While most teens spent a carefree New Year’s Eve with family and friends, Blackwood’s Jack Simmons saw in 2014 by tending to an out-of-control bonfire.
The junior CFA captain’s commitment to keeping locals safe led to him being awarded Moorabool’s young citizen of the year title, an honour the 16-year-old says left him “flabbergasted” and inspired to continue his community work.
Jack says that as a youngster, he would watch CFA trucks leave the fire station two doors down from his home and imagine the excitement onboard.
“I just had to get involved, it looked so brilliant and full on,” he says.
Jack has been a CFA volunteer for six years and says his work as junior captain is rewarding on many levels.
“I love teaching the kids because I can relate to them and how much they want to be part of it all,” he says.
‘‘I promote the CFA’s hard work and try to get the youngest ones to spread knowledge across the community. I’ve also learnt so many skills myself.”
He says the CFA’s role is of particular importance to Blackwood because of its status as a high-risk town in a fire-prone area.
“The CFA means peace of mind for our town and it’s a social hub as well as an emergency service,” he said.
Fire and heat will take on another meaning in Jack’s life as he begins his apprenticeship as a chef this year, but his voluntary CFA work will continue.
Jack will head to Malaysia in November as one of 21 students in the World Challenge Expedition, involving him in voluntary work at an orphanage and elephant conservatory.
Jack received his award at Moorabool’s Australia Day celebrations in Ballan on Sunday.
Dr David Stewart was named citizen of the year and the Bacchus Marsh Strawberries and Cherries Weekend won the award of community event of the year.
