Climbing for a cause

A SEXTET of Grovedale firefighters are ready for the mental and physical challenges of the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Club.

The team of Ryan, Anthony, Rob, Matt, Gus and Will from Grovedale CFA will tackle 28 floors of the Crown Metropol on Saturday (September 6) to raise vital funds for cancer research and crisis support.

Climbers will be kitted in up to 25kg of turnout gear and breathing apparatus as a symbol of the burden of significant health and well-being issues faced by first responders and their families on a daily basis.

Grovedale CFA lieutenant Ryan Carey said the team was looking forward to giving it their all for a great cause.

“It’s a great chance to fundraise and do something for the community and the three wonderful charitable organisations. I’ve done it before, and it’s tough, but it’s a great experience. If you do it quick, you’re finished in minutes, but if you do it slow it might be about 12 minutes.”

Fellow Grovedale firefighter Anthony Kilsby is also on board.

“The main thing for me for my first time round is just raising a bit of money and getting the awareness out there,” he said.

“My father-in-law died of cancer last year and we obviously all know the mental side of things, and the great work Lifeline does. To raise money for these causes is really important.

“I’ve set a $2,000 goal and I’m almost there. As a team if we can get to $3,500, we will be stoked – hopefully we get a bit of a push from the community.”

To donate to the Grovedale CFA, head to firefighterclimb.org.au/station/cfa/grovedale/