Celebration for graduating Orana Team cadet firefighters

At a special ceremony held at the Orana Fire Control Centre, Minister Grant said the program is the ideal way to introduce young people to the important role volunteer firefighters play within communities.

"The cadets have completed the course that has provided them with skills and knowledge which will last a lifetime,” Minister Grant said.

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

Ms Jones said the cadet program also offers students the opportunity to experience firsthand the commitment and camaraderie that comes with volunteering.

“It’s great to see genuine enthusiasm for this important community based program and I hope it will be something enjoyed by future cadets for years to come,” Ms Jones said.

“Thank you to all NSW RFS members involved in provided this course, in particular the Cadet Coordinators Brian Lesslie and Carole Bayley.”

"NSW RFS members thoroughly enjoy working closely with communities to ensure that everyone is as well prepared as possible for the very real threat of fire.

“I am proud to say that over the 10 years the Orana Team has provided this program, 75 per cent of cadets have gone on to become active firefighters in their home brigades.

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