Looking for a new and interesting career path? The Childers Fire Station wants to recruit new workers
If you’ve ever wanted to become a firefighter now’s your chance.
Bundaberg
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If you’ve ever thought about becoming a firefighter, now’s your chance.
The best part is, you don’t even need to give up your regular job to get on board.
Childers Fire Station Lieutenant Kurt Winkelmann has been an auxiliary firefighter for 12-13 years and says the job is demanding, but good.
The highlight of the job, for Lieutenant Winkelmann, is helping people whether it’s a traffic crash or taking someone to hospital.
“There’s ample things we get called to,” he said.
With 140-160 calls per year, Childers crews can be called out to crashes, Hazmat incidents, swift water missions and even providing community education.
Auxiliary firefighters are paid, casual, firefighters who respond to emergency situations and the role is considered mentally and physically challenging.
Lieutenant Winkelmann said while there were some criteria to meet, one of the biggest assets for a firey was a willing attitude.
“As long as they’re easygoing and hardworking, that’s all we can ask for,” he said.
“We are just an auxiliary crew so we all have full-time jobs. It’s just something you find time for. If (firefighters) didn’t have time, you wouldn’t get a big, shiny firetruck when you call.”
Anyone wanting to join up can contact fireys on the details below and try out a visit to the station on a Wednesday night.
If all goes well and physical and security checks are clear, prospective firefighters undergo basic training and over two years can become a level two auxiliary firefighter, with more advanced training on offer if wanted.
There may not be too many calls out to rescue cats from trees, however.
“It’s actually more of a myth,” Lieutenant Winkelmann said.
Criteria you must meet:
- Manual C class driver‘s licence held for at least one year or a medium rigid driver‘s licence
- Minimum of 18 years of age at the time of starting paid employment
- Must be a permanent resident or citizen of Australia or New Zealand
- Where applicable, written consent from an employer, for permission to attend incidents and emergencies when needed
- Must pass a QFES integrity check, medical standard and criminal history check
- Embody integrity, respect, courage, trust and loyalty
How to get in touch:
For more information, visit www.qfes.gov.au/employment.
Alternatively, call 4192 4600 or 4154 6160.
You can also email martin.bettridge@qfes.qld.gov.au.
Those interested in joining up can also attend the Childers Fire Station on Wednesdays from 6.30-8.30pm.
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