ICEPA AT VICTORIA UNIVERSITY INVITES YOU TO A PUBLIC SEMINAR:
CULTURAL RESPONSES TO EMERGENCIES:
BUSHFIRES, SAFETY and CRISESCulture is an important part of who we are as individuals and as a community. How we respond to emergencies and adverse situations both in practical and emotional terms is influenced by our culture. Also important is the role of culture in how we communicate emergency messages and how we express grief. In the aftermath of the Victorian bushfires, this seminar draws attention to important considerations of cultural and linguistic diversity in responding to emergency and in healing and rebuilding communities.
This seminar will explore the issues and challenges that arise when engaging with CALD communities during emergency situations, including effective forms of communication during emergency procedures, creating awareness about fire prevention, cultural knowledge of managing bush fires and assessing risk and community needs.
SPEAKERS
Christine Nixon has extensive experience addressing the needs of a wide range of communities through her career in the police service. As Chair of the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority, Christine coordinates the activities of all local, state and Commonwealth Government agencies, and community organisations involved in helping communities affected by February’s bushfires. Her priority is to help communities recover and rebuild in a way that is safe, timely, efficient, and respectful of each community’s needs. Prior to joining the Authority in March this year, Christine was the Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police from 2001 - 2009. She joined Victoria Police in April 2001, after serving with the New South Wales Police from 1972 in a variety of roles.
Andrew Zammit is a Commander with the Metropolitan Fire Brigade focussing on the Brigade’s response to the bushfires; and recommendations coming out of the Bushfire Royal Commission. Since joining the Brigade in 1987 as a firefighter, Andrew has been involved in a wide range of professional activities including responding to fires and other emergencies, community education, recruitment training courses, and peer support. Recently, Andrew has been the officer in charge of the MFB’s Emergency Medical Response (EMR) team, and director of the Media and Communications Directorate. Andrew’s breadth of knowledge around emergency response includes working with CALD communities and emergency prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.
WHEN: Wednesday 22 April 2009
TIME: 9.30 - 10am registration, with morning tea. Seminar:10.00am - 12.00pm
WHERE: Ballroom A, Rendevous Hotel (Melways 2009 ref: Map 1A J9)
328 Flinders Street, Melbourne
RSVP essential: Contact Sue Butterworth by Monday 20 April
Phone: 9919 5478
Email: Sue.Butterworth@vu.edu.au
