"As a new member and a senior over 60 it is great to be part of a team that welcomes your contribution no matter how small it is."
Neil, Colac UFB – Brigades in Schools coordinator / Treasurer / Firefighter

"As a newcomer to a rural community, joining the Fire Brigade was one way for my wife and I to get involved and participate in community life, and, although it can be difficult fitting in all that we do in our personal life and the brigade, volunteering continues to provide a most excellent experience."
George, Barongarook RFB – Brigade President / Firefighter

"I joined the Barongarook Rural Fire Brigade in Feb 1993, became the Secretary / Treasurer in July 1993. Later becoming the Comms Officer as well.  I still hold all these positions.  I joined the Brigade after the passing of my husband; it filled a huge hole in my life, a very rewarding time. I also have held the Secretary position in the Ladies Auxiliary for the past 15 years. I have held the Group Comms Officer for the last 16 months and found it to be a challenge and enjoy it very much, after getting over the nerves first week."
Lena, Barongarook RFB – Brigade Secretary / Treasurer, Corangamite Group Communications Officer

"I originally joined an urban brigade at 16 and liked it. I later moved to a rural brigade in the North East. I am a community minded person having also been involved with Red Cross. Besides my involvement with CFA I currently enjoy entertaining community groups. Those that can, should do some community."
Allan, Longford RFB

"I joined because a friend was involved. I enjoy the mateship and the challenge."
Craig, Sale UFB

"I have had a lot of industrial training through Esso, and felt that I could assist the community. I thought that CFA was the best service to be involved with."
Doug, Sale UFB

"It was an opportunity for me to do something for the community, and get to know the public and businesses."
John, Sale UFB

"I was originally motivated by the idea of being able to make a meaningful contribution to the community. I live in an area with a high risk of wildfire and therefore needed to gain the necessary skills. What came from that was comradeship, personal development, the personal satisfaction of working as a team member knowing that my contribution has made a real difference and that I am a part of a vital community service."
Keith, Erica and District RFB

"It is my way of helping the community. I see fires as a threat to the community and while we have an army to protect us against invading forces, we need a fire service to protect us against the threat of fire. I am committed to what I do and have gained personal development from the wide range of training opportunities and day-to-day challenges. I also gain considerable satisfaction presenting fire safety messages to children at Primary School and Kindergarten level, knowing that in some cases the information taken home has helped inform the family about home fire safety."
Leo, Erica and District RFB