Aireys Inlet CFA seeks younger members

Aireys Inlet CFA members Samson Wylie and Bella Greene (centre) say the CFA is a great place for young people to expand their skills. Photos: SUPPLIED

VOLUNTEER firefighters in Aireys Inlet are encouraging the next generation to consider joining up at their brigade, hoping to set up the town’s summer safety for future years.

23-year-old Aireys Inlet carpenter Samson Wylie said he is hopeful more youth can be inspired to join.

Mr Wylie joined the Aireys Inlet Brigade after seeing the devastation of the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires.

“It was always something I had thought about over the years [joining]. When the fires were going on, there was so much exposure and I thought what better time to jump on board and lend a hand,”

he said.

“When I got the go-ahead from my workplace I got straight into it. Now that I’m a qualified sub-contractor it makes it a lot easier to turn out.

“I’m really grateful they allow me to respond during work hours if needed. Most of the time, I would only run out if it’s a quiet day or if I’m finishing up. But, for a strike team, major fire, or a big burn off I’ll head off.”

Aireys Inlet CFA runs a training session at its base at 26 Pearse Road.

Fellow Aireys Inlet CFA member Bella Greene joined at a similar time to Samson after moving back to Geelong, not far from her hometown of Moggs Creek.

Ms Greene’s family has long-standing CFA ties, with her dad heavily involved.

“It’s a nice way to give back and be part of something local, and although I live in Geelong, I can turn out when I’m visiting my family in Moggs, and I have flexibility working for myself,” Ms Greene said.

“I get down most weekends, which means I’m available to turn out quite regularly, especially during summer, and I make an effort to get down to training on Tuesdays when I can.”

Ms Greene said the steps to becoming a volunteer at the CFA were not overly complicated.

“I felt comfortable that I was good to go once I had made it through the General Firefighter course. They don’t just throw you in the deep end, you’re well prepared.

“I thought I needed to come in with a foundation and to know all the basics, but you don’t, you can walk in and learn it all alongside them.”

If you are interested in joining CFA or learning more about volunteering, head to cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteer