Each of the 225 new recruits has spent up to 14 weeks learning their trade by studying a number of techniques to help deal with the various fire emergencies they will be facing, as well as search and rescue skills, applying first aid, heavy vehicle driving and hazardous materials (hazmat) training.
The new intake is made up of 61 permanent firefighters and 164 who qualify as on-call firefighters, having completed the competitive application process and endured the physically demanding training regime that the job requires.
The new state government looks forward to seeing even more firefighters picking up a hose or taking the lead in a rescue situation in the years to come with a commitment to hire an additional 600 new FRNSW crew over the next 8 years.
Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib will be attending today’s graduation ceremony which will see new firefighters deployed to fire stations across the state as they begin a challenging but rewarding career in protecting the lives and properties of the communities they serve.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib says:
“It speaks volumes that the overwhelming motive for joining Fire and Rescue NSW is to make a positive difference to the community, and it’s great to see that this year’s recruits have come from all walks of life.”
“It takes a special type of person to risk their own life to protect the lives of others and I’d like to congratulate all 225 firefighters graduating today – they’ll be doing so much more than putting out fires.”
Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Paul Baxter says:
“A career at Fire and Rescue NSW involves more than fire. Our firefighters are ready to support our community at their time of greatest need in all sorts of ways.”
“The firefighters graduating today have shown great determination, from the competitive application process to the demanding physical training, and they will go out into our communities armed with specialist skills to be prepared for anything.”