Most people in the Navy get their fill of firefighting during damage control training, and indeed for real, at sea.
It’s a different story for two sailors posted ashore at HMAS Cerberus, who volunteer for their local fire brigade.
Petty Officer Declan Burt and Leading Seaman Shaydan McGuire volunteer with Country Fire Authority’s (CFA) Hastings Fire Brigade, responding to a variety of emergencies in their off-duty time.
The pair, with about 20 years of naval experience between them, fulfil instructor roles at Cerberus, at the seamanship and communication schools respectively.
Both sailors joined the CFA out of a desire to help their local community.
“I think it’s really important to care for the community that you live in,” Leading Seaman McGuire said.
“I get to serve Australia in the Navy and then bring the skills I have developed home to my neighbourhood, helping people in their moment of need.”
Petty Officer Burt said he enjoyed remaining active within the community.
“Volunteering in an emergency service role is a great way to do that, and continue to develop my skills and experiences,” Petty Officer Burt said.
Someone’s life or property could be at risk. It could be the worst day of their life, and it’s on us to help them.
Volunteering with the CFA is something of a tradition for Cerberus personnel, with members having volunteered in brigades across Western Port, including Crib Point, Balnarring, Bittern, Hastings and Tyabb.
Once a CFA volunteer has completed their general firefighter training, they are issued with a pager and respond to incidents when able.
Petty Officer Burt said there was always a sense of anticipation when the pager goes off.
“Depending on the time of day or night, you often turn out with different members of the brigade, and everyone brings something valuable to the team,” he said.
“Someone’s life or property could be at risk. It could be the worst day of their life, and it’s on us to help them.”
Hastings Fire Brigade Captain Mike Willmott said it was great to have Navy personnel in the brigade.
“Not only does it mean our brigade is more representative of our community, but we get the benefit of the skills that these sailors bring, and their experience in operational contexts,” Mr Willmott said.
“Whilst they don’t often get the long stretches in the brigade due to postings, they fit in quickly and easily, strengthening our capability and our culture.”
