COUNTRY Fire Authority volunteers have saved lives and property for decades and while the faces might be changing and the service evolving to meet changing needs, they remain an essential part of our community.
Leading into volunteers week, Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria chief executive Andrew Ford said the value and professionalism of volunteers made them a vital part of every regional community.
“The system works remarkably well and is always evolving to meet the growing and changing needs of today’s communities,” he said.
Mr Ford said some people might not appreciate the diversity and professionalism of the modern volunteer system.
“Gone are the days when firefighting was a role for just men,” he said.
“Today we have highly experienced and qualified people from all ages, gender, backgrounds and demographics performing frontline firefighting, operational leadership and support roles.”
Mr Ford said volunteers also benefit by giving back to their communities, learning new skills, developing leadership qualities and making new friends.
