New records set at CFA/VFBV Firefighter State Championships

The official opening ceremony started the weekend-long competition. The ceremony included CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan and VFBV State President Nev Jones leading brigades down the main track as the national anthem was played. Speeches from both the Chief Officer and VFBV President were given.

Competition events started from 9am on Saturday 20 March to 1pm Sunday 21 March.

The first event of the competition set the bar high for the weekend with Melton Team A member Devante Johns setting a new record for the under 14 Hydrate race with 8.81 seconds.

Event four, Y Coupling under 17 years was the closest event of the day with only 0.02 seconds between first, second and third place. Bairnsdale, featuring Ethan Pitt, Cooper Howell, Michael Garro and Bryce Lawford took the win with 9.62 seconds.

Day one continued with 10 more competition events and Melton A were leading the tally at the end of the first day.

Day two kicked off with the Hydrant under 17 years competition and was another win for Melton A, Ben Geysing with 12.89 seconds.

Event 13, the Y Coupling under 14 competition was a nail biter with Mildura, Lucy Garraway and Nicholas McWilliams taking the win with 14.28 seconds only 0.15 seconds in front of Kyneton.

Melton A took first place on all overall results making them the 2021 champion team.

GRAND AGGREGATE

1st MELTON A 94 points

2nd DROUIN/BUNYIP 41 points

3rd KYNETON 40 points

Congratulations to Melton A competitors;

Bayllie Arandt, Devante Johns, Ben Geysing, Lorelei Geysing, Brodie Leitch, Jamie Millington, Manaia Robinson and Kon Sein. And all Coaches Anthony Rhodes, Bailey Rhodes and Ashley Goudie

An official closing ceremony brought the weekend to a close. A/Executive Director Volunteers and Capability Peter O'Keefe said the weekend was an amazing display of firefighting skills.

"Everyone that took part should be extremely proud," Peter said. "The weekend showcased exactly what CFA members have to offer.

"It was great to be able to be to attend the event to not only see our juniors competing but to connect, share and converse with members from across the state.

"The CFA corporate tent was a great addition to the event," Peter added. "Members were able to find out information, complete training exercises, get involved with activities and meet staff from across the directorates.

"We had some amazing results over the weekend, well done to everyone involved and thank you to all for showing your support," Peter added. "I'm looking forward to celebrating further this coming weekend."

A full list of results can be found on the VFVB website.