THE CFA junior brigade, which marks the 10th anniversary of its volunteer development program in November, has called on young Victorians to join the organisation.
The brigade has 22 members aged 11-16, but more are needed, says acting youth programs manager Roz Long.
She says the program provides safe, enjoyable and challenging activities for children and strengthens links between brigades and the community.
"Juniors get to take part in a range of activities as part of the program, including training for and participating in CFA championships, fund-raising, community service involvement, first aid, practical camps, social activities and learning practical firefighting skills," Ms Long said.
"With the skills the junior members have developed and the technology they have grown up with, they pick things up really quickly. So much so that the older brigade members are more than happy to have juniors as part of the brigade and encourage them to go on to senior membership."
Frank Brown has been co-ordinating the junior brigade for more than 10 years. "Before the Sunbury junior brigade started in 1965, kids were coming with their dads on Sunday to help clean up. We get about a quarter of the kids continuing volunteer work with the CFA," he says.
The juniors meet on Tuesday and Thursday nights.
More information: volunteer recruitment line on 1800232636 for nearest junior brigade or visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au
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