MR325/0512

29 May 2012

CALL FOR SEASONAL FIRE FIGHTERS The ACT Government has launched its annual recruitment drive for seasonal fire fighters and is calling on all interested people to apply, Neil Cooper, Manager, Fire Management Unit, Territory and Municipal Services (TAMS), announced today. “Those who enjoy working outside in a team environment and have a desire to help make Canberra a safer place this summer are encouraged to apply to become a TAMS seasonal fire fighter,” Mr Cooper said. “TAMS is currently looking for up to 18 new seasonal fire fighters which includes a possible three seasonal crew leaders. “The new seasonal fire fighters will strengthen the ACT’s rural fire fighting capacity with fit and qualified fire fighters and provide an additional fire resource over the summer commencing as early as this September. “They will provide an increased capacity for rapid deployment to fires in remote areas and assist with fuel reduction, fuel hazard assessment and other fire management activities on Government managed land in the ACT. “Ideally we are seeking applicants that have nationally accredited fire fighting qualifications, however if people possess a strong work ethic, work well in a team environment and are keen to learn new skills then I encourage them to apply. “Seasonal fire fighters will receive extensive training in basic fire fighting, chainsaw operations, driving fourwheel drives, advanced first aid, working with chemicals for weed control and general on-the-job duties. “They also have the opportunity to secure future employment as a fire fighter within the ACT Government. Eighty percent of last year’s seasonal fire fighters are still employed with TAMS. “An information night will be held at Stromlo Depot on Cotter Rd at 5.30 pm, Wednesday 6 June 2012, please RSVP to Scott Farquhar via email on [email protected],” Mr Cooper said. Further information about the seasonal fire fighter positions can be found at www.job.act.gov.au. Applications close on Tuesday 12 June 2012. TAMS provides over 140 fully trained and fit permanent fire fighters to assist the Rural Fire Service in fire suppression across the ACT and surrounds. The official fire season commences in October and will finish in March pending weather and rainfall. The ongoing seasonal fire fighter initiative arose from the McLeod Report into the January 2003 bushfires. For more information on bushfire management in the ACT visit: www.tams.act.gov.au/play/parks_conservation_and_lands/fire_management Statement Ends Media contact: Lannon Harley, 6207 1286