Airservices Welcomes Next Generation Of Aviation Fire Fighters

Airservices Welcomes Next Generation of Aviation Fire Fighters

Airservices Australia welcomed 24 new aviation rescue fire fighters into its Aviation Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) service at a graduation ceremony in Melbourne today.

The graduate fire fighters completed an intensive ten week training course at Airservices Learning Academy in Melbourne during which they gained highly specialised skills in aviation fire fighting and rescue procedures on a physically gruelling course.

The recruits received a theoretical and practical education in fighting aircraft and structural fires, aviation rescue techniques and in dealing with the hazards of highly flammable aviation fuels.

Robert Swift of Perth, Western Australia won the Silver Axe award as the top recruit on the course.

The Silver Axe award recognises the combination of high marks in the theory of fire fighting, practical application of knowledge, support for other course members and fostered team values over personal goals. John also demonstrated a high level of personal pride, dedication and improvement during the 10 week training course.

ARFF General Manager, Andrew Rushbrook, said that the 24 new recruits would join a national fire fighting service of over 700 professional fire fighters dedicated to the safety of the flying public.

"Airservices has one of the largest, most highly trained, professional aviation fire and rescue services in the world. Our fire fighters provide technical advice on fire safety and seek to educate others in this field," Mr Rushbrook said.

"We respond to a range of incidents every day this can range from medical emergencies to fighting fires in aircraft and airport buildings with a maximum three-minute response time. We also contribute to national efforts to fight fires and contain flames during the bush fire season."

On average, aviation fire fighters respond to 150 emergency calls each week across Australia's 20 busiest regional, domestic and international airports. In the past two years Airservices fire fighters have saved more than 20 lives.

Graduates will receive ongoing training in the use of off-road vehicles and water rescue boats when they arrive at their assigned stations.

For media enquiries or an image of the graduating class, call 02 6257 2828 or email [email protected]

SOURCE: Airservices