Diamond Creek CFA’s Fiona Macken set for Eureka Stair Climb

When Diamond Creek CFA firefighter Fiona Macken takes on the Eureka Stair Climb on Sunday, she will definitely be feeling the heat.

Diamond Creek CFA’s Fiona Macken is taking on Eureka Tower. Picture: Mark Dadswell

When Diamond Creek CFA firefighter Fiona Macken takes on the Eureka Stair Climb on Sunday, she will definitely be feeling the heat.

The 39-year-old Diamond Creek resident will be dressed in her full CFA firefighting outfit as she scales 1642 steps, or 88 floors, to the Eureka Skydeck at the top of the Eureka Tower.

This will be Ms Macken’s fourth Full Kit Emergency Personnel climb, so she knows exactly what she’s in for. “(I do it) mainly because of the physical challenge,” she said.

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“I like the fact that it has a good cause associated with it as well, and it’s nice to be able to compete against other fireys.”

Ms Macken has won the women’s race in her division every year she’s competed, achieving a personal best time of 16 minutes, 45 seconds. Despite her stellar track record, Ms Macken said the challenge never got any easier.

“It’s bloody hard,” she said.

“I’ve done a lot of different things over the years, marathons and all sorts, but stair climbing in firefighting kit is the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and that includes giving birth.

“Our kit’s heavy, but it’s the heat more than anything, because you’re wearing a doona all over your body, with a heavy backpack and heavy boots.”

This year’s 11th annual Eureka Stair Climb kicks off on Sunday, with more than 2500 participants taking part to raise money for The Fred Hollows Foundation.

Find out more at eurekastairclimb.org

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