By Jamie Salter
A running fire engine is not something you see everyday, but the team at the Narre Warren Fire Brigade will be donning the look as part of the Run for The Kids (RFTK) charity event.
The brigade members will complete a 15km long course to raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH), with a goal to reach $10,000 in sponsorship.
Narre Warren CFA senior firefighter Tony Bundock said members built the fire engine in his garage.
“We were down to a few people last year so we thought about how we could make it more interesting and we saw the running fire engine in the UK,” Mr Bundock said.
“The whole thing weighs about 15kg, so it will be more of an animated jog than a run.”
The 2021 event was cancelled to to the coronavirus pandemic but Mr Bundock said seven members were looking forward to participating in this year’s run.
“We’ve done RFTK over the past 10 to 15 years – last years event was cancelled but all the entries rolled over to this year,” he said.
“We’ve been long term supporters of RFTK and we think it’s a good local charity to be involved in and something we can do.”
He said all members were committed to getting around the course and raising a large sum of money for the RCH.
“We don’t intend to break records or anything but we think were in with a chance for being recognised for best costume,” Mr Bundock said.
“Our biggest challenge will be running over the Bolte Bridge – hopefully it’s not windy!”
The team will train for the big day in the meantime and plan to participate in 5km parkrun events at Berwick Springs.
The brigade has already raised $1,411 and Mr Bundock said any donations large or small will be gratefully received.
Funds raised from the event on Sunday 3 April will be donated to the Good Friday Appeal to help provide research, resources, staffing and education to facilitate the very best of care for Victorian children.
To keep up to date with the brigade’s journey, visit the Narre Warren Fire Brigade Facebook page.
