Championships 
HomePage Featured (450)
Vital and Valued
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer
April typically signifies the end of the fire danger period, with a rolling back of local restrictions as the weather justifies. And while this season has been comparatively mild, I want to acknowledge
how tired so many of you are.
Everything in 2021/22 just feels harder doesn’t it?
Change management is hard at the best of times. Throw in a pandemic along with sector and organisational reform, and we have the perfect storm. And given this season’s weather – this storm is both figurative and literal.
With so much going on, I am going to use this month’s column to flag some key initiatives to keep an eye out for.
VESEP GRANTS
This year’s Volunteer Emergency Service Equipment Program is now open.
The program is in its 22nd year and first started as the CSESP Program (Community Safety Emergency Support Program) in 2000 and was designed in close consultation with VFBV and volunteers.
Key to its success is locally driven priority setting, endorsement by District Planning Committee’s, operational support and endorsement by CFA Regional Management and a State-wide Steering Committee that reports directly to Government and includes VFBV and volunteer representatives who work together to monitor the program and ensure the programs integrity and transparency.
The program offers five categories; Volunteer amenities $<5K; Minor works $<120K; Operational equipment; Specialist appliances and Field Command Vehicles (FCV’s); and Tankers.
As usual, VFBV has published a help pack that offers practical suggestions and complements the EMV and CFA Guidelines and application forms. An electronic copy of our Help Pack is available via the VFBV website, or we can post you a paper copy by calling the office on (03) 9886 1141 or speaking with your local VFBV State Councillor or VFBV Support Officer.
Applications close on the 31st May 2022, with a ministerial announcement expected in September. Reach out if you need help with your application.
MEMORIAL SERVICE
The annual CFA Memorial Service is commemorated on the first Sunday closest to International Firefighter’s Day and St Florian’s day which both fall on May 4th.
This year’s annual memorial will therefore be held on Sunday 1st May. The service is being held in a regional location this year, and will take place in Churchill (Gippsland).
The annual service is a time for us to come together either in person or in spirit and remember and honour the 80 CFA firefighters (including 11 from pre-1944) who have selflessly given their lives to protect the lives of other Victorians.
And while the memorial is always solemn and reflective, it is also an important opportunity to reflect on our history as we pay tribute to those lost – and reflect on the importance of the work we each do in making our communities safer.
Details and how to RSVP can be found on both the VFBV and CFA websites.
AFSM NOMINATIONS
The Australian Fire Service Medal recognises distinguished service by members of fire services agencies across Australia. They are awarded twice a year, with the first awards presented in January on Australia Day, and the second round being awarded on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend in June.
CFA is currently deliberating on awards to be presented for the January Australia Day awards 2023. Nominations are confidential but can be made by anyone for anybody they know who deserves to be honoured. Self-nominations are not allowed. The closing date is May 1st, so please consider nominating a fellow member you feel is deserving.
A nominators guide is available via the CFA and VFBV websites.
FIRE SERVICES IMPLEMENTATION MONITOR
The Fire Services Monitor, the Hon Niall Blair attended the State Championships on Saturday 26th March. He and his staff had a booth, where members were invited to stop by for a chat and discuss their experiences of fire services reform as part of his formal monitoring activities. With more than 3,000 volunteers attending over the weekends, it was a great opportunity for him and his office to engage with volunteers and staff.
The monitor has advised that as part of his year two assessment methodology, he is intending on conducting individual station visits across Victoria over the next three months to obtain feedback and input about the progress of the fire services reform from brigade perspectives.
These visits will include co-located brigades as well as opportunities for surrounding brigades where members will have an opportunity to provide feedback face to face, as well as an opportunity to provide written feedback should members be unable to attend in person.
We will keep you updated on locations as we are advised, and members are encouraged to provide their observations and thoughts to the monitor to ensure lessons and views are captured as part of his review.
CFA BOARD NOMINATIONS
I want to thank all members who applied for the CFA Board positions advertised over the last three months. The VFBV Board and State Council processes are now complete.
Thank-you to all members who gave up their time and generously shared their knowledge and experience through the formal application process. Nominations are confidential and panels have now been provided to the Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon. Jaclyn Symes for consideration by the Governor in Council. Current Board terms do not expire until later in the year, so we are not expecting an announcement for a while yet.
The VFBV Board has recently discussed an annual process that would seek to encourage members to submit an expression of interest application for a Board position anytime throughout the year. This would allow more regular formal interviews to be conducted throughout the year at times more convenient and in anticipation of future vacancies.
This will ensure members don’t have to rely on short notice requests and will improve our ability to respond to short Government timelines in the future. We are committed to strengthening opportunities for volunteers to be involved and will keep working on ways to reduce any barriers.
VACCINE MANDATES
I want to acknowledge the workload and tensions that have accompanied the government vaccine mandates, and the difficulties it has presented for some people at the local levels, especially those in leadership roles. Following the relaxation of public restrictions, we are receiving an increased number of enquiries on the future status of emergency service vaccination mandates.
While mandates served an important role in the early stages of the pandemic, we acknowledge that people have questions around their proportionality under current circumstances as we transition to a ‘COVID normal’ type setting.
VFBV is continuing to seek advice from the Health Department and will continue to raise the issues that members are raising with us. I can certainly attest that the incidence of CFA transmission from emergency response activities has been extremely low, and the fact that we mostly work outside means our risk setting is far lower than some of our fellow emergency service partners. However, it is also important to recognise that the sector is reluctant for mandates to be piece meal amongst different agencies across the sector, so these conversations are difficult.
Unfortunately, we have been unable to obtain a clear picture or roadmap that might provide the greater certainty that we are looking for, but we will certainly keep trying.
THANK-YOU
I want to thank all volunteers and staff who contributed to the running of this year’s highly successful CFA-VFBV State Firefighter Championships. Held over two weekends, Mooroopna certainly put on spectacular weather, and we were dazzled by strong performances by Melton and Springhurst in particular across both the urban and rural tracks.
There was a real positivity amongst everyone attending, with everyone I think so grateful for the opportunity to be back face to face. Our COVID-safe preparations and precautions paid off, and I am incredibly proud of everyone’s discipline and sacrifices made to ensure the event was conducted as safely as possible.
CFA hosted a marvellous corporate display, with the best attendance I can remember from a wide range of directorates and units across CFA providing opportunities for members and the public to explore the various offerings from new truck and equipment designs to bushfire modelling, new PPC and workwear displays and the popular virtual reality demonstrations. It was also great to acknowledge the attendance of members of parliament and local government from right across the political spectrum.
The Saturday night torchlight parade, featuring both rural and urban brigades was spectacular, with more than 15,000 members of the general public cheering our firefighters along as part of the Illuminate Shepparton festival. The festival featured mesmerising laser light installations, live music and incredible food. The warm reception epitomised the public respect for the professional work that CFA volunteers do every day of every year.
Thank-you especially to the more than 300 volunteer judge and track officials who volunteered their time over the entire weekends to keep the tracks running smoothly and allowing brigades to shine as they demonstrate their skills and fitness.
As you can tell from this brief update, there is plenty going on and plenty to keep us busy. As the season winds down - take care of yourselves and use the change in seasons to slip in some rest.
For everyone that contributed over the heightened fire danger period, whether on the front line or behind the scenes – thank-you and well done. As we move now to our winter campaigns and educate the public on home fire safety, please know that the incredible work you do in your communities is both vital and valued.
2022 State Championships
This year’s State Firefighter Championships saw both the Melton and Springhurst brigades come out on top at the Championships held in Mooroopna during March.
Melton first had success as runaway winners at the State Urban Junior Championship held on the weekend of 19 and 20 March. This weekend saw over 200 competitors from 37 teams competing.
The following weekend, 26 and 27 March, Melton again won by a significant margin to take out the State Urban Senior Championship. While Springhurst won both the State Rural Senior and Junior Championships on the same weekend, with Truganina taking out the Division 2, with an impressive showing across the Aggregate Board.
The second weekend saw close to 600 competitors take part from 120 teams. Full results of the 2022 State Championships can be found on pages 10 to 12 of the April edition of Fire Wise or from the VFBV website.
2022 also saw the return of the Torchlight Procession through the streets of Shepparton on Saturday 26th March in conjunction with the Illuminate Shepparton festival for the first time since 2019.
The State Championships would not be possible without the support of more than 300 judges and officials who volunteer their time over the two weekends. VFBV also passes on its appreciation to competitors, coaches, supporters and staff. Special thanks to the State Championships Committee, which consists of CFA management, members of VFBV’s Rural and Urban State Competition Committees, volunteers and staff for their hard work and efforts in the preparation and management of the two weekends of competition.
We also pass on our appreciation to the Greater Shepparton City Council for their continued support of the Championships, with this year marking the 10th time our Championships have been held in either Shepparton or Mooroopna since 1975.
VFBV’s two competition committees will be meeting in the coming months to review the championships in preparation for the 2023 State Championships, if any brigades and competitors would like to provide any feedback they can do so by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Presumptive Legislation – Women’s Reference Group
VFBV is seeking expressions of interest from members to join a Presumptive Legislation Women’s Reference Group we are putting together to consider and advocate for the inclusion of female specific cancers into presumptive legislation.
Any member that would like to contribute to this work, should please contact Mark Dryden via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Affiliation
Thank you for members’ continued strong show of support!
Again in 2021-22 CFA Brigades and Groups have showed that is it more important than ever that volunteers have a strong, united, independent and credible voice. More than 93% of Brigades demonstrated strong support for VFBV’s important work representing and advocating for all CFA volunteers. Thank-you to all brigades and groups who affiliated last year.
In the coming weeks VFBV will be posting out the 2022/23 renewal notices for your Brigade/Group’s VFBV Affiliation and Welfare Fund subscriptions. These will be mailed out to Brigade and Group secretaries with a due date of 30 June 2022.
To thank Brigades and Groups for their support, those who pay their VFBV affiliations before 30th June will automatically be entered into a draw to win one of four equipment prizes valued at approximately $4,000.
The prizes have for the third-year running been donated by GAAM Emergency Products and Powdersafe and we sincerely thank them for their continued generous support. For further details of the prizes on offer, see the flyer included with your renewal notices.
As well as affiliating, we strongly encourage Brigades to subscribe to the VFBV Welfare Fund.
The Welfare Fund is an exclusive benefit to affiliated members and VFBV fund all the administration and operating cost ensuring 100% of funds received go directly to CFA volunteers experiencing personal hardship.
The VFBV Welfare Fund provides small grants of up to $5,000 to assist volunteer members and long serving ex members. The grants support members and their families experiencing personal financial hardship/crisis by providing welfare grants, on a needs-assessed basis, that may help alleviate stress impacting their ability to maintain involvement as a volunteer.
District Council’s continue to promote opportunities for members to contribute to the vital work that VFBV performs on behalf of all CFA volunteers.
Advocacy, support and the provision of trusted and credible advice are all strengthened when members work together and share a unity of purpose. Become involved today.
Position Vacant – Administration Assistant
VFBV is looking for an enthusiastic Administration Support Officer to join our small dedicated team supporting the peak body work of the Association in representing CFA volunteers to CFA, Government, business and instrumentalities.
Based at our Burwood office, and under the direction of the Administration Officer you will provide administrative, reception and office support across all business support activities and in many instances be the first point of contact to members, stakeholders and the public.
For more information on this role, please visit the VFBV website.
Applications close Sunday 15 May 2022.
RCH Good Friday Appeal
A defining sight of the Good Friday Appeal is the thousands of volunteers standing at traffic lights, in camping grounds and clubs and at many events, shaking the Good Friday Appeal tins as people open their hearts and their wallets to support.
You can read more about the RCH Good Friday Appeal, the face of the Good Friday Appeal and about some of the CFA Brigades who will be shaking tins this weekend on the VFBV Website.
Donations can also be made via the Virtual Tin Shake, visit the Virtual Tin Shake website to find your closest brigade with a virtual tin.
Fire Wise – April 2022 online only edition
The April 2022 edition of Fire Wise has been published online only, this edition and past editions are available from the Fire Wise website.
You can support Fire Wise and the role it plays as an independent voice in keeping volunteers informed by becoming a subscriber. To become a Fire Wise subscriber visit the Fire Wise website or contact the Managing Editor of Fire Wise, Gordon Rippon-King either by phone 0402 051 412 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Recent articles on the VFBV website
CFA Annual Memorial Service 2022
Updating your Vaccination Status (Update)
Position Vacant – Administration Assistant
2022 State Urban Junior Championship Results
2022 State Rural Senior Championship Results
2022 State Rural Junior Championship Results
2022 State Urban Senior Championship Results
A Passion to lead CFA’s Next Generation
Enjoying the VFBV monthly newsletter?
If you enjoy reading the VFBV newsletter each month, why not share it with your fellow volunteers?
Either share this page with others who may enjoy the articles or encourage other volunteers to sign up to receive their own copy via email each month here.
The Annual Memorial Service will be held on Sunday 1 May in Churchill to honour firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
This year’s memorial service will mark the 34th event, which has been held since 1987, with the only cancellation being 2020 due to the pandemic.
Location: The service will be held at the Auditorium, Building 3E, Federation University – Gippsland Campus Northways Road, Churchill Vic 3842
Date: 2.00pm on Sunday 1 May
Dress: CFA dress uniform or smart casual
The 2022 Annual Memorial Service for Firefighters is a free event, to attend please send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone 0475 990 030 by Tuesday 26 April 2022. The event will including appropriate Covid-19 safety precuations.
Family members and friends, CFA and Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) executives as well as government representatives will come together to lay wreaths, light candles, remember lives and honour the personal sacrifices and commitment firefighters make each and every day.
Junior CFA members will also attend the memorial service and will be actively involved throughout the ceremony by assisting wreath layers and patrons.
VFBV CEO Adam Barnett spoke about the importance of the annual memorial service for not only the families, friends and loved ones of the fallen, but for all members.
“The annual memorial service is a time for us to come together either in person or in spirit to remember and honour the 79 CFA firefighters (including 11 from pre-1944) who have selflessly given their lives to protect the lives of other Victorians.
"And while the service is always solemn and reflective, it is also an important opportunity to reflect on our history as we pay tribute to those lost and reflect on the importance of the work we all do in making our communities safer.”
Members are encouraged to RSVP via: email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone Matt Walton on 0475 990 030
This article was first published on the 14th October, and is regularly updated with Booster requirements for Emergency Services Workers. This page reflects information as of (Mandatory Vaccination [Specified Workers] Order 2022 [No. 6], dated 12th April 2022.)
For the information of members, CFA is obligated under the Pandemic Health Directions to collect and store your vaccination status. CFA is requesting that all members please update their CFA record with their COVID-19 Vaccination status as soon as possible.
Members are reminded to update your CFA record after you receive your booster.
You can do so via the CFA website, or by calling CFA’s Service Delivery Reporting Centre via (03) 9262 8663 between 9am to 9pm, 7 days a week.
Under Victoria’s new pandemic management framework, Chief Health Officer (CHO) directions have been replaced with Pandemic Orders that are now made by the health minister. CFA and other emergency service volunteers like the SES are all classified as ‘Emergency Service Workers’ under the current pandemic orders.
The order currently in place as at writing and relating to CFA is the COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination (Specific Workers) Order 2022 (No.6) which commenced on 12 April 2022 and ends on the 12 July 2022. This order covers booster deadlines.
Under this order, emergency service workers who received their second dose on or before the 12th September last year – and who wish to continue to work outside their normal place of residence - are required to have received their 3rd dose (booster) by the 12 March 2022.
Members can view all Pandemic orders for themselves at: health.vic.gov.au
Members can update their status via any of the following methods:
- ONLINE
Members are encouraged to visit https://www.members.cfa.vic.gov.au/ and input their own status. - BY PHONE
If you can't access the website, or don't have a CFA online ID, you can call (03) 9262 8663 and provide your details over the phone.
This number is being staffed by CFA's Service Delivery Support Centre (SDRC) who are the same people that you call to enter your Fire Reports, and is open between 9am to 9pm. - DISTRICT STAFF
Your Brigade Administrative Support Officer (BASO) can also assist you. They are contactable through the usual arrangements, and details can be found in your District Contact Book. - BRIGADE
Brigade Captains, and your 1st Lieutenant can assist with the collection of data and are able to enter your details through their own CFA Brigades Online account. If Brigade Officer's are unsure of how to do this, they can contact their BASO for instructions.
Information on how to book your vaccine can be found here: Book your vaccine appointment | Coronavirus Victoria
A defining sight of the Good Friday Appeal is the thousands of volunteers standing at traffic lights, in camping grounds and clubs and at many events, shaking the Good Friday Appeal tins as people open their hearts and their wallets to support.
CFA members have supported the Good Friday Appeal since 1951. Over those many years of support, CFA members have raised more than $35 million for the Good Friday Appeal, to support the Royal Children's Hospital with their life saving care for our kids.
In addition to the normal tin shakes and events, many brigades have registered for the Virtual Tin Shake. More than 160 volunteer brigades participated last year, and this year it is expected to grow even larger. Visit https://www.virtualtinshake.com.au/sponsor?kw=CFA and search for your closest brigade with a virtual tin.
We share the following CFA stories that highlight volunteers strong connections and support with the Goof Friday Appeal.
Face of Good Friday becomes honorary CFA member
CFA’s Doreen Fire Brigade has welcomed face of the 2022 Good Friday Appeal, Isla, as an honorary member of the brigade
Isla met with brigade members on Monday, 28 March, for a tour of the fire station and truck to help promote the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) Good Friday Appeal.
The eight-year-old is in remission after spending half her life in treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Today she met with members of the Doreen Brigade where she was decked out in firefighter gear, had a go using a fire hose and went for a ride in the fire truck.
After Isla’s day with the brigade she promptly turned to her mum and said “I need to come back here every weekend so I can take care of business.”
Isla is back to her bubbly self at school too and dancing to her little heart’s content.
The Appeal also has special significance to CFA Doreen Brigade, as two of Captain Robert Bury’s grandchildren have received life-saving care at the hospital.
Grandson Daniel was diagnosed in vitro with a blockage of the heart in 2001, and Granddaughter Charli was born at 26 weeks gestation, weighing just 740g.
Upon Daniel’s arrival he was immediately transferred to the RCH where he would become one of the first newborns to receive a pacemaker. This saved Daniel’s life.
When Daniel turned 18, he received a new pacemaker in a 10-hour operation.
“Daniel would not be alive today without RCH and their wonderful doctors,” Robert said.
Charli developed Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) and when she became septic was transferred to the RCH. Robert’s wife Carole said that every day was a trial.
“Eventuality after a full 6 months she was well enough to come home. Charli has had several follow ups at RCH and had revision surgery,” Carole said.
“Without the RCH and their wonderful dedicated and caring doctors we would not have these two amazing grandchildren”.
Doreen, along with Epping CFA, will be collecting again this year at the intersection of Cooper and High Streets, Epping. Over the years they have raised a total of $171,000 and this year have set a target of $20,000.
“We run a bit of a competition amongst the rattlers to see who can collect the most from every mode of transport including buses, taxis, ambulances, police cars, fire trucks, motorcycles, horses, and pedestrians”, Robert said.
“At the end of Good Friday we like to escort the collection into the city to meet up with other CFA Brigades whilst we await the final tally of the day’s collection.”
Good Friday Appeal Executive Director, Rebecca Cowan said they’re so grateful to CFA for their continued support of the Good Friday Appeal.
“For 71 years, CFA have been supporting the Good Friday Appeal in raising much needed funds for The Royal Children's Hospital and every year we are inspired by their generous contributions,” Rebecca said.
“So many of our CFA fundraisers have a personal connection to The Royal Children’s Hospital, making the partnership even more significant. We’re grateful to the CFA for all their hard work and support and are incredibly thankful to every Victorian who donates to their local CFA”.
CFA members have supported the Good Friday Appeal since 1951 (71 years), volunteering their time and raising funds for the hospital and have raised more than $35 million. The 2022 Good Friday Appeal will be held on Friday 15 April.
To find out more on how you can donate please visit: https://www.virtualtinshake.com.au/fundraisers/EppingandDoreenFireBrigades/virtual-tin-shake
Knox Group aims high for the kids
CFA’s Knox Group of brigades has a long tradition of raising money for the Good Friday Appeal and this year will be no different.
Over the years the group has just come short of their ultimate goal of reaching $40,000, so this year they are determined to reach that figure.
Knox Group consists of eight fire brigades covering Bayswater, Boronia, Ferntree Gully, Montrose, Rowville, Scoresby, The Basin and Upper Ferntree Gully.
Knox Group CFA Secretary Darryl Cardona said he’s conducted a meeting with the group of brigades, the target has been set, and they’re all on board.
Boronia brigade volunteer Bill Ireland, who has been raising money for the Good Friday Appeal for the past 50 years, said this year he will again be collecting money outside the Boronia Hotel on the corner of Boronia and Dorset roads, as he does every year.
“Collecting money for the Good Friday Appeal gives me a great feeling. My son was a patient at the Royal Children’s Hospital and he endured many operations, so it’s my pleasure to help the hospital and the children out," he said.
It’s not just the adults raising money this year, with the Boronia Juniors actively involved. This year they will undertake a car wash at Fast Fuel Wantirna between 8am and 2pm, with hopes of raising $2,000 on the day.
Boronia brigade Captain Ramon Relph said they have been doing this car washing event for the past six years.
“We feel it gives our Juniors a sense of achievement and involvement when they collect for the RCH." Ramon said.
“As the Captain it makes me proud to see the Juniors give up their public holiday to help others. I have been in the CFA for over 20 years and look forward to Good Friday every year.”
Scoresby Fire Brigade will also be collecting money at BP Eastlink on the Thursday outbound, when half of Melbourne drive to the Mornington Peninsula and again on Good Friday.
The Basin brigade will collect at Burwood Hwy and Dawson St, near the popular 1,000 Steps at Upper Ferntree Gully, and Montrose brigade will be collecting on Canterbury Rd and Mountain Hwy.
Montrose brigade volunteer Eddie Tichelaar said they have local elderly residents walk up to them every year to donate money they have saved throughout the year.
“Many no longer drive and enjoy just coming up and thanking CFA which is very generous,” he said.
Royal Children’s Hospital also has a special place in Eddie’s heart, with his daughter Danielle diagnosed with a congenital heart block four months before she was born.
“For the next 18 years the RCH was a second home for our family,” he said.
CFA members have supported the Good Friday Appeal since 1951, volunteering their time and raising funds for the hospital and have raised more than $35 million. The 2022 Good Friday Appeal will be held on Friday 15 April.
Sebastopol aiming high for the Good Friday Appeal
Sebastopol Brigade is close to hitting a total of $500,000 in money raised for the Royal Children’s Hospital this year.
Sebastopol Fire Brigade volunteers started collecting in 1977 with the driving influence being Lieutenant Bill Faulkhead, who had a child cared for at the Royal Children’s Hospital at the time.
Bill’s son Jarrod was born with Oesophageal Atresia where his throat was not correctly joined to his stomach and was rushed to the Royal Children’s Hospital ICU, where his life was saved.
In the first year, the brigade collected $407. Fast forward to 2022 and Sebastopol has collected a total of $482,569 in the 44 years to date.
Sebastopol Brigade’s 2nd Lieutenant of Training, David Walker said the brigade has a friendly rivalry with the Eureka Group.
“We have a trophy for whoever raises the largest amount of money each year and Sebastopol currently hold that trophy – we intend to win it again this year!” David said.
This year the volunteers will be doing tin collections on the Thursday and on Good Friday, asking local residents to again dig deep.
“We will have members out collecting at the Sebastopol Woolworths and Aldi stores in Albert St Sebastopol, and at Delacombe Woolworths in the Delacombe Town Centre leading up to Good Friday,” he said.
“We will also be running our usual Good Friday roadside collections and collecting at the fire station.”
In the past, Sebastopol has found novel ways to raise money. They have participated in radio auctions where they auctioned off a duck, paintings and a ‘has-been ‘ram.
One year, brigade members were shocked when Dame Edna Everage was in town and Lieutenant Bill Faulkhead turned up in his wife’s ballgown, shower cap and a shawl.
Sebastopol member Bill Cook says it’s a privilege to get up every Good Friday to collect money.
“It’s an absolute honour to raise money for one of the best children’s hospitals in the world,” he said.
“I know many parents who have had children in the Hospital and hearing their stories just eggs us on that little bit extra to support such a worthy cause.”
If Sebastopol hits the $500,000 mark this year, they will produce a celebration shirt recognising the 45th year.
CFA members have supported the Good Friday Appeal since 1951 (71 years), volunteering their time and raising funds for the hospital and have raised more than $35 million. The 2022 Good Friday Appeal will be held on Friday 15 April.
You can donate to Sebastopol’s tally here: https://www.virtualtinshake.com.au/fundraisers/SebastopolCFA/virtual-tin-shake
Moe brigade help raise over $1m for Good Friday Appeal
Moe Fire Brigade volunteers will once again be hitting the streets next weekend to add to the local tally of Good Friday Appeal funds raised.
Over the past 30 years Moe brigade raised money every year for the Royal Children’s Hospital, and to date the volunteers have contributed more than $1m from Moe and Newborough.
For some members it means more to them just rattling their tins.
As a child, Moe brigade’s 2nd Lieutenant Tara Paulsen suffered from croup which triggered severe asthma attacks and she was frequently admitted to the Royal Children’s Hospital. After several visits they discovered that damp air was a trigger, allowing the condition to be treated.
“I’m so fortunate for these amazing doctors that I haven’t required any medication since I was 15,” Tara said.
“I am only here today because of the RCH and I’m not sure I can ever truly put into words how grateful I am.”
This year Tara, along with other members of Moe brigade, will be collecting outside the local McDonald’s roundabout at the corner of the Princes Highway and Lloyd St.
When they’ve finished they will take their collection tins to the Newborough Bowls Club where the coins will be tallied and then added to the town’s overall total.
“The generosity of the community I see every year has helped save the lives of so many children,” Tara said.
Raising money for the Good Friday Appeal has also become a family affair, with Tara’s father John saving all his coins throughout the year and giving them to CFA fundraisers.
“For the past ten years, dad has riden his motorbike from Melbourne to Moe to put the money he’s kept into the CFA volunteers' tins,” Tara said.
CFA members have supported the Good Friday Appeal since 1951 (71 years), volunteering their time and raising funds for the hospital and have raised more than $35 million. The 2022 Good Friday Appeal will be held on Friday 15 April.
Nominations are still open for the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) to be awarded as part of the 2023 Australia Day awards.
The AFSM honours the distinguished service of members of fire services, including CFA volunteers who make an exceptionable contribution to their communities. The AFSM recognises those whose service is above and beyond the normal zealous and faithful discharge of normal or ordinary service, either in the short or long term.
CFA volunteers are often modest and reluctant to seek out recognition for the service they have provided to their community and may not have a realistic appreciation of the impact they have had on CFA, their community, within VFBV or your Brigade or Group. They’re not in it for the honour or glory, but it’s up to each of us to ensure we take the time to say ‘thank-you’ to those people who have stepped up and help inspire us all to do better.
If you know a quiet achiever who has contributed to CFA, who goes above and beyond what could be reasonably expected of someone in a similar position, consider nominating them for an AFSM.
The Australian Honours system has been designed to break down artificial barriers and open the Australian Honours to all parts of our society. Any member of the community can nominate any other Australian citizen for an award.
It is also critically important we encourage nominations for groups who are typically under-represented in Australian Honours like the AFSM.
Women in particular are under-represented in AFSM’s awarded when we consider the tens of thousands of women within the fire services across the country. And while things are improving, much more can be done.
There are so many exceptional CFA women and men deserving to be recognised.
Members are encouraged to give some extra thought for those persons who are frequently overlooked for recognition. A common misconception is that only those members who have decades worth of service are recognised by the Honours system. The AFSM is not a long-service award, its sole criterion is distinguished service. And while prolonged service forms part of the key criteria, ‘prolonged’ is considered by the honour and awards committee’s to be taken in context as to what is considered ‘longer than usual’ and in context of what is ‘above and beyond’ the normal or ordinary service expected. For example, has the members contribution been in excess of expectations for a ‘normal’ member and over what duration? The Committee will consider the nature of the service or achievement within the context of a member’s service history when weighing up the various criteria.
This is especially important for women within CFA who may have their service overlooked simply because they haven’t been a Captain or Group Officer for 30 years. While these are important leadership roles – our service is a team environment, and everyone’s contribution is valued.
Nothing should take away from the incredible achievement decade long service is, but the Honours system is designed to recognise those that make a significant contribution, and to represent the things that our communities believe to be deserving of recognition, including from those who are perhaps trailblazers for others to follow. Think of those people who have pushed the boundaries or have been first to reach and hold leadership positions that has been inspirational to those around them. For example, think of members who have overcome additional barriers, like English not being their first language and who have toiled away to learn the language and become masterful communicators designing new innovative community safety engagements to CALD communities and serving as a role model for other community members. Who are the people you look up to? Who are the people who have really made a difference in your Brigade or Group?
Distinguished service includes service that is above and beyond and can be short-term or prolonged. It is service that can be exemplified by; responsibility for an outstanding event that has proven to be of significant benefit to the fire service or community; development of a new system, procedure or technique that is unique and made a significant contribution to the fire service; or outstanding leadership in the encouragement and development of others, particularly youth within the fire services.
While it can seem daunting to nominate a potential recipient, some guiding principles that could assist in completing a nomination for an AFSM are:
- In what role(s) has the nominee excelled?
- How has the nominee demonstrated service worthy of recognition?
- How has the nominee’s contribution affected a particular field, locality, brigade, group or community at large?
- Over what period has the nominee made a major commitment?
- Has the nominee’s contribution been recognised elsewhere?
- What makes this person stand out from others?
- What specific examples can be provided to show how the nominee’s contribution(s) have been outstanding?
Nominations for the 2023 Australia Day awards close on 1st May 2022, all nominations submitted are strictly confidential. The person being nominated should not be approached for information or advised of the confidential nomination at any stage of the process. Self nominations are also not accepted.
CFA calls for applications twice a year for the AFSM, therefore it is also worthwhile considering additional nominations for future awards and to start preparing nominations now in order to be prepared.
CFA Resources
Guide to Preparing Nominations for the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM)
Want to discuss a potential nomination or need some more information? Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
About the Australian Fire Service Medal
Introduced in 1988, the Australian Fire Service Medal recognised distinguished service by members of Australian fire services and is awarded to both volunteer and paid members. The award recognised the distinguished service by members of a State or Territory Fire Service, a Fire Service of an agency of the Commonwealth, and the Fire Services of the External Territories of Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling Island) and Norfolk Island.
The medal is awarded twice a year as part of the Australia Day award and Queen’s Birthday award announcements.
Criteria for the Australian Fire Service Medal
To be considered for this award it would be expected that the nominee has given service beyond the norm exemplified by:
- Prolonged service distinguished by exceptional performance in a particular area that has proved significant benefit to the fire service; and one or more of the following.
- Responsibility for and management of an outstanding/exceptional event that has proven to be of significant benefit to the fire service, a community or community safety generally.
- Development of a new system, or procedure, or technique that is unique and has made a significant contribution to the fire service, a community or community safety generally.
- Outstanding leadership in the encouragement and development of others, particularly youth, within the fire service and the fostering and furthering of the aims of the fire service to the long-term benefit of the fire service and the community.
- Demonstrated creativity in the development and implementation of innovative changes that have made a significant contribution to the fire service, fire/emergency operations, or the interests of community safety.
Applications should be submitted to your District ACFO by Tuesday 31 May 2022.
Applications are now open for the 2022-23 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP), with the closing date fast approaching. VFBV has updated its VESEP Help Pack to assist brigades and groups with their VESEP applications.
VESEP provides grants of $2 for every $1 of Brigade or Group funding to assist brigades and groups in acquiring a wide range of additional equipment in recognition of the significant contribution emergency service volunteers provide in supporting Victorian communities.
Now in its 22nd year, VESEP first started out as the Community Safety Emergency Support Program in 2000 and was designed in close consultation with VFBV and volunteers, with the intent being a grants program designed by volunteers with minimal administration required from volunteers.
Since 2000, the program has funded over 2000 projects totalling more than $150 million dollars, as a investment in maintaining and building volunteer capability by supporting volunteers through grants in five categories:
- Volunteer amenities under $5,000
- Minor works under $120,000^
- Operational Equipment
- Specialist Appliances and Field Command Vehicles
- Tankers*
^all minor works applications must be registered with the VESEP Land & Buildings Project Manager via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by 17 May 2022. Applications not pre-registered for review will not be considered by the Steering Committee.
*as with previous years, CFA have advised that additions to the fleet will be afforded a low priority with only exceptional circumstances being considered by the Chief Officer. An Addition to the Fire Fighting Fleet form will be required to be completed and approved by the District ACFO and Regional DCO.
VFBV’s VESEP Application Help Pack is again available in 2022 to assist Brigades and Groups in completing their application, with the pack divided into easily downloadable sections at the bottom of this page.
| VFBV VESEP Help Pack |
Contains general information about VESEP and some handy hints on how to complete your application. |
| Attachment 1 |
Application forms for Special Access Grant The Special Access Grant can reduce or in some cases eliminate all together the Brigade/Group contribution. |
| Attachment 2 |
CFA VESEP Guidelines The guidelines outline criteria, aims and requirements that Brigades/Groups need to consider for their application to be completed. The Guidelines have been updated in 2022. |
| Attachment 3 |
CFA Application Forms Provides Brigades and Groups with application forms for Part A: Vehicles and Operational Equipment, Part B: Volunteer Amenities and Minor Works, Addition to the Fire Fighting Appliance Fleet Operational Justification and FCV Vehicle Weight Proforma. |
| Appendix |
CFA Information Sheets Collates all information sheets produced by CFA to assist with Brigade and Group applications and ideas. |
Key Dates
17 May 2022: Brigades/Groups applying for a grant for Minor Works, applications must be pre-registered with the VESEP Minor Works Project Manager, Land and Buildings Services via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
31 May 2022: Applications close, and should be submitted by this date to your District AFCO using the CFA application forms.
1 June - 13 June 2022: DPC meetings held to review and endorse applications.
September 2022: Anticipated Ministers announcement of successful projects.
Additional Support
If you need any assistance with you Application please contact your local VFBV State Councillor, VFBV Support Officer of the VFBV Office. You can also email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
If you would like a printed copy of the VFBV 2022 VESEP Application Help Pack please call the VFBV office on 03 9886 1141 and we will post one out.
VFBV wishes all CFA Brigades and Groups well with your applications and thank you for your untiring service to Victoria!
VFBV is looking for an enthusiastic Administration Support Officer to join our small dedicated team supporting the peak body work of the Association in representing CFA volunteers to CFA, Government, business and instrumentalities.
Based at our Burwood office, and under the direction of the Administration Officer you will provide administrative, reception and office support across all business support activities and in many instances be the first point of contact to members, stakeholders and the public.
We are searching for an enthusiastic team player with initiative and “can do” attitude who possesses:
- Solid computer skills including Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel
- Professional and friendly communication skills and good phone manner
- Ability to work independently when given a task
- A high level of attention to detail
- Pro active with a genuine willingness to learn
- Entry level understanding of administrative functions
Drivers licence is essential. A Police and Working with Children Check will also be required for the successful candidate.
Previous experience in a similar role is an advantage, but training will be provided for the right person possessing enthusiasm and good worth ethic.
The position is full time and ongoing, with some weekend and after hours required to suit a fully volunteer membership.
Prior to applying you should familiarise yourself with the Position Description which is available from the VFBV office or for download at the bottom of this page.
How to apply
All applications must include:
- a current resume
- a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria outlined in the position description
Send applications to the attention of Cathie Smith, VFBV 9/24 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East 3151 or via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Applications close Sunday 15 May 2022
Any questions or queries re the application process should be directed to Cathie Smith at the VFBV office on (03) 9886 1141 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Final results for the 2022 State Urban Senior Championships held in Mooroopna on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 March 2022 are now available.
The results are available for download at the bottom of this page.
Team times for all events have been posted on VFBV's dedicated Championships Facebook Page.
Grand Aggregate Winner - Melton A
B Section Aggregate Winner - Werribee
Final Aggregate Results:
Final results for the 2022 State Rural Junior Championships held in Mooroopna on Sunday 27 March 2022 are now available.
The results are available for download at the bottom of this page.
Presentation photos and times for all events will be posted on VFBV's dedicated Championships Facebook Page.
Results for all events are also available for download at the bottom of this page.
Final results for the 2022 State Rural Senior Championships held in Mooroopna on Saturday 26 March 2022 are now available.
The results are available for download at the bottom of this page.
Presentation photos and times for all events will be posted on VFBV's dedicated Championships Facebook Page.
Results for all events are available to view here.
More...
The 2022 State Urban Senior Championship and the State Rural Senior and Junior Championships will be held this coming Saturday and Sunday, 26 and 27 March 2022 at the Mooroopna Recreation Reserve, Midland Highway, Mooroopna.
For the second year in a row the Urban Senior and Rural State Championships will be held on the same weekend, at the same venue on their own competition tracks. Competing across the two days will be 32 junior teams and 78 senior teams including Harvey who are making the trip across from Western Australia to compete in the Urban Senior State Championship.
The Championships will commence with an opening ceremony on Saturday morning at 8:20am, before competition begins on each competition track from 9am.
The 2022 State Championships will also see the return of the Torchlight Procession for the first time since 2019. The Torchlight Procession will be held around Victoria Park Lake in Shepparton on the evening of Saturday 26 March beginning from 8:30pm.
Sunday mornings events will commence at 8:30am on each track.
Results from the Championship will be progressively posted over the weekend on VFBV’s dedicated Championships Facebook Page.
Teams competing in the Urban Senior State Championship:
| A Section | B Section |
| Dandenong | Cohuna |
| Drouin/Bunyip | Creswcik |
| Eaglehawk | Echuca |
| Harvey – Western Australia | Euroa |
| Melton A | Hallam |
| Mildura | Hoppers Crossing |
| Morwell | Horsham |
| Osborne Park A | Kangaroo Flat |
| Patterson River | Kerang |
| Sale | Knox Group |
| Wendouree | Kyneton |
| Maffra | |
| Melton B | |
| Mooroopna | |
| Osborne Park B | |
| Pakenham/Narre Warren A | |
| Pakenham/Narre Warren B | |
| Queenscliff | |
| Seymour | |
| Swan Hill | |
| Tatura | |
| Warracknabeal | |
| Warrnambool | |
| Whittlesea | |
| Werribee |
Teams competing in the Rural State Championship:
Seniors:
| Division 1 | Division 2 | Division 3 |
| Beazley's Bridge A | Chiltern A | Bethanga/Talgarno A |
| Beazley's Bridge B | Doreen A | Dunolly A |
| Connewarre A | Dunrobin/Nangeela C | Elaine A |
| Connewarre B | Eldorado | Eldorado C |
| Dunrobin/Nangeela A | Eltham A | Hurstbridge E |
| Dunrobin/Nangeela B | Gapsted A | Leopold B |
| Eldorado A | Hurstbridge C | Mannerim A |
| Hurstbridge A | Hurstbridge D | Miners Rest A |
| Hurstbridge B | Rutherglen A | Miners Rest B |
| Leopold A | Springhurst C | Springhurst B |
| Mandurang A | Swan Hill A | Springhurst D |
| Sedgwick A | Truganina A | Strathmerton A |
| Sedgwick B | Wallington A | Strathmerton B |
| Springhurst A | Yarroweyah A | |
| Torquay A |
Juniors
| Ascot & District A | Gapsted A |
| Ascot & District B | Mandurang A |
| Beazley's Bridge A | Mannerim A |
| Beazley's Bridge B | Miners Rest A |
| Bethanga/Talgarno A | Miners Rest B |
| Connewarre A | Napoleons-Enfield A |
| Doreen A | Pearcedale A |
| Dunolly A | Springhurst A |
| Dunrobin/Nangeela A | Springhurst B |
| Dunrobin/Nangeela B | Strathmerton A |
| Elaine A | Truganina A |
| Eldorado A | Truganina B |
| Eldorado B |
Final results for the 2022 State Urban Junior Championships held in Mooroopna on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 March 2022 are now available.
The results are listed below and are also available for download at the bottom of this page.
Presentation photos and times for all events have been posted on VFBV's dedicated Championships Facebook Page.
RESULTS – Saturday 19 March
Event 1 Hydrant – One Competitor, Under 14 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Bayllie Arandt |
11.09 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
EUROA: Addison Godsmark |
11.87 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MAFFRA: Kobe Parsons |
11.93 |
seconds |
|
4th |
SWAN HILL: Chloe Howard |
12.26 |
seconds |
|
5th |
RED CLIFFS: Darcy Roden |
12.36 |
seconds |
Event 2 Y Coupling – Two Competitors, Under 17 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Manaia Robinson, Ben Geysing |
11.21 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
GROVEDALE: Aiden Couzins, Thomas Evans |
12.63 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MAFFRA: Gemma McKenzie, Jayde Parsons |
13.02 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MELTON B: Devante Johns, Brodie Leitch, Elektra Robinson, Ebony Falzon |
13.21 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MELTON C: Ryan Stone, Tia Stone, Kenlou Williams, Jesse Arandt |
13.22 |
seconds |
Event 3 Wet Hose Striking Second Disc – Four Competitors, Under 14 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Leah Steele, Bayllie Arandt, Jyce Pasco, Alexis Johnston |
20.14 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
KANGAROO FLAT A: Katrina O’Neill, Lucy Gilbee, Bobbl, Fansham, Mikaila Pettersen |
20.79 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MELTON B: Mikaylah Crawford, Lilly Leitch, Charlotte Crawford, Tyler Goudie |
21.05 |
seconds |
|
4th |
WARRACKNABEAL A: Hayden Polack, Milly Jonasson, Kiara Cooksley, Elize Williamson |
21.35 |
seconds |
|
5th |
EURORA: Matilda Kubeil, Addison Godsmark, Kobee Mann, Charlotte Davies |
21.42 |
seconds |
Event 4 Y Coupling – Four Competitors, Under 17 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Manaia Robinson, Ben Geysing, Lorelei Geysing, Jamie Millington |
9.47 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON B: Devante Johns, Brodie Leitch, Elektra Robinson, Ebony Falzon |
9.94 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
KANGAROO FLAT B: Aaron Melis, Jed Lowndes, Zac Dickson, Will Dieckmann |
10.00 |
seconds |
|
4th |
GROVEDALE: Jaxon Winsall, Aiden Couzens, Thomas Evans, Matthew Evans |
10.01 |
seconds |
|
5th |
KYNETON: Sam Foster, Royce Sharp, Luke Stanley, Hanna Nicolas |
10.11 |
seconds |
Event 5 Wet Hose Striking 1st & 2nd Discs – Four Competitors, Under 17 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Manaia Robinson, Ben Geysing, Lorelei Geysing, Jamie Millington |
19.74 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
KANGAROO FLAT A: Aaron Melis, Jed Lowndes, Zac Dixon, Will Dieckmann |
19.78 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MELTON C: Ryan Stone, Tia Stone, Kenlou Willliams, Jesse Arandt |
20.40 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KANGAROO FLAT B: Zhoe Sutton, Dylan Gilbee, Oliver Lowndes, Lewis Bunton |
21.01 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MELTON B: Devante Johns, Brodie Leitch, Elektra Robinson, Ebony Falzon |
21.41 |
seconds |
Event 6 Marshall – One Competitor, Under 14 Years
|
1st |
KANGAROO FLAT A: Lucy Gilbee |
34.25 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON A: Bayllie Arandt |
38.06 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MILDURA: Tay Oliver |
38.83 |
seconds |
|
4th |
EUROA: Addison Godsmark |
39.10 |
seconds |
|
5th |
SWAN HILL A: Ellah Haywood |
39.30 |
seconds |
Event 7 Wet Hose Striking 1st & 2nd Discs – Four Competitors, Under 14 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Leah Steele, Bayllie Arandt, Jyce Pasco, Alexis Johnston |
21.99 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
SWAN HILL: Enya Scott, Mitchell Scott, Chloe Howard, Ellah Haywood |
24.91 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WARRACKNABEAL A: Hayden Polack, Milly Jonasson, Kiara Cooksley, Eliza Williamson |
25.45 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KANGAROO FLAT A: Katrina O’Neill, Lucy Gilbee, Isabella Osborn, Mikaila Petterson |
25.81 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MELTON C: Kade Millington, Ryder Millington, Poppy Arandt, Borrowed Competitor |
26.93 |
seconds |
Event 8 Marshall – One Competitor, Under 17 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Ben Geysing |
26.38 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
GROVEDALE: Thomas Evans |
27.21 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WANGARATTA: Jack Walton |
29.94 |
seconds |
|
4th |
HORSHAM: Arjai Johnston |
30.75 |
seconds |
|
5th |
KYNETON: Nicolas Hanna |
32.09 |
seconds |
Event 9 Wet Hose – Two Competitors, Under 17 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Manaia Robinson, Ben Geysing |
10.56 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON B: Devante Johns, Brodie Leitch |
10.83 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
GROVEDALE: Jaxon Winsall, Aiden Couzens |
11.49 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KANGAROO FLAT A: Aaron Melis, Jed Lowndes |
11.61 |
seconds |
|
5th |
COLAC: Christopher Slingsby, Heath Bircanin-Suiter |
12.11 |
seconds |
Event 10 Marshall – Two Competitors, Under 14 Years
|
1st |
SALE: Daniel King, Ruth King |
19.69 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
SWAN HILL A: Chloe Howard, Ellah Haywood |
21.18 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
EUORA: Matilda Kubeil, Addison Godsmark |
22.20 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MAFFRA: Kobe Parsons, Tyler Schoenmaekers |
24.13 |
seconds |
|
5th |
WARRACKNABEAL B: Hayden Polack, Kiara Cooksley |
25.65 |
seconds |
Event 11 Wet Hose – Two Competitors, Under 14 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Leah Steele, Bayllie Arandt |
12.92 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
EUROA: Matilda Kubeil, Addison Godsmark |
13.54 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
SALE: Daniel King, Ruth King |
13.64 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KANGAROO FLAT A: Katrina O’Neill, Lucy Gilbee |
13.75 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MILDURA: Tay Oliver, Alissa Ovenden |
15.04 |
seconds |
RESULTS – Sunday 20th March
Event 12 Hydrant – One Competitor, Under 17 Years
|
1st |
KANGAROO FLAT A: Aaron Melis |
12.92 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON B: Devante Johns |
12.98 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MELTON A: Ben Geysing |
13.32 |
seconds |
|
4th |
COLAC: Heath Bircanin-Suiter |
13.58 |
seconds |
|
5th |
GROVEDALE: Jaxon Winsall |
13.92 |
seconds |
Event 13 Y Coupling – Two Competitors, Under 14 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Leah Steele, Bayllie Arandt |
13.39 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
SWAN HILL: Chloe Howard, Ellah Haywood |
14.60 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
KANGAROO FLAT A: Katrina O’Neill, Lucy Gilbee |
15.28 |
seconds |
|
4th |
WARRACKNABEAL A: Hayden Polack, Eliza Williamson |
15.75 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MAFFRA: Kobe Parsons, Tyler Schoenmaekers |
16.38 |
seconds |
Event 14 Y Coupling – Two Competitors, Under 17 Years
|
1st |
KANGAROO FLAT A: Aaron Melis, Jed Lowndes, Zac Dixon, Will Dieckmann |
16.62 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
GROVEDALE: Jaxon Winsall, Aiden Couzens, Thomas Evans, Matthew Evans |
16.98 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
KYNETON: Royce Sharpe, Luke Stanley, Spencer Zan, Nicolas Hanna |
17.69 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KANGAROO FLAT B: Zhoe Sutton, Dylan Gilbee, Oliver Lowndes, Lewis Bunton |
17.93 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MELTON A: Manaia Robinson, Ben Geysing, Lorelei Geysing, Jamie Millington |
18.47 |
seconds |
Event 15 Y Coupling – Four Competitors, Under 14 Years
|
1st |
SALE: Daniel King, Izac Thexton, Ethan Monck, Ruth King |
10.56 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
SWAN HILL/WERRIBEE: Ellah Robinson-Burman, Catherine Morpeth, Noah Carver, Gaayuki Padukkage |
11.83 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MELTON C: Kade Millington, Ryder Millington, Poppy Arandt, Borrowed Competitor |
12.69 |
seconds |
|
4th |
WARRACKNABEAL B: Zander Jonasson, Maddison Bentley, Logan Mansfield, Hailey Bentley |
12.89 |
seconds |
|
5th |
ROWVILLE: Madison Lam, Annabelle Radford, Brenton Radford, Borrowed Competitor |
13.03 |
seconds |
Event 16 Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice – Four Competitors, Under 14 Years
|
1st |
MELTON A: Leah Steele, Bayllie Arandt, Jyce Pasco, Alexis Johnston |
18.33 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON B: Mikaylah Crawford, Charlotte Crawford, Lilly Leitch, Tyler Goudie |
19.18 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WARRACKNABEAL A: Hayden Polack, Milly Jonasson, Kiara Cooksley, Eliza Williamson |
19.73 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MELTON C: Kade Millington, Ryder Millington, Poppy Arandt, Borrowed Competitor |
20.42 |
seconds |
|
5th |
ROWVILLE: Madison Lam, Annabelle Radford, Brenton Radford, Borrowed Competitor |
21.67 |
seconds |
Event 17 Marshall – Two Competitors, Under 17 Years
|
1st |
GROVEDALE: Jaxon Winsall, Thomas Evans |
16.25 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
KANGAROO FLAT A: Aaron Melis, Jed Lowndes |
17.96 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
TRARALGON: Brody Eenjes, Lucas Taylor |
18.42 |
seconds |
|
4th |
WARRACKNABEAL A: Cody Polack, Rohan Richards |
18.50 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MELTON B: Manaia Robinson, Ben Geysing |
18.96 |
seconds |
Event 18 Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice – Four Competitors, Under 17 Years
|
1st |
KYNETON: Sam Foster, Royce Sharp, Spencer Zan, Nicolas Hanna |
14.89 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
GROVEDALE: Jaxon Winsall, Aiden Couzens, Thomas Evans, Matthew Evans |
15.96 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WARRACKNABEAL A: Cody Polack, Rohan Richards, Isabella Orsulak, Declan Whelan |
15.98 |
seconds |
|
4th |
BAIRNSDALE: Cooper Howell, Ethan Pitt, Andrew Chapman, Bryce Lawford, Raymond Garro |
16.35 |
seconds |
|
5th |
KANGAROO FLAT B: Zhoe Sutton, Dylan Gilbee, Oliver Lowndes, Lewis Bunton |
16.42 |
seconds |
FINAL AGGREGATE RESULTS
DRY AGGREGATE:
|
1st |
MELTON A |
48 |
Points |
|
2nd |
KANGAROO FLAT A |
24 |
Points |
|
3rd |
GROVEDALE |
21 |
Points |
WET AGGREGATE
|
1st |
MELTON A |
49 |
Points |
|
2nd |
KANGAROO FLAT A |
24 |
Points |
|
3rd |
MELTON B |
14 |
Points |
UNDER 14 YEARS AGGREGATE
|
1st |
MELTON A |
53 |
Points |
|
2nd |
KANGAROO FLAT A |
20 |
Points |
|
3rd |
SALE |
19 |
Points |
UNDER 17 YEARS AGGREGATE
|
1st |
MELTON A |
44 |
Points |
|
2nd |
GROVEDALE |
34 |
Points |
|
3rd |
KANGAROO FLAT A |
28 |
Points |
GRAND AGGREGATE
|
1st |
MELTON A |
97 |
Points |
|
2nd |
KANGAROO FLAT A |
48 |
Points |
|
3rd |
GROVEDALE |
34 |
Points |
2022 - Champion Team – MELTON A:
Coaches Anthony Rhodes, Bailey Rhodes and Ashely Goudie, and competitors:
- Bayllie Arandt
- Ben Geysing
- Lorelei Geysing
- Alexis Johnston
- Jyce Pasco
- Jamie Millington
- Manaia Robinson
- Leah Steele
The final Aggregate Board is below:
We have been celebrating International Women’s Day by sharing stories highlighting the contribution that women make to CFA, not just on International Women’s Day but every day of the year. CFA have also been highlighting stories throughout the week.
Head on over to CFA News and Media to read the stories published highlighting the contribution of women in CFA.
 |
About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria. |
 |
This article is part of our series celebrating women in CFA for International Women's Day. |
Leading the next generation of CFA volunteers has come naturally to 20-year-old Colac firefighter Caitlin Willsher, who has climbed the ranks through the Junior program to now take the reins as Junior leader.
Caitlin (pictured above as a senior firefighter and a Junior competitor) followed in the footsteps of her father and older brother, who were members of the brigade, when she joined as a Junior member at the age of 12.
“The Junior team was struggling when I first joined, we just didn’t have many numbers there,” Caitlin said.
“I’m glad I got to give it a go as a Junior. I really enjoyed it and was particularly competitive with my brother who was also a member.
“It provided a great environment for me to make friends and socialise with other members too. Since then we’ve been able to get the membership up and have built a really strong Junior group.”
She applied to be a senior member when she turned 16 years old and officially started as a Junior leader in 2018.
“I didn’t want to leave the group and knowing this the coach asked if I wanted to help out as a Junior leader,” she said.
“My role is to discuss with the coach and other leaders how we can improve as a group, as well as organising events, competitions and social nights.
“I took on the role because I like to see the kids happy and enjoying what they’re doing. Every time they win something, when they place or when they give something a go, I just really like seeing that.”
Caitlin has been an active member of the brigade, especially over the last summer season.
“I got the opportunity to be deployed to the New South Wales bushfires last year,” she said.
“It was nerve-racking but I loved it. I was able to meet so many new people and learn a range of new skills from them and was eager to bring them back to the brigade.”
The Colac Fire Brigade Junior Program has grown a lot since Caitlin first joined eight years ago, with 12 committed young members now participating.
“A strong social aspect has helped grow our Junior group. One person would give it a go and then ask their friends to come along and we also have a few family members involved as well,” Caitlin said.
“When they first join they are quite shy, but it’s great to work with them to build their confidence and watch them come into their own and now they all work so well together.
“The program is great not for socialise reasons, but we also help them with their training, building a range of skills and helping them get involved in their community in a bit of a different way through CFA.”
Caitlin hopes to continue to work as a Junior leader at the brigade for the foreseeable future.
“I love helping our Junior members where I can and want to remain a Junior leader going forward,” she said.
“I’m very keen to stick with the brigade and continue to grow in my firefighting role as well.”
This article has been republished from CFA’s Brigade Magazine.
|
About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria. |
|
This article is part of our series celebrating women in CFA for International Women's Day. |
