Cardiff High School cadet firefighters celebrate graduation

NSW RFS Manager State Operations, Chief Superintendent Peter McKechnie said the program is an ideal way to introduce young people to the important role volunteer firefighters play within communities.

"The cadets have completed a nine week course that has given them skills which will last a lifetime,” Chief Superintendent McKechnie 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 course has given cadets the opportunity to develop strong leadership, initiative and team work skills.

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

Chief Superintendent McKechnie said this was the sixth year the NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program had been offered to students at Cardiff High School.

“It’s great to see genuine enthusiasm for this important community based program,” Chief Superintendent McKechnie said.

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

Chief Superintendent McKechnie also paid tribute to the volunteers and staff 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. Firefighters cannot do it alone.

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