By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
THIS week will mark the beginning of an incredible journey for Callan Hare.
The 24-year old recently graduated from the Victorian Emergency Training College, and will begin working with the Pakenham CFA as a career firefighter.
He says his time as a Parks Victoria seasonal firefighter and a volunteer with the South Warrandyte brigade made the decision to be a firefighter an easy one.
“The main reason I wanted to be a recruit firefighter with the CFA is to do something for my community, and having a volunteer background I thought it was a good career opportunity,” he said.
“The most rewarding part of the job I think will be helping people in their time of need and getting to know more people in my community.”
He said he was excited at the opportunity to serve with the Pakenham brigade.
“The thing I’m looking forward to most about working in Pakenham is learning about the area, meeting the people just getting to the area.”
Callan’s graduation marked the end of 19 weeks of intensive training with 29 other recruits. CFA Chief Officer Euan Ferguson congratulated the group on their successful completion of the stringent training.
“These 30 recruits have pushed themselves both physically and mentally to get to this point – but I know they are keen to get out there and put their training to the test,” he said.
“They have made a serious commitment to the protection of lives and property in our communities – and today’s event is all about acknowledging and celebrating that.”
Career firefighters attend both structural and bushfires as well as carry out rescue operations, deal with hazardous materials and assist in car accidents.
They also play a large role in delivering fire education at schools.
