Protection of NSW communities boosted with more than 200 new firefighters and five new fire trucks -
Published: 25 Jul 2025 03:39pm
The NSW Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, today welcomed more than 200 new firefighters to Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) ranks at a graduation ceremony at the Emergency Services Academy in Orchard Hills, in Sydney’s west.
The recruits hail from varied backgrounds, including trades, fitness, other emergency services, and community-based roles, such as lifeguards and on-call firefighters stepping up to permanent positions.
The ceremony has also marked a major boost to FRNSW’s firefighting capability with the unveiling of almost five million dollars’ worth of new fire trucks, which will be stationed at Gosford, Blacktown, Chester Hill, Newtown, and Bathurst.
The trucks will provide enhanced capability specific to the needs of their new locations.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib: “Today is a proud day for Fire and Rescue as well as the broader NSW community, but even more so for these graduates who will help keep the state safe for years to come.
“It takes a special kind of person to prioritise the safety of others ahead of their own and I’ve no doubt our newest recruits will create a positive impact in their communities.
“The NSW Government continues to invest in emergency services, delivering the people and equipment Fire and Rescue NSW require.
“I congratulate the state’s newest firefighters and welcome them into the emergency services family.”
Quotes attributable to FRNSW Acting Commissioner Paul McGuiggan: “Our newest recruits will join metropolitan and regional fire crews across the state, putting their intensive training into action.
“Today’s graduates come from all walks of life, but they share a common goal – protecting the irreplaceable. They now join a team where respect, courage, service and integrity are at the heart of everything we do.”
“The five new fire trucks feature the latest technology and enhanced safety systems, providing our crews with the tools they need to meet the challenges of modern firefighting.
“Firefighting is a career built on trust, teamwork and service. These new recruits, combined with enhanced capability through our new fleet, will ensure Fire and Rescue NSW is prepared for anything.”
FIREFIGHTER PROFILES
Firefighter Monique Shoesmith After 16 years as an on-call firefighter in Taree, including serving as Deputy Captain, Monique Shoesmith today achieved her dream of becoming a permanent firefighter with FRNSW.
The former retail professional and mum of two said today represents a milestone for her and her family.
“I love being a firefighter, and this role offers income security for my family while showing my kids you should never give up on your dreams,” Firefighter Shoesmith said.
“I’m passionate about serving the community, learning new skills and refreshing old ones – and this opportunity allows me to do that at the highest level.”
Firefighter Shoesmith said one of her most memorable moments so far came from a welfare call for an elderly man.
“He couldn’t speak to the 000 operator, but when we arrived and called out, he crawled to the door to let us in. We stayed and kept him company until paramedics arrived. It reminded me that sometimes the smallest jobs can make the biggest difference.”
A CrossFit enthusiast and sports lover, Firefighter Shoesmith said the physical and mental challenge of training was tough but rewarding.
“It pushes you, but the camaraderie and shared purpose make you stronger. I’m excited to start this next chapter with an incredible team.”
Firefighter Shoesmith is now stationed at Ashfield Fire Station after completing 13 weeks of training at the Emergency Services Academy earlier this year. Firefighter Cameron White
Firefighter White is an on-call firefighter at Menai Station who also works full-time as a police officer, balancing both roles in the emergency services.
A former Rural Fire Service volunteer, Firefighter White said firefighting has been a lifelong passion, inspired by his grandfather who served as a retained firefighter at Mortdale for 21 years from 1970 to 1991.
“I grew up hearing stories about my grandad responding to calls in the middle of the night after working all day in the city. It’s special to now be part of the same service,” he said.
Since joining FRNSW in October, Firefighter White has found the experience rewarding and complementary to his police role.
“It gives me a wide scope on how things work and how to deal with situations from different perspectives. Both roles help me in each job,” he said.
When asked about his favourite part of the role, Firefighter White said “Everyone’s happy to see you when you turn up – that feeling is incredible. The camaraderie is amazing too. It never feels like work when I’m on the truck.”
His advice for anyone considering joining? “Do it. I love it.”
Updated: 25 Jul 2025 01:43pm
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