Eighteen local firefighters begin training this week, putting their bodies on the line for the 10th Annual Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb on September 2.
The gruelling 28-floor race up the Crown Metropol Melbourne stairs is completed with 25kg of firefighting kit on.
The event raises funds for the 000 Foundation, Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation and Lifeline, aiding first responders and their families.
The Mitchell team entering the competition includes CFA members from Seymour, Hilldene, Broadford, Kilmore and Clonbinane.
Adam Griffiths from BFT Seymour is sponsoring the team, offering specialised personal training sessions in the lead-up to the event.
“We’ve got time to build up strength and conditioning, which is good, especially with 25kg of kit on,” he said.
Seymour CFA member Kylie Comte placed second in her heat in 2022 and is leading the Mitchell team this year.
She said the team hoped to raise more than $22,500, which was the top individual fundraising effort of 2022.
“Any way that people wish to help and jump on board we welcome,” she said.
“Our town is great. The people are fantastic, it’s exciting.”
Matt McLaughlin is helping to organise the Mitchell team. Anybody who wishes to donate or sponsor the team can contact him on 0408 512 865.