Community
24 May, 2024
Volunteers recognised
FIRE brigades across the district rely heavily on local volunteers and are this week urging anyone considering joining them to get in contact.
As part of National Volunteer Week, the CFA has launched a recruitment campaign in the hope of increasing numbers at brigades right across the state.
One such brigade hoping to attract more volunteers is the Port Fairy Fire Brigade.
According to brigade captain, Hugh Worrall, while the group has been fortunate to recruit “a few new younger recruits” over the past 12-18 months, they are always on the lookout to boost volunteer numbers.
“We are very fortunate that these new, younger members are extremely keen and have a strong future within our brigade, however more recruits are always welcome; particularly when it comes to daytime responders,” Captain Worrall said.
With around 50 per cent of Port Fairy’s population comprising retirees, and more than 25 per cent of the town’s dwellings are holiday homes, the population can be transient.
“And this also poses a challenge for us in terms of availability of members,” Captain Worrall said.
“We currently have 25 members, with 15 of those operational.
“We attend anywhere between 50 and 60 call-outs each year and have also been involved with strike teams all over Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales but that means we also need to cover our area here.”
The Port Fairy brigade was fortunate to move to new premises in the town about three years ago, which has allowed more space to house its four vehicles.
The new station also includes a kitchen, office space and large meeting room.
“We’re lucky to have such a great facility here in Port Fairy and we’d love to see more people join us,” Captain Worrall said.
“I’ve been with the CFA for 55 years and absolutely love it. Being a volunteer enables you to give something back to your community and help protect people and property.
“We’re often involved in community events such as the Folkie, the Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal, emergency services open days and plenty more.”
The diverse range of experience and skills offered by brigade volunteers is what makes the organisation so unique.
Ongoing training is provided regularly, with the brigade meeting each Tuesday evening.
“Sunday mornings we make sure the vehicles are driven and maintained so they’re right to go when called, and we also hold monthly general meetings.
“I encourage anyone interested in joining their local fire brigade to call the Warrnambool Service Centre for District 5 on 5559 2500.”
