One hundred and eighty eight new firefighters are joining the ranks of Fire and Rescue NSW today with two classes graduating at the Emergency Services Academy at Orchard Hills.
Of the graduates, 33 will be permanent while 155 will be on-call, or part-time, firefighters.
Among the new recruits, 36 are women.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke said it’s pleasing to see a diverse range of recruits stepping into a rewarding career with Fire and Rescue NSW.
“I want to congratulate all the graduates on completing their training to become firefighters with Fire and Rescue NSW,” Ms Cooke said.
“Whether it’s responding to fires, chemical emergencies, car crashes or natural disasters, Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters are prepared for any situation.
“Every day they answer the call to help, putting themselves on the frontline of danger to protect and save others. I’m pleased to see these new recruits joining that proud tradition.”
Fire and Rescue Commissioner Paul Baxter also congratulated the graduates for their commitment and hard work over 14 weeks of training.
“It’s been a steep learning curve for these terrific men and women but they have stayed the course, their dreams firmly in sight,” Commissioner Baxter said.
“Many of the graduates will also have the opportunity to explore specialist roles in the future, learning car crash rescue capabilities, Hazardous Materials responses and Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) skills.
“We are looking for more on-call personnel, particularly in the State’s regional areas. If you’ve ever considered an opportunity to help your community and protect the irreplaceable, now’s your chance.”
Many of the graduates have already started at their new fire stations, while others will join their new platoons from Monday.
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