Warilla cadet firefighters celebrate graduation

NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said the nine week program demonstrated to students the important role volunteer firefighters play within communities and taught them vital fire safety skills that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

"This course is unique in that it not only covers a broad range of practical firefighting skills, such as using a firefighting hose, but it also teaches students about commitment, leadership, teamwork and introduces them to the camaraderie that comes with volunteering," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons congratulated Warilla High School for offering students and teachers the opportunity to be a part of the NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program.

"It's great to see such genuine enthusiasm for this important community based program," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

"I would like to extend a special thanks to Warilla High School Principal John Hambly, as well as the teachers and staff, for helping to make this program such a success."

Commissioner Fitzsimmons also paid tribute to the 10 Illawarra Zone staff and volunteers who organised and conducted the course.

"NSW RFS members thoroughly enjoy working with schools and communities to ensure everyone is as well prepared as possible for the very real threat of fire," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

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

"These cadets are already halfway to becoming qualified firefighters, should they choose to build on their new found skills and join their local Rural Fire Brigade."

More than 5000 students across NSW have successfully completed the NSW RFS Secondary Schools cadet program.