A crew from the Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) station at Wyong has proved too good after the first regional heats of the 2024 Firefighter Championships at the weekend.
One of 19 teams competing at Tumut, in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains, Wyong set out, determined to defend its title as reigning NSW champion.
Central Coast firefighting crew
Additional firefighting teams will compete in the next round of the championship at Kelso
The Central Coast firefighting crew took out seven of the 10 events, held over the two days of competition, setting a commanding lead of 400 points over its nearest rival, Kootingal RFS, in disciplines relating to hose and hydrant deployment and extinguishment; rescues, ladder practice, and high-rise bag use.
Third place overall went to the Ulladulla "A" FRNSW team. Additional firefighting teams will compete in the next round of the championship at Kelso in Bathurst in August.
Representation of the firefighting community
The successful crews will advance to the state championships at Wagga Wagga in October. FRNSW Assistant Commissioner - Regional Operations and Championship Director, Cheryl Steer, said the atmosphere at Tumut was incredible.
"The Firefighter Championships are a great opportunity to showcase the camaraderie of our people," said Assistant Commissioner Cheryl Steer, adding "From the teamwork shown in the days leading up to the event, to the support that teams offer each other on the field, it’s a great weekend and even better representation of the firefighting community. Their skills are improved because each event directly relates to real firefighting environments."