By Tanya Faulkner
Ferntree Gully CFA have welcomed new members into its brigade ahead of the upcoming warmer months.
The brigade have been joined by six new members, who have come from all walks of life, to dedicate their best firefighting efforts to the Ferntree Gully community.
Ferntree Gully CFA captain Seamus Smith said they have been operational within the brigade for the last month or so, but have only recently had their graduation ceremony.
“The new members have completed their general fire fighter course, and had their graduation in late September.
“We had their friends and families down for the ceremony – and that’s what it’s all about,” he said.
The new recruits have come from varied backgrounds, with one coming from a career with Parks Victoria and Melbourne Water, two were juniors from the Monbulk CFA who have come across to Ferntree Gully, and the last few were committed locals who expressed their interest in the brigade.
According to their Mr Smith, the new members are all settled in and enjoying being part of the brigade.
“They’re all very active and interested, keen as mustard, and always looking for new training.
“They are very keen to keep learning new skills and what we do,” he said.
Mr Smith said to complete the general firefighters course, the new recruits learned all about CFA operations, safety procedures, safety at fire scenes, communications and emergency response, amongst other things.
“The recruits learn more about the CFA in general, and what it’s all about with the volunteers, the offices, and the different districts.
“They also complete basic fire round training, learning to operate the trucks and pumps, and roll out the hoses ready for when they attend fires.
“Most of the recruits have great pride in rolling out the hose, it’s a great skill and effort in being able to do so, and they tend to really enjoy it,” he said.
The Ferntree Gully CFA are about to commence another round of recruits course next month for another five members, and are taking further expressions of interest for locals wanting to complete courses in the new year.
Mr Smith said it comes as part of the state-wide CFA recruitment campaign “Give us a Hand” seeking more locals to support their CFAs.
“We are always looking for new members to come and support the operations within our local CFA and learn what it’s all about.
“We will also be hosting an information session later in the year for anyone that is interested,” he said.
Ferntree Gully residents who are interested in joining the brigade, or want more information, can visit the CFA website FTGCFA.org.au
