SHIRE OF MURRAY
———————————
BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
LOCAL LAW 2024
22 April 2024 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1047
BUSH FIRES ACT 1954
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1995
SHIRE OF MURRAY
BUSH FIRE BRIGADES LOCAL LAW 2024
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART 1—PRELIMINARY ............................................................................................................ 1049
1.1 Citation....................................................................................................................................... 1049
1.2 Definitions .................................................................................................................................. 1049
1.3 Repeal ......................................................................................................................................... 1049
1.4 Application ................................................................................................................................. 1049
PART 2—ESTABLISHMENT OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES .................................................. 1049
Division 1—Establishment of a bush fire brigade.......................................................................... 1049
2.1 Establishment of a bush fire brigade ........................................................................................ 1049
2.2 Name and officers of bush fire brigade ..................................................................................... 1050
Division 2—Command at a fire ....................................................................................................... 1050
2.3 Ranks within the bush fire brigade .......................................................................................... 1050
Division 3—Application of Rules to a bush fire brigade ................................................................ 1050
2.4 Rules ........................................................................................................................................... 1050
Division 4—Transitional ................................................................................................................. 1050
2.5 Existing Bush Fire Brigades ..................................................................................................... 1050
Division 5—Dissolution of bush fire brigade .................................................................................. 1050
2.6 Dissolution of bush fire brigade ................................................................................................ 1050
2.7 New arrangement after dissolution .......................................................................................... 1050
PART 3—ORGANISATION AND MAINTENANCE OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES............. 1051
Division 1—Local government responsibility ................................................................................. 1051
3.1 Local government responsible for structure ............................................................................. 1051
3.2 Officers to be supplied with Act ................................................................................................ 1051
Division 2—Chief Bush Fire Control Officer .................................................................................. 1051
3.3 Managerial role of Chief Bush Fire Control Officer ................................................................. 1051
3.4 Chief Bush Fire Control Officer may attend meetings ............................................................ 1051
3.5 Duties of Chief Bush Fire Control Officer ................................................................................ 1051
Division 3—Annual general meetings of bush fire brigades .......................................................... 1051
3.6 Holding of annual general meeting ........................................................................................... 1051
3.7 Nomination of bush fire control officers to Bush Fire Advisory Committee ........................... 1051
3.8 Nomination of bush fire control officer to the local government ............................................. 1051
3.9 Minutes to be tabled before the Bush Fire Advisory Committee............................................. 1051
Division 4—Bush Fire Advisory Committee................................................................................... 1051
3.10 Functions of Advisory Committee ........................................................................................... 1051
3.11 Advisory Committee to nominate bush fire control officers ................................................... 1051
3.12 Local government to have regard to nominees ....................................................................... 1051
3.13 Advisory Committee to consider bush fire brigade motions .................................................. 1052
PART 4—TYPES OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE MEMBERSHIP ............................................. 1052
4.1 Types of membership of bush fire brigade ................................................................................ 1052
4.2 Fire fighting members ............................................................................................................... 1052
4.3 Associate members..................................................................................................................... 1052
4.4 Cadet members .......................................................................................................................... 1052
4.5 Honorary life member ................................................................................................................ 1052
4.6 Notification of membership ....................................................................................................... 1052
PART 5—APPOINTMENT DISMISSAL AND MANAGEMENT OF MEMBERS ............... 1052
5.1 Rules to govern........................................................................................................................... 1052
PART 6—EQUIPMENT OF BUSH FIRES BRIGADES .......................................................... 1052
6.1 Policies of local government ...................................................................................................... 1052
6.2 Equipment in brigade area ........................................................................................................ 1052
6.3 Funding from local government budget .................................................................................... 1052
Section 1 - Shire of Murray Bush Fire Brigades Local Law 2024 - Shire of Murray Bush Fire Brigades Local Law 2024 | Zoe
1048 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 22 April 2024
6.4 Consideration in the local government budget ......................................................................... 1052
FIRST SCHEDULE ....................................................................................................................... 1053
PART 1—PRELIMINARY ............................................................................................................ 1053
1.1 Interpretation ............................................................................................................................. 1053
PART 2—OBJECTS AND MEMBERSHIP OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE .............................. 1053
2.1 Objects of bush fire brigade ....................................................................................................... 1053
2.2 Committee to determine applications ....................................................................................... 1053
2.3 Conditions of membership ......................................................................................................... 1053
2.4 Applications for membership ..................................................................................................... 1053
2.5 Decision on application for membership ................................................................................... 1053
2.6 DFES to be notified of registrations .......................................................................................... 1054
2.7 Termination of membership ...................................................................................................... 1054
2.8 Suspension of membership ........................................................................................................ 1054
2.9 Existing liabilities to continue ................................................................................................... 1054
2.10 Member has right of defence ................................................................................................... 1054
2.11 Objection Rights ....................................................................................................................... 1054
PART 3—FUNCTIONS OF BRIGADE OFFICERS .................................................................1054
3.1 Chain of command during fire fighting activities ..................................................................... 1054
3.2 Duties of Captain ....................................................................................................................... 1054
3.3 Secretary..................................................................................................................................... 1054
3.4 Treasurer .................................................................................................................................... 1055
3.5 Equipment Officer ...................................................................................................................... 1055
3.6 Storage of equipment ................................................................................................................. 1055
3.7 Equipment Officer to report ...................................................................................................... 1055
PART 4—COMMITTEE ................................................................................................................ 1055
4.1 Management of bush fire brigade .............................................................................................. 1055
4.2 Constitution of Committee ........................................................................................................ 1055
PART 5—MEETINGS OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE ..................................................................1056
5.1 Ordinary meetings ..................................................................................................................... 1056
5.2 Special meetings......................................................................................................................... 1056
5.3 Annual general meeting ............................................................................................................ 1056
5.4 Quorum ....................................................................................................................................... 1056
5.5 Voting ......................................................................................................................................... 1056
5.6 Auditor ........................................................................................................................................ 1056
PART 6—MEETINGS OF COMMITTEE ................................................................................... 1056
6.1 Meetings Of Committee ............................................................................................................. 1056
6.2 Quorum ....................................................................................................................................... 1056
6.3 Voting ......................................................................................................................................... 1057
PART 7—GENERAL ADMINISTRATION MATTERS ............................................................ 1057
7.1 Fees ............................................................................................................................................. 1057
7.2 Funds .......................................................................................................................................... 1057
7.3 Financial year ............................................................................................................................ 1057
7.4 Banking ...................................................................................................................................... 1057
7.5 Disclosure of interests ................................................................................................................ 1057
7.6 Disagreements............................................................................................................................ 1057
PART 8—NOTICES AND PROXIES .......................................................................................... 1057
8.1 Notices ........................................................................................................................................ 1057
8.2 Proxies ........................................................................................................................................ 1058
APPENDIX I ...................................................................................................................................1059
APPENDIX II .................................................................................................................................1060
APPENDIX III................................................................................................................................ 1061
22 April 2024 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1049
BUSH FIRES ACT 1954
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1995
SHIRE OF MURRAY
BUSH FIRE BRIGADES LOCAL LAW 2024
Under the powers conferred by the Bush Fires Act 1954 and under all other powers enabling it, the
Council of the Shire of Murray resolved on 21 March 2024 to make the following local law.
PART 1—PRELIMINARY
1.1 Citation
This local law may be cited as the Shire of Murray Bush Fire Brigades Local Law 2024.
1.2 Definitions
(1) In this local law unless the context otherwise requires—
“Act” means the Bush Fires Act 1954;
“brigade area” is defined in clause 2.2(1)(b);
“brigade member” means a fire fighting member, associate member or a cadet member of a bush
fire brigade;
“brigade officer” means a person holding a position referred to in clause 2.2 (1)(c), whether or not
he or she was appointed by the local government or elected at an annual general meeting of a
bush fire brigade or otherwise appointed to the position;
“bush fire brigade” is defined in section 7 of the Act;
“Bush Fire Operating Procedures” means the Bush Fire Operating Procedures adopted by the
local government as amended from time to time;
“CEO” means the chief executive officer of the Shire of Murray;
“Council” means the Council of the local government;
“Department” means the Department of Fire and Emergency Services of Western Australia;
“district” means the district of the local government;
“fire fighting member” is defined in clause 4.2;
“local government” means the Shire of Murray;
“normal brigade activities” is defined by section 35A of the Act;
“Regulations” means Regulations made under the Act; and
“Rules” means the Rules Governing the Operation of Bush Fire Brigades set out in the First
Schedule.
(2) In this local law, unless the context otherwise requires, a reference to—
(a) a Captain;
(b) a First Lieutenant;
(c) a Second Lieutenant;
(d) any additional Lieutenants;
(e) an Equipment Officer;
(f) a Secretary.
(g) a Treasurer; or
(h) a Secretary / Treasurer combined,
means a person holding that position in a bush fire brigade.
1.3 Repeal
The Shire of Murray Bush Fire Brigades Local Law 2023, gazetted on 25 August 2023, are repealed.
1.4 Application
This local law applies throughout the district.
PART 2—ESTABLISHMENT OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
Division 1—Establishment of a bush fire brigade
2.1 Establishment of a bush fire brigade
(1) The local government may establish a bush fire brigade for the purpose of carrying out normal
brigade activities.
(2) A bush fire brigade is established on the date of the local government’s decision under subclause
(1).
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2.2 Name and officers of bush fire brigade
(1) On establishing a bush fire brigade under clause 2.1(1) the local government is to—
(a) give a name to the bush fire brigade;
(b) specify the area in which the bush fire brigade is primarily responsible for carrying out the
normal brigade activities (the “brigade area”); and
(c) appoint—
(i) a Captain;
(ii) a First Lieutenant;
(iii) a Second Lieutenant;
(iv) additional Lieutenants if the local government considers it necessary;
(v) an Equipment Officer;
(vi) a Secretary; and
(vii) a Treasurer; or
(viii) a Secretary/Treasurer combined.
(2) When considering the appointment of persons to the positions in subclause (1)(c), the local
government is to have regard to the qualifications and experience which may be required to fill
each position.
(3) A person appointed to a position in subclause (1)(c) is to be taken to be a brigade member.
(4) The appointments referred to in subclause (1)(c) expire at the completion of the first annual general
meeting of the bush fire brigade.
(5) If a position referred to in subclause (1)(c) becomes vacant prior to the completion of the first annual
general meeting, then the local government is to appoint a person to fill the vacancy in accordance
with subclause (2)
Division 2—Command at a fire
2.3 Ranks within the bush fire brigade
(1) Where under the Act and Bush Fire Operating Procedures members of the bush fire brigade have
command of a fire, unless a bush fire control officer is in attendance at the fire, the Captain has
full control over other persons fighting the fire, and is to issue instructions as to the methods to be
adopted by the firefighters. In the absence of the Captain, the first Lieutenant, and in the absence
of the first, the second Lieutenant and so on, in the order of seniority determined, is to exercise all
the powers and duties of the Captain.
(2) Where a bush fire control officer is in attendance at a fire which the members of the bush fire
brigade have command of under the Act and the Bush Fire Operating Procedures, the most senior
bush fire control officer has full control over other persons fighting the fire and is to issue
instructions as to the methods to be adopted by the firefighters.
Division 3—Application of Rules to a bush fire brigade
2.4 Rules
(1) The Rules govern the operation of a bush fire brigade.
(2) A bush fire brigade and each brigade member is to comply with the Rules as set out in the First
Schedule.
Division 4—Transitional
2.5 Existing Bush Fire Brigades
(1) Where a local government has established a bush fire brigade prior to the commencement date,
then on and from the commencement day—
(a) the bush fire brigade is to be taken to be a bush fire brigade established under and in
accordance with this local law;
(b) the provisions of this local law apply to the bush fire brigade save for clause 2.2; and
(c) any rules governing the operation of the bush fire brigade are to be taken to have been repealed
and substituted with the Rules.
(2) In this clause—
“commencement day” means the day on which this local law comes into operation.
Division 5—Dissolution of bush fire brigade
2.6 Dissolution of bush fire brigade
In accordance with section 41(3) of the Act, the local government may cancel the registration of a bush
fire brigade if it is of the opinion that the bush fire brigade is not complying with the Act, this local law,
the Bush Fire Operating Procedures or the Rules, or is not achieving the objectives for which it was
established.
2.7 New arrangement after dissolution
If a local government cancels the registration of a bush fire brigade, alternative fire control
arrangements are to be made in respect of the brigade area.
22 April 2024 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1051
PART 3—ORGANISATION AND MAINTENANCE OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
Division 1—Local government responsibility
3.1 Local government responsible for structure
The local government is to ensure that there is an appropriate structure through which the organisation
of bush fire brigades is maintained.
3.2 Officers to be supplied with Act
The local government is to supply each brigade officer with a copy of the Act, the Regulations, the Bush
Fire Operating Procedures, this local law and any other written laws which may be relevant to the
performance of the brigade officers’ functions, and any amendments which are made thereto from time
to time.
Division 2—Chief Bush Fire Control Officer
3.3 Managerial role of Chief Bush Fire Control Officer
Subject to any directions by the local government the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer has primary
managerial responsibility for the organisation and maintenance of bush fire brigades.
3.4 Chief Bush Fire Control Officer may attend meetings
The Chief Bush Fire Control Officer or her or his nominee (who is to be a bush fire control officer) may
attend as a non-voting representative of the local government at any meeting of a bush fire brigade.
3.5 Duties of Chief Bush Fire Control Officer
The duties of the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer include—
(a) provide leadership to volunteer bush fire brigades;
(b) monitor bush fire brigades’ resourcing, equipment (including protective clothing) and training
levels and report thereon with recommendations at least once a year to the local government;
(c) liaise with the local government concerning fire prevention / suppression matters generally and
directions to be issued by the local government to bush fire control officers (including those who
issue permits to burn) bush fire brigades or brigade officers;
(d) ensure that bush fire brigades are registered with the local government and that lists of brigade
members are maintained.
Division 3—Annual general meetings of bush fire brigades
3.6 Holding of annual general meeting
A bush fire brigade is to hold its annual general meeting during the month of April each year.
3.7 Nomination of bush fire control officers to Bush Fire Advisory Committee
At the annual general meeting of a bush fire brigade, one brigade member is to be nominated by the
brigade to the Bush Fire Advisory Committee to serve as the bush fire control officer for the brigade
area until the next annual general meeting.
3.8 Nomination of bush fire control officer to the local government
If the local government has not established a Bush Fire Advisory Committee, then at the annual general
meeting of a bush fire brigade, the bush fire brigade is to nominate one brigade member to the local
government to serve as the bush fire control officer for the brigade area until the next annual general
meeting.
3.9 Minutes to be tabled before the Bush Fire Advisory Committee
(1) The Secretary is to forward a copy of the minutes of the annual general meeting of a bush fire
brigade to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer within one month after the meeting.
(2) The Chief Bush Fire Control Officer is to table the minutes of a bush fire brigade’s annual general
meeting at the next meeting of the—
(a) Bush Fire Advisory Committee; or
(b) Council, if there is no Bush Fire Advisory Committee,
following their receipt under subclause (1).
Division 4—Bush Fire Advisory Committee
3.10 Functions of Advisory Committee
The Bush Fire Advisory Committee is to have the functions set out in section 67 of the Act and is to
include such number of nominees of the bush fire brigades as is determined by the local government.
3.11 Advisory Committee to nominate bush fire control officers
As soon as practicable after the annual general meeting of each bush fire brigade in the district, the
Bush Fire Advisory Committee is to nominate to the local government from the persons nominated by
each bush fire brigade a person for the position of a bush fire control officer for the brigade area.
3.12 Local government to have regard to nominees
When considering persons for the position of a bush fire control officer, the local government is to have
regard to those persons nominated by the Bush Fire Advisory Committee, but is not bound to appoint
the persons nominated.
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3.13 Advisory Committee to consider bush fire brigade motions
The Bush Fire Advisory Committee is to make recommendations to the local government on all motions
received by the Bush Fire Advisory Committee from bush fire brigades.
PART 4—TYPES OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE MEMBERSHIP
4.1. Types of membership of bush fire brigade
The membership of a bush fire brigade consists of the following—
(a) fire fighting members;
(b) associate members;
(c) cadet members; and
(d) honorary life members.
4.2 Fire fighting members
Fire fighting members are those persons being at least 16 years of age who undertake all normal bush
fire brigade activities.
4.3 Associate members
Associate members are those persons who are willing to supply free vehicular transport for fire fighting
members or fire fighting equipment, or who are prepared to render other assistance required by the
bush fire brigade.
4.4 Cadet members
Cadet members are—
(a) to be aged 11 to 15 years;
(b) to be admitted to membership only with the consent of their parent or guardian;
(c) admitted for the purpose of training and are not to attend or be in attendance at an uncontrolled
fire or other emergency incident;
(d) to be supervised by a fire fighting member when undertaking normal brigade activities as
defined by paragraphs (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g) of section 35A of the Act;
(e) ineligible to vote at bush fire brigade meetings;
(f) not to be assigned ranks under the Department’s rank structure.
4.5 Honorary life member
(1) The bush fire brigade may by a simple majority resolution appoint a person as an honorary life
member in recognition of services by that person to the bush fire brigade.
(2) No membership fees are to be payable by an honorary life member.
4.6 Notification of membership
No later than 31 May in each year, the bush fire brigade is to report to the Chief Fire Control Officer
the name, contact details and type of membership of each brigade member.
PART 5—APPOINTMENT DISMISSAL AND MANAGEMENT OF MEMBERS
5.1 Rules to govern
The appointment, dismissal and management of brigade members by the bush fire brigade are governed
by the Rules.
PART 6—EQUIPMENT OF BUSH FIRES BRIGADES
6.1 Policies of local government
The local government may make policies under which it—
(a) provides funding to bush fire brigades for the purchase of protective clothing, equipment and
appliances; and
(b) keeps bush fire brigades informed of opportunities for funding from other bodies.
6.2 Equipment in brigade area
Not later than 31 May in each year, each bush fire brigade is to report to the local government the
nature, quantity and quality of all protective clothing, equipment and appliances of the bush fire
brigade which are generally available within the brigade area (or at a station of the bush fire brigade).
6.3 Funding from local government budget
A request to the local government from the bush fire brigade for funding of protective clothing,
equipment or appliance needs is to be received by the local government by 31 March in order to be
considered in the next following local government budget, and is to be accompanied by the last audited
financial statement and a current statement of assets and liabilities of the bush fire brigade.
6.4 Consideration in the local government budget
The local government may approve or refuse an application for funding depending upon the assessment
of budget priorities for the year in question.
22 April 2024 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1053
FIRST SCHEDULE
RULES GOVERNING THE OPERATION OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
PART 1—PRELIMINARY
1.1 Interpretation
(1) In these Rules, unless the context otherwise requires, where a term is used in these Rules and is
defined in the local law, the Act or the Regulations, then the term is to be taken to have the meaning
assigned to it in the local law, the Act or the Regulations, as the case may be.
(2) In these Rules, unless the context otherwise requires—
“absolute majority” means a majority of more than 50% of the number of—
(a) brigade members of the bush fire brigade, whether in attendance at the meeting or not,
if the majority is required at a meeting of the bush fire brigade; or
(b) brigade officers of the bush fire brigade, whether in attendance at the meeting or not, if
the majority is required at a meeting of the Committee.
“Committee” means the Committee of the bush fire brigade;
“local law” means the Shire of Murray Bush Fire Brigades Local Law 2024; and
“normal brigade activities” is defined by section 35A of the Act.
(3) Subject to these Rules, where a decision is to be made by the bush fire brigade, then the decision
may be made by a resolution passed by a simple majority of the brigade members who are present
in person or by proxy at the meeting.
(4) Subject to these Rules, where a decision is to be made by the Committee, then the decision may be
made by a resolution passed by a simple majority of the brigade officers who are present in person
or by proxy at the meeting.
PART 2—OBJECTS AND MEMBERSHIP OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE
2.1 Objects of bush fire brigade
The objects of the bush fire brigade are to carry out—
(a) the normal brigade activities; and
(b) the functions of the bush fire brigade which are specified in the Act, the Regulations and the
local law.
2.2 Committee to determine applications
Applications for membership are to be determined by the Committee.
2.3 Conditions of membership
In relation to any type of membership, as described in Part 4 of the local law, the bush fire brigade may
establish policies pertaining to—
(a) the qualifications required;
(b) fees payable, if any;
(c) a requirement to serve a probationary period;
(d) procedures to be employed by the Committee prior to approval of an application for
membership,
and the Committee is to act within the parameters of any such policy in determining applications for
membership.
2.4 Applications for membership
An application for membership is to be in writing and is to be submitted to the Secretary and in the
case of—
(a) an application for firefighting membership is to be accompanied by a completed form in the
form of that in Appendix I.
(b) an application for associate membership is to be accompanied by a completed form in the form
of that in Appendix II.
(c) an application for cadet membership is to be accompanied by a completed form in the form of
that in Appendix III.
2.5 Decision on application for membership
(1) The Committee may—
(a) approve an application for membership unconditionally or subject to any conditions; or
(b) refuse to approve an application for membership.
(2) If the Committee refuses to approve an application for membership, it is to give written reasons for
the refusal, as soon as practicable after the decision is made, to the applicant and the advice that
the applicant has the right to object to the local government.
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2.6 DFES to be notified of registrations
If any application for membership is approved, the Secretary of the bush fire brigade is to supply
registration details to the Department within 14 days of a person being admitted to membership in the
form required by the Department from time to time.
2.7 Termination of membership
(1) Membership of the bush fire brigade terminates if the member—
(a) dies;
(b) gives written notice of resignation to the Secretary;
(c) is, in the opinion of the Committee, permanently incapacitated by mental or physical ill-health;
(d) is dismissed by the Committee; or
(e) ceases to be a member or is taken to have resigned under subclause (2)
(2) A brigade member whose membership fees are more than one year in arrears is to be taken to have
resigned from the bush fire brigade.
2.8 Suspension of membership
(1) Membership of the bush fire brigade may be suspended at any time if, in the opinion of the
Committee, circumstances warrant suspending the member.
(2) The period of suspension shall be at the discretion of the Committee.
(3) Upon the expiry of the period of suspension the Committee may—
(a) extend the period of suspension;
(b) terminate the membership; or
(c) reinstate the membership.
2.9 Existing liabilities to continue
(1) The resignation, or dismissal of a member under clause 2.7 does not affect any liability of the
brigade member arising prior to the date of resignation or dismissal.
2.10 Member has right of defence
A brigade member is not to be dismissed under clause 2.7(1)(d) without being given the opportunity to
meet with the Committee and answer any charges which might give grounds for dismissal.
2.11 Objection Rights
A person whose—
(a) application for membership is refused under clause 2.5(1)(b);
(b) membership is terminated under clause 2.7(1)(c), clause 2.7(1)(d) or clause 2.8(3)(b); or
(c) membership is suspended under clause 2.8(1) or clause 2.8(3)(a),
has the right of objection to the local government which may dispose of the objection by—
(a) dismissing the objection;
(b) varying the decision objected to; or
(c) revoking the decision objected to, with or without—
(i) substituting for it another decision; or
(ii) referring the matter, with or without directions, for another decision by the Committee.
PART 3—FUNCTIONS OF BRIGADE OFFICERS
3.1 Chain of command during fire fighting activities
Subject to the Act and the local law, the command procedures to apply during fire fighting activities
are as detailed in the local government’s Bush Fire Operating Procedures.
3.2 Duties of Captain
(1) Subject to subclause (2) below, the Captain is to preside at all meetings.
(2) In the absence of the Captain, the meeting may elect another person to preside at the meeting.
3.3 Secretary
(1) The Secretary is to—
(a) be in attendance at all meetings and keep a correct minute and account of the proceedings of
the bush fire brigade in a book which shall be open for inspection by brigade members at any
reasonable time;
(b) answer all correspondence or direct it appropriately, and keep a record of the same;
(c) prepare and send out all necessary notices of meetings;
(d) receive donations and monies on behalf of the brigade, and remit them to the Treasurer upon
receipt; and;
(e) complete and forward an incident report form in the form required by the Department to the
Chief Bush Fire Control Officer and the Department within 14 days after attendance by the
bush fire brigade at an incident.
22 April 2024 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1055
(f) maintain a register of all current brigade members which includes each brigade member’s
contact details and type of membership.
(g) provide no later than 31 May in each year, a report to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer
detailing the name, contact details and type of membership of each brigade member.
(2) Where a bush fire brigade attends an incident on more than one day, the incident report form is to
be completed and forwarded under subclause (1)(e) within 14 days after the last day of attendance.
3.4 Treasurer
The Treasurer is to—
(a) receive donations and monies from the Secretary, and deposit all monies to the credit of the
bush fire brigade’s bank account;
(b) pay accounts as authorised by the Committee;
(c) keep a record of all monies received and payments made, maintain the accounts and prepare
the balance sheet for each financial year;
(d) be the custodian of all monies of the bush fire brigade; and
(e) report on the financial position at meetings of the bush fire brigade or Committee.
3.5 Equipment Officer
The Equipment Officer is responsible for the custody and maintenance in good order and condition of
all protective clothing, equipment and appliances provided by the local government to the bush fire
brigade (or of the bush fire brigade).
3.6 Storage of equipment
(1) The Equipment Officer may store all of the equipment of the bush fire brigade at a place approved
by the Captain (the “station”).
(2) If there is to be more than one station in the brigade area, the Equipment Officer is to appoint in
respect of each station a person who is responsible for the custody and maintenance in good order
and condition of all equipment and appliances at the station, subject to any direction of the
Equipment Officer.
3.7 Equipment Officer to report
The Equipment Officer is to provide, no later than 31 May of each year, a report to the local government
and bush fire brigade captain describing the nature, quantity and quality of all protective clothing,
equipment and appliances of the bush fire brigade which are generally available within the bush fire
brigade area (or at a station of the bush fire brigade).
PART 4—COMMITTEE
4.1 Management of bush fire brigade
(1) Subject to the provisions of these Rules, the administration and management of the affairs of the
bush fire brigade are vested in the Committee.
(2) Without limiting the generality of subclause (1), the Committee is to have the following functions—
(a) to recommend to the local government amendments to these Rules;
(b) to draft the annual budget for the bush fire brigade and present it at the annual general
meeting of the bush fire brigade;
(c) to propose a motion for consideration at any meeting of the bush fire brigade;
(d) to recommend to the local government equipment which needs to be supplied by the local
government to the bush fire brigade;
(e) to invest or place on deposit any of the funds of the bush fire brigade not immediately required
to perform the normal brigade activities;
(f) to delegate to a person, as from time to time thought fit, any functions (being less than the total
functions of the Committee) on any conditions it thinks fit;
(g) to do all things necessary or convenient in order to perform any of its functions and to secure
the performance of the normal brigade activities by the bush fire brigade; and
(h) deal with membership applications, grievances, disputes and disciplinary matters.
4.2 Constitution of Committee
(1) The Committee of the bush fire brigade is to consist of the brigade officers being the Captain,
Secretary, Treasurer, Equipment Officer and the Lieutenants of the bush fire brigade.
(2) The brigade officers are to—
(a) be elected at the annual general meeting of the bush fire brigade;
(b) hold office until the next annual general meeting; and
(c) be eligible for re-election at the next annual general meeting.
(3) Any brigade officer may be removed from office by an absolute majority decision of the brigade
members present in person or by proxy at a special meeting called for such a purpose.
(4) The Committee may appoint a brigade member to fill a vacancy in any office arising from a
resolution under subclause (3) or which has arisen for any other reason.
1056 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 22 April 2024
PART 5—MEETINGS OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE
5.1 Ordinary meetings
(1) Ordinary meetings may be called at any time by the Secretary by giving at least 7 days notice to
all brigade members and to the Chief Fire Control Officer, for the purpose of—
(a) organising and checking equipment;
(b) requisitioning new or replacement equipment;
(c) organising field excursions, training sessions, hazard reduction programs, and the preparation
of fire-breaks;
(d) establishing new procedures in respect of any of the normal brigade activities; and
(e) dealing with any general business.
(2) In a notice given under subclause (1), the Secretary is to specify the business which is to be
conducted at the meeting.
(3) Business may be conducted at an ordinary meeting of the bush fire brigade notwithstanding that
it was not specified in a notice given under subclause (1) in relation to that meeting.
5.2 Special meetings
(1) The Secretary is to call a special meeting when 5 or more brigade members request one in writing.
(2) At least 2 days notice of a special meeting is to be given by the Secretary, to all brigade members
and to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer.
(3) In a notice given under subclause (2) the Secretary is to specify the business which is to be
conducted at the meeting.
(4) No business is to be conducted at a special meeting beyond that specified in a notice given under
subclause (2) in relation to that meeting.
5.3 Annual general meeting
(1) At least 7 days notice of the annual general meeting is to be given by the Secretary to all brigade
members and to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer.
(2) At the annual general meeting the bush fire brigade is to—
(a) elect the brigade officers from among the brigade members;
(b) consider the Captain’s report on the year’s activities;
(c) adopt the annual financial statements;
(d) appoint an Auditor for the ensuing financial year in accordance with clause 5.6; and
(e) deal with any general business.
(3) In a notice given under subclause (1), the Secretary is to specify the business which is to be
conducted at the meeting.
(4) Business may be conducted at an annual general meeting notwithstanding that it was not specified
in a notice given under subclause (1) in relation to that meeting.
5.4 Quorum
(1) The quorum for a meeting of the bush fire brigade is at least 50% of the number of offices (whether
vacant or not) of member of the bush fire brigade.
(2) No business is to be transacted at a meeting of the bush fire brigade unless a quorum of brigade
members is present in person or by proxy.
5.5 Voting
Each brigade member is to have one vote, however in the event of an equality of votes, the Captain (or
person presiding) may exercise a casting vote.
5.6 Auditor
(1) At the annual general meeting a person, not being a brigade member, is to be appointed as the
Auditor of the bush fire brigade for the ensuing financial year.
(2) The Auditor is to audit the accounts of the bush fire brigade not less than 7 days before the annual
general meeting and is to certify to their correctness or otherwise and present a report at the annual
general meeting.
PART 6—MEETINGS OF COMMITTEE
6.1 Meetings of Committee
(1) The Committee is to meet for the despatch of business, adjourn and otherwise regulate its meeting
as it thinks fit.
(2) The Captain or Secretary may convene a meeting of the Committee at any time.
6.2 Quorum
No business is to be transacted at a meeting of the Committee unless a quorum of 3 brigade officers are
present in person.
22 April 2024 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1057
6.3 Voting
Each brigade officer is to have one vote, however in the case of an equality of votes, the Captain (or
person presiding) may exercise a casting vote.
PART 7—GENERAL ADMINISTRATION MATTERS
7.1 Fees
(1) The membership fees, if any, for each type of member for the ensuing 12 months are to be
determined by the bush fire brigade at the annual general meeting.
(2) Subject to subclause (3), a member is to pay the membership fees for her or his type of membership
on or before 1 May.
(3) The bush fire brigade may exempt a brigade member, or a class of membership, from the payment
of membership fees, for such period and on such conditions as the bush fire brigade may determine.
7.2 Funds
The funds of the bush fire brigade are to be used solely for the purpose of promoting the objects of the
bush fire brigade.
7.3 Financial year
The financial year of the bush fire brigade is to commence on 1 July and is to end on 30 June of the
following year.
7.4 Banking
(1) The funds of the bush fire brigade are to be placed in a bank account and are to be drawn on only
by cheques signed jointly by any 2 of the Captain, Secretary or Treasurer.
(2) If the Secretary/Treasurer is a combined position, the Captain and Secretary/Treasurer are to sign
the cheques referred to in subclause (1).
7.5 Disclosure of interests
(1) A brigade member shall disclose to the bush fire brigade or Committee any financial interest
(whether direct or indirect) he or she may have in any matter being considered by the bush fire
brigade or Committee, as appropriate.
(2) If a financial interest has been disclosed under subclause (1), then the bush fire brigade or
Committee, as appropriate, is to decide, in the absence of the brigade member who disclosed that
interest, whether or not the brigade member is to be permitted to vote on that matter.
(3) Where the bush fire brigade or Committee, as appropriate, decides under subclause (2), that a
brigade member is not to be permitted to vote on a matter, and the brigade member votes on the
matter, then her or his vote is to be taken to have no effect and is not to be counted.
7.6 Disagreements
(1) Any disagreement between brigade members may be referred to either the Captain or to the
Committee.
(2) Where a disagreement in subclause (1) is considered by the Captain or the Committee to be of
importance to the interests of the bush fire brigade, then the Captain or the Committee, as the case
may be, is to refer the disagreement to the annual general meeting, an ordinary meeting or a special
meeting of the bush fire brigade.
(3) The local government is the final authority on matters affecting the bush fire brigade, and may
resolve any disagreement which is not resolved under subclause (1) or (2).
PART 8—NOTICES AND PROXIES
8.1 Notices
(1) Notices of meetings of the bush fire brigade are to be in writing and sent by ordinary post to the
registered address of each brigade member.
(2) Notices of meetings of the Committee may be given in writing in accordance with subclause (1) or
by such other means as the Committee may decide (by an absolute majority) at a meeting of the
Committee.
(3) Any accidental omission to give notice of a meeting to, or non-receipt by a person entitled to receive
such notice, is not to invalidate the meeting the subject of the notice or any resolutions passed at
the meeting.
(4) Where any notice other than a notice of meeting is to be given under these Rules, the notice is to
be—
(a) in writing;
(b) unless otherwise specified, given to or by the Secretary;
(c) given by—
(i) personal delivery;
(ii) post; or
(iii) facsimile transmission;
1058 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 22 April 2024
(d) taken to have been received, as the case may be—
(i) at the time of personal delivery;
(ii) 2 business days after posting; or
(iii) on the printing of the sender’s transmission report.
8.2 Proxies
(1) Where under these Rules a brigade member may vote by proxy, in order for the proxy to so vote,
the brigade member or the proxy shall give a notice in the form of that appearing in this clause, to
the Secretary or the person presiding at the meeting before the start of the meeting at which the
proxy is to be used.
(2) A proxy is to be valid for the meeting for which it is given and for any adjournments of that meeting.
(3) A proxy shall be valid for the number of votes to which the brigade member is entitled.
(4) If the donor of the proxy does not give any indication of the manner in which the proxy is to vote,
the proxy shall be entitled to vote or not vote as he or she thinks fit.
(5) A proxy shall be entitled to speak on behalf of the donor of the proxy.
(6) All forms appointing proxies deposited under subclause (1) are to be retained by the Secretary for
not less than 28 days after the conclusion of the meeting to which they relate but if there is any
objection to the validity of any vote at the meeting, they are to be retained until the determination
of that objection.
(7) The form appointing a proxy shall be in writing and signed by the brigade member appointing the
proxy and shall be in or substantially in the form set out below—
“PROXY
[INSERT NAME] BUSH FIRE BRIGADE
[ANNUAL] [EXTRAORDINARY] GENERAL MEETING
TO BE HELD ON [DATE]
I, _____________________________,
Being a brigade member appoint ___________________ to be my proxy and vote on my behalf at the
meeting of the bush fire brigade to be held on [insert date] and at any adjournment of it. The proxy
shall vote as follows—
MOTION FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
. . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . .
If there is no instruction to the proxy as to the way to vote, the proxy shall exercise her or his discretion
as to how to vote or whether to vote at all. In respect of any vote taken at the meeting on a matter which
does not appear on the agenda, the proxy shall exercise her or his discretion as to the way he or she
casts the vote or whether it is cast at all.
Date: ________________________
Signed: ______________________
NOTE: To be valid this proxy must be completed and returned to the Secretary of the bush fire brigade
(or the presiding member) prior to the commencement of the meeting for which the proxy is valid.
Dated this day of 20 . . . . . .
22 April 2024 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1059
APPENDIX I
APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP—FIRE FIGHTING MEMBER
I make application to be a fire fighting member of the Bush Fire Brigade.
Applicant’s Name .....................................................................................................................................
My private address is ..............................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................
My business address is ............................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................
Usual Occupation .....................................................................................................................................
I can be contacted on—
Telephone No: ............................... (Home) ...................................... (Work) .............................. Mobile
Fax No: .......................................... (Home) ...................................... (Work) .........................................
CB Radio ....................................... Channel .................................... Call Sign .....................................
If needed, I can provide my own transport to the scene of any outbreak. (This line to be struck out if not
applicable)
I hold a current driver’s licence No ………………..Classes …………………………
I declare that I am at least 16 years of age and in good health with no known medical conditions which
might limit my capacity to fight fires.
I give these undertakings—
(1) to promote the objects of the bush fire brigade as far as is in my power;
(2) to be governed by the provisions of the Bush Fires Act 1954 and the Regulations made under that
Act, and the local law and policies of the Shire of Murray relevant to fire control and bush fire
brigades;
(3) to use my best endeavours to give assistance in fire fighting measures when called upon and on
such occasions to obey all orders and instructions issued by duly authorized officers of the bush fire
brigade or the local government;
(4) to comply with the Rules of the bush fire brigade.
Date .................................................... ....................................................................................
Applicant’s signature
Please list here any fire fighting equipment owned by you.
1 . ...........................................................................................................
2. ...........................................................................................................
3. ...........................................................................................................
BUSH FIRE BRIGADE USE ONLY:
APPROVED / DECLINED
Signed: ......................................................................
Brigade Captain
1060 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 22 April 2024
APPENDIX II
APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP—ASSOCIATE MEMBER
I make application to be an associate member of the ................................ Bush Fire Brigade.
(a) I am prepared to offer to transport fire fighting members and/or equipment to the scene of any
outbreak when called upon. I have a motor vehicle of the following type ……………….. available for
such purpose.
MDL No: ……………………….Classes: ……………………………..
(b) I am prepared to offer my services in the following capacity—
..................................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................
(paragraph (a) or (b) above may be struck out if not applicable)
Applicant’s Name .....................................................................................................................................
My private address is ...............................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................
My business address is ............................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................
I can be contacted on—
Telephone No:................................ (Home) ................................ (Work) ....................................... Mobile
Fax No: .......................................... (Home) ................................ (Work) ..................................................
CB Radio: ....................................... Channel .............................. Call Sign ..............................................
I give these undertakings—
(1) to promote the objects of the bush fire brigade as far as is in my power;
(2) to be governed by the provisions of the Bush Fires Act 1954 and any Regulations made under the
Act and the local law and policies of the Shire of Murray relevant to fire control and bush fire
brigades;
(3) to use my best endeavours to assist in normal bush fire brigade activities as an associate member
when called upon;
(4) to comply with the Rules of the bush fire brigade.
Date .................................................... ....................................................................................
Applicant’s signature
BUSH FIRE BRIGADE USE ONLY:
APPROVED / DECLINED
Signed: ......................................................................
22 April 2024 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1061
APPENDIX III
APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP—CADET MEMBER
I make application to be a cadet member of the ......................................................Bush Fire Brigade.
Applicant’s Name .....................................................................................................................................
My private address is ..............................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................
I can be contacted on—
Telephone No: ................................................ (Home) .................................................................. (Work)
Fax No: ........................................................... (Home)
CB Radio: ....................................................... Channel .......................... Call Sign .................................
I declare that I am ........................ years of age and in good health.
Date of Birth: ................................
I give these undertakings—
(1) to promote the objects of the bush fire brigade as far as is in my power;
(2) to be governed by the provisions of the Bush Fires Act 1954 and the Regulations made under that
Act, and the local law and policies of the Shire of Murray relevant to the activities of cadet members;
(3) to obey all orders and instructions issued by duly authorized officers of the bush fire brigade or the
local government;
(4) to comply with the Rules of the bush fire brigade.
Date .................................................... ....................................................................................
Applicant’s signature
PARENT / GUARDIAN CONSENT—
I being the parent/guardian of the above applicant, consent to him/her being a cadet member of
the Bush Fire Brigade, in accordance with the rules applicable to cadet membership.
Signed .......................................................................
Dated this 8th day of April 2024.
The Common Seal of the Shire of Murray was affixed on by authority of a resolution of the Council in
the presence of—
DAVID BOLT, Shire President.
DEAN UNSWORTH, Chief Executive Officer.
———————————
BUSH FIRE BRIGADE USE ONLY:
APPROVED / DECLINED
Signed: ......................................................................
Brigade Captain