New Project Fire Fighters Camp at St Arnaud

Twenty-eight of Forest Fire Management Victoria’s newest Project Firefighters undertook a tough and informative training course in St Arnaud last week.

Forest Fire Management Victoria Project Firefighter (PFF) Coordinator Geoff Tyers said:

“The General Fire Fighter (GFF) course covers a wide range of topics including fire behaviour, fire suppression, planned burning, safety and survival techniques." “The course is a good mix of classroom and field based activities to get our recruits up to speed with the demands of the fire ground and the varied role of a firefighter,” Mr Tyers said. “The trainees will also participate in a planned burn allowing them to practise the theory learned in the classroom alongside trained instructors and experienced staff. “We are looking for people who can stay calm under pressure and work well in a team. “Most of the course participants are the Loddon Mallee’s newest seasonal Project Firefighters (PFFs) and will work alongside permanent staff to undertake fire protection work and respond to bushfires. “It is predicted to be an above average fire season this year and these PFFs are very much needed. They will play an essential role in fighting fires across the region and across the state if required. “We provide comprehensive training for our PFFs to ensure the highest levels of skill in protecting against and fighting fires. Project firefighters in the Loddon Mallee will be based at depots including Hattah, Mildura, Robinvale, Swan Hill, Underbool, Werrimull, Rainbow, Avoca, Bendigo, Echuca, Castlemaine, Cohuna, Heathcote, Inglewood, Maryborough, Rushworth, St Arnaud and Macedon. Forest Fire Management Victoria employs more than 600 PFFs across the state each year.

Image Source: Forest Fire Management Victoria Website