Visitors to the 2026 CFA/VFBV State Championships will have the chance to experience some of the technology helping prepare CFA volunteers for real fire and rescue emergencies.
Across both weekends of competition at Stawell's North Park Recreation Reserve, CFA's training team will showcase immersive virtual and mixed-reality technology at the Championships Market.
Among the technology on display will be a world-first mixed reality fire aviation simulator, which immerses users in aerial firefighting operations.
Community members will also be able to try Flaim Virtual Reality and experience realistic firefighting scenarios in a safe and secure setting.
Also available will be a model of CFA's new driving simulator, designed to help volunteers train for high-risk driving situations that are difficult to safely recreate in real life.
CFA Deputy Chief Officer Rohan Luke said the Championships were a great opportunity for the community to see how CFA members prepare for emergencies.
"People can step into some of the scenarios our members experience and see how training is evolving to better prepare our brigades for the challenges of modern firefighting," Rohan said.
CFA members will also have the opportunity to speak with the training team about course pathways, assessments and development opportunities.
"While the State Championships are about testing the skills of our volunteers, they're also about building them," Rohan said.
"Whether you're competing, supporting your brigade or visiting from the community, we encourage people to stop by the training display and learn more about the opportunities available through CFA."
In addition to training and equipment displays, food and drink vans will also be on hand.
After 20 years, the CFA/VFBV State Championships return to the historic Stawell North Park Recreation Reserve, Newington Rd, Stawell, with the Urban Junior competition kicking off on 21–22 March, followed by the Urban Senior, Rural Junior and Rural Senior events on 28–29 March.
Members of the public are invited to attend to watch CFA members in action and learn more about CFA.
Entry is free, with events starting at 9am each day.
