NSW Rural Fire Service welcomes 800 new Cadets

Summary

As the school year draws to an end, NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons has congratulated the hundreds of students who have participated in this year's NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program.

"Since its inception in 2005, more than 3,600 young people from across NSW have successfully graduated from the Program.

"This year alone we've seen more than 800 students complete the Program, which aims to provide participants with an appreciation of community responsibility and service."

"It is a tremendous achievement and a clear indication that our next generation understands the importance of responsibility and commitment."

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said that as well as encouraging qualities of community responsibility and service, the Cadet Program also equips young people with valuable skills.

"The Program provides students with practical life experiences helping them develop leadership, teamwork and initiative skills, as well as an overview of fire awareness and safety.

"The NSW RFS is committed to fostering and developing youth, to ensure that the spirit of volunteering is perpetuated.

"By engaging young people through the school curriculum we can help to develop community minded and resourceful individuals.

"Whilst undertaking the program students gain an appreciation of the important contribution that NSW RFS members make to local communities.

"Volunteers are the core of the RFS and these students are outstanding examples of how young people can assist in helping protect their communities.

"I would particularly like to pay tribute to the dedicated RFS volunteers who give up their time to help deliver the Program. Without the commitment from our brigade members we would be unable to continue this invaluable initiative," said Commissioner Fitzsimmons.

Contact Name: State Duty Media Officer

Contact Phone: 02 9898 1855