Junior brigade members wanted

Horsham Fire Brigade is recruiting members for its junior development program and competition running teams.

Representatives will showcase their skills at Haven Market on Saturday, from 9am.

The junior development program is open to 11 to 15-year-olds and aims to provide a wide variety of safe, enjoyable and challenging activities that enhance a sense of community spirit and personal values.

Horsham Fire Brigade captain John St Clair said members developed an awareness of fire and fire safety, and developed teamwork skills.

He said junior members could go on to become fully-trained CFA volunteer firefighters when they turned 16. “The juniors learn practical firefighting skills such as reading maps, how to operate firefighting pumps, first aid, and how to put ‘wet stuff on the red stuff’,” he said.

Junior members can also participate in the brigade running team, competing against other brigades across the state.

Junior coach Jonathan Hornsby said brigade running was a unique sport that required speed and skill and was open to both males and females.

“It’s fast-paced and based on skills, so it can be quite a spectacle to watch and very exciting to participate in,” he said.

The group trains on Tuesdays from 5.30pm at the running track on Park Drive, Horsham.