BSSC Year 11 student, Bailey Clarke, had wanted to do something that allowed him to make a difference, and help and educate others, despite still being quite young.
“I decided to join the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and applied just over six months ago.
Now approaching the end of his initial training period, Bailey says education is ongoing with the CFA and there are heaps of pathways within the organisation.
“You can go into areas as diverse as vehicle maintenance, logistics or becoming a trainer yourself—as well as being a firey.
“There are also courses, such as First Aid, which are offered regularly.”
A member of the Maiden Gully Brigade, Bailey attends each week and says there’s great camaraderie and he’s enjoyed meeting new people and building his skills—and no doubt soon he will be building his experience too.
In another two weeks he will be eligible to be called up.
“I’m not nervous about going to my first fire,” he says, “I feel confident in my training. I’ve had a fantastic trainer—Leigh—who was so welcoming and put in a lot of effort to work with me.”
So, does Bailey think the general community takes fire preparation seriously?
“I think it’s mixed, but everyone could probably try a bit harder.”
Alongside his valuable service and experience through the CFA Bailey has tailored his BSSC subjects to best prepare him for his plans to become a member of Fire Rescue Victoria: VET Engineering, VET Electrotechnology, Outdoor & Enviro Science, English and Accounting.
