12th October 2023.
I rise today to commend the Appin Junior Fire Brigade, who recently represented Wollondilly at the Australian Fire Cadets Championships in Douglas Park. Competing against 20 teams nationwide, these young cadets showcased their firefighting skills, initiative, and safety procedures through life-like scenarios. The team consisted of Anna Zammit, Dean Perrin, Hamish Crompton, Dylan Kelly, Alex Beaton, and Tyler Smith. While they may not have won, they earned something far more valuable: the respect and pride of their community and the Rural Fire Service. An RFS spokesperson said it best: "They competed with courage, teamwork, and values, and we as a district are exceptionally proud of them." This event is more than a competition; it's an investment in our future firefighters. The championships provide a platform for the 'firefighters of tomorrow' to develop their skills. More than 11,000 young Australians have completed this cadet program, gaining essential fire safety techniques and an understanding of community service. By nurturing the young talents of today, we are ensuring that our community will be in capable hands for decades to come.