Sirens sound for junior fire brigade champions
The Coolgardie Junior Volunteer Fire Brigade received a champion’s reception as they rolled into town yesterday afternoon, after a big weekend of competition.
Crowned overall best volunteer fire brigade at the WA Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services Association State junior championships, 15 competitors battled it out at Gilbert Fraser Reserve in Perth against almost 200 volunteers from throughout WA.
The teams were made up of boys and girls aged 11-16.
Head coach Brent Waddell said the two-day competition consisted of wet work and dry work events, in individual and team-running categories.
“This is the first time we have been State champs since 1995,” Mr Waddell said.
“I’m very proud of the whole brigade and it was a pleasure to coach them — even though I’d never tell them that.”
Mr Waddell said brigade was delighted at the reception they received yesterday, as the sirens wailed and the community came out on the street to congratulate them.
Competitor Brayden Shilton, 16, who just missed out on being champion junior firefighter said the sport was unlike any other.
“It’s really competitive and we train hard for it, and in the end we got great results,” he said.
Mr Waddell said it was a very popular sport in the Goldfields.
“The best thing about it is it’s free,” he said.
“The kids love it, and for some it can turn into a career pathway.”
The team enjoyed a well-deserved day out at AdventureWorld on Monday before driving home.
