Being a part of the Local Government Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades is a very rewarding experience.
The Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades are unique and are fundamentally different to the state run agencies. Why, you ask?
We are formed and managed by your local community, through your Local Government, hence why you often hear our volunteers say “We are formed by the community for the community” – something we are very proud of.
There are approx 26,000 Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade Volunteers, within over 560 Local Government Bush Fire Brigades throughout Western Australia. We provide the state with over 80% of its resources and are proud of it!
All members are VOLUNTEERS.
They are all busy people with families, just like you. They are prepared to drop everything at a moment’s notice to go and protect the community, for no reward.
We are professional in everything we do and we strive for excellence! We are well trained and have a strong focus on Safety.
Because of our community philosophy, we are there before, during and after the all types of emergencies working with our community through good times and bad.
Being a member of a Bush Fire Brigade is not just about going and putting fires out. Community members who do not want to be on the front line, fighting the fire, can be members who provide support in other areas such as:
- Maintaining the fire stations grounds (ie fences, gardens lawns and general maintenance),
- Maintaining brigade equipment, making sure they are serviceable, clean and working,
- Undertaking the role of Administrator,
- Undertaking the role of Treasurer,
- Fulfilling roles within the Incident Support Group,
- Providing transport for fire fighters and/ or equipment,
- Being involved in communications during fires, such as being a radio operator, phoning around for extra crews or equipment, or writing down what is happening at the incident,
- Fundraising for equipment and gear to assist others,
- Catering for fire crews.
Time Commitment to the Bush Fire Brigade
Commitment is dependent on the individual as to how much they are prepared to ‘put in’ to the brigade, as well as what position you hold within the Brigade. Many members are quiet achievers, putting in several hours a week making sure that the brigade is at its best when there is an emergency. The choice is up to you. By contacting the Brigade Captain they will be able to give you an insight into the many activities of a brigade.
The Association of Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades values all volunteers and encourages the community to be actively involved in these essential services.
So who is a volunteer?
We could be your neighbour, your friend, someone you know or don’t know, the local shop owner, the postie, a farmer, a mechanic, a plumber, a stay at home mum or dad? The list goes on and on, so you can make a difference, its very rewarding, but always remember you only get out of something what you are prepared to put into it, that’s life!
Here is a little quiz about Volunteering;
- Do I belong in my community? OR Do I just exist in my community?
- Do I do things for personal gain/promotion? OR Do I do things to be a part of my community?
- Do I think about making a difference? OR Do I make a difference?
- Do I resolve OR Do I complain?
- Do I help others?????
So, why don’t you join your local community Volunteer Bush Fire Service and make a difference today!
Here are a few statements by very well known and some not so well known people who understand and value volunteers, just as this Association does.
A volunteer is a person who can see what others cannot see; who can feel what most do not feel. Often, such gifted persons do not think of themselves as volunteers, but as citizens – citizens in the fullest sense: partners in civilization. Anonymous
“The past year’s natural disasters have highlighted the invaluable contributions of volunteers in our communities. They have volunteered their time, energy and skills to save lives and to rebuild communities. In this they joined countless people around the world who volunteer every day in response to ‘silent crises’. These often unsung heroes understand all too well that poverty, disease and famine are just as deadly and destructive as earthquakes, hurricanes and tsunamis.” — Kofi Annan
“If you ever need a helping hand, it is at the end of your arm. As you get older you must remember you have a second hand. The first one is to help yourself. The second hand is to help others.” — Audrey Hepburn
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” — Margaret Mead
Volunteers are not paid not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless.
More Information
For more Information about joining your local bush fire brigade, please contact your Local Government Office or this Association and we will assist you in finding your nearest volunteer brigade.