Edendale Volunteer Fire Brigade is calling out for anyone wanting to do their part for the community to join the team.
The Fire and Emergency team in Edendale consists of 23 volunteers, who perform roles in fighting fires, medical response, and all else the community requires.
Chief Fire Officer Brent Shepard said he was looking for people to join up to help ensure the region is as covered as possible.
‘‘I’d like another five or six people to join up and fill roles.
‘‘We have a few people away. It’s just about having coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week,’’ he said.
Mr Shepard said it was an equal opportunity calling for those looking to give back, provided the applicants can pass a police check.
‘‘We’re really keen to get like-minded people who want to give back to the community.
‘‘There’s good support, a great team of people, it doesn’t matter if you’re male or female, we’re a 50/50 mix so it’s a cool dynamic to have,’’ he said.
Mr Shepard said there were multiple roles for a potential volunteer at the station.
‘‘You don’t necessarily have to become a firefighter.
‘‘There’s the first response unit, operational response, there’s always going to be a job for you.’’
Mr Shepard said there were many reasons to join the group.
‘‘For me, personally, it’s about giving back, knowing you can help someone in their hour of need.
‘‘[It’s also] the friendships you make,’’ he said.
Mr Shepard said for a relatively isolated place like Edendale, these volunteer emergency services were critical.
‘‘I think it’s very important.
‘‘Quite often we can be waiting for an hour for an ambulance because they’re so under the pump, so we can offer initial help and support,’’ he said.
Medical first responder Taryn Latta first volunteered two years ago, and said she has not looked back since.
‘‘The brigade is awesome.
‘‘It’s like one big family.
‘‘When I first started, the support everyone gave, getting to know them and learning everything is awesome.
‘‘I reckon don’t be shy — just come along and see what we’re about.
‘‘It’s a great group of people to be involved with,’’ she said.
