This week Hornsby Shire has played host to the Australian Fire Cadet Championships, which took place in Arcadia.
More than 160 fire and emergency services cadets from around Australia competed in a range of events over several days, testing their skills in life-like scenarios.
Hornsby Shire Mayor Philip Ruddock said he was very pleased they chose the location that they did.
“This is an important event that will have real world consequences, as these young people will go on to provide life-saving services,” Mayor Ruddock said.
“Here in the Bushland Shire we are highly aware of the danger posed by bushfires and the need to develop skills to fight them.
“By all accounts the event has gone well and we hope they return in future years.”
RFS Hornsby Ku-ring-gai District Manager Mark Sugden said it was great to see young people engaging so enthusiastically with a vital service.
“This is not just about testing their skills, it is also about fostering ideals of leadership, teamwork, comradeship and volunteering,” he said.
“Most of all, though, it’s about giving the kids a good time and rewarding them for their commitment.”
The event was attended by RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons, who happens to live in Hornsby Shire.
“It offers them the opportunity to experience firsthand the commitment and camaraderie that comes with volunteering,” he said.
“The service is proud to pass on the ideals of community service, dedication and teamwork to the next generation.”
