Operation Ryan
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In Response to: Devastating bushfires
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Location: Cobargo, NSW
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Active: Jan 25, 2020 to Mar 22, 2020
Objective
Operation Ryan, Bushfire Recovery, was conducted over 8 waves from 25 January until 21 March 2020 when operations were suspended due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Our volunteers were supplemented by International Augmentees from Norway and the UK, along with Corporate Volunteers from Minderoo Bushfire Foundation and Allianz as well as Spontaneous Volunteers.The operation was based in Cobargo in the Bega Valley Shire, which was one of the regions heavily impacted by the bushfires in December 2019 and January 2020. The FOB and IMT were located at the Cobargo Sportsground under arrangements with Bega Valley Shire Council, who ably and effectively supported our bushfire recovery activities. Operation Ryan also worked collaboratively with a number of organisations, principally BlazeAid and Fire Relief Run.
The official loss of residences numbered 448 and this helped in establishing the operation’s priorities. Operation Ryan received referrals from a range of organisations which included the Bega Recovery Centre and Lifeline and these referrals were given the highest priority if judged within the scope of mission and wave capability. A number of these referrals related to clients’ mental health, and by attending and completing suitable tasks, Strike Teams were able to provide a level of ‘covert’ mental health support. Of significance, Strike Teams were assisted by items of small plant which had a considerable ‘force multiplier’ effect on task completions.
Notably, Operation Ryan was the first operation to be overseen by an appointed State Commander, who provided oversight, mentoring support and a single point of contact (less occasional technical contact) for the wider organisation.