Arthurs Creek Rural Fire Brigade

In 2016 a partnership between the Arthurs Creek Strathewen CFA and Strathewen Primary School was formed to address the difficult topic of bushfire awareness and community safety.

During the resulting program, grade 5 + 6 students learn about fire behaviour and ways to manage and reduce the threats involved with living in a high fire risk area. The program aims to reduce fear of the unknown and build resilience through understanding and community connections.

GOZER Creative works closely with Strathewen Primary School students and teachers, in conjunction with members of the Arthurs Creek Strathewen Fire Brigade and CFA educators to facilitate media-based elements of the community bushfire awareness project.

In 2016 students created the award-winning Claymation “If You Care, Stay Aware, Be Prepared”, a message from Gem Gem. The claymation explores the Fire Danger Rating system levels and what they mean.

In 2017 a sequel to the 2016 Claymation,`Life in the bush, Gem Gem’s next adventure‘ was created in a picture storybook format. The book looks at how to stay safe when living in the Australian bush whilst helping your neighbours do the same.

In 2018 students produced ‘A Walk Through Strathewen’s Fire History‘, a film exploring the rich history of Strathewen and its peoples’ relationship to fire.

2018 – A Walk Through Strathewen’s Fire History Film

2017 – Behind the Scenes of ‘Life in the Bush – Gem Gem’s Next Adventure’ Documentary

2016 – ‘If You Care: Prepare and Stay Aware – A Message from Gem Gem’ Animation

Behind the Scenes of Survive and Thrive, ‘If You Care, Stay Aware, Be Prepared’ – A message from Gem Gem

Photo by Julie Millowick, courtesy of FRRR

Students accept their Resilient Australia Award.

Storytelling around the bonfire at Malcolm’s farm.
Photo by Julie Millowick, courtesy of FRRR

A storyboard from the 2016 film – ‘If You Care: Prepare and Stay Aware – A Message from Gem Gem’ Animation.

Rory and Cadence animate characters for the 2018 film ‘A Walk Through Strathewen’s Fire History’.

Matilda with local Strathewen resident wombat.

Wurundjeri Elder Ian Hunter and Strathewen Primary School students.
Photos by Julie Millowick, courtesy of FRRR