Central West Rural Fire Service cadets graduate

Chief Superintendent Mick Beltran presented the students from Bathurst High, Kelso High, St Joseph's School, The La Salle Academy and The Scots School with their graduation certificates during a ceremony today.

"Each of these young people is a credit to their schools and their community. Not only have they learnt valuable lessons about fire safety, they' have all demonstrated great commitment and team work whilst undertaking the Program.

"The RFS Secondary School Cadet Program is also an opportunity for our younger generation to experience the values of the Service, and the ideals of dedication and community service, as well as the rewards of volunteering," Chief Superintendent Beltran said.

"The Program, conducted over a ten week period, teaches students basic firefighting techniques whilst helping them develop leadership skills, initiative and community spirit."

Chief Superintendent Beltran said that the course has become increasingly popular in the Chifley/Lithgow area, expanding from one school to five since it began in 2006.

"The NSW RFS Cadet Program has been a resounding success in the six years since it was introduced, with more than 3,000 students across the state completing the course."

"It couldn't happen without the dedication of school staff, parents, students and of course the staff and volunteers from the local RFS, and I thank the Chifley/Lithgow team members who have given up their time to teach these graduates.

"The Service is proud to pass on its traditions to the next generation through the Cadet Program, and I congratulate these students for successfully completing the course," Chief Superintendent Beltran said.