Firefighters step up for charity

Nathan Polderman, Jack Spooner, Ash Nealon, Noel Nealon, James Buttler and Lincoln Bulkerey in training on the 1000 Steps. 109889 Picture: MELISSA MEEHAN

MOST people would take the elevator. But these guys are taking the stairs – in full fire fighting gear.
Climbing to the top of the Eureka Tower in Melbourne is no easy feat, but eight fit and fearless fire fighters are making the 1642 stair climb to raise money for disadvantaged youths.
This Sunday fire fighters James Butler, Noel Nealon, Shane O’Brien and Sean Radford will be participating for the third year in a row and to add to their challenge they will be completing the climb in full structural turnout gear and breathing apparatus – another 20-odd kilograms.
Four other first timers will join them on the 88 floor climb to raise money for charities Whitelion and Interplast – and will wear their fire fighting turnout gear.
Those wishing to donate to support the boys on their climb can go to ww.eurekaclimb.com.au and search for ‘Upwey CFA’ under donate.