Maxwell Vella of Sky Pods Cape Otway
A Cape Otway accommodation owner is encouraging fellow tourism operators to complete CFA's Tourism Fire Safety Module after a recent bushfire forced the evacuation of his guests in the middle of the night.
Maxwell Vella, owner of Sky Pods Cape Otway, successfully evacuated eight guests and several staff when a significant bushfire broke out near his property in January.
"I got a call from a neighbour warning me about the fire," Maxwell said.
"Within 15 minutes, the VicEmergency app sent an evacuation notice, and we got all our guests up and out.
"Some didn't answer their phones, so we had to knock on doors at 2am, but they all cooperated because they understood the seriousness of the situation."
The evacuees then drove their own vehicles to a pre-determined assembly point in Apollo Bay, and the fire was contained later that day.
Following the evacuation, Maxwell discovered CFA's Tourism Fire Safety Module, designed to help tourism operators understand their local risk, develop a comprehensive bushfire plan and how best to communicate with guests during an emergency.
While he already had a stringent bushfire survival plan in place for his guests, Maxwell said the module provided him with additional insights on refining evacuation procedures and how best to communicate with guests.
"I now ask all guests to leave their phones on overnight. Many turn them off while on holiday, but emergencies don't wait for the morning."
To further integrate fire safety into his business, Maxwell is developing an information booklet for each accommodation unit based on what he's learnt from CFA's Tourism Fire Safety Module.
"I'd recommend this training to every tourism operator in Victoria. It's a must, it'll save lives," he said.
"We have a responsibility to keep our guests safe, and the module provides practical steps to be prepared."
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the module gives businesses the tools to act swiftly in an emergency.
"Tourism operators play a critical role in keeping visitors safe, particularly in regional areas where fire risks can escalate quickly," Jason said.
"This module equips businesses with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively, ensuring both staff and guests are well-prepared.
"Maxwell's experience is a great example of why preparedness matters. We strongly encourage all tourism operators to take the time to complete the training and apply its lessons."
You can find more information and complete the CFA Tourism Module here.
