State Urban Juniors kick off the 2023 State Championships

Member News image Melton A won for the third year running

 

The Urban Juniors began the 2023 CFA/VFBV Firefighter State Championships in Mooroopna over the weekend 18-19 March.

 

The weekend of competitions began with an opening parade, followed by an official opening with remarks from CFA Deputy Chief Officer Jean Dyzel, CFA Board member Peter Shaw AFSM and VFBV State President Samantha Collins.

Urban Junior competition events started from 9am on Saturday 18 March and ran through until the afternoon of Sunday 19 March.

All teams worked hard in the competitions, but ultimately it was Melton A who took out first place overall, making them the 2023 Urban Junior champions for the third year in a row and four wins in five years.

Melton A coach and Junior Leader Anthony Rhodes said the team didn’t take anything for granted.

“This was our toughest year. We had a very young side and they put in a great effort,” Anthony said.

“We certainly didn’t think it was a done deal going into the weekend.

“We had three teams in every age group and always try to develop the kids every year.

“Our motto is ‘we don’t own the jumper’. What we mean by that is the kids get the opportunity to create history and then they pass the jumper down to the next person.”

Anthony acknowledged the role of the families in this win.

“These events are hard to win and a lot of effort is needed. But our success is down to the families who get involved by doing a range of tasks to support the kids.”

Championships are an important tradition for our members, according to Deputy Chief Officer Jean Dyzel.

"It’s fantastic to be here in Mooroopna once again for the Urban Junior Championships," Jean said.

"I’d particularly like to acknowledge the impact of the 2022 Victorian floods on the local community and thank them for once again welcoming us to Shepparton and Mooroopna.

"The State Championships are not only important to our Juniors, they are a highlight of the CFA annual calendar.

“They simulate many practical firefighting activities, while also promoting the essential values of teamwork, health and wellbeing.”

Grand Aggregate result

1st place: Melton A – 71 points

2nd place: Echuca A – 49 points

3rd place: Euroa A - 45 points

An official closing ceremony brought the weekend to a close.

A full list of results can be found on the VFBV website. Members can find out more information on the Urban Senior, Rural Junior and Senior State Firefighter Championships taking place next weekend on the CFA website.

Keep up to date with everything that’s happening in real time on our CFA Champs Facebook page.

Congratulations to all competitors and congratulations to the Melton A team for taking out the overall title!

The 2023 State Firefighter Championships are supported by the Victorian Government.

 

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