Fire service holds cadet program

Brisbane Water Secondary College in Woy Woy celebrated a first for the school on Wednesday, October 10, when 13 students graduated from the NSW Rural Fire Service Secondary School Cadet Program.

NSW RFS chief superintendent Mr John Parnaby congratulated the group of students who committed to the intensive 10-week course run by 20 NSW Rural Fire Service volunteers and staff from the Gosford area.

"This course is unique because it covers a broad range of practical skills as well as instilling students with important skills like commitment, leadership and team work," said Mr Parnaby.

"The program provides students with an insight into the camaraderie and sense of mateship you get when you join together with your peers to protect your neighbours during times of need.

"This is something our volunteers do 365 days a year.

"This cadet program also opens students' eyes to another side of society, where people give of their time freely and in return they are provided with extensive training in a professional organisation.

"Often high school students have a lot of enthusiasm and energy, they just need some guidance about where to direct it.

"This cadet program has proven to really capture students' attention," Mr Parnaby.

Mr Parnaby described the cadets as an inspiration to their fellow students and said he hoped they would follow in their footsteps and elect to do the course in future years.

More than 4000 students across the state have successfully completed the NSW Rural Fire Service Secondary Schools Cadet Program since its launch six years ago.

Media release, 10 Oct 2012

Rural Fire Service media