Call for new firefighter recruits

Zone commander superintendent Tom Cooper said the organisation was putting out the call for new recruits to join the ranks of firefighters with numbers dwindling in regional areas.

“Fire and Rescue NSW have started a state-wide recruitment campaign this week.” Superintendent Cooper said. 

“We are looking for part time firefighters because it is very difficult to maintain availability during the middle of the day.

“Those kind of people are stay at home mums, people who own their own businesses and people employed by community-minded businesses.”

Twelve Recruits running drills as part of their final four day block of training at the Armidale Fire and Rescue Training Centre before graduating to full-fledged firefighters. 

“If you can work in factory, supermarket and play in a sporting team then you are capable of being a firefighter,” Superintendent Cooper said. 

““Your local fire station relies on people in the community to put their hand up to become firefighters – without that support, regional fire stations cannot survive.

“We are just ordinary people doing extraordinary things.”

Training includes advanced first aid, heavy vehicle driving, and how to deal with emergencies such as fires, road accidents and hazardous material spills.

Firefighters also educate the community on fire safety and prevention.

Armidale retained firefighter Tom Wilson encouraged community members to sign up and join the region’s fire station. 

”I think it’s important for people to get involved to help out the community as it’s great for the community but also a lot of fun as well,” Mr Wilson said.

”It’s a very rewarding experience and it’s nice to know that you are doing a job that helps the community in their worst time.”

Community members interested in signing up to be a firefighter should reach out to their local firefighters station or visit http://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/