Members raise alarm

By Ed Merrison
UPWEY Fire Brigade has been forced to launch its first ever major recruitment drive in the wake of an unprecedented decline in membership.
It is hoped the campaign, which will feature extensive local publicity and an open house at the station on Saturday, 2 September, will yield at least 10 new members to complement the brigade’s current membership of 30.
Captain Peter Marke said Upwey was the area’s oldest brigade and had always enjoyed strong membership.
“However, a combination of increased operational skill prerequisites introduced in recent years and a greater natural attrition due to employment and personal pressures and lifestyles has impacted on our membership,” he said.
Mr Marke said an ageing membership and resulting retirements meant numbers had to be boosted but was confident that volunteering would prove an attractive proposition.
“It’s an opportunity for people to give something back to the community but in such a way that provides excitement and unique challenges,” he said.
New Upwey recruit Alannah Burgess, 20, recently completed an initial six-month training period, fulfilling an ambition that was sparked two years ago.
“It all started when my grandmother’s kitchen burned down and I saw what (the CFA) did and thought I would like to do it as well,” she said.
Ms Burgess said she enjoyed the challenge and working with such a supportive group of people.
“It’s the best experience ever. I wouldn’t change it for the world,” she said.
But the need for more recruits like Ms Burgess is a pressing one.
Mr Marke was keen to ensure the brigade, which responds to about 180 calls per year, maintained the necessary manpower to tackle to its wildfire and structural risks.
“As most residents would be aware, the Upwey area has encountered uncontrolled wildfires and major structure fires on many occasions over the years which will no doubt occur again.
“So we always review our capabilities and resources to ensure we are always in an appropriate state of readiness,” he said.
Upwey Fire Brigade’s open house for prospective new members will take place on Saturday, 2 September from 9.30am to 12.30pm with briefings at 9.30am and 11.30am.