Dorrigo’s Fire and Rescue Brigade is not just a team of emergency responders; it’s a century-long legacy of community service.
Smile at this photo if you wish but never lose sight of the real significance behind it. It’s Dorrigo Fire and Rescue Brigade members reminding residents of the Plateau (and in times of real emergency much further away) of their constant presence, skills and readiness to go into action at almost any fire, accident or disaster.
Yes, the photo’s message appears light-hearted but it speaks of rock-hard reality:
• Dorrigo Fireys have been ready and on-the-job for 99 years
* That’s right, 99 years!
* Next year (2026) the Brigade will celebrate its centenary
* It is seeking to sign-up more members.
* And not just blokes. No way. Dorrigo Brigade has valued its women members for as long as local memory allows.
• More women and men needed right now.
What does it take to become a fire brigade member? Some
Basic fitness, a willingness to train and, if necessary, to travel some distance (e.g. Armidale) to complete the necessary preparation.
Fireys may find themselves serving closely with the R.F.S.,
S.E.S. The Ambulance and other First Responders.
Of course, there’s the classic wise-crack of old fireys: And rescuing someone’s pet cat up a tree!
Much more seriously:There is also constant evidence of the Australian Spirit: support and care for fellow Fireys, serving (working) as a seriously trained unit, committed to dealing with all manner of community emergencies and, sometimes, situations which may have become disasters had it not been for swift arrival, much needed skills and generous personal commitment to very challenging tasks.
Such are the responsibilities, and experiences of members of Dorrigo Fire and Rescue Brigade.
Fancy becoming a Brigade member in its 100th year of service?
The brigade needs you: men and women.
First contact for keen, interested volunteers is best via: recruitment@fire.nsw.gov.au
Are you likely, as a local Firey, to have to hug someone (As the photo suggests)?
Perhaps not. But, if, as a member of Dorrigo F and R Brigade, you have just saved their burning house, workshop, or car I’d say there’s a darn good chance that they will want to hug you.
Please, don’t waste time. Check out the very real need and distinct possibility you (men and women) becoming Dorrigo Fireys.
They need you NOW!