Twenty-five career firefighters joined volunteers at Lara Fire Station from today (8 December) to increase capacity to protect life and property in this growing community.
Alongside additional staff resources, the brigade will now turn out to incidents with a new pumper and tanker.
A number of events will be hosted at the station to mark the integration of the brigade, beginning with a breakfast barbecue with volunteers and staff this morning.
On Sunday, 10 December, Lara will invite residents to attend a Community Day at the station.
This event will offer the community an opportunity to learn some fire safety tips, while enjoying a free morning tea, giveaways and entertainment.
Firefighters will be conducting drills including putting out oil fires and hose demonstrations, and there will be a jumping castle, gift bags and a Giant Connect 4 to entertain the kids.
Residents will also get a chance to meet the new career firefighters while reconnecting with dedicated volunteers.
Acting Officer In Charge Archie Conroy said the Community Day was a great opportunity for volunteers and career staff to engage with the community and make fire safety information accessible and easy to understand, especially for kids.
“Fire safety isn’t just about red fire trucks and flashing lights, it’s also about community awareness and preparedness. It’s great to have kids coming into the station and getting excited about fire safety”.
“We also want to update our community on the latest fire safety information, including how to prepare homes for summer.”
Brigade Captain Roger Buckle said the Community Day will be about celebrating the brigade’s long history, as well as explaining to the community how the station is preparing for the future.
“Our CFA Brigade has been around since 1939. We’ve been to countless incidents, from small spot fires to the historic grass fires in 1969”.
“The Community Day is a way we can reflect on our rich history, and look forward to building a strong future and protecting the community we are so proud to serve.”
The Lara Fire Station Community Day is on this Sunday from 10am to 12pm, at 25 Mill Road, Lara.
Following the Community Day, volunteers and career staff will come together for a Welcome Event to get to know each other socially.
The integration of the brigade and subsequent renovations are part of CFA’s Growth Programs, which is a State Government commitment to increase service delivery across Victoria.