Pindimar/Tea Gardens Rural Fire Brigade welcomed seven new firefighters into the brigade this past weekend.

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David Bright, Captain of Pindimar/Tea Gardens Rural Fire Brigade said that while the brigade does welcome new members regularly, it’s remarkable to have this many prior to the start of the new fire season.

“The whole of the RFS has seen a huge spike in membership applications as a result of the devastating bushfire season that we experienced last year,” he said.

“People saw the great job that the RFS do, and they’re keen to get in and help protect the community.”

The recruits go through months of online classes and practical work before getting to this stage of Bush Firefighter Assessment.

“With COVID-19 restrictions it’s been especially tough this year, with limited recruits per trainer,” he said.

“We’re all unpaid volunteers, and it’s taken a lot of time and effort to get these members through.”

Mr Bright said that the brigade is currently comprised of a large percentage of retirees, so some younger firefighters are a welcomed addition to the team.

“It will ease the burden by being able to share the load,” he said.

“12 hour shifts on the fireground is really tiring, especially for those of us past our prime.”

Mr Bright continued: “We have had fantastic support from our community, particularly during the last fire season.”

“There was a lot of money raised through the Hawks Nest Golf Club, and many other organisations and individuals, and we’ve been able to improve and expand a lot of equipment needed for extra members as a direct result of the funds donated.”

Tinonee Rural Fire Brigade also had five members assessed at Tea Gardens last Saturday.

By Ashley CHRYSLER