Delegates from the Rural Fire Service (RFS) have warned the state of a warm summer to come and what these members do to reduce the risk of bushfire.

RFS Delegate Jim Killen said people often move to rural areas without knowing the local fire risks.

“It’s not just the fire season: we work January to January,” said John Osmond, a Risk Planning Coordinator with the RFS. “We take opportunities when they present to do some of that hazard reduction burning.”

He said the RFS also performs work such as slashing roadside verges to reduce the risk of fire.

“I’ve heard various reports that we are three-quarters of the way to what it was in 2019-20,” said Mr Killen, referring to the Black Summer that blighted much of the Australian east coast.

Mr Osmond said there was a good chance of a hot, dry summer.

Mr Killen and Mr Osmond were interviewed as part of the regular PSA CPSU NSW podcast series. 

The podcast covers a range of issues as diverse as the union’s membership.

Recent episodes have included a look at the work done by members in Youth Justice.

“Our members in Youth Justice do a tough job,” said Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright, who hosted the episode. “In half an hour, our members gave an insight into a workplace few members of the public could see.”

Mr Wright also recently spoke with a representative from union body Foundation House, which assists members with drug, alcohol and gambling issues.

“The podcast gives us a chance to publicise these services to a wider range of our membership,” said Mr Wright. “If just one member hears the podcast and picks up the phone to Foundation House and asks for help, then it has been a success.”

In another episode, Campaigns and Communications Manager Marianne Ledic talked to General Secretary Stewart Little, recapping a busy year for the PSA CPSU NSW.

“When we take the time to use the podcast to reflect on a busy 2025, you realise the amazing work our union has done for its members,” said Ms Ledic. “Our members do extraordinary work and the PSA CPSU NSW is by their side all the way.”

The podcasts can be downloaded from the usual sources, such as Buzz Sprout, Apple and Spotify, and wherever readers listen to podcasts.