By Cam Lucadou-Wells
HAMPTON Park CFA is on a recruitment drive ahead of a bushfire season that only days ago gave a potent and hot reminder of its proximity.
Life at the fully-volunteered station is full of variety and enduring friendships, the brigade’s First Lieutenant Chris Gomolis said.
Its members at the busy brigade often go “above and beyond”, he said.
They are called out to jobs such as car crashes, industrial emergencies, storm damage and house, grass and bushfires in Hampton Park, Lynbrook and Lyndhurst.
The brigade also helps out neighbouring brigades such as Hallam, Narre Warren South and Cranbourne, and runs fire-safety programs in schools.
“The more we can spread out the workload among the members, the better – particularly leading into the summertime.”
Lt Gomolis – who is a 22 year member – says there’s the opportunity for achievements, training and of course helping residents in “their hour of need”.
Recruits, preferably between 18-55 years old with a driver’s licence, are needed to fill the station’s dwindling ranks due to members retiring or moving out of the area.
“The kind of people we look for have a genuine interest in helping the general community and want to give a little back,” Lt Gomolis said.
“We welcome people from all walks of life – anyone with the right passion and the heart can fill the role.”
He also said a willingness to “think outside the box” is a plus – given not all CFA situations are black and white.
“I do it because I love it. I enjoy the community-minded atmosphere and the life-long friendships I’ve made. It’s a special kind of volunteer needed.”
All training and uniforms are provided by the CFA.
The recruitment night is at the brigade station, 112 Somerville Road, Hampton Park on 12 December, from 7pm.
