Mental Health and Member Welfare

Presented by: Nicole Sadler – Phoenix Australia

Session Abstract: Workers (volunteers and staff) in the emergency services are routinely exposed to potentially traumatic events. Most people recover with the help of family and friends, but there are effective treatments for those needing extra support.

An expert from Phoenix Australia will discuss how we take a Holistic Approach to Health and Wellbeing in Emergency Services Personnel.

We will discuss how best to support our volunteers and staff pre, during, post and beyond incidents. Current trends and initiates within the emergency service space, breaking down the stigma and the benefits of a proactive and holistic approach.

Lifesaving Operations Session 2019/20

Presented by: Darren McLeod – Director, Lifesaving Services

Session Abstract: Lifesaving Operations is our organisations core business and its essential for the safety of the community all Lifesaving Operations personnel are aware of the requirements for the upcoming season. This session will assist in getting you and your club’s members prepared for the 2019/20 lifesaving season with the latest information on patrol season requirements, gear requirements, radio network information and patrol defaults.

Volunteer Training Review

Presented by: David Rylance – Director, Training & Assessment along with Andy Dennis – General Manager, Training & Pool Safety

Session Abstract: The training needs of LSV volunteers and professional lifeguards has continued to evolve and that change is highly likely to continue. The framework within which volunteer training takes place is also changing, with the compliance structures associated with accredited training become increasingly stringent and burdensome.

In January 2019, the LSV Board initiated a review of the Volunteer Training. The objective of the review is to improve the quality of training offered to LSV volunteer members and improve the training experience for candidates, trainers and assessors.

This session will provide details and reasoning behind the changes which have been made as a result of the review, as well as an overview of the impact which these changes will have on training delivery and administration.

Lifesaving Operations IT Systems (GEMS and LIMSOC)

Presented by: Hugh Day – State Emergency Management Officer and Hamish McKendrick – State Gear and Equipment Officer along with Ben Slocombe and Sam Richardson from LSV.

Session Abstract: Life Saving Victoria uses a range of IT applications to assist in both the reporting and maintenance of our services.

The session will hear about the latest updates in the Lifesaving Incident Management System and Operations Console (LIMSOC) and the Gear and Equipment Management System (GEMS) in time for the upcoming season.

It is of the upmost importance to ensure that members know how to use all these system in all aspects and LSV would encourage all members who use these systems to attend.

Accelerating Award Processing

Presented by: Katrina Antony – State Training and Assessment Supervisor along with Micah Spedding – Manager, Volunteer Training and Jodie Turner – VT Administration Coordinator

Session Abstract: There are a range of requirements which must be met, prior to an award or qualification being issued to a Member. A lack of clarity and communication around these requirements has lead to a situation where many awards weren’t able to be processed in a timely manner, or at all in some cases.

This session is designed for those who set up and deliver training courses. It has the objective of clearly explaining the requirements of training delivery and sets out the correct process, which will enable awards to be processed in a much more effective and efficient manner, reducing the impact on Members and Administrators.

On Course Resources

Presented by: Alison Porter – State Resource Research & Development Officer along with Andy Dennis – General Manager, Training & Pool Safety

Session Abstract: The look, feel and usability of training course resources can significantly improve the flow of a course and better assist Members to follow the content and intended learning. As a result they can increase the likelihood of Members successfully achieving awards, being more willing to complete further awards and ultimately increase their lifesaving skills and knowledge.

There has been a review of all of resources, with the support of subject matter expert groups. The resources are now provided in simple and concise documents (one for the Member and one for the TAF) for each course. PowerPoints have been refreshed, videos embedded, and new assets developed.

This session will explain how to use the new resources to improve the course experience for TAFs and Members. Resources for the season ahead have been prepared and printed for Club Delegates to take with them from the Conference.

Incident Management – Introduction

Presented by: Justin Dunlop ASM CStJ – Acting Director Emergency Management, Ambulance Victoria; Tim Wiebusch – Chief Operations Officer, Victoria SES along with Hugh Day – State Emergency Management Officer, LSV and Simon White (Facilitator)

Session Abstract: The expectation of Life Saving Victoria and its members is increasing in the emergency management sector. This results in members operating in an inter-agency environment, requiring the use of a far more integrated approach to our incident management.

This panel session, will explore how other agencies manage incidents, their models of emergency incident management, and how these models might work within a lifesaving context.

Attendees will hear from experts within the field of emergency management as well as our state emergency management officer about incident management.

Communicating and Empowering Youth

Presented by: Glenn Manton – Ex Footballer

Session Abstract: Youth are a critical part of the membership and our ability to empower them to participate, collaborate and lead in all aspects of lifesaving will ensure we retain an engaged and skilled membership for the future.

Ex Footballer Glenn Manton is passionate about education, mentoring and empowering youth. He will bring his own unique style to this engaging session, whilst he pushes participants to think, evaluate and inspire new thoughts.

He will entertain, make you laugh and provoke thought about how we can all play a role in empowering youth.

Sport – Lifesaving Events

Presented by: Dinah Boswell – Lifesaving Events Coordinator, Aquatic Sports Council

Session Abstract: An introduction, overview and demonstration of LSV Lifesaving Events, delivered through Aquatic Sports. Events include Rescue & Resuscitation (R&R), First Aid and Patrol Competition Events. There will be a live demonstration of 2 Person R&R and First Aid Events. These events are the perfect opportunity for members to put their skills to the test in a competition environment.

Top tips for governing your Club

Presented by: Greg Seeto – LSV Governance Specialist

Session Abstract: This session will provide Club Presidents and Club Committee Members with our top tips on Club governance, and how to run your Club effectively and efficiently.

Have you ever wondered how your Club fits into the broader Life Saving Victoria family? Or how to properly run a club disciplinary proceeding? Or what you need to do to properly run a Committee meeting? Or what your obligations are as a Committee Member or Director?

Come to this session and learn about the common traps many Clubs come across in their day-to-day activities, and pick up our top tips on how to avoid them.

Grant Writing Workshop

Presented by: Susan Ahmelman, Manager – Grant Seeking Unit – SLSF

Session Abstract: In support of Surf Life Saving clubs in Victoria, LSV provides grant support at no charge to Victorian clubs through the Surf Life Saving Foundation’s Grant Seeking Unit (GSU). The GSU assists with identifying suitable opportunities and then preparing and lodging grant applications. This year the GSU assisted in raising over $1.1M for surf life saving entities in Victoria for items including rescue equipment, capital works, nipper boards, youth camps and much more.

The session will provide an overview of how easy it is to work with the GSU and how they can help your club raise valuable funds through grants.

Volunteer Training IT Platforms

Presented by: Andy Dennis – General Manager, Training & Pool Safety, Ben Slocombe – Technology Specialist, along with Kate Penney – Training Coordinator, Processing

Session Abstract: A key component of the volunteer training review has been the redevelopment of the Trainer App (v2) and the rebuild of the member training portal. These two IT applications have the ability to significantly improve the training experience by reducing paperwork, reducing errors and reducing processing times / outstanding awards.

This session will introduce the platforms and provide details on the functionality and correct use. The session will also include a detailed demonstration and explain where further support for the platforms can be obtained. “

Supporting Trainers and Assessors

Presented by: Katrina Antony – State Training & Assessment Supervisor along with Micah Spedding – Manager, Volunteer Member Training

Session Abstract: This topic has the sole focus of looking at the delivery of training from the perspective of Trainers, Assessors and Facilitators (TAF’s). It will go through an overview of the recent changes which impact TAF’s and provide information and guidance associated with success in the classroom or on the beach.

The session will provide a detailed overview of how to become or maintain status as authorised TAF and explain some of the differences associated with the different courses which are offered to Members. It will also detail the available pathways for TAF’s and be used as an opportunity to provide feedback on what further support TAFs wold like to see in the future.

Risk Management/Special events (Workshop Style)

Presented by: Steve Leahy – CEO, Westpac Helicopter (NSW) and Safety & Emergency Management Coordinator for SLSA

Workshop Abstract: Each year Clubs across Victoria run special events both for publicly and privately within their own club. These range from open water swims, fun runs to school visits and full triathlon events, and are conducted for a range of reasons including safety and public relations. It is therefore vitally important that all clubs understand the potential risks behind these types of events and put in place measures to ensure these are mitigated in the best way possible.

This workshop, facilitated by Steve Leahy – CEO, Westpac Helicopters (NSW) and Safety & Emergency Management Coordinator for SLSA, will run through the risks and regulations Clubs are required to meet when running Special Events. Attendees will be asked to work through some example situations with others, exposing them to different viewpoints and expand their knowledge on what to look for when setting up an event for your club.

Critical Incident and Welfare Panel

Panel including: Russ Harmon – Surf Life Saving Chaplaincy along with Member Peer Support Representatives

Session Abstract: What welfare looks like practically in lifesaving post Critical Incident.

A critical incident is any situation faced by emergency service personnel that causes unusually strong emotional reactions which have the potential to interfere with their ability to function either at the scene or later.

It’s an unfortunate reality that at some point while performing lifesaving duties most lifesavers will be involved in a critical incident. To assist with the management of critical incidents, Life Saving Victoria offers a variety of services and resources for members.

This session will highlight that no two individuals are the same, nor are their reactions. The Panel will explore the many options available to individuals and clubs, whilst exploring the challenges and opportunities within lifesaving to providing practical welfare support.

Planning for Success

Panel including: Micah Spedding- Manager, Volunteer Member Training, Katrina Antony – State Training & Assessment Supervisor along with David Rylance – Director, Training & Assessment

Session Abstract: What training is required at your club? How do we develop our skill sets to be more effective in our delivery? What tools are available to assist clubs to plan for the future?

It is acknowledged that the delivery of training is a vital but often complex component of a successful lifesaving Club. This session will provide an overview of the planning and review processes which are recommended to best ensure success associated with Training and Assessment at a Club or within an Area.

Risk Vs. Gain

Presented by: Victoria Police – Water Police

Session Abstract: Operating in a dangerous environment, means that lifesavers can encounter particularly dangerous situations during their normal duties. Unfortunately, in some cases this means that the potential risk, does not always exceed the potential gain.

During this session, attendees will be exposed to the concept of risk VS. gain through an emergency management perspective within Victoria. It will ask attendees to relate this to information to their own situation e.g. aquatic rescue and emergency response as a volunteer lifesaver, exploring the idea that it may not be the most relational decision to put someone in those conditions.

Insurance and Financial Controls

Presented by: Cale Smith – Principal – Sport, Marsh Australia and Finance Risk and Audit Committee Representative

Session Abstract: Make sure your Club is across Insurance requirements and processes in lifesaving. Hear from Marsh Australia and have your questions answered on Insurance, including:
– Overview of general and specific insurances, including insurance for club assets
– The dangers of under-insurance, and how JLT/Marsh can assist in reducing this risk and
– Further information on how clubs can protect there own assets through simple controls and checks of their overall financial management.

Safer Trainers, Safer Training

Presented by: Sheila Langley -Industry Development Coordinator

Session Abstract: LSV Industry Development Coordinator and Building Leaders Scholarship (BLS) Lead Trainer, Sheila Langley, will be joining us to share her experience and expertise about getting the most out of training delivery in the safest way.

This session will provide a look at the vital elements of training delivery, ensuring consistent practices and procedures are conducted in training delivery and that the underlying message is safe practices and in particular the appropriate techniques used when demonstrating practical/manual handling activities.

Attendees will be provided with a refreshing overview to the important basics of training preparation and delivery and take a look at the safest options to consider when facilitating a training session with focuses on achieving the optimal outcomes for both trainer/s and participants.

Technology Hub

Presented by: Hakie Ertan – Global Partnerships Manager, Team App and the LSV Education Team

Session Abstract: This interactive session will cover two topic areas in the overarching theme of technology:

1) Team App – With LSV rolling out Team App as a notification platform, Team App will be coming into LSV to present on how this system can be used for the benefit clubs and their members.

2) Virtual Reality – The LSV Education Team will be demonstrating how it is using its Virtual Reality (VR) technology to educate the community about water safety. This session will provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in a VR tour and learn how you could use these resources in your club.