Communications Function
Disasters often trigger major disruptions to communications systems. Problems
such as limited telephone coverage and exchange infrastructure damage,
together with call congestion severely restrict the use of telecommunication
during operations.
SES communications networks provide units and groups with emergency counter disaster communications to support disaster operations. Two-way radio communications provides the SES with a simple, independent mobile voice network, designed to operate in difficult and demanding conditions.
SES Radio Networks
It is impossible for this network to provide 100% coverage of the state, nor does it provide supplementary communications to existing commercial telephone networks. The SES network is designed for emergency communications for SES operations only.
There are two major networks:
- High Frequency (HF) – Wide area, long distance
- Ultra High Frequency (UHF) – Local Area, line of sight distance
The HF network enables short, medium and long range communications over flat, hilly or mountainous terrain. The installation of base radios provides groups with backup communications to District and State headquarters should the telephone systems fail.
HF radios are used by the remote and isolated groups of the state as the mobile communications network in disaster operations. HF is particularly successful when used in dense, mountainous rainforest. However this network requires skilled and trained radio operators to effectively utilise this frequency band.
The UHF network provides high quality line of sight communications for use in disaster effected areas. UHF repeater bases have been installed to provide widespread radio coverage to cities and towns considered to be prone to natural disasters. Portable UHF repeaters are able to be quickly deployed to provide radio coverage to support operations in areas without permanent bases.
Equipment Characteristics
It is essential that equipment is capable of supporting operations, even when all public utilities are out of action. The equipment must be reliable, easy to operate and portable with extended operational endurance.
All SES radio equipment is capable of operating from a 12 volt DC power source. Portable radios can also operate in adverse weather conditions.
Thorough research and user trials are carried out before equipment selection is made. Tully SES group, located in the wet, lush, tropical rainforest in the north of the state and Brisbane groups, conducted operational trials of the GME Electrophone and Icom handhelds portables now in use.
Radio Equipment
The ultimate aim of equipment selection is to select one brand, one model. This provides efficiencies in operation, maintenance and training. However with rapid technology changes, new improved radios are always appearing. Current models often undergo software changes to improve reliability and performance. The SES aim is to select the radio best suited for SES activities.
Current UHF hand held portable models in use are:
|
|
|
Icom IC-F20 |
Icom IC-F4S |
GME 7000 |
|
||
SES Communications Projects
To improve the operational performance and standard of equipment supplied to the SES, the following projects are underway:
- Bandplan 2000. Channel plan created to enable the SES to move forward to a uniform standard of radio communications.
- UHF Hand Held Portables Replacement Program. Replacement of the numerous old and obsolete models with a singular model suited to SES operations.
- VHF to UHF Conversion Program. Adopting a uniform UHF frequency band for statewide radio communications.
- Mobile Transceiver Replacement Program. Mobiles not capable of complying with Bandplan 2000 are to be replaced.
- Man Pack Portable Development Project. Convert existing Philips FM92 battery packs to Icom IC-F2010 operation with a new MPP to be developed for the Icoms.
- Portable Repeater Development Project. Construction and deployment of portable repeaters for all district offices.
- HF Selcall Program. A state selcall system has been devised and tested.
Communications Training
A communications training package is being developed, incorporating three
levels of competencies.
- Stage one provides introductory communications training for every member of the SES
- Stage two provides recognition as a Radio Operator, and
- Stage three provides recognition as a Communications Officer.
Stage one and two of the package has been produced, trialled, modified and courses are currently being held in the districts. Stage three is under development with a communications workshop to be convened to produce the right format.
Other languages