The team from Orbost Fire Brigade were overall winners on the day
More than 120 members from across East Gippsland have put their skills to the test in pursuit of gold and bragging rights at the inaugural District 11 Firefighter Olympics.
Held in Orbost earlier this month, the event attracted members from Mount Taylor, Orbost, Johnsonville, Newmerella, Cann Valley, Toorloo, D11 Headquarters, Lakes Entrance, Paynesville and Bairnsdale brigades.
Members competed in teams across six firefighting events: draughting, hose bowling, grassfire simulation, map reading race, hydrant relay and a breathing apparatus relay.
The team from Orbost Fire Brigade was the overall winner on the day, narrowly beating Mount Taylor.
The Olympics were organised to bring members from the area together and to kick off pre-season training and skills maintenance before the start of the fire danger period.
In addition to the events, members could complete their tree hazard awareness training and burnover drill as part of the day’s activities. CFA’s virtual reality firefighting equipment was also available for members to try out.
South East Region Volunteer Sustainability Team member Kylie Findley said the event was a great opportunity for volunteers to get together to reconnect as well as test their skills with some friendly competition before the start of the fire season.
“The day ran like clockwork,” Kylie said. “The weather was perfect; members had a great time and our exhibitors and food vendors were busy.
“We thank all the members who came along and made the day such a success.
“We hope the Olympics will become an annual event to provide that vehicle for members to catch up and network prior to potentially meeting again on the fireground during the summer.”
The event was funded through the Valuing Volunteers Program (VVP) and supported by the EMV-funded SES/CFA Wellbeing Recovery Project which aims to support the psychological recovery of first responders and their families following the 2019-20 bushfires.
Mount Taylor Fire Brigade members took out second place overall on the day-
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| Submitted by |
Shaunnagh O'Loughlin |