Fighting fires is hard, physically demanding work, and during sustained firefighting activity, eating, drinking and getting rest can be the last thing on a firefighters’ mind.
That’s where teams such as the Dandenong Ranges Feeding Group (DRFG) come in. As soon as the group gets the call for support from the Rostered Duty Officer, the team is assembled, gear is packed, shopping is done, and they’re on-site, ready to support fireys when they rest and refuel.
Formed around the time of the Ash Wednesday fires, the group has 75 members from the 15 brigades that make up the Dandenong Ranges Fire Brigades Group. A trailer contains all of their gear, including a barbecue, utensils, fold-out tables and a drinks machine. They don't store any food; everything is purchased when needed so firefighters are given a fresh meal.
Group members are on-call 24/7 and can cater for 10 to 1000 hungry and tired emergency workers when the need arises. They attend about 70 fire, training, and peer support events each year, travelling as far as Bendigo and Ballarat. Some members are operational and help out at ICC to allow radio operators to take a break.
The group holds an annual fundraising event each October to help raise money for the important work they do in the local community. This year’s family-friendly fundraising event has a 70s to 90s theme and includes a two-course meal, live music, auctions, prizes, and games.
DRFG Officer and Silvan Brigade member Stuart Parker said the event was DRFG’s main fundraising activity for the year, helping to keep the group up and running.
“Our motto is that there’s no need to feed emergency service personnel rubbish; they deserve and will receive fresh food,” Stuart said.
“Our previous dinners have been a huge success and a great way to showcase the work DRFG and groups like us do to support our firefighters and other emergency services personnel in the field.”
The DRFG annual fundraiser will be held on Saturday 13 October at the Ferny Creek Reserve Hall and is open to everyone to attend. Tickets are $25 with kids under 12, free. Book online.
For further information, contact Sarah on 0428 533 926 or email spmcaf@gmail.com