When the power went out across Wisemans Ferry during the 2022 floods, communication failures compounded the crisis. With Telstra’s network down and outdated equipment in the fire station, coordinating emergency efforts became nearly impossible. Volunteer firefighter Kim Brownlie recalled how power outages and communication breakdowns, common during fire seasons and storms, deeply impacted the station.

“Power outages in the valley and the flow-on communications failures inevitably impact the fire station as they do with all other residents,” Brownlie said. “During those times, we’ve always adapted and found ways to communicate with the community, but these disruptions highlight the importance of robust and reliable communication systems.”

Thanks to Endeavour Energy’s 2025 Powering Communities grant program, the Wisemans Ferry Rural Fire Service (RFS) will receive a much-needed upgrade to address these challenges. The grant will fund the installation of a Starlink satellite communication system and a state-of-the-art touchscreen smart TV, giving the station modern tools to serve the valley more effectively.

The Starlink system will provide reliable communication even when traditional networks fail, while the smart TV will enhance training, After Action Reviews, and community engagement. Brownlie described the TV as a valuable addition: “The new TV will function as a large computer, facilitating training sessions and After Action Reviews. The more we learn, the better we can effectively utilise this information to better serve our community.”

The Wisemans Ferry RFS team, made up of local volunteers, plays a vital role in this tight-knit community. “The majority of our volunteers are local residents, many of whom work within the valley,” Brownlie said. “We all share a strong desire to assist each other. When our neighbours require assistance, we strive to provide all possible support. We deeply cherish our home and are dedicated to its protection, even during disasters.”

The news of the grant approval was especially meaningful for the team. “I was deeply moved,” Brownlie said. “Sharing this announcement with the team was an immensely gratifying experience. We are profoundly honoured to have been selected for this grant.”

Brownlie acknowledged that while the upgrades may not provide an immediate benefit to residents, the long-term impact will be significant. “By enhancing our capabilities, we will indirectly contribute to improved firefighting services and better serve our community in the long run,” she said.