VFBV

Victorians are being urged to remember the life-changing efforts of volunteer firefighters during National Volunteer Week.

Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) CEO Adam Barnett said the extraordinary summer fires across Victoria and eastern Australia highlighted the invaluable contribution of CFA volunteers.

“Our volunteers rose to meet this challenge both locally and across the country,” Mr Barnett said.

“The coronavirus has changed the way we live in recent months, but we shouldn’t forget the massive effort of volunteer firefighters not only last summer but every day of the year.”

Mr Barnett’s comments mark the start of National Volunteer Week 2020, held from Monday May 18 to Sunday May 24 with the theme “Changing Communities. Changing Lives”.

Mr Barnett said the work of CFA volunteers fits perfectly with this theme. “I can’t think of a more fitting recognition of the incredible work and role CFA volunteers play in changing lives and keeping communities safe,” he said.

“Our state would be so much the poorer without CFA volunteers.

This past summer was one of the most challenging ever for CFA volunteers who played critically important roles in New South Wales and Queensland as well as their home state.

“Our volunteers individually show great courage, ingenuity, stamina and compassion, while collectively they have the agility, expertise and experience to tackle the most daunting challenges.

“The culture of dedicated and selfless service is a proud Australian tradition. Every CFA volunteer deserves thanks and recognition for the work they do in building community resilience for a safer Victoria.

About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria.