Date: Thu, 31 Dec 2009 16:43:53 -0800 (PST)
From: Rubber Rider <rubber_rider07@yahoo.ca>
Subject: Part 11 of logging

While we are having lunch the police arrive, I briefly meet with them and
ask George to show them around including the house. John had joined us at
lunch and everyone seemed very happy, oh where is Joe? John said he went
back to river camp yesterday to get ready for next week at Camp #2.

John I want you to come with me as the trucks return home, we will go ahead
so we are not in there dust as I want to meet up with Ken and yourself
privately, after which I need a ride back to River Camp please.

After lunch we head out and advise the drivers we will be ahead of them, we
get into camp about five minutes ahead of the trucks and note quite a few
folk out there to welcome them back. We meet up with Ken and I said I just
want to see what sort of reception the drivers get, Ken laughed they have
something up there sleeve I know but exactly I'm not sure. Well the
welcoming committee did a pretty good job and compliments were fling around
in the fact they only lost two days logging and thanked Ken & Brent for
rounding up some trucks but it is sure nice to have our own back -- here,
here was the general comment.

OK Ken lets go for a ride, which way Ken take the first on the left it is a
dead end and old landing area so there should be room to turn around. Brent
start off by saying I want an honest opinion are the assistant supers
capable to be promoted from what you have seen to date. Your thoughts Ken
-- my assistant is knowledgeable he is 25 yrs old and a forestry engineer
but has never actually worked really in the woods so lacks that experience.
I think if he was given the opportunity to gain the practical experience he
would be ready in 3- 5 years.

What about yours John, a good man started at the bottom and has worked his
way up he has shown to me his ability to resolve problems promptly, yes I
think he is ready to be promoted. So what about a replacement for him; well
Brent that is a hard one for me however if we promote someone from here I
think we should ask George if he feels anyone is suitable first or
otherwise post a job posting throughout the company. Ken says that posting
should be for one super and one assistant as I see it, John says I agree.

Thanks I also agree, however I would like you two to stay until the posting
are filled so let's return back to camp. So Ken how long did it take for
you to get here from Mountain View about 2½ hours. This applies to both of
you, if you want to go home for the weekend then quit midday Friday and
head home but I would like you both back by supper time on the Sunday. Ken
asked Brent once Tony house has been released would you mind if I used it
and brought my wife over and since we do a lot of camping we have our
sleeping bags and eat in the cookhouse. Brent says I think that is a great
idea go for it.

One thing that has not been done here yet is to change all the gate locks,
I will get a case full of locks ready for you Ken and will send the
locksmith out to re-key all the staff homes and office that also needs to
be done at camp #1

Well John and Brent head for river camp, I have two jobs I need to before
returning one sit down with Joe and get his report on the young guys and
most important a good shower, full haircut and I need a good fucking for
not doing my job properly with this take over of Hillside.

John is laughing well I need a full haircut as well and I bet Joe will
oblige both of us says John.

We get to river camp; John goes to see Jack while Brent meets up with Joe
and asks in his office how did he make out with the young folk. Joe's
answer was simply really very good and got all the parents behind me. I
also showed the accident video and was ask to run it second time. This
resulted in one of the men folk saying my name is Mike and I am a union
rep; you know Joe we need to get everyone on site with first aid ticket, as
you never know when fate will hit you badly.

I answered by saying in all our woodsmen logging camps the crew wears a dog
tag which has a bar code that provides the ambulance folk, hospital and the
company with all your medical info. On this tag is your first aid sticker
that has to be renewed every three years and a mini face photo. Look here
is mine please pass it around; the tag is waterproof and I never take it
off either. Then Mike asked if this could be implemented at both our camps
and what is the cost and what is involved. I told them it involves a good
four evening of practice with a qualified instructor and studying the books
followed by an exam. The cost is covered by the company and would be held
on site in a suitable location.

Excellent report and the fact about dog tags came up and first aid tickets
was really good makes it better down the road and at least you have member
of the union on your side. While Brent and Joe are, talking John comes into
the office and says looking at the time Brent told me he needed a good
haircut so how about we both go and get scrubbed and all cleaned up so we
adjourn and went over to the bunkhouse showers.

Once there Brent stripped right off, all his gear went into the washing
machine, and got it going, John and Joe did the same thing. Joe asked what
sort of head and face shaving do you want. Brent said I need to maintain
the sort of scruffy appearance until all this take over is completed but I
need my cock & balls totally shaved and my arse clean up of excess hair.

Then I need to be fuck well and truly since I failed to do all my homework
relating to Hillside, however I'm not sorry I went into this hornet nest
because what I have seen to date is evident they all seemed to have welcome
us because I think they realized they would have all lost there jobs and
homes.

John & Joe got there haircut and for Joe it was a total shaving, Brent then
says I want you both to fuck me please. Joe got a condom and said are you
sure -- yes Joe give it hard and heavy. Joe deposits several loads of cum
in his condom as Brent arse clamps down hard on Joe this is followed by
John who completes the honors.

Following there bonding they go to there rooms and get dressed in clean
clothes ready for supper. While there several of the crew came over and
said to Brent you look more like us every time we see you, they are
laughing as they slap Brent's back good on you mate.

Brent says John; I think it might be a good idea if I filled in everyone
here on what has been going on over this last week. Your thoughts John that
is a good idea as a company we have always been open with all our crews go
for it.

Folks I would like to give you an update on what has been going on over
this last week, firstly it has been very hectic last Tuesday evening I got
word that the "x" owners of Hillside Logging were suspected stealing back
there logging trucks. In conjunction with the police they discovered a
compound in town and spotted a hillside logging truck entering and then
being taken in a shop. I took off to Hillside's Camp #1 where Joe was
already there working with the young guys to try and help getting there
school marks up.

I meet Joe late that night unknown to anyone else on site and we spotted a
logging truck being started up and noted it was being driven by Peter the
Super for this camp also one of the owners. We followed this truck right
into town, told the police what was going on.

Joe and I went around a different way and parked in the shadows watching
the entrance gate to the compound. We could see the police waiting to
pounce, we both went around and joined the police and as the logging truck
came around the corner the gates were opened and we all followed with the
police right behind the truck. In the mean time the gate keeper was taken
into custody. The doors of the shop opened and as the truck was being
driven in and parked we saw Peter get out of the truck and then spotted
Tony with a spray gun painting over the hillside name. Peter & Tony were
arrested and the others taken in for questioning by the police.

This theft resulted in the loss of three trucks from each of their camps
putting them out of business but we were lucky with all our camps pulling
together we were able to get limited logging back into operation.

The trucks that were stolen have now been released by the police and they
are now back in operation. We will be returning all borrowed trucks back to
there regular homes.

The commercial crime section of the police is doing an audit and through
investigation of what has been going on and they are working in conjunction
with our lawyer and accountant. To-morrow I am returning to town to get
first hand information and the progress of the police investigations.

So for present both John & Ken from Mountain View Camp are in charge of the
Hillside Camps until new superintends are appointed, so folks that is all I
can tell you for present -- thanks for your time.

We finished our suppers and John suggested we all came back to his place
for a couple of drinks. It was a relaxing evening however some general shop
talk did take place while Joe was doing a letter to his Mum, by this time
Joe had stripped off as usual and in and around the house he only wears a
jock strap. The one he had on really enhanced his package and it showed off
well as he returned to the living room. John says go and get yourself a
good one son. Brent says that son of yours is very nicely built he makes me
jealousy, John laughs and says you're pretty good yourself and do not deny
it either. Joe asks anyone else like another, yes please says Brent that
sure went down well. Joe gave Brent some over-proof rum instead of regular
rum and that slowed him down as he said gee that is strong but good phew!

John said I think you had better stay here tonight Brent I don't want you
stumbling getting over to the Guest House so please share our bed; well
that's an invitation I cannot forgo. As John says we have a king size bed
and no spare room and guests are in the middle. We all slipped on well lube
condoms and got into bed, I'm laying on my side and felt Brent fingering my
back entry and it was not long before he slipped in, John did the same to
Brent so we were all well connected. It did not take long before we all had
deposits. I fell asleep quickly and went right through the night and did
not hear a thing either until the alarm went off and found Brent was still
inside me. I slowly slip out of bed and go for a pee and a quick shower and
I'm getting dressed when John says I never heard the alarm. John has a big
grin on his face saying that is the first time in years that he has slept
fully connected what about you Joe -- yes I was also connected all night a
wonderful feeling.

John gets showered and dressed and it was only then that Brent starts to
wake up and ask what s the time; breakfast time my friend says John and
best have a good one as I believe you are heading for town this morning --
oh hell you are right, five minutes later Brent is dressed but asking do
you have any aspirin please -- no problems in the cupboard over the kitchen
sink.

We all head for breakfast, Brent really eat well as he was not sure if he
would have time for anything else till the evening. After breakfast he
collects his things and heads off out for town but saying I'll phone you
later today John.

Jack comes over and he and John discussed a number of items, John suggests
that for the present it might be worth locking all gates and especially
where there is equipment is located as we do not know what sort of outcome
there will be from all that has gone on. What do you think Jack? It has
already been done and I have said if anyone wants to fishing or such like
they can borrow a key from the office but must return it when they get back
to camp and also get a signature each time one is borrowed -- Good man
Jack.

Jack says I also discussed tins with our other camps and they all thought
it was a good idea and have put the same procedure into operation, yes it
is a pain in the arse but better safe than sorry. I tell you what Jack
email Brent that information would you please as he will be very pleases to
hear what you have done.

Now on the serious side and between these four walls only, if you were
promoted to Superintendent level is there any one hear that would be
suitable to take over your job. That is a tough one to answer, we have some
really good guys but in my option they must have worked in the bush from a
low level so they understand the practical side now if someone like that
also had become a forestay engineer they may well be suitable but we don't
have anyone hear like that. Thanks Jack that was my opinion as well, keep
your eyes open as there should be a job posting in the near future for one
Superintendent and one Assistant Super, I know in the first place this
notice will go out to all camps including the Hillside ones.

Well I will be away until the gaps are filled I suspect it could be at
least a month, plus it all depends on police investigation etc so all being
well I will be here most weekend getting in Friday for supper and depart to
be back at Hillside for supper on the Sunday and as you know you can phone
me either by cell or via channel 6 we can then switch to channel #2 our
private channel Hillside does not have this channel.

John and Joe meet up and John asks what are your plans for next week Joe,
the plan is to go to Camp #2 and meet up hopefully with all the young guys
and there folks and do the same as Camp #1 because the reaction there I
feel was very positive. I may go back to Camp #1 and make myself available
in case of questions as I got tied up in this major upset so I was no able
to spend the time I would have like.

I assume Ken is aware of your forth coming visit, good point I'm not sure
you had better call him and knowing you -- you prefer a bunkhouse room let
him know please. If he is unprepared then return to #1 Camp do your thing
and then go over to #2 Camp. I tell you what, I have Ken's cell number we
will give him a call this morning -- sounds like a good idea lets do
it. Lets see what time is it 11:30 am OK let me get his number come on over
to the office. We phone Ken apologize for phoning on a Sunday but checking
if you are aware of my forth coming visit for a few day to meet up with the
young guys and there parents.

No, I didn't know about this; but I'm glad you are doing this, however may
I suggest you do not come over until I can the word out so let's say mid
week. OK Ken I'm planning on going back to #1 Camp and I will do that first
and arrive at #2 Camp mid afternoon on Wednesday.

I would like to stay in the bunkhouse and then during the daytime on
Thursday I will walk around the camp and just get a feel for the place then
I would like to meet up with the young folk and their parents that evening.

At Camp #1 there is a social hall used for movies it was a great place for
the get together as the cookhouse there is used as a TV Lounge in the
evenings.

Ken says are you sure you want to use the bunkhouse yes please as three of
the guys there are being brought up by there fathers and by sleeping there
one get to be seen as one of them and not some stuffed shirt. Ken laughs at
my comments, many thanks for the phone call much appreciated in updating
me, I look forward to seeing you, oh are you driving a truck or riding your
bike -- my bike of course well take safe see you on Wednesday. Oh Ken I'm
channel #6 and I will email you my cell number -- Bye for now.

So what's the out come, well I will follow you back to-night and see what
is happening with the young guys as young Tommy was going to try getting up
with his folks and starting work much earlier and we will take it from
there, I also still have stuff in the office that I will need for camp #2
so it will work out well.

Come Monday morning Brent emails both Ken and John to say the company
houses have been releases and can be used again. John says we have a house
here now two bedrooms are you going to join me. I thought about this and
said no I don't want any connection between the two of us for present other
than a working relationship. John looks surprised and is very silent for a
few minutes and then says yes I can understand your thoughts actually like
always you make a lot of sense.

Sunday evening when I walked into to the cookhouse someone called out, said
get your supper Joe, come, and join us please, I said will do. The cook
said I have baron of beef or steak what your choice, Baron of Beef please
coming up; there are roast potatoes carrots and peas plus Yorkshire pudding
and gravy. The horseradish is very hot beware.

Collecting my food I look around for who called me and an arm goes up and I
head there, we are glad you are back. Well it was not my intention to
desert you all like that but due to force of circumstances I got dragged
into the fiasco by Brent as I was the only one here he knew and a member of
the company taking over Hillside until John came on site.

Any idea what is happening all I know is Brent went back to town last night
and is meeting up with the lawyers, commercial crime section of the
police. They said to me a number of us were being to get concerned in the
way those two brothers were working as they didn't really seem to be
concerned about what was going on. It was like they had something else on
there mind all the time, we know at times George the assistant super would
get well clear of the office and do tours of the logging area's and it
seemed he was wanting to kill time, the whole thing is very strange. There
was only one person who they seemed to befriend, what was his name I asked
a Peter Knowles. Sorry Joe we should not be talking shop talk but it is
nice to get it out in the open.

However, that was not the main reason for asking you to join us; it was the
idea of first aid tickets and dog tags. This came up at a union meeting the
other day and we would like get this going as soon as possible and by the
way our union is combined so it will involve both our camps.

Well guys I think this is fantastic, let me get hold of the powers to be
and see how and when we can get this setup. Please bear in mind with the
fiasco that has taken place it may take a few days to get an answer, as I
am sure you can all understand. No problem Joe and everyone is so glad your
company has taken over the operations here and our other camp.

Following having finished my supper and the others departing I head over to
the office and give a sign to John to follow.

I filled John in on my conversation, and the request. You are sure a quick
worker Brent is going to very pleased to hear this information. I suggest
you get a letter together and first add the comment about Peter
Knowles. That might be very important for the police to know as well and
Brent will deal with that.

Monday morning I get a letter from Brent saying my god I do not know how
you pulled that off but I will get enough FA Books sent out to you at #1
camp. Please make contact with the following instructor, set up a date, and
get #1 camp under way. I will get the folk who produce our dog tags to come
out and get them underway. Let me know when camp #2 is ready but for the
present you started this so carry on with this extra project, I trust you
-- Brent.

Well later on Monday I make contact with several of the young folk and find
out two of them are now getting up with their parents and admit they can be
think better in the early morning. I suspect it will take a couple of
months before you see an improvements in your school marks but everyone who
has taken this approach within Woodsman Camps has now no one below
80%. Please keep up the good work it is all to your benefit once you have
your school marks up.

I hope you will all look at getting your first aid ticket. Just think you
are the first one on the scene, you are scared as hell feeling will I do
the right thing and you take over dealing with who ever. It might be simply
applying pressure to a bad bleeding.

I will tell you something that video that you have all seen, I witness that
accident as the truck went passed me at one hell of a rate, I turned around
and got to the truck the driver was bleeding badly. Eventually I carried on
and took the spare parts to the bush mechanic.

There were two truck drivers at the landing, they hug me and said thanks
for helping our mate; now sit down and they passed me a mug of sweet tea,
just get your wind don't rush and if you need someone to take you home just
ask. After about 10 minutes, I got up and said I am going back via valley
main so I called in on my radio advising traffic control. I got back to
camp, stopped at the cookhouse, got myself a good mug of tea, and sat
outside. Then I saw the crew wheeling Ken over to the chopper for
transportation to hospital and it really hit me, suddenly someone said come
on Joe lets get you home. Then about a week later, the super was going into
town and said would I like to visit Ken in hospital as he is doing well and
I am sure he would like to see you.

Well I did take that opportunity and when I went into the hospital the
super had found out where Ken was and said to me you go in first. When Ken
saw me he said I want to hug you but do not squash me my ribs are
damaged. We sat there taking for a few minutes then the super came in and
every one is just chatting then Ken's wife comes into the room. Hey, Doreen
come and give this young guy hug him well as he is the one I have been
telling you about. Doreen really hugs me, and I'm told anytime you are in
town please visit and we always have a bed for you.

John and I returned to camp and after supper, some of the young folk were
there and I sat there listening to the comments from the young folk. You
know that would scare me but if you were the first one there, what else can
you do and it is better to know to how to handle it and what not to do. We
should all sign up just think, it might be your mum or dad; and then one of
them says you got that right.

One of them called out hey Joe when do you think the course will run, in
the very near future, just let George know you want to take it and then he
will let you know when it is going to take place.

Thanks, Joe you are really a good shit, I said if you want to talk to me
any time here is my Email address and I past out my business card.

I see the time is now is getting close to 9:00pm and it is my bedtime so
please excuse me as I'm going to have a quick shower before hitting the
sack. Night all, we may see you in the showers have a good sleep - Good
Night all.

The following day I discuss with John the matter of the dog tags and
getting all that info tabulated he brought George into the discussion so he
was up to speed -- his only comment was how in hell did you get the crew to
agree. All I said I was asked the union rep to introduce it in both camps
and they are going educate the crews on this matter.

Well Joe I don't know how or where you learnt the secrets of communication
but your ability amazes me and that is not bull shit either. The only
comment I can say is I feel you need to get to there level and be a good
listener and that is one of the reasons why I sleep in the bunkhouse back
home I live in one of the staff houses with my Dad and I will leave it at
that for the present.

I get all my paper work done and make a copy of the accident video as there
seems to be a need to have that ready for use if I'm not here and I pass it
over to John for safe keeping since he would have to do any commentary etc
related to the incident.

By midday Tuesday I have everything cleaned up and decide after checking
with John & George I will go riding on some of the roads including active
roads, George says I will let traffic control know and he well advise the
crews of your intentions no problem at all Joe. Be interested in talking to
you on return on how you found the reception you got from the crews.

Well I get changed into my riding gear, and stowedf my still and video
camera, and of course my FA box. I stop bye traffic control and advise them
of my intended route and said I will call at all call points and my Id is
"DR1". I have an interesting afternoon especially when I arrive at one of
the log loading area's. Hey Joe didn't expect you to stop in out here in
the wilds; I said why not well we never saw much of the management doing
what you are doing. We wondered who DR1 was now we know. I have a question
for you what do you guys think of Woodsman logging using dispatch riders to
bring small spare part in for the bush mechanic when they run short.

Well if they maintain proper radio communication like you were I see no
problem at all; well its my job to train the young guys how to do this and
also other things, but I doubt if it will become active here for at least
six months because the requirements are stiff.

The young guy must have his first aid ticket, must have school marks well
over 80% and spent time in the shop plus have his parent's permission. The
school marks is a tough one, well that is why I'm here to give then an idea
on how to improve that situation. I will not get into that right now but
all I will say by shear fluke I stumbled on an idea and I have spread it
around all of woodsman logging and it has worked there very well in four
camps and I'm hoping to do the same here. Thank you Joe, my kids in town
and lives with his mother and I know she has problems with him and at times
she has suggested he comes and lives with me.

Joe says I tell you what, I'm more than willing to pass on my information
but now is not the time, but this evening would be fine. Look forward to
seeing you guys later as I head off again. There is no way around on this
road so return the way I came and the head for the next active logging
area. I'm on my way and almost at the next log loading area when I hear a
call for medical assistance some one had cut there leg. DR1 on route please
give location of accident -- log loading area -- thanks -- out. Since I was
so close I quickly found the patient and had some very large pads and
bandage applied them up tightly around the wound. DR1 To ambulance bad
chainsaw cut just below knee compress bandage applied awaiting your arrival
-- Out

Ambulance to DR1 assume this will need stitches yes. Is there room there
for a chopper -- standby.

I call to a truck driver can we clear the area of trucks so chopper can
land -- right away, they start backing up and leave an area suitable for
small chopper

DR1 to Ambulance -- yes for a small chopper, trucks are clearing the area
-- Out

Traffic control to DR1 & Ambulance medi-vac chopper on the way -- out

DR1 to traffic control I hear the chopper -- out

DR1 to ambulance and traffic control chopper landing and taking care of
patient, he is now loaded and I will be returning to camp shortly -- Thanks
-- out

AS to DR1 please come and see me when you return -- will do -- out.

I sit down for a few minutes and was getting my note pad out from by
carrying box, I'm grab by all the guys hugging me and saying thanks you
sure were quick getting here you even beat the ambulance well I was only ½
mile away when I heard the call so speedup some what.

While talking to the guys the ambulance arrives and I said sorry to
stealing your patient don't worry about that, the main thing he was taken
care of and that is important.

Have supper with us please tonight we want to talk to you, sure thing be
safe guys see you all later.

Traffic Control from DR1 returning to camp, take it cool Joe we all love
you mate.

DR1 ½ from camp -- out

As I arrive traffic control flags me down, Joe that was my brother who got
hurt he gives me a hugs and says thanks mate -- all I said we are all
family.

I stop bye the office to see George please come in and sit down Joe, George
nips out of the office hey John do you have a minute please and as John
come into the office George shuts the door. He then gets out three tall
glasses and pour scotch in each glass it looked like triples.

George then says to John I think I know you well enough that when a crew
member has done what Joe did they need something to steady there nerves,
cheers Joe and thank you for being there to assist. I think both of us
would like to know how come you were so close because John tells me you do
not speed on these roads. Well it just happened I was only about ½ mile
away when I heard the call so speedup some what and I think you know the
rest.

Do you know the guys name no but I do know he is the brother of your
traffic controller as he stopped me to say thank you with a big hug and
said it was his brother. Oh hell he is one of those that have worked here
for a long time accident free a very strong union man I sure hope this does
not spell trouble. John says calm down George the main thing he was handle
from all accounts in a professional way.

George's phone rings and it is the secretary saying the hospital just
phoned that our guys has got his stitches in and to thank whoever put the
compression bandage on it did a good job as it minimized the loss of blood,
they are going to keep him in over night and if we check mid morning
tomorrow all being well he will need a ride home.

I finally get clear and head for my room and then the showers and as strip
off many of the crew are coming my arse gets smacked s number of times, my
only comment careful guys you might be in for a good fucking if you carry
that on, there is lots of laughter from all those there. Two of the guys
offered there arse's to me so I decided to take both of them, bye the time
I had finished the comment was gee are you so gentle Joe anytime you need
relieve please come see me please. Thanks so much I will always be
grateful.

Well I finally got dressed and head for the cookhouse and as I enter, those
there were applauding thank you Joe for what have done please join us for
supper. Discussion at supper was very interesting as the general conscience
was we want as soon as practical to go the same way that Woodsman has
adopted. One thing we would like to see it that video I look around and
said I don't think community hall is large enough for the number
here. That's OK we think everyone should see this so I callout John would
you do an introduction to the accident video. No problem Joe will be
delighted providing you answer the any questions.

I found that there was a video player here so I used that unit, the video
was run three times and after many questions, the guys there said this one
dammed good idea, please tell Woodsman Logging they are well head of any
other company we know.

Thank you for those comments I will see that your views are passed on to
our CEO, Joe who is the CEO it was my turn to laugh by saying many of you
have seen him already, its Brent who managed to get things moving again
after the loss of your trucks.

Your kidding Brent is the CEO I said yes and can also show up in his city
togs, but I happen to know he likes to get back to basics. He used to work
in the bush and I'm told he started as a choker-man as a young guy.

Well guys thanks for putting up with me it is time I hit the bunk -- night
all.

I had a good nights slept well, showered and headed for breakfast, The cook
says to me wonderful video Joe so what would like for breakfast my normal
please bacon and eggs over easy hash browns and toast and while our cook is
getting things ready for me I grab a mug of tea. While eating other members
of the crew ask can we talk to you this evening please I said yes
certainly.

Being it was now Wednesday morning and I had arranged to go to Camp #2 I
decided it was better to stay here and go to Camp #2 for Monday hence I
contacted Ken and explained what had happened here.

When he heard about Tuesday's events he fully understood why I was delaying
my trip over to #2 Camp but I certainly will be there on Monday around
midday.

Ken is there a video projector or DVD player in camp that I can use for
playing the video? I honestly do not know but will check that out and drop
you an email before the weekend.

John and George come into the office and visit me, George I hear you are
staying the rest of the week, what's happened? I had a long get together
with lots of the crew last night after supper and many questions were
asked, then this morning I was asked again if we could all do it again this
evening and I said yes after supper so this time I may show some other
video related to the training of dispatch riders but time will tell. During
the day I plan again to tour and get some photos around the active areas. I
suspect by now everyone knows my call sign from yesterday's accident,
thanks Joe and good luck.

George gets a phone call to say Big John is ready to be picked up and he
tells the hospital he will be over arriving about 11:00am, first he contact
Big John's brother at traffic control and asks for a clean pair of Big John
pants as he suspects they cut his old ones off.  George decides that he
will use the crew cab as he suspects Big John will have to keep his leg up
for a period, and then he is also thinking that recliner in the cookhouse
needs replacement so after a quick discussion with John he is given the go
ahead to purchase something suitable.

Well as George suspected the hospital said Big John needs to keep his leg
elevated until the stitches are removed. What medical folk do you have,
George said basic first aide folk. That is fine get them to soak the area
with sterile solution before removing the dressing in three days time clean
the area with some peroxide and then redress as before. Now here is a box
that has everything your FA will need and we would like to see Big John in
ten days time to have the stitches removed, now if any problems occur then
bring him right back in and we will deal with it. George says thanks for
your help and the nurse says John don't play with chain saw either for a
time he shakes the nurses hand and says thanks for your work.

I get John into the crew cab and have a pillow and blanket and then tell
him next stop is to get a new recliner so he has somewhere to sit during
the daytime.

A suitable recliner is found and loaded onto the truck; John asks who is
going to pay for this? I said the company -- what I can't believe that
because all the furniture in the cookhouse has been acquired by the crew or
from union funds. I know that John but it is now a different management who
try to look after there guys remember it is family.

One person I want to meet is that young guy that fixed me up in the bush,
he was very calm and professional and I also noticed when he asked for
something he got instant attention like the truckers quickly responding and
clearing the way. That young guy's name is Joe and comes from Woodsman
logging and is their chief dispatch rider.

When they arrive in camp Big John is taken over to his room to get a clean
shirt and such like and then assisted to the Cookhouse for a late lunch,
into mean time the recliner had been brought in and put in a suitable
location for the TV and to see what was going on generally.

In the mean time Joe had got some photos of the active logging area's and
then returned to camp to see a several of the young folk out walking, he
stops just to chat with them and asks how are things going, not bad don't
really like this early rising but really want that dirt bike so if this is
what I have to do I guess I'm stuck with it and this summer we will be able
to work in the shop for the first time and looking forward to that as
well. So did you guys give George your names for the first aid course --
yes we sure did and he told us it will most likely start in about 3 weeks
time -- well that is good.

So the guys are looking over my bike over and asking many questions which I
endeavor to answer. Finally I said the crews want to talk to me again this
evening about things in general so I need to get some laundry done and have
a good shower and get cleaned up so I'll see you around -- they all said
thanks Joe for stopping.

I head for the office just to check my email and sitting there was Brent, I
laughed and said you bugger you stay away can you! Joe tell me about
yesterday and the accident and I have already listened to the traffic
control's tape.

Well I had to kill some time and it was nice weather so I decided to start
touring the active logging area's, I had cleared this with George and John,
stopped by traffic control and told them my call sign so they knew who DR1
was. I was heading up Branch SE20 when I heard the call for medical
assistance some one had cut there leg. DR1 on route please give location of
accident -- log loading area SE20 -- thanks -- out.

I was only a very short way from the accident scene so I did what I could
do, the crew there were great in getting things moved very quickly to make
space for the chopper to land. The on board paramedics took over and
departed very promptly with the patient.

So Joe when did the ambulance show up? Shortly after the chopper was on
route to the hospital -- thanks. John says Joe was going to #2 Camp today
but has put that off till Monday as the crew here asked him if they could
carry on with there discussions after supper tonight and Joe said yes to
there request. John says if you could have been a fly on the wall Brent,
Joe had the crew almost eating out of his hand.

So Joe how are you making out with the young folk, I understand they are
now all up having a good breakfast with there folks and starting school
work not later than 7:00 am.

The dad's have help a lot with a carrot, by saying if you want a dirt bike
then your school marks have to come up and be well above 80% and the young
folk I understand have all put there names down for the first aid course,
George says that is right and says the response to that is over whelming
and most likely have to run it twice or bring in two instructors. Thanks
guys I'm going to have a look around and perhaps George you can take me out
to the accident site please no problem.

I'm going to get cleaned up and do some laundry so I will see you all at
supper and don't be surprised if I'm asked to sit with all the crew.

Well I feel better now cleaned, shaved and I dress as normal since I have
time to do some office work and get some extra video ready. John tells me
Big John who got hurt yesterday is back in camp as this is his home and
would like to see you please, I suggest you go over to the cookhouse and
have a mug of tea with him.

I do just that and go over to wear he is sitting and say Big John I
understand you wish to see me, I'm Joe. Come here you devil I what to hug
you and say thank you for what you did to help me, gee this man is strong
he got one hell of a tight hold. I said I'm going to get a mug of tea and
would you like one; no thank you not at present. On my return I ask John
how is your leg, well they put a whole bunch of staples in it and have told
me I must keep it elevated until the staples are removed in ten days
time. However the dressings have to be changed in about four days but
George has got all those details and I hope you will do that for me.

Well next week I will be at Camp #2 meeting with the young folk there; the
same as I have done here and the idea is to give some tips on how to
improve their school marks.

Talking with some of these folk today at this camp they appear to have
taken my advice and I'm being fully supported by the fathers in this
project well I am glad to hear that and would be nice to get reports how
they are doing from the distant learning. Well John I tell you a little
secret but don't spread it around our CEO is also on the board of directors
so can find out if they are improving. I know they are watching our camps
because all four camps have improved dramatically and you know once you can
get this going new ones will not want to out of line of the other young
folk. Well Big John it looks as if the crew are coming in for supper and I
see you later have a good evening.

The cook comes over and ask; John where do you want your supper, with my
mates but I would like a chair to put my leg on no problem. I will come and
see what you have and perhaps someone will carry my supper over to a table,
very soon Big John is all fixed up.

The usual chatting takes place all around the cookhouse then suddenly
someone is calling where is Joe we have some question for him. Hi guys I'm
here, Joe following yesterdays accident we have all realized that no one on
site had any first aid knowledge how can we over come this? Firstly make
sure your name is one George's list and I believe he is trying to get the
first course going in about two weeks -- I turn and look at George asking
do you have an update? Yes I do we will be bringing in two instructors so
that we will be able to do more folk also it has been arranged that all
work in the bush that day for those taking part in this double course will
cease at 2:00pm and a supper break of 45 minutes then back to the course
which takes four days and the fifth day you do a written exam and practical
on volunteer injured. I should also mention there will be no loss of pay on
the shortened work day. Back to you Joe thanks for your update George.

Any questions guys yes the dog tags how is that coming very well, our
office hear is tabulating all the info the tag people need and by the way
we will need a face shot of everyone and frankly we don't care if you are
un-shaved you just need to be yourself and we will get the photo when you
collect your pay cheque's.

Mike the union rep stands up Joe we would all like to say thank you for
what you have done for us, you are always welcome at this camp and Big John
hear says he want you to come over as he is going to stand up and give you
a real hug. So laughing I said I don't want him breaking my ribs as I
already know he is a very strong man. Well I did go to Big John and yes he
hugged me and then suddenly he gave me a kiss on my cheek.

The crew is standing up clapping; I'm laughing saying you cheeky bugger I
get you sometime in the future. As I go back to my seat Brent beckons me
over, hey Joe please introduce me to the crew will do.

Before I sit down I call out I have a surprise for you, I would like to
introduce our CEO and he started in the bush as a choker-man -- Brent it is
all yours -- well Brent does his little spiel and says he was very happy to
see Big John here as well, he gave a run down of what had happened and the
status of the old owners, has also said they were coming to court and may
be let out on Bail but his lawyers are asking for a very high figure so
folk please be vigilant as we will have to maintain the locked gate policy
for some time yet, yes I know it is a pain in the arse but we don't want
what happened before to occur ever again. I would also like to welcome you
all to the Woodsman Logging family. If you have any questions please ask.

There was one rather amusing comment that came up was they had never seen a
CEO dressed decently as you are to-night Brent -- Brent answered that by
saying I can assure you I feel far more comfortable this way than in a suit
collar and tie but on rare occasions it is necessary. If you are in town
and want to see me then you are more than welcome but make sure I'm going
to be there first. Now before I go to bed to-night I would like to announce
that your new Superintend will be George here and he will be supported by
John until an Assistant is appointed a job posting will coming out for his
replacement and will be circulated through all camps.

The crews applauding this announcement and calling speech, speech, come on
George speech.

George's face is sort of priceless and he lost for words, guys this to me
is a great honor to have my own camp and thank you Brent I hope I do not
let you down, all I can say is John here has been a great help to me and
for me and has made the transition much easier to our new employers, thank
you all once again.

The crew is now standing and applauding calling out good for you George,
Brent please excuse me I must go and tell my wife -- Brent gives a family
hug and says I will see you in the morning as he hands him an envelope and
don't open it here do at home.

The next day Joe asks George who is your best first aid person; well it is
a choice now between our cook and little John the Traffic Controller Peter
the X super was the other one. What I'm thinking is about Big John he needs
his dressing change sometime Sunday, I want to make sure that who ever does
it makes a good job -- well that goes without saying. Little John may be
reluctant at first but I think I will get him to do the job under my
supervision as Big John had said to me he wanted me to do this but I told
him I had to go to Camp #2 as of Monday. Tell me how is your stock of latex
gloves, George says all that was in Peter's office and now you mention it I
didn't see it, let's go and check.

We find even the first aid gear had gone, oh hell if workman's compensation
comes on site we could be shutdown and fined. We had better check also with
Camp #2, then we find out they are in the same situation.

I get my radio out switch to channel 5 -- DR1 to Brent Hi Joe what's up?
Where are you at present on tour in the bush -- out

DR1 to Brent please return to the office at Camp #1 ASAP -- out Brent to
DR1 on our way -- out.

Brent says to John this has to be urgent other wise why would he use my
personal channel.

Five minutes later Brent is in the office, Joe quickly tells Brent of the
problem -- his comment was oh shit!

Brent get on his cell phone calls his office and says we have an emergency
on these hillside camp neither of them have any first aid equipment please
get fully supplies and including latex gloves and take to the helicopter
base for flying all out to camp #1. I will phone the helicopter base right
now. Thanks tell the first aid supplier we have no equipment and we are
depending on them heavily. I know you will do whatever is required. Thanks
Bye

Brent then phones the helicopter base and tells them what is going on and
request you take off as soon as you receive the goods for camp#1 -- no
problem Brent -- thanks out

Brent then phones the lawyers and quickly advises them of what has been
found out, there comment that is playing dirty we will make more difficult
for them to get bail -- thanks bye.

So Joe how did this all come to light, he simply by asking George do they
have plenty of latex gloves and one thing lead to another hence the call I
made to you.

Next call is on the radio Office to Brent are you about -- Yes go ahead --
full compliment four boxes labeled camp#1 and another set labeled camp#2
they have just been received by the helicopter base and they say if it is
of any help they will drop there off at no charge.

Brent to Office that is very kind accept there offer please.

Next the radio call came in Chopper to Camp#1 coming to your landing pad in
five minutes -- we are on the way to meet you -- out

Come lets go George, as we get there the chopper is just coming in for a
landing and once he shut down we go and meet the pilot only to find it's
the owner flying today. Brent says thank Bert and he asks what the hell
happened it appears that all first aid equipment had be removed by the old
owners at both camps, I suspect it was a card they were going to play by
telling workman's compensation that we have no first aid equipment -- good
grief that is really dirty trick but by shear luck we have found out in
time.

Brent says Ken from Mountain View is in charge I call him right now because
you guys don't have channel 6 as yet and thank so much at helping us out
because I feel this was an emergency, Oh I totally agree with you -- see
you later Bert oh bye the way George here is our new Superintend for this
camp.

Brent to Camp #2 office -- reception her how can I help you? Is Ken there
or his assistant. Well they are about five miles away. Do you have a
company truck outside?

Yes I do, please go directly to the helicopter landing pad as you have in a
few minutes a chopper will be landing please meet him and collect four
boxes stay in your truck until he has landed and the rotors have
stopped. Thanks so much I will see you in a few days -- Brent out

Joe decided to stay at Camp #1 until he goes to Camp#2 and at the same time
makes sure Little John is able to do a good job with his brother's leg.

This weekend all of the camp decide to have a hamburger/hot dog BBQ every
one was expected attend. We all joined in and it was a really relaxed time
on that Saturday, folks were really relaxed.

Come Sunday I got Little John and discussed the process of what was needed.

Well we got setup in Big John's Room and made sure that his brother did the
right thing and to soak the dressing well to soften any attachment. We both
looked at the wound and everything looked good, however we washed the wound
with peroxide.

There was little fizzing. After insuring the wound was clean we redressed
the wound with the supplied dressing. Big John said thank you Joe so much
I'm sure now my brother can do the job.

Come Monday morning I get my bike loaded and all my gear and get ready to
leave, my radio is on channel six DR1 to Camp#2 office -- go ahead DR1,
please advise I expect to arrive in camp about one hour from now and let
Ken know -- Out

Camp#2 to DR1 be advised that there is traffic on the short cut -- thanks
-- out

DR1 entering short cut from camp#1 heading to Camp#2 -- out DR1 passing
call point 10 Truck 4 just passing Call Point 9, what are driving DR1 DR1
to Truck 4 -- I'm on my bike so I take little room

I see truck 4 heading my way and so I go into the bank as the truck passes
me giving me a good hoot.

Truck 4 to DR1 you sure show up good on the road hope you always have safe
riding -- Out.

I simply key my microphone twice, and continue on my way calling as
progress towards camp #2

DR1 now clear of short cut and entering main camp yard.

I stop in front of the office and enter; Ken was there and said Hi Joe glad
you were able finally to get here as it sounds as if you had a hectic last
week. Come into my office I think there is a fresh pot of tea made would
you like one that would be nice thanks.

So how were you received by the crew and the young folk? Actually very well
and I covered a lot of ground. The big thing that helped was Mike the union
rep and he got everyone on my side from the young folk getting up with
there folks and starting school work not later than 7:00am, dog tags and
first aid tickets throughout the camp.

Joe I don't know how you were able to pull it off but congratulations
anyway. I asked where is my room so I can get out of my riding gear and
have a wash also is there a corner somewhere I can use for my gear and
computer.

Yes Gavin the assistant here has a second desk in his office let's go and
see him. We walk down to the other end of the office building and when Ken
discussed this with Gavin his comment was I'll be delighted to share the
office. Thanks Gavin I will get my material off my bike and bring it in, do
you need any help no I pack everything in a foam lined container that fits
into my carrying box that is attached to the bike. I quickly get my stuff
onto the spare desk, Gavin come with me and we will get your room sorted
out. Gavin then says I'm surprised that you asked to be in the bunkhouse,
my answer was I get treated as one of the crew and not a stuffed shirt plus
you often pick up little bits of information.

Now here you have three young guys also living in the bunkhouse with there
dad's and it is often when you go for a scrub up and shower when folk start
talking. I get my room and get out of my riding gear have a good wash and
head back to the office and start sorting out my material, while doing this
Ken stops bye and asks you going to join me for lunch that sounds like a
good idea.

On entry to the cookhouse Ken introduces me to the cook, great to see you
Joe I've heard a lots about you, sure hope you can motivate these young
folk, I can only try but I also need there folks to help me out. I have
vegetable soup and a selection of sandwiches, soup and a beef sandwich
please coming right up. Here is your soup and I will bring your sandwich
once I have made it up and do you like horseradish and lettuce as well in
your sandwich that sound real good and what about you Ken? I will have the
same please. Over lunch Ken ask me what are my plans, I'm going to look
around the camp and find out what you have for the first meeting like a
community hall or similar as looks as if the cookhouse in the evening is
used a TV lounge in the same way camp #1 is setup that's correct.

We finish lunch and Ken shows me around including the community hall, I see
a screen for a projector so I ask what do they have for projection. The
community club has a projector of there own and a DVD player. Can you
contact them and ask for the loan or there rep to operated there
equipment. Funnily enough I think it is one of the dad's oh that would work
out well. Let's see if we can get it for tomorrow evening -- I'll check it
out when we get back to the office but firstly there are other parts of the
camp I would like you to see. Well I got the grand tour including the
residential area that had about 15 houses plus three staff houses one was
used as a guest house and was just a small two bedroom place. Now if you
need a truck while here there is one outside the office Truck 11 and its
keys are hanging by the front desk use it as required just leave a note
that you have it.

Oh by the way I assume you have a master key as all the locks here have
been changed to our standard ones, I said we will soon check as I get my
keys out and everything works fine.

Thanks for the tour, I'm going to gas up my bike and where is the best
place to park it? Use the lean too shelter at the end of this building --
Thanks.

Well it was a nice warm afternoon and I went walking looking around the
camp and ran into a group of the young folk sitting under a tree. I said Hi
to them; they asked if I was Joe yes I am. So I go over and join them under
the tree and we just talk about things in general so as to break the ice
with them. I ask them how long have they lived in camp and I find they have
all been here at least six years, the oldest is 15 yrs old so I ask him if
he is going to work this coming summer, he said I hope they will take me on
as I would like to be a heavy duty mechanic but I have to get my school
mark up first. Yes that is not easy but you have something you want and it
will help you push yourself a little more.

So Joe did you live in camp as a kid, yes I did and I was brought up by my
dad like some of you guys and although I oriniginally lived with my Mum and
she and dad went there own ways. Mum always treated me good and I went to a
regular school in town. Then my aunt Mum's sister became very ill and
stayed home and by that time she had a boy fiend who hated my guts and he
beat me up on several occasions. The last time he did that was the same
weekend that Dad was coming to town and when he saw my black eyes his
comment at first was well I hope the other one is in a worse state you look
terrible. He asked who did it to me when I told him, he turned to a couple
of other loggers lets go and see this Chuck. Well to cut a long story short
the loggers and my dad beat the shit out of him and then Dad called a mate
of his in the local police. When the police saw what had been done and the
bad bruising on many parts of my body they took me to the hospital and
asked for a complete report and to make sure there was nothing else
damaged. Mother came home while this was going on and when she saw me she
was screaming at Chuck telling to go and drown himself and to never come
back.

End result the local Judge held court on the Sunday sentence Chuck to 35
yrs and no parole. Mum and Dad talked about me on what to do as she had to
be at her sister's place because of that situation. Dad offered to look
after me and to do my schooling through the distant leaning program. Dad
made contact with the school and explain what had happened and asked for
all my paper to be forwarded to the distant learning folk. We had wireless
internet throughout the camp so you did your work on your laptop and sent
it in.

I wish we had wireless internet here it would be so much easier. Mum and I
kept in contact via email at least twice a week. Today I would not want to
live in town I love peace and quietness out in the bush. Well guys I will
leave you in peace as I'm going go looking around more and we will meet up
tomorrow evening in the community hall with your Dad's -- bye for now --
bye Joe.

Well the events take took place with the young folk and the crews were
identical to camp#1 at supper one evening when one of the crew said hey
guys this Joe is good on the roads he uses all call points and is highly
visible, I said thank for your comment and for those that don't know my
call sign is DR1 and at present we go up DR5 as we have a total of five
dispatch riders. Well I hope the others do an equally good job with there
communications out on the roads, I said they had better otherwise I will be
after them as it is my responsibility to train them.

While here I plan to have a look at both active and inactive roads for
future use for dispatch rider training and if it is wet we all wear Hi-Vis
raingear in orange and yellow stripes so if you DR1 is on the road don't be
concerned and I may bring DR2 into camp to come and have a look as well;
Sam is my right hand man.

Hey Joe how did this dispatch rider idea come about, well it came from our
CEO who felt it would save money in the long run, I look around the room
and I see Brent with Ken. Brent would you like to fill the crew in here on
this question no problem Joe.

So Brent does his thing and gets quiet a few questions thrown at him and
answers them all.

Over the next six weeks the first aid course were running very full our
instructors were very please at the results also by this time the dog tags
had been introduced. We also learnt that the marks for camp#1 were signs of
improvement most folk were around 70% we will have seen some improvement in
camp#2 young folk, you must remember that didn't start this early start
until about month later.

During this period I brought Sam out and showed him around both camps and
there roads, I know Sam enjoyed himself and was very surprised at the
reception he got at both camps it also gave a boost to the young folk.

Well for me it has been very hectic period and I was very happy at the way
things went, I also asked Brent about getting wireless internet into both
camps, he was surprised that this did not exist, he said leave that to me I
will try and get that setup ASAP.

Brent said to me is it not about time I took a good holiday as I don't want
you burnt out, Well believe or not I was thinking about the same thing --
good do it.


So yes I'm going on holiday for a period so it will be a little time before
the next episode