Parkes High School cadet firefighters celebrate graduation

Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers AFSM said the program is the ideal way to introduce young people to the important role volunteer firefighters play within communities.

"These cadets have completed a ten week course that has given them skills which will last a lifetime,” Deputy Commissioner Rogers 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.”

Deputy Commissioner Rogers said the NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program had been offered to students at Parkes High School for a number of years.

“It’s great to see genuine enthusiasm for this important community based program.

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

Deputy Commissioner Rogers also paid tribute to the staff and volunteers from the Mid Lachlan Valley Team that facilitated the course.

"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.

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