New generation of firefighters for Lake Munmorah

Inspector Geerin congratulated 13 hard working students who committed to the intensive ten week course run by members from The Lakes area.

"This course is unique because it covers a broad range of practical skills as well as instilling students with important values like commitment, leadership and team work.

"The volunteering spirit is ingrained in the Service with members exhibiting a strong sense of loyalty and commitment to their local community.

"This course provides students with an insight into the camaraderie and sense of mateship that you derive from joining your peers to protect your neighbours during times of emergency.

"Often high school students have a lot of enthusiasm and energy, they just need some guidance about where to direct it.

"This Cadet Program opens students' eyes to another side of society, where people give of their time freely and in return they are provided with extensive training in a professional organisation.

"The Lakes Area is no stranger to bush fires, particularly on the coastal strip alongside numerous residential suburbs, therefore it is important we are seeing a steady flow of younger members joining local brigades to help protect their community from such emergencies," said Inspector Geerin.

Inspector Geerin described the cadets as an inspiration to their fellow students at the school as well as other young people in the Lake Munmorah area.

"In addition to our dedicated volunteers, I would also like to extend a special thanks to the principal and staff from Lake Munmorah High School for helping make this Cadet Program so ingrained in the school's culture," said Inspector Geerin.

Inspector Geerin said more than 3,000 students across the state had successfully completed the NSW RFS Secondary Schools Cadet Program since its launch six years ago.