A minimum of four firefighters are being sought to bolster the ranks at Deniliquin Fire + Rescue NSW.
Operating with a strength of 16 firefighters at the moment, a special recruiting event is being held this week to try and reach a full complement of 20 - plus some reserves the brigade can call on as needed.
The brigade is specifically looking for community-minded people who would be paid to become and feature as on-call firefighters.
FRNSW Regional South 3 Zone Deputy Captain Donna Simmons and fellow recruitment officer Bron Daniel have been in Deniliquin putting the call out for any prospective community protectors.
The pair will also attend the special information session hosted at the Deniliquin station in George St this Thursday, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.
People can also drop into the station between 10am and 2pm to speak with the recruiters.
Dep Capt Simmons said the recruitment process is very much led by people with experience as a firefighter in the Riverina
She said there are only a few requirements to become an on-call firefighter.
“It’s very much firies recruiting firies,” she said.
“We’re looking for people with daytime availability, men or women.
“There is no age limit. Applicants don’t even need to be over 18, however they do need a current driver’s license to drive to the station if required and live or work near the fire station to respond quickly to emergencies.
“Other than that, we’re just looking for community-minded individuals who are up for protecting their community.”
Applicants will need to attend a short interview and pass police checks and pre-employment medical and physical assessment.
Eight days of training is included for successful applicants, paid for by FRNSW.
All on-call firefighters are provided with a pager or can receive emergency alerts via their mobile phone, which also allow them to respond regarding their availability while at work.
Ms Daniel said she has seen on-call firefighters from various career backgrounds, which helps the firefighting teams.
“Everyone brings something different to being a firefighter,” she said.
“I was a florist while being an on-call firefighter, which helps as I am good at dealing with people.
“We have people from a range of different jobs and they all bring something different and helpful to being a firefighter.
“It can also enhance your career prospects, and allows to bring some better and different stories to work.”
The role of a firefighter is also diverse - it’s not all about fighting fires.
“There’s also the rescue side, and other types of emergencies,” Ms Daniel said.
“Successful applicants will also be fully trained to be first responders and will get to attend and assist at community events.”
Dep Capt Simmons said the role of an on-call firefighter is essential, especially in regional and remote areas.
“We’re always looking for firefighters. It’s so important to the community - looking after the local area, looking after local people.
“Regional and rural areas rely on local people to do these jobs and protect the community.”
The information session this Thursday is open to anyone.
“Come have a coffee, get some information and see if you or someone you know might be ready to be an on-call firefighter,” Dep Capt Simmons said.
For more information or to apply, visit fire.nsw.edu.au/on-call or call 1800 347 437.