DID you know that CFA fire brigades around Bass Coast and purely operated by volunteers?
“It is likely that someone you know, maybe a neighbour, a work colleague, the maintenance person you have to do the odd job around your house, the teacher of your children at school or the person who served you today when shopping could have been one of those volunteers,” said Pete Dell, Deputy Bass Coast Group Officer and volunteer.
Pete, who has been employed with Cyclone and very active in the local cricket and golfing scene has also been an active volunteer with CFA for more than 30 years.
He is heading the campaign in Bass Coast to get more people within the Bass Coast community involved with their local brigade.
“We are very keen to recruit new volunteer fire fighters who are available during weekdays to support getting the trucks out the door and providing a service to protect life and property.
“We are also very keen to get members from the Cape Paterson, Dalyston, Bass, Kilcunda, Corinella, Kernot and San Remo communities.”
It is not all about firefighting either. Many of the Bass Coast brigades need volunteers to help out with a range of duties behind the scenes.
Jaclyn Nation has a customer service role with a local business and is a mum of two. She signed up as a volunteer with Wonthaggi Fire Brigade 18 months ago.
“I decided to join the local fire brigade because I needed a new challenge in my life,” Jaclyn said.
“Since joining I have completed my training to be a Wildfire-Structural Fire Fighter, I have learnt some great skills, I volunteer with a great group of people and we do some really great work for the local community.”
Not only is Jaclyn an active volunteer firefighter, she recently completed her training as a Fire Safe Kids presenter where she visits schools and talks about fire safety.
If you want to find out more about volunteering with CFA, visit the CFA website or contact Pete Walters on 0408 546 905.
If you wish to join your local brigade contact CFA Volunteer Recruitment toll free on 1800 232 636 or email volrecruit@cfa.vic.gov.au.