Finley actively searching for new firefighters
The Finley branch of Fire + Rescue NSW received a visit from two senior officials recently, in an attempt to encourage members of the community to join this essential service.
Zone Commander Stewart Alexander and Duty Commander Frank Finlay spoke at great length of the advantages of being an on-call firefighter – learning skills and procedures for handling emergency situations to keep the community safe.
Fire + Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is the leading NSW emergency services agency for urban fires and rescue incidents, and the Finley branch is in need of at least three recruits.
The existing members have notched up nearly 200 years between them - a classic example of dedication to our local community.
FRNSW firefighters do more than fight fires.
They are trained in hazardous materials management, urban search and rescue, medical assistance, counter-terrorism, safety education and more.
Their purpose is simple – they are prepared for anything to protect the irreplaceable.
Firefighting is and will remain a cornerstone of service delivery.
However, targeted community
education programs include PreEd and FireEd for children, SeniorEd for older people and supporting various community activities and events.
The local branch can be contacted at any time to arrange a free home fire safety check to identify if you have a working smoke alarm, and provide you with a number of helpful fire safety tips.
Applications to become an on-call firefighter are accepted from all members of the community, male and female, and are assessed on merit, medical parameters and physical aptitude.
A full candidate information kit is available from the local fire station in Finley, or by contacting Captain Brian O’Hora on 0497 736 980.
Training and remuneration are explained in the information pack, including the fortnightly retainer, superannuation and leave entitlements.
A probation period of six months applies.
Progression from recruit firefighter to on-call firefighter will be subject to six months service, and satisfactory completion of the training and/or training competencies specified for progression.
Failure to successfully complete the required training within a reasonable time may result in the candidate being considered unsuitable for continued employment.
All costs associated with training are met by FRNSW.
On-call firefighters are required to reside and/or work within a reasonable distance from the nearest station, to ensure prompt response to emergency incidents.
FRNSW values all team members and appreciates the support that employers give to their employees who work as an on-call firefighter.
This support is critical and invaluable and without it some individuals would not be in a position to respond to emergency incidents in their local community.
So, if this sounds like something you would like to become involved in, further information can be obtained from Captain O’Hora or online at https://www.fire.nsw.gov. au/page.php?id=11.
For more on the programs offered to the community by FRNSW, go to www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page. php?id=879 or www.fire.nsw.gov.au/ page.php?id=9316.