As bushfire seasons become longer and more intense, the need for local RFS volunteers has never been greater. North Bellingen Rural Fire Brigade is calling on everyday residents to step up and help protect what we all cherish — our community, our bushland, and our homes.
As Captain Kev Doye explained: “The RFS isn’t just about fighting fires. Volunteers play a vital role in everything from community education and support services to logistics, communications, and emergency response. Whilst we haven’t had a large number of significant fires across our region in recent years there is a long history of fires sweeping across our valleys – and we know that what we’ve seen before we’ll likely see again.
“Away from bushfires we also work closely with other agencies such as Fire and Rescue and the SES. As everyone knows we also see a decent number of flooding events across our region and, just as SES supporting us during bushfires, we work to support the SES during wet weather events.”
Volunteering with the RFS offers more than just the satisfaction of giving back — it’s a chance to learn new skills, make friends, and be part of a team that truly makes a difference. It’s open to people from all walks of life, and training is provided for all roles.
“Our volunteers are the heart of the RFS,” says Captain Doye. “We’re locals protecting locals — and there’s a special pride in that. Our members only respond when it works for them, but to keep up our proud record of being able to turn out a crew to pretty much every job we need new members – every pair of hands helps.”
If you’ve ever felt the call to contribute more to your community, now is the time. North Bellingen RFB welcomes new members, whether you’re 16 or 60. All you need to do is live within 15 minutes of the centre of town and complete an online application (that the brigade can assist with).
To find out how you can get involved, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer or drop the brigade an email – volunteer@northbellorfs.org