Western Australia's latest group of new firefighters include former navy divers, a lawyer and a scientist.
Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson welcomed 29 new firefighters into WA's Career Fire and Rescue Service, at a graduation ceremony held at the Department of Fire and Emergency Services Training Academy in Forrestfield.
The graduates of Trainee Firefighter School 88 undertook a comprehensive and rigorous 21-week course, which included training in road-crash rescues, responding to bushfires, structural firefighting and advanced first aid.
More than 1,000 applications were received for the firefighting school, which took in a higher number of recruits to support the McGowan Government's investment in additional career firefighters in regional WA.
The graduates have been posted to fire stations, including four firefighters to the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Fire Station.
For more information on a firefighting career, visit https://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/careers-and-volunteering
As stated by Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Our recruits underwent a competitive application process and a rigorous five-month course, and I commend them for their dedication and commitment.
"It also takes a special kind of person who is prepared to risk their own life to protect others, and I thank them all for their compassion and selfless decision to pursue this career.
"As the graduates come from a wide range of backgrounds, the Career Fire and Rescue Service will reap the benefits of the diversity in their work skills, coupled with their comprehensive firefighting training.
"On behalf of all Western Australians, I would like to congratulate the recruits, and wish them well in their new careers across the State."
As stated by Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM:
"The 29 graduates from Trainee Firefighter School 88 are joining an emergency service that has served the Western Australian community for more than 120 years.
"It is a proud service - built on outstanding people, who respect its history, and relish the challenges of the future.
"You should all be immensely proud of your achievements, and I wish you a safe and long career protecting the community from major incidents across our vast State."
