South Australia's newest firefighters will be welcomed at a special graduation ceremony at the Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) this morning. Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon. Michael Wright and MFS Chief Officer, Grant Lupton will congratulate the 17 recruits and commend them for their hard work.
Chief Officer Lupton says while the recruits are individuals from a range of backgrounds, today they will graduate as a team. "Our recruits hail from various occupations, from shearing, teaching and horticulture to real estate, trades and policing. "While their personalities and interests may differ, our recruits have completed their training as a tight-knit group focussed on teamwork," Chief Officer Lupton says.
The recruits were selected from hundreds of applicants and faced a demanding, gruelling 14 week training course. They've encountered a daily physical training program, attended more than 100 lectures and completed tough training exercises. "Our new firefighters have gained vital skills that will assist them with responding to emergencies, extinguishing fires, mitigating the effects of hazardous materials and saving lives. "I wish our new firefighters well and encourage them to explore the different opportunities a career with the MFS has to offer, including emergency management, communications, training and community education," Chief Officer Lupton says.
Many of the graduates have a strong background in volunteer work, including the Country Fire Service (CFS), Surf Life Saving, Trees for Life, Army Reserves and umpiring.