The next generation of CFA firefighters are pitting their talents against one another at the 45th Volunteer Fire Brigade Victoria (VFBV) Junior State Urban Fire Brigade Championships in Warrnambool today.
Western Victoria MP, Gayle Tierney, representing Minister for Emergency Services, James Merlino, officially opened the annual event this morning.
About 800 competitors are taking part in the championships, representing brigades from across Victoria, with hundreds of family and friends also on hand to cheer along the young heroes.
Two teams from Western Australia are also testing their abilities against Victoria’s finest this year.
All events involve the use of basic firefighting equipment – including hoses, pumps and ladders – to simulate many of the tasks firefighters undertake when responding to fires and other emergencies.
The VFBV-run competition is aimed at enhancing firefighter fitness and promoting teamwork, health and wellbeing among CFA members and the wider Victorian community.
The team with the most points overall is presented with the Grand Aggregate Trophy (Perpetual Gold Cup), with a medallion also awarded to each winning team member.
The Warrnambool Fire Brigade is hosting the junior championships for the first time since 2013, and will also host the VFBV Senior and Junior Rural Championships in April.
The VFBV Senior State Urban Fire Brigade Championships will be in Bendigo next month.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“Junior firefighters are an important part of the CFA’s wonderful volunteer community, and these championships are a great opportunity for them to make new friendships and test their firefighting skills.”
“I congratulate all competitors on their contribution to a safer Victorian community, and look forward to seeing them progress to senior firefighting ranks at their respective brigades.”