‘Little Pat’ the fire truck is just one of District 13’s community education resources used to attract children and in turn allow CFA members to engage their parents at community events.
Built a number of years ago, Little Pat was named in honour of Firefighter Pat Bigham from Gruyere brigade, who has been instrumental in supporting CFA volunteers through brigade, district and peer support activities throughout the state.
Recently, Little Pat had a makeover including vinyl wrapping, sound and lighting upgrades and some minor paint work. The aim was to make it look as realistic as possible and therefore more attractive to children (and adults). The trailer that Little Pat travels with also received an upgrade, and now doubles as a mobile billboard that can be used at displays to enhance our fire safety messages. It carries both bushfire and home fire safety messages and can be used at any time of the year.
The images, below, show Pat Bigham at the District 13 staff meeting where she was taken by surprise when the reinvigorated fire truck was revealed. Pat was delighted with the results as were the rest of the CFA staff present.
The District 13 Community Education Department worked hard to make this makeover a reality, but we would like to thank Simon van der Veldan and Adam Kamenek, firefighters at The Basin brigade for rewiring Little Pat in their own time. Their contribution is appreciated.
Little Pat will be at various events in District 13 over the coming months, including the Kids Day at Sky High this weekend. If you’re in the area drop in and check it out!
Author: Adam Kamenek