Moranbah auxiliary firefighters Chris McMaster, Timothy Davis launch Emergency Services Cadets

Two part-time firefighters are trading hoses for hope, launching a cadet program to ignite new career pathways for kids in their mining hometown.

Chris McMaster and Timothy Davis were recognised for their work in building a new community program in their home town of Moranbah.

Two part-time firefighters are launching a cadet program to help youth in their Bowen Basin community explore career paths beyond mining.

Moranbah auxiliary firefighters Chris McMaster and Timothy Davis were at a training course in Brisbane when they met a fellow firey running an Emergency Services Cadet program in the Tablelands region.

Chris McMaster, a former Australian Defence Force sailor, said they didn’t realise a cadetship program was an option.

Chris McMaster served as a submariner on the HMAS Collins during his time in the ADF.

“We looked around at what’s available in Moranbah for youth … it was based around sports so we wanted to go and give another option for the kids,” Mr McMaster said.

BMA miner Timothy Davis said he thought the program would be a great opportunity for Moranbah kids “who don’t just want to work in the mines”.

Working in conjunction with the PCYC, the ESC Program will involve weekly cadet classes where youth between the age of 12 and 17 can learn skills from firefighters, paramedics and police officers.

Chris McMaster and Timothy Davis were among 81 firefighters honoured across the state.

Paramedics have shown cadets how to make a splint or treat a snakebite wound, while another session could include a police dog handler speaking about the role of canine units in policing.

Mr McMaster said they aim to teach kids life skills related to volunteering, community work and “being someone who puts their hand up to help”.

For their work in getting the program started, Mr McMaster and Mr Davis were awarded the Australia Day Achievement Award at the Queensland Fire Department ceremony on January 29.

Mr Davis said the recognition was humbling and “a little bit of a pickup” but stressed he and Mr McMaster didn’t do it for the recognition.

Mr McMaster thanked the other members of the Moranbah Fire Station for “getting behind the idea” as well as the Isaac council, Queensland Fire Department and Queensland government for their support.

The two are now calling on older members of the community to get involved as adult leaders.

“Keep an eye out for these kids,” Mr Davis said.
“They’re going to be contributing to the community.”