To help protect the State’s valuable pine plantations and surrounding communities, Forests NSW has employed 13 temporary fire fighters to work around Bathurst, Lithgow, Orange and Oberon.

Forests NSW Protection coordinator based at Bathurst, Dan Kirby, said employing seasonal labour has helped Forests NSW ensure it is well prepared for the fire season. 

“Forests NSW has employed fit, energetic and practical people, able to stand up to the rigours of fire fighting,” he said.

“When not actively fighting fires, these people will be employed on a wide range of activities including weed spraying, clearing fire trails and other maintenance jobs around the forests and plantations.”

Mr Kirby said this temporary employment was a very good introduction to fire fighting.

“Fire fighters must be prepared to work outdoors in a wide range of climatic conditions, plus they need to be willing to work flexible hours, especially when a wildfire occurs,” he said.

He said all applicants had to pass a medical examination, a physical assessment and a fitness walk.

“Forests NSW provides its employees with accredited training for fire fighting, four-wheel driving, chemical certification, OH&S and first-aid, as well as numerous other valuable practical skills,” Mr Kirby said.

“Forests NSW fire fighting crews may be deployed across the State when necessary. 

“Seasonal employment is at times extended beyond the fire fighting season to help Forests NSW with its extensive hazard reduction burning program in autumn.”

Photo available from sarahc@sf.nsw.gov.au

Media contact: Sarah Chester (02) 6036 2110 or 0417 207 669