Port volunteer lauds firefighting championships

PORTARLINGTON Fire Brigade volunteer Brooke Woodhart is encouraging volunteers to consider getting involved in a little healthy competition following this year’s State Firefighter Championships in Shepparton.

Ms Woodhart has been a member of the Portarlington Fire brigade since 2014 but has been a part of the CFA/VFBV State Firefighter Championships since 2011, when she first joined the CFA at Mannerim Fire Brigade.

“The camaraderie, communication, and the teamwork the champs builds with members is invaluable,” she said.

“You meet different brigades and the people that come to support their family members and friends is always warming to see, and a bit of healthy competition never hurt anyone.

“Just come out on a competition day to see what we do, there’s plenty to see and everyone is always happy to chat.”

Brooke decided in 2016 to broaden her skillset, becoming the regional Championships trackmaster for CFA’s District 7, which covers south-west Victoria.

Ms Woodhart oversaw all proceedings of the region’s Firefighter Championships, rather than competing in them.

“I needed to make sure everyone was doing what they needed to be doing, checking all the equipment was in place and that everyone was following the rules of the day. I basically make sure everything runs smoothly,” Ms Woodhart said.

“The role also involves a live fire demonstration and competition at The Geelong Show every year, which is exciting and amazing to be part of.”

Ms Woodhart has dedicated more than a decade to the Firefighting Championships in a non-competitive capacity, but decided this year to put the running shoes back on and compete again in a women’s team from Mannerim.

“I was nervous and excited to compete again,” she said.

“My legs were so sore after a training session but I’m happy to be back out there competing again.”

Find your local CFA brigade at cfa.vic.gov.au and find out how you can join a local Championships team.