Hundreds of volunteers are fired up for the final weekend of the CFA/VFBV State Firefighter Championships this weekend with many teams returning after years away from the track.
Multiple running teams from brigades across the state have been training for several months, gearing up for some friendly competition in Stawell on 28 and 29 March.
After hanging up their running boots nearly a decade ago, Wodonga West has formed a new Rural Seniors team who are ready to give it red hot go this weekend.
Wodonga West Fire Brigade volunteer firefighter Aneka Newport helped form the running team of five members from the brigade, three of which will be competing at the State Championships.
"We're a bit nervous as it's our first time competing at the State Championships in the seniors competition, but we're ready to give it a go," Aneka said.
"One of our team members, Addi Pearce, has been competing for several years in the junior State Championships but she's just transitioned to seniors which has been great for our team.
"We've been training every week for the past few months in the lead up to this event.
"Competing in the champs is a great way to represent our brigade but it's also a lot of fun and I really enjoy it."
Aneka encourages CFA volunteers to form a team in the future to be part of the action.
"You're not on the fireground, you're trying a new learning experience, meeting new people and having some friendly competition," Aneka said.
CFA Acting Chief Officer Alen Slijepcevic AFSM said it was exciting to see the youngsters battle it out last weekend and looks forward to seeing some good rivalry this weekend.
"The Championships are an important and much-loved event on the CFA calendar, which builds strong relationships and helps grow the future of the organisation," Alen said.
"The teams work hard for many months, some train year-round, and compete in several regional events in the lead up to the major event.
"Congratulations to everyone involved, including those behind the scenes who help make this momentous event happen.
"Good luck to all the competitors this weekend!"
Wodonga West will join the other 152 Urban Senior and Rural Senior and Junior teams at Stawell's North Park Recreation Reserve this Saturday from 8am.
