Hawkesbury District High Schools to congratulate graduating cadets

Member for Hawkesbury Robyn Preston said the program is the ideal way to introduce young people to the important role volunteer firefighter’s play within communities.

"These cadets, eight each from Colo High School and Hawkesbury High School, have completed a 20 week course at each school that has given them skills which will last a lifetime,” Ms Preston 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.”

NSW RFS District Manager Superintendent Karen Hodges AFSM said this is the eighth time Colo High School and fourth time Hawkesbury 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 and hope it continues as part of the school’s curriculum for years to come,” Supt Hodges said.

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

Supt Hodges also paid tribute to the many staff and volunteers from the Hawkesbury District who facilitated the courses.

"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,” Supt Hodges said.

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