Junior firefighters to put their skills on display

Summary

More than 160 fire and emergency service cadets from across Australia will put their skills to the test over the next few days in the Australian Fire Cadets Championships which start today.

Twenty-seven teams from across NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland and Western Australia will compete at Myuna Bay in the Lake Macquarie region.

The event, first held in 2007, sees cadets participate in life-like scenarios which are designed to test their skills, initiative and safety procedures.

NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said the Championships, which are jointly hosted by the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) and Rural Fire Service Association, showcase the exceptional technical skills, enthusiasm, teamwork and leadership of young firefighters.

“The cadets can expect a busy few days of competition, dealing with a number of scenarios where they’ll need to use their ability, leadership, initiative and teamwork to respond in the best possible way,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“It’s a credit to these young people that they are taking on the responsibility involved in the cadet program and aspiring to be volunteer firefighters or emergency service volunteers, whilst also having a good time along the way."

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said the NSW RFS values the development of young people, demonstrated in the commitment to hosting the Championships in NSW since the inaugural event in 2007 and the ongoing support of the NSW RFS cadet program.

Since its inception in 2005, the NSW RFS cadet program has seen more than 7500 students complete more than 490 programs across the State.

"The cadet program not only helps students learn essential fire safety techniques, examine fire behaviour and gain an understanding of the work of NSW RFS volunteers across the State, but it offers them the opportunity to experience firsthand the commitment and camaraderie that comes with volunteering,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“The Service is proud to pass on the ideals of community service, dedication and teamwork to the next generation and we wish them well over the coming days of competition.”

Spectators are welcome to take a glimpse of the future of volunteer firefighting, with free entry on both competition days. Please note, no refreshments will be available to purchase by spectators at this event.

Attached files:

Contact Name: State Duty Media Officer

Contact Phone: (02) 9898 1855