New firefighters take up positions at Sydney fire stations
Published: 5th January 2006
Acting Commissioner Murray Kear of the NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) welcomed 17 new firefighters to the ranks during a graduation ceremony at the NSWFB Training College in Alexandria.
Acting Commissioner Kear said the firefighters had just completed four months of intensive training as recruits and would be based at fire stations across NSW.
"They come well prepared for the challenges ahead after undertaking a baptism of fire while assisting at bushfires on the NSW Central Coast last weekend," he said.
"These firefighters were involved in protecting properties on the edge of bush land at Umina, Phegans Bay and Woy Woy which were threatened by bushfires on New Years Day.
"They did an outstanding job in saving several houses from fire and ember attack in stifling heat and oppressive conditions with roaring winds and flames up to 30 metres high," he said.
Acting Commissioner Kear said the firefighters came from a variety of backgrounds including the military, clerical roles and former retained (part time) firefighters.
"They will protect the community through firefighting, conducting rescues at motor vehicle and industrial accidents, dealing with hazardous material spills, educating the community on the risks of fire and other dangers as well as contribute to fire technology through fire science and fire investigation.
"These new skills are also formally recognised, making them some of the most highly qualified firefighters in the country. They have earned a formal qualification, Certificate 3 in Public Safety (Firefighting and Emergency Operations), a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework which is part of the Public Safety Training Package," he said.
Acting Commissioner Kear said that being an emergency service worker with the NSWFB represents a huge commitment to the community.
"These firefighters will experience many personal and professional highlights during their careers as well as being called upon to show great courage and leadership during extreme and challenging situations.
"I commend them on their dedication and achievement over the past four months," Acting Commissioner Kear said.
The firefighters, listed below will take up positions at fire stations shortly.
- Catherine Douglas - Riverwood
- Danielle Wearne - Horningsea Park
- Matthew Tucker - Lidcombe
- Mark McMullen - Cranebrook
- John Stokes - Guildford
- William Johanson - Concord
- Paul Van Aken - Campbelltown
- Hugh Robinson - City of Sydney
- Jeremy Smith - City of Sydney
- Brendan Williams - Darlinghurst
- Edward Berti - Blacktown
- Michael Ramsey - Mona Vale
- Nathan Napper - Wentworthville
- Andrew Oaklands - Kellyville
- Daniel Vrckoski - Riverwood
- Kris Tuntevski - Riverwood
- Nicholas Richards - Redfern
To photograph or interview a firefighter, please call:
Steve Norris 9265 2613 or 0417 671 372