Fire and Rescue NSW takes firefighter recruitment drive to local Orange Festival - Bingara

Published: 28 Jun 2023 03:24pm

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) will be seeking the next generation of local firefighters when it takes to the Happy Days Orange Festival at Bingara, in the state’s north-west, this weekend.

The small inland town, which is home to around 1,000 people, has in recent years faced staffing challenges across a number of employment sectors, including emergency services, due to demographic factors.

FRNSW is currently undertaking a comprehensive recruitment strategy in the area to safeguard a sustainable model of service delivery for the local community.

As part of this campaign, current firefighters from across the New England area will attend the famous fruit festival to engage with potential on-call recruits.

The crews will share information about what’s involved in becoming an on-call firefighter; the types of incidents they attend, tasks they perform and skills they’ve gained; and the satisfaction of being involved in their communities in such a unique and positive way.

Those considering a career with FRNSW will also be able to ask their own questions of our team and inspect the modern vehicles and equipment used to respond to emergencies.

This major public engagement activity complements other recruitment steps FRNSW has undertaken in Bingara including attending other public events, interacting with local sporting clubs and community groups, and posting on social media.

The Orange Festival stall will also target potential recruits for other on-call stations in the local firefighting zone including Barraba, Boggabri, Moree and Warialda.

FRNSW Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Steve Hirst, said the event is a great opportunity to let people know about the benefits of a career in firefighting.

“Our on-call firefighters are the backbone of our cities and towns, blending their existing work, business and family lives with serving and protecting others,” said Chief Supt Hirst.

“Our firefighters get enormous satisfaction from knowing they’re making a positive difference to their communities and the respect locals have for them is significant.

FRNSW Zone Commander, Superintendent Tom Cooper, said “becoming a FRNSW brigade member also means you will work in a supportive team environment and have access to excellent career and skills development opportunities.”

“Bingara is a terrific place to live and work and I’d encourage anyone who’s interested in joining our team to have a chat to our firefighters,” Supt Cooper added.

The Orange Festival will take place on the main street this Saturday 1st July from 9am to 3pm.

Firefighters will also use the opportunity to interact with the broader community about home fire safety over the winter months.