site is suitably secured (including locking up buildings, securing fittings,

and shutting off power).

In the case of the facilities closure, authorization must be obtained from the emergency services before any persons reenter the Park and/or Site, including a reentry for any short periods, to ensure site security has not been compromised etc.

6.0 HOW TO ACCOUNT FOR PERSONS

On arrival at the resort, in times of impending Severe or greater fire danger, a staff and guest

register should be filled out and updated as the guests, visitors and staff ‘come and go’. The

register can incorporate the resorts normal check in procedures and details, but must ensure

details such as the number of occupants, any special needs, mobile phone contact and phone

contact for family other persons responsible for the occupant(s) are recorded.



If an evacuation is necessary the register can be used to account for staff and guests, and

determine if additional transport is required for guests whom may require immediate evacuation or

relocation.

The register should also be used to record the locations (safe refuge or otherwise) where guests

or staff intend to stay at during a passing bushfire event.

7.0 HOW TO CONTACT FAMILY MEMBERS

The register that will be filled out as outlined in section 6 should include emergency contact

details for an available family member if required.

8.0 DESIGNATED ASSEMBLY POINT

The designated assembly point shall be the ‘Onsite Refuge’ building within the main building area.

A sign denoting the assembly points should be erected at the designated locations within the

resort.

9.0 TRANSPORT DETAILS

Most guests will arrive at the resort via public transport or private vehicles. There will no

public/guest car parking permitted within the resort and none within the National Park areas

directly surrounding the resort. Private vehicles may be left at the public road curb in Bundeena.

As such, at all times the resort will maintain a fully serviced evacuation vehicle (minibus or

similar), capable of evacuating all guests and non-essential staff to the ‘Offsite Safe Refuge’. This

vehicle will be garaged within the ‘Onsite Refuge’ building at all times.

The evacuation system will rely on two vehicle movements, as such a second vehicle will also be

available at all times (utility vehicle or similar).

The first will ensure all guests and any staff without emergency management responsibilities are

removed from the site.

The second traffic movement will remove the remainder of the emergency management team

from the site, after the site is suitably secured (including locking up buildings, securing fittings,

and shutting off power).

Any requirement for additional transport for an evacuation or relocation will be at the discretion of,

and coordinated by, the Chief Fire Warden, or as directed by the Police.



10.0 EVACUATION LOCATIONS / SAFE REFUGE (SAFE PLACE) AREAS

Two separate refuge locations have been identified by the plan.

AS3745 describes safe places as places which are not under threat from an emergency and from

which people are able to disperse after escaping the effect of an emergency to a road or open

space, or a roadside or open space.

The locations and names of the refuge areas are described below and shown Appendix 2.

Appendix 2 (or similar mapped information) should be further reproduced and made available to

guest and visitors during fire danger periods Very High or above.

The ‘Offsite Safe Refuge’ is considered the primary safe refuge site due to its proximity to the site

and access availability.

The use of ‘Onsite Refuge’ building should be determined by the Chief Fire Warden (in

consultation with the local Fire Authority & Police).

10.1 ‘Offsite Safe Refuge’ (Primary)

Name of Location: Hordens Beach Reserve / Bundeena Visitor Information Centre

Address of Venue: Loftus Street Bundeena NSW 2230

Geographic Position: Lat. 34.083357442 Long.151.152002286

Nearest Cross Street: Brighton Street

Description: Safe refuge area approximately 2.2 km north west of the site. The

refuge area is a cleared and maintained Park, which could provide

some room for larger vehicle access and parking if required.

This area has been identified as a ‘Neighbourhood Safer Place’ by the

NSW Rural Fire Service.

Directions: From the entrance / exit point of the site;

Go straight onto Beachcomber Avenue for 100m

Turn right onto Eric Street and continue to the North for

approximately 1 km

At this point, on a left hand bend, Eric Street runs into Loftus

Street.

Continue for 700m along Loftus Street, travelling West

Turn right into the Hordens Beach Reserve car parking area



10.2 ‘Onsite Refuge’ Building

The resort incorporates an ‘Onsite Refuge’ building for emergency purposes. This building is centrally located within the resort and is constructed to withstand predicted fire conditions etc. This refuge is utilized initially as an evacuation gathering point, to facilitate offsite evacuation. In certain circumstances, the refuge will be utilized as an ‘onsite refuge’ building (i.e. as a last resort once the fire conditions are such that an offsite evacuation is deemed too dangerous).

11.0 CONTACT DETAILS

The Chief Fire Warden should ensure regular consultation and communication with the local

agencies that are involved with the bushfire emergency and potential evacuation. The following

table is used for contact information only and is to be regularly reviewed and updated where

necessary.

NAME OF ORGANISATION

NAME OF CONTACT CONTACT NUMBERS & EMAIL

N.S.W RURAL FIRE

SERVICE

(Local Fire Authority)

TBA 000

02 8508 4040 (Sutherland)

NSW POLICE TBA 000

02 9542 0899 (Sutherland LAC)

NSW FIRE BRIGADE TBA 000

02 9587 0878 (Metro South 2)

NSW AMBULANCE

SERVICE

TBA 000

02 9525 5095 (Caringbah)

THE GEORGES RIVER

DISTRICT EMERGENCY

MANAGEMENT OFFICER

TBA

The Controller

Level 2 / 5 – 9 Butler Road

Hurstville NSW 2220

02 9375 8099

THE SUTHERLAND

SHIRE COUNCIL

The General Manager

4 Eaton Street

(Locked Bag 17)

Sutherland NSW 2232

02 9710 0333 (Ph)

02 9710 0265 (Fax)

[email protected]

www.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au

MEDICAL Sutherland Hospital 02 9540 7111

BUNDEENA ECO LODGE

Refuge/Assembly Room

Chief Warden

Refuge/Assembly Room

60 – 70 Bournemouth Street

Bundeena

Satellite Phone Only

No. **** ***** **** (TBC)

Note: All new fires and emergencies, required medical assistance & law enforcement

matters are to be reported via 000 in the first instance

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au/



12.0 SECURITY DETAILS

The provision of security within the resort shall be at the discretion of the Chief Fire Warden.

13.0 EVACUATION PROCEDURES

In the event of any evacuation or relocation of guests and staff to safe refuge locations outside

the resort the Chief Fire Warden should;

Check and account for all staff and guests.

Assemble staff and guests within the designated assembly point.

Determine who is to evacuate initially and which management team members will be going in

the second traffic movement *.

Record who is going initially, and which management team members will be going in the

second traffic movement*.

Record where people are going to evacuate too.

Reiterate to those people who are unfamiliar with the area specific instructions on how to get

to the nominated safe refuge locations.

Ensure that both evacuation vehicles are ready and capable for immediate departure.

Record the time of departure of all evacuees.

Notify the local Fire Authority or Police that park guest and visitors are;

o Evacuating the area,

o Where they intend to evacuate to,

o The approximate time that they should reach the refuge area, &

o That they have been told to phone the Chief Fire Warden upon arrival.

Ensure that the remaining emergency management team complete their duties efficiently and

then evacuate the site also.

Ensure all windows and doors to all buildings and structures are closed.

A note should be left to notify emergency services that all registered occupants and all staff

have been accounted for and evacuated from the resort.

* unless otherwise notified by the emergency services that everyone must evacuate immediately.

If the safe time for evacuation or relocation from the resort has passed (i.e. the bushfire could or

is currently impacting upon the resort) and it is considered unsafe to evacuate the chief warden

should;

Notify the Police that guests and staff are remaining on site,

Account for all registered guests and visitors as far as practicable,

Keep everyone inside the ‘Onsite Refuge’ building until the fire front passes.

Immediately notify emergency services of any injuries or required medical assistance and the

status (or damage to) the resort once the fire has passed.



14.0 ADDITIONAL EVACUATION PROCEDURES

Protocols related to Closure of the Eco Lodge – Actions Prior to Guest Arrival

This Bushfire Evacuation Plan notes a number of scenarios where the accommodation will not be available due to increased levels of bushfire risk, impending or actual bushfire events and total fire bans.

It is noted that it would not be suitable for guests, with prior bookings, to arrive within the greater Bundeena area at this time, and all reasonable efforts will be made by the Eco Lodge management and staff to prevent this from happening. The aim of these actions is to advise the guest that it is not appropriate to travel to this area, prior to their departure from another safe area.

In respect of this, the following actions/systems will be implemented:

Prior to bookings being finalised guests are explicitly informed about general bushfire risks, and subsequent circumstances that may lead to the cancelation of the booking and the refund policy.

Guests are required to give mobile contact numbers and personal email addresses before a booking can be confirmed. They can, and are required to update these details if/when they switch international SIM cards to local SIM Cards, while traveling in Australia.

When an unacceptable risk is anticipated, based on predicted FDI, all guests for the affected period are immediately informed via email and SMS that the cancelation policy is in effect and that they should not travel to the area. They will be asked to confirm that they received the message and to let us know their preference for rebooking or refund.

This message is also distributed via Twitter, Facebook and Eco Lodge website.

If the predicted FDI does not eventuate, or passes, the reverse message is communicated.

An offsite call service will be used to confirm via phone, when no response has been received from affected guests.

15.0 NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE – ALERT LEVELS

The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) currently provides a NSW Statewide Emergency Alert Level program which informs the general public with three separate ‘Alert Levels’ related to current bushfire events in NSW. Each separate current bushfire event in NSW is provided with an ‘Incident Name’ (e.g. Cooper Creek), an ‘Incident Type’ and ‘Description’ (e.g. Bushfire – Forest Fire), a current ‘Status’ (e.g. Out of Control), and finally an ‘Alert Level’ - to inform appropriate response by members of the public, in the vicinity of the said bushfire event. All information, including an interactive map, is readily available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au . Urgent emergency information is also transmitted over the local radio and television channels, and via blanket SMS messaging. The three alert levels, and corresponding descriptions are: Advice

http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/



A fire has started. There is no immediate danger. Stay up to date in case the situation changes Watch & Act There is a heightened level of threat. Conditions are changing and you need to start taking action now to protect you and your family. Emergency Warning An Emergency Warning is the highest level of bushfire alert. You may be in danger and need to take action immediately. Any delay now puts your life at risk. Relationship with this Bushfire Evacuation Plan The ‘alert level system’ is utilized to advise the public of a current bushfire event that may have the potential to cause harm to their life and/or property. It is a scaled system which encourages more urgency in your response actions as the bushfire danger increases (i.e. as the bushfire size or intensity increases, or as fire weather conditions worsen). The ‘alert level system’ in isolation, does not provide members of the public with a specific list or plan of relevant actions which they should undertake at all times. It advises them of the importance to take action effectively, conveying urgency as conditions deteriorate. This Bushfire Evacuation Plan is designed to provide occupants and staff (including the onsite Fire Wardens) a specific list, or plan, of relevant actions – commensurate with the level of risk to the facility. It is the intention of this Bushfire Evacuation Plan to treat every bushfire event, contained anywhere within the Royal National Park, as a serious threat, and therefore take immediate and effective action, in line with Sections 5.7.1 and Section 5.7.2 of this plan. If any ‘Alert Level’ is issued, for any bushfire event within the Royal National Park (including an ‘Advice’ alert – which may appear to indicate that a lesser level of response or urgency could be appropriate) the Bushfire Evacuation Plan is to be enacted immediately.



Appendix 1 – Offsite Safe Refuge

Offsite Refuge Hordens Beach

Reserve

Eric Street

Loftus Street

Subject

Development

bushfire evacuation plan€¦ · sub-plan to a general emergency evacuation plan currently in place...

Documents