By Dongyun Kwon
New opportunity is open for local residents to become a firefighter as Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic)’s annual recruitment drive for seasonal firefighters ahead of this year’s bushfire season runs from July 4 to 28.
Applications are now open for project firefighter roles across 18 locations including the the Hume region including Alexandra, Marysville, Toolangi, Kinglake.
FFMVic Hume region deputy chief fire officer Aaron Kennedy said successful applicants would boost Victoria’s firefighting and land management capacity in the lead-up to summer and the peak fire season.
“Being a project firefighter can bring a sense of purpose and personal achievement knowing your efforts contribute to protecting Victorian communities and the environment,” he said.
“Recruits will have opportunities to train and work alongside FFMVic’s permanent firefighting staff, responding to emergencies such as bushfires and floods.
“They will also work in land management and help reduce bushfire risk through planned burning, weed control, maintaining the public land road network and strategic fuel breaks.”
Two firefighters shared their stories with the Star Mail.
After years of working in the health industry, Andrew Brown decided to change careers and became a project firefighter with FFMVic.
Based in Alexandra, he enjoys the variety of the role and working in the forest environment.
“I appreciated all the training and mentoring from experienced firefighters and learning new skills such as chainsaw use and four-wheel driving,” Mr Brown said.
“I love learning about the history of the forests as well as local flora and fauna.”
Another firefighter Ben Thomas joined the team at Marysville as a project firefighter when he was 18.
Five years on, he’s working as a forest and fire operations officer technical lead.
“I was uncertain about what I wanted to do after finishing year 12, so I thought I’d just give it a try,” he said.
“Marysville is a fantastic place to work; we’re like a family here.
“I love the forest we look after around Marysville, it’s some of the most beautiful and diverse in the state.”
Mr Thomas said he enjoys the diversity of the role and opportunities to continually upskill.
“One day you could be track clearing with a chainsaw and the next fighting a forest fire,” he said.
FFMVic is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the Victorian community.
As part of its ongoing commitment to support meaningful careers for current and future First Nations staff, designated positions are available.
Applications close 28 July and employment occurs between October and May, with some variation depending on seasonal requirements.
Mr Thomas encourages anyone who loves the outdoors and physical work to give it a go.
“If you enjoy working in a team, you’ll love being a Project Firefighter.”
For information and to apply, visit jobs.careers.vic.gov.au/pff or call 136 186.
