Bombala High School RFS cadets graduate
30th October 2009Ministerial media release
Emergency Services Minister Steve Whan today congratulated 16 Bombala High School students on their success in completing the NSW Rural Fire Service's (RFS) innovative Cadet Program.
The graduates of the 10-week program learn a wide range of life, leadership and firefighting skills such as hose drills, pumping water and emergency call out procedures.
"The commitment of these cadet graduates to their communities is to be commended and they have truly shown themselves to be leaders of tomorrow," Mr Whan said.
"The RFS Cadet Program is aimed at Year 9 and 10 students, who learn basic firefighting skills, fire safety and fire behaviour, accident prevention in the workplace and the role of our emergency services.
"Through the program they gain a valuable insight to the RFS ideals of community service, dedication and team work, along with the rewards of volunteering.
"Knowledge of the dangers of bush fires and the damage they can cause is essential when you live in a rural area. These students are to be commended for their efforts in learning how to live safely with the bush."
Mr Whan said the students had demonstrated their community spirit, initiative and leadership throughout the cadet program and was treated to a demonstration of their new skills.
"The leadership and team work skills that these students have gained will stay with them for the rest of their lives and stand them in good stead for their future endeavours," Mr Whan said.
"The demonstration by the cadets truly shows their excellent skills, and I strongly encourage any student who is interested in undertaking this program to join up. The skills and experiences they will gain are invaluable.
"Members of the RFS are exemplary community citizens and I encourage all 16 of these graduates to now build on their new skills and experiences by joining their local RFS brigade," Mr Whan said.
Bombala High School RFS cadets graduate (PDF 32KB)