For those who have always dreamt of a career as a fire fighter, the Childers Fire and Rescue Service is currently on the hunt for new recruits.
Auxiliary Lieutenant Kurt Winkelmann said while there were many challenges that came with the role, there were also plenty of positive opportunities.
“I’ve been an auxiliary fire fighter for 13 years with recently becoming Lieutenant,” he said.
“The enjoyable and rewarding parts of the job is helping members of the community when they are in need and the adrenaline factor also ads to the enjoyment as well.
“There are many skills gained while on the job including first aid, CPR, advanced resuscitation, various firefighting skills such as structural and vegetation, breathing apparatus and hazmat use, road crash rescue, pump operations and working as a team.”
Lt Winkelmann said the current crew was made up of seven firefighters but a quota of 12 was needed.
“Our local crew consists of one captain, two lieutenants and nine fire fighters so ideally we need another five members,” he said.
“Once the application process is successful the recruit will attend the Auxiliary Recruit Training and Education Program before being able to respond as part of the crew.
“Then, over the next two years, there will be ongoing training to become a level 2 auxiliary firefighter.”
Lt Winkelmann said being a stand-alone auxiliary station based on the highway, the Childers crew were kept reasonably busy.
“Although it can be a demanding role it is also an enjoyable and fulfilling role too,” he said.
“We respond to a wide range of calls including road traffic crashes, structure fires, hazmat, wild fires, QAS medical assists as well as community education just to name a few.”
For more information contact the local station on Wednesday between 6.30 pm and 8.30 pm on 4192 4600 or email Kurt.winkelmann@qfes.qld.gov.au or Martin.bettridge@qfes.qld.gov.au.
You can complete the online application form here.
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