This National Volunteer Week, the CFA and its partner emergency service volunteer organisations, acknowledge and thank the tens of thousands of Victorians for their unpaid contributions to their communities.

This year’s NVW theme ‘Something for Everyone’ is particularly relevant to CFA, the state’s largest volunteer organisation, which provides many opportunities for its members to play a role which suits them, gain skills and qualifications and reach their potential.

“Not only is our organisation a core part of Victoria’s emergency service network but members also gain social connections and build a greater sense of inclusion within their local town,” said Acting Chief Officer, Garry Cook.

“CFA thanks and celebrates its 52,000 volunteers for their ongoing dedication in protecting Victorian communities.

“Our ‘Give Us a Hand’ recruitment campaign, launched last year, proved a huge success with more than 1,800 highly skilled and professional new members recruited.”

Mr Cook said it was extremely encouraging to see so many Victorians sign up to be a volunteer and be part of something bigger in their local community.

The Corryong CFA is seeking more volunteers and women and people from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to get on board.

“CFA recruited 1844 new members since the campaign launched in August last year and we continue to grow,” he said.

“Across Victoria brigades have recruited members and continue to, but there are some areas still in need.

“Our organisation is unique in offering volunteers the opportunity to gain leadership skills, training and experience while serving their communities. It’s also a great place to meet and work with people from all walks of life,” Mr Cook added.

“The push for more volunteers to join CFA is an investment in the future of Victoria’s emergency response and recruitment is ongoing.

“Regional and rural communities are still very much in need of more volunteers particularly daytime responders and young members.

“We are looking to recruit from all of the brigades are truly reflective of the communities they serve and protect.

“Anyone interested in taking on a new challenge should get in touch with their local CFA brigade or go to the CFA website.

“There is something for everyone at CFA whether you want to train up as a firefighter or take on a support role at the brigade.”

Some of the types of incidents CFA volunteers respond to include road crash rescues, structure, grass and scrub fires and hazmat incidents.

“Our volunteers are some of Victoria’s greatest assets and we are grateful to each and every one of you who has put up your hand to join CFA,” Mr Cook said.

If you’re interested in joining CFA or learning more about volunteering, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ volunteer. Once you’ve submitted your expression of interest online, your local brigade will contact you about the next steps.

This article appeared in the Corryong Courier, 23 May 2024.