Volunteer fireys to do battle at champs

CFA members are gearing up to showcase their skills at the Volunteer Fire Brigades Senior State Urban Fire Brigade Championships in Mildura on 12 March.

A total of 57 teams made up of firefighters from rural brigades across Victoria will compete in a variety of events involving basic rural firefighting equipment such as tanks, pumps, hoses and ladders.

The huge event will attract approximately 3,500 people, including friends, family and loved ones of the 1,000 competitors.

CFA Chief Officer Joe Buffone said events such as this displayed the dedication and enthusiasm of CFA members.

“It’s a chance for brigades from all over Victoria to come together to build team spirit, develop individual and team skills and promote camaraderie among brigades, volunteers and their families,” he said.

“Not only do the championships increase and maintain a level of physical fitness for competitors, but they help to improve the skills and handling of firefighting equipment.”

There will also be four teams each from Bassendean, Bunbury, Harvey and Mandurah in Western Australia contesting the championship.

Mildura Fire Brigade won the right to host the championships and have hosted state championships 10 times in the past, most recently in 2010.

The brigade is integrated, with 30 career staff supporting 63 senior volunteer members and 17 junior members.

The championships are organised by a committee made up of members from Mildura Fire Brigade. Committee members have contributed significant time and effort to the championships, over and above their commitment to their brigade.

Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley will officially open the championships at Mildura Showgrounds at 9am on Saturday, 12 March.

COMPETING BRIGADES 

Author: CFA Media