Ryan congratulates CFA’s newest graduate firefighters
Deputy Premier and Minister for Emergency Services Peter Ryan joined members of the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and their families at Fiskville Training College today to celebrate the graduation of 25 of the CFA's newest full-time firefighters.
Mr Ryan said the new recruits had successfully completed a demanding 16-week training course and were now ready for an exciting and challenging career in the CFA.
"Throughout the 16-week course these graduates have learned and practiced the skills that will enable them to successfully embark on their new careers as CFA firefighters," Mr Ryan said.
"The professionalism of the recruits is evident in their dedication to their studies, their high level of proficiency and overall performance during recruit training, enabling them to perform their vital role in emergency response."
Mr Ryan said the latest recruits represented a wide cross-section of the community and would be a welcome addition to the organisation.
"These graduates range in age from 23 to 42 years and have previously worked in professions including trades, emergency services, engineering, defence, finance, government, medical, sales and IT," Mr Ryan said.
"Their diverse backgrounds and skill sets will complement their roles as respected leaders and trusted figures in their communities."
Mr Ryan said the CFA plays a vital role in protecting Victorians.
"The CFA relies on the skills of 1,550 career personnel and more than 59,000 volunteers to serve a population of more than three million people, over an area that includes more than one million dwellings," Mr Ryan said.
"Today's graduates will take up postings at 13 stations across Victoria including: Boronia, Craigieburn, Frankston, Bendigo, Belmont, Wangaratta, Greenvale, Rosebud, Mornington, Ballarat, Patterson River, Sunbury and Mildura.
"I congratulate each of the CFA's newest recruit firefighters and thank each CFA member for the enormous contribution they make to protecting the lives and properties of Victorians."
