MFB and CFA firefighters will be racing against the clock, and each other, this Easter Thursday to raise money for the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal.
In a demonstration of fitness and friendly competition, a team from each brigade will run on treadmills to see how much ground they can cover over 14 hours.
This will be the ninth year the two services have come together to challenge each other in the name of raising funds for the Good Friday Appeal. In 2017, the treadmill challenge raised nearly $30,000.
All funds raised go towards supporting research into life-threatening illnesses and the purchase of equipment within the Royal Children’s Hospital.
This year to help kick start the event, MFB Acting Chief Officer Greg Leach and CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington will go head-to-head on the treadmills from 7am.
Greg Leach said it’s a great opportunity for staff from both MFB and CFA to come together to support the community.
"We hope to inspire those watching us to dig deep for the kids and if a bit of friendly rivalry increases the donations, that's great."
CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington said this was what firefighting was all about.
“Saving lives is our bread and butter, and getting involved in this appeal is second nature to any firefighter.
“CFA has a proud tradition of supporting the Children’s and it’s great to be doing this challenge with the MFB.”
On Good Friday, MFB and CFA, along with family and friends, will spend the day shaking tins at intersections across the state.