Cardiff cadet firefighters celebrate graduation

NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said the program is the ideal way to introduce young people to the important role volunteer firefighters play within communities.

"These cadets have completed a ten week course that has given them skills which will last a lifetime,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“As well as examining fire behaviour, the students have been taught essential fire safety techniques and gained an appreciation of the work our emergency services do every day in this State.

"The cadet program also offers students the opportunity to experience firsthand the commitment and camaraderie that comes with volunteering.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said this is the fifth year that Cardiff High School has offered the NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program to its students.

“It’s great to see genuine enthusiasm for this important community based program,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“In addition to our NSW RFS members, I would also like to extend a special thanks to the Principal, teachers and staff from Cardiff High School for helping to make this program such a success.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons also paid tribute to the staff and volunteers from The Lakes Team who facilitated the course.

"NSW RFS members thoroughly enjoy working closely with schools and communities to ensure that everyone is as well prepared as possible for the very real threat of fire. Our firefighters cannot do it alone,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“The Service is proud to pass on the ideals of community service, dedication and teamwork to the next generation.”