Some of the fire fighters of tomorrow were formally recognised last week after completing the challenging eight-week Secondary School Cadet Program run by the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS).

RFS Acting Chief Superintendent Danny Busch joined Dubbo MLC Stephen Lawrence to congratulate 17 students from Burrabadine Christian Community School during a ceremony held at the RFS Fire Control Centre in Dubbo on Friday, October 17.

The Burrabadine students join thousands of others from across NSW who have completed the RFS course over the past two decades.

“As well as examining fire behaviour, the participants have learned essential fire safety techniques and gained an appreciation of the work emergency services do every day across the state,” Supt Busch said.

“The course also teaches young people about the important contribution volunteer firefighters make to the local community, provides them with firefighting skills and knowledge, and instils values such as teamwork, leadership and confidence,” he added.

Communities throughout NSW rely on RFS volunteers to guide and protect them and their property, and this important program is one way to futureproof our firefighting capability, Supt Busch said.

“After completing this course, delivered by local RFS volunteers, we encourage the students to take the next step and join their local brigade and complete their training to become bush firefighters,” he added.

Supt Busch thanked the volunteers and staff from the Orana District who assisted with the delivery of the local program.

Duty MLC for Dubbo, Stephen Lawrence, congratulated the graduating students on their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the program.

“This program gives young people a valuable opportunity to learn practical skills and understand what it means to serve their community,” Mr Lawrence said.

“It’s fantastic to see these students embracing the spirit of volunteerism and gaining insight into the vital work of the Rural Fire Service and our emergency services.”