Brigades shine on the track

HOSE reels, hydrants and modern firefighting appliances were all put to the test by several fire brigades last weekend.

By Staff Writer

Representatives young and young at heart were seen in action on the Friendly Societies Park track competing in Warrnambool Fire Brigade’s annual Firefighter’s Championship.

The championship was open to brigades from across western Victoria.

Two days of competition saw the juniors (under 14 and under 17 sides) compete on Saturday, while senior members (from the age of 18) competed on Sunday.

The junior competition included members from not only the Warrnambool brigade (returning after a short absence) but also Hamilton, Warracknabeal, Colac and Osmond Park.

Due to fires in Beaufort, brigades from Horsham, Stawell, Ararat and Wendouree were unable to participate.

The senior competition attracted competitors from Warrnambool, Hamilton, Colac, Warracknabeal, Wendouree, Creswick and “Greater Geelong.

Also known as demonstrations or “demos” these competitions have a rich history in providing a social and competitive event that tests the skills and athleticism of fire fighters.

The Warrnambool Championship is one of the last events in the calendar before the state championships, which will be held in Mooroopna later this month.

Events include dry hose and equipment events while water events include using the old-fashioned hose reels, modern firefighting appliances as well as setting up a hydrant and delivering water to targets.

The junior development program at Warrnambool is now up and running and looking for interested young people between the ages of 12 and 17 who may be interested in trying this sport and making new friends.