Left to right: Nathan Taylor, Mark Hooper, Rhys Pontelandolfo and Jordan Simpson with the Alfred Webb Cup.
Echuca Fire Brigade claimed a historic win at the recent NSW State Championships in Wagga Wagga, becoming the first-ever Victorian brigade to win the prestigious Alfred Webb Cup.
Held biannually since 1932, the championships are an opportunity for brigades to practise, enhance, and showcase critical fireground skills in a competitive environment.
Echuca Fire Brigade 1st Lieutenant Mark Hooper, part of the winning team, said the victory was a very special moment.
"Our brigade has a proud history of competing in championships, and winning the Alfred Webb Cup as the only non-NSW team to do so is one of our greatest achievements," Mark said.
In a dramatic finish, the championship was decided in the final event.
"We needed a third-place finish to hold onto our lead," Mark explained.
"Initially, we were edged into fourth place by just a tenth of a second. But as fate would have it, the team ahead of us received a time penalty that moved us up into third and secured us the championship."
The win was especially significant for the brigade, which had to withdraw at the last minute from the previous championships because of severe flooding in Echuca.
"We had some extra motivation this time around," Mark added.
The NSW State Championships serve as a valuable training ground for brigades, helping to refine firefighting techniques and strategies.
"The skills are immediately transferable to the fireground. It's all about replicating what would occur in a firefighting situation," Mark said.
Echuca sent two teams to the competition, with the A team taking the championship title and the B team finishing a commendable 12th out of 24 competitors in their first-ever appearance.
Echuca Fire Brigade Captain Daniel Moylan praised both teams.
"I'm incredibly proud of both our teams. It's a huge achievement to see the A side come away with the win, and it's fantastic to see the B side finish strong in their first championship appearance," Daniel said.
"The time and dedication each member put into training truly paid off, and it's great to see their hard work rewarded on such a competitive stage.
"Hopefully, we can hold onto the cup in two years' time."