Bushfire Cadets to represent Geraldton at Championships

A group of youngsters are gearing up for the Australian Fire Cadet Championships where they will be the first regional Western Australian team to compete and are seeking the community’s assistance to get them there. 

The Waggrakine Volunteer Bushfire Brigade Cadets are one of two teams representing the state at the Sydney-based Championships in October and a GoFundMe page has been established to raise funds.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the group are a huge asset in the community.

“The cadets will be our next volunteer firefighters and will gain key insights from this event,” he said.

“The Australian Fire Cadet Championships provide a safe and enjoyable opportunity for cadet firefighters to compete, develop their skills and interact with other cadets from across the country. It’s a great honour to be invited.

“I encourage everyone to spread the word about the GoFundMe page that has been created and help get these kids to Sydney in October.

“I wish the cadets the very best of luck at the Championships.”

Waggrakine Volunteer Bushfire Brigade Cadet Coordinator Darren Cole said the cadets are extremely excited about going to New South Wales to compete in the Championships.

“This event attracts 26 teams from all over Australia and to be given the opportunity is fantastic not only for the kids, but also for Geraldton,” he said.

“The cadet unit caters for kids from 12 to 16 years old and teaches firefighting skills, fire behaviour, teamwork and leadership whilst having fun.

“Unfortunately we are only allowed to take six cadets to compete in the Championships and none of them have been to Sydney before, so we are hoping to show them a few icons before heading to Myuna Bay for the Championships.

“That’s why we are raising funds – we want to make this a really enjoyable trip for the cadets.”

The Waggrakine Volunteer Bushfire Brigade were a recipient of the last round of the City of Greater Geraldton Community Grants. Round 19 of the 2017 – 18 Community Grants Program is currently open.

To support the Cadets at the upcoming Australian Fire Cadet Championships, please visit https://www.gofundme.com/waggrakine-volunteer-bushfire-cadet

The Waggrakine Volunteer Bushfire Brigade Cadets are representing the state at the Australian Fire Cadet Championships in October and are raising funds to help get them there.