Mildura’s Jarrod McNally is a second generation firey, following in his father’s footsteps in becoming a career firefighter.
Four years ago, at the age of 22, he made the switch from working as a plumber to becoming a full-time CFA member.
His father and Mildura Operations Officer Rob McNally joined the CFA later in life, becoming a career firefighter around a decade ago.
“My dad really got me into it. He was one of the oldest recruits to go through training,” he said.
The 26 year-old said he was particularly drawn to the career after seeing the camaraderie, respect and teamwork his father enjoyed with colleagues.
“A lot of guys have come from other areas, so we form a real close-knit group.”
Jarrod went through 16 weeks training, before being stationed with Springvale Fire Brigade and eventually returning home to Sunraysia.
“The lifestyle here was such a big thing.
“In Melbourne people spend a lot of time just getting to work each day, whereas here I can jump in the car and be at work in five minutes.”
CFA is now recruiting for career firefighters, and is calling on fit, active men and women from all cultural backgrounds to apply.
An information session will be held at the Mildura Fire Station on Friday 15 May.
For more information, and to register for the information session, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/career.
See also: Recruiting career firefighters now
Author: CFA Media