Firefighters to take on Furber Steps in full gear for Motor Neurone Disease charity, celebrating 10 years of fundraiser - Katoomba
Published: 29 Aug 2025 01:38pm
A group of Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) firefighters will embark on a gruelling 24-hour climb of the Furber Steps at Katoomba, in the Blue Mountains, to support research into Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
The 10th annual ‘Firies Climb for MND’ begins on Friday 29 August and aims to raise $100,000 for research into the progressive and terminal neurological disease.
The event previously saw firefighters climb the Sydney Tower in full firefighting gear. This year, participants will tackle the iconic Furber Steps in a variety of ways:
12:00PM Friday - 12:00PM Saturday: 24-hour climb
- Supporters will climb for 24-hours straight, starting at Scenic World at 12pm on Friday.
6:00AM - 12:00PM Saturday: Firefighters climb
- More than 100 firefighters will also climb in full firefighting gear, including helmets and breathing apparatus.
The climb, which involves repeatedly ascending the 1,000 steps, is a significant physical challenge.
The public is invited to Scenic World in Katoomba to cheer climbers on at the finish line and, for the more adventurous, participate.
Quotes attributable to FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM:
“Since its inception in 2015, the ‘Firies Climb for MND’ has raised more than $3 million.
“The cause deeply resonates with many of our people, and we’re proud to be able to continue our support after 10 years.”
Quotes attributable to On-call Firefighter and event organiser, Gavin Clifton:
“FRNSW firefighters will participate in full kit, and we’re thrilled to take have their support and participation.
“For me - twenty-four hours climbing stairs is obviously a huge physical challenge, but it doesn’t compare to the challenges that lie ahead for people diagnosed with MND.
“This progressive, terminal neurological disease affects the nerve cells (neurones) controlling the muscles that enable us to move, speak, breathe and swallow. It’s a devastating diagnosis.
Quotes attributable to Professor Dominic Rowe of Macquarie University:
“The funds that the ‘Firies Climb’ generates is critical for Macquarie University as it allows us to develop new trials and novel therapies for people with MND.
“Over the last decade, this event has funded trials that aim to provide patients some relief from their symptoms and a better quality of life.
“One in 200 Australians die each year from MND, a figure that increased by more than 300% between 1986 to 2023.
“These generous firies are a critical weapon in our armoury against MND – thank you.”
MEDIA NOTE –
- For more information about the event and research, visit www.firiesclimbformnd.org.au
- Footage of the 2024 ‘Firies Climb for MND’ event is available here: https://vimeo.com/1113116821/3d707495db?share=copy [external link]
Updated: 29 Aug 2025 11:48am
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Stations nearby
14 Cascade Street, Katoomba NSW 2780
194-196 The Mall, Leura NSW 2780
3 Cascade Street, Wentworth Falls NSW 2782