Newcastle Firefighters Set to Compete at State Championships

21 October 2024

Firefighters from across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and the Central Coast will showcase their skills this week as they represent Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) at the 2024 State Firefighter Championships in Wagga Wagga. The highly anticipated event is taking place in the Riverina region from 23 October, promising a thrilling competition among top crews.

The biennial championships offer firefighters a platform to refine their operational skills in a competitive environment, allowing them to enhance their expertise in key areas such as rescue operations, high-rise bagging, booster valve techniques, and ladder tasks. These skills are critical for keeping local communities safe during real-life emergencies.

Participating teams include crews from Kurri Kurri, Morisset, Wyong, and Wangi Wangi, with each group eager to test their abilities while networking with fellow firefighters from across the state. Wyong Fire Station’s team, led by Captain Jamie Loader, enters the competition as reigning champions, having secured victory for six consecutive years.

“We’ve been competing together for a decade, and between us, we have over 73 years of combined firefighting experience,” said Captain Loader. “While we’ve had a strong winning streak, we know this year’s competition will be fierce.”

Kurri Kurri Fire Station Captain, Wayne Redfern, also brings decades of experience to the event, having attended his first Firefighter Championships in 1988.

“While we may not be the top competitors, it’s always a lot of fun,” Captain Redfern shared. “This year, we’re seeing more diversity, with three women from our region competing. It’s great to see, and I hope that number continues to grow.”

The event is not only a celebration of skill but also a demonstration of camaraderie and learning. FRNSW Acting Assistant Commissioner Gary Barber highlighted the broader benefits of the championships.

“Firefighters take the skills and relationships they build here back to their communities, enhancing their abilities to respond to emergencies,” said Acting Assistant Commissioner Barber.

The championships will also feature a community engagement evening on Friday, 25 October, at Wagga Beach Riverside Precinct. The public is invited to attend from 5.00pm to enjoy performances by the FRNSW Band, followed by a torchlight procession and a fireworks display at 8.15pm.

For more details, visit the official event website at www.firefighterchampionships.com.