Drive on for recruits

Picture: Luke Plummer By Casey Neill
UPPER Ferntree Gully Fire Brigade will be on the lookout for new recruits this weekend.
The appeal has become more vital following last weekend’s fire in the area and the raging blazes across the state.
Soaring temperatures and raging bushfires forced the brigade to postpone its recruitment drive, planned for 30 and 31 January.
The brigade now hopes to boost membership this Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 February at Ferntree Gully Plaza on Burwood Highway, Ferntree Gully.
Upper Ferntree Gully Fire Brigade captain Peter Smith said the biggest demand was for members available during the day, but was grateful for whatever time people could offer.
Mr Smith hopes to sign up between six and 10 new volunteers.
The brigade attends up to 200 call-outs each year.
Friday 30 January saw 20 of its volunteers called to a blaze in Churchill Park in Endeavour Hills.
Others were sent to Mirboo North.
“We used everybody we had,” Mr Smith said.
“We were stretched to our limit.”
Mr Smith said nearby units backed them up when they struggled to get men on the ground.
“But a lot of the brigades are in the same boat,” he said.
Mr Smith said some people were reluctant to join without the promise of a pay packet.
“We’re volunteers, we don’t get paid,” he said.
“But I don’t think that’s what the CFA’s about.”
“We’re here to serve the community and we need the community to serve us.”
Other Knox Fire Brigades Group stations Boronia, Ferntree Gully, Montrose and The Basin are also looking for new volunteers.
Brigades will invite potential recruits to an information session.
Recruits will then complete a three-month, nationally recognised training course in March.
Anyone who would like to join can call 1800 232 636 or visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au