Queenscliff firies reflect on stair climb success

THREE Queenscliff Fire Brigade members have become their brigade’s first ever to complete the annual Melbourne Firefighter Stairclimb.

Elaine Jell, Bianca Limb and James Munro all took part in the 11th edition of the event at Melbourne’s Crown Metropol tower earlier this month on September 7 alongside hundreds of other first responders raising funds for cancer research and crisis support services.

The trio raised over $3,000 for the event, while the event overall has raised $797,957 for the Peter Mac Cancer Foundation, Lifeline, and the 000Foundation.

“This is the first time ever the Queenscliff Fire Brigade has taken part in the Melbourne Firefighter Stairclimb, and we weren’t sure of what to expect,” Ms Jell said.

“We were all in the ‘On Air’ category, which meant we climbed all 28 floors of the building carrying 25 kilograms of turnout gear on air.

“We started within 10 seconds of each other and when you cross the start line and look up, it’s overwhelming.”

Ms Jell said the first five to six flights were the most daunting, but after finding her rhythm and relying on the support crew assisting, she completed the challenge in 11 minutes and 15 seconds and was the third quickest participant in her age group.

Ms Limb completed the climb in nine minutes and eight seconds, while Mr Munro did the climb in six minutes and four seconds.

“It is physically and mentally hard, but you dig deep and keep moving step by step,” Ms Jell said.

“When I crossed the finish line, I was sweaty and exhausted, but I was absolutely stoked I made it.

“We all did it, so many people came together to take on the challenge and supported this great cause. We could not have done it without the support of our brigade, our families and our communities.”

Ms Jell said the reward of completing the climb should be a top drawcard for someone looking to try it for the first time.

“It is a really great experience, and while it is mentally and physically hard, it is rewarding.”

The three are yet to confirm if they will take on the challenge in 2025, but Ms Jell said the group has certainly not ruled it out.