A Melton fire brigade comprising seven families has shown its mettle at the recent state championships.
The 23 competitors representing Melton Tatura placed second at the Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) State Urban Junior Championships in Warrnambool on February 24 and 25. They hailed from the Arandt, Portelli, Falzon, Geysing, Hocking, Millington and Johns families.
Melton was second in both the dry and wet events and picked up three race wins during the day.
Coach Anthony Rhodes said Melton was a very family-oriented brigade and the connections prompted strong competition.
“The seven families make up the 23 members of our competition team,” Mr Rhodes said.
“It helps to make it competitive; all the kids love to beat their siblings but the best thing is they all work for each other so they make sure we get the best results.”
He said many of the children were following a tradition set by their parents, who started in junior competitions and went on to train to become CFA volunteers.
Volunteer Fire Brigade Victoria chief Andrew Ford said junior brigades and the championships were the best way for young people to become engaged and learn practical skills before being old enough to attend fires.
“The championships can set young people on a pathway to serve their communities,” Mr Ford said. “They encourage family participation and help to instil a sense of community service and volunteerism in young people while raising the importance of local fire brigades.”
