Seventeen new recruits have joined ACT Fire & Rescue (ACTF&R) to ensure our urban fire service is well resourced to continue keeping Canberrans safe.
- Minister Gentleman and Deputy Commissioner Ray Johnson will address media this morning at 11:20am before the formal event begins at 11:40am.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman the ACT Government was committed to recruiting more firefighters to protect and support the Canberra community.
"Congratulations to the newest recruits of College 43 and thank you for choosing to dedicate yourselves to serving our community," Minister Gentleman.
"A 22-week training course has prepared these new fire fighters to work together and alongside ACT Ambulance Service, ACT State Emergency Service, ACT Rural Fire Service and our Community Fire Units.
"The ACT Government has funded 99 additional firefighters for the ACTF&R over the next 5 years to further strengthen the service.
"ACTF&R will be running two recruit colleges per year. I encourage anyone who is considering a career in firefighting to express their interest and to start preparing now."
The newest firefighters include a former Crusty Demon motorbike rider, Brazilian Jujitsu Blue Belt, 29-year Plumbing veteran and a Rocket Scientist raised in Belgium.
ACTF&R A/g Chief Officer Glenn Brewer said each College proves no matter what profession you come from, hard work and determination is the key to success.
"Our firefighters have a range of backgrounds and these 17 recruits will be a great asset to the ACTF&R service. With the bushfire and storm season upon us, we are prepared to respond to any incident to ensure the safety of the ACT," Mr Brewer said.
"These recruits have showed they have the diverse skills, capabilities and talents required to undertake the varied work that our firefighters do. From responding to fires, natural disasters, and hazmat incidents to educating and supporting the community about fire safety.
"It is also pleasing to see that two of our graduates are joining family members already in service, with one being a second-generation firefighter."
Recruitment rounds will re-open in 2021.
