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Sunday, 29 March 2026 17:22

2026 State Urban Championship Results

Written by VFBV

Final results for the 2026 State Urban Senior Championship held in Stawell on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th March 2026 are now available.

The full results are available for download at the bottom of this page. Team times will be available for download from this page later.

Photo's of presentations of each event are available from VFBV's dedicated Championships Facebook page.

Grand Aggregate, A Section Aggregate, A Section Wet Aggregate winner - Osborne Park Orange

B Section Aggregate, B Section Wet Aggregate, B Section Appliance Aggregate winner - Cohuna

Female Aggregate winner - Echuca

Dry Aggregate winner - Tatura

A Section Appliance Aggregate winner - Dandenong

Champion Competitor - Jeremy Withall (Tatura) and Bailey Rhodes (Melton Maroon)

SATURDAY 28^TH MARCH

Event 1 – Ladder Race, One Competitor

1^st	OSBORNE PARK ORANGE (1) (Aiden Couzens)	6.50	seconds
2^nd	HOPPERS CROSSING A (1) (Brenton Lawrence)	6.81	seconds
3^rd	MELTON WHITE (1) (Bailey Arandt)	6.98	seconds
4^th	TATURA (1) (Jeremy Withall)	7.13	seconds
5^th	DRYSDALE (1) (Anthony Connally)	7.15	seconds

Event 2 – B Section Hose & Ladder, Five Competitors

1^st	COHUNA	23.45	seconds
2^nd	DRYSDALE	25.09	seconds
3^rd	WARRNAMBOOL	25.78	seconds
4^th	CRESWICK	26.35	seconds
5^th	BENDIGO	26.61	seconds

Event 3 – A Section Y Coupling, Four Competitors

1^st	TATURA	7.94	seconds
2^nd	PATTERSON RIVER	8.23	seconds
3^rd	MORWELL	8.70	seconds
4^th	HARVEY	8.82	seconds
5^th	MELTON	8.89	seconds

Event 4 – A Section Hose & Ladder, Five Competitors

1^st	OSBORNE PARK ORANGE RECORD	22.11	seconds
2^nd	WARRACKNABEAL	22.19	seconds
3^rd	HARVEY	22.64	seconds
4^th	PATTERSON RIVER	22.87	seconds
5^th	HOPPERS CROSSING A	23.22	seconds

Event 5 – B Section Y Coupling, Four Competitors

1^st	KANGAROO FLAT	8.34	seconds
2^nd	CRESWICK	8.36	seconds
3^rd	KNOX GROUP	9.02	seconds
4^th	SALE Run off conducted for fourth place	9.10	seconds
5^th	OSBORNE PARK GREEN	9.10	seconds

Event 6 – B Section Pumper & Ladder, Five Competitors

1^st	COHUNA	16.15	seconds
2^nd	CRESWICK	16.89	seconds
3^rd	EUROA	17.13	seconds
4^th	WARRNAMBOOL	17.15	seconds
5^th	KANGAROO FLAT	18.00	seconds

Event 7 – Female Section Y Coupling, Four Competitors

1^st	WARRACKNABEAL RECORD	9.18	seconds
2^nd	KNOX GROUP	9.55	seconds
3^rd	HARVEY	10.44	seconds
4^th	MELTON	10.73	seconds
5^th	KANGAROO FLAT	10.95	seconds

Event 8 – A Section Pumper & Ladder, Five Competitors

1^st	DANDENONG	16.28	seconds
2^nd	HOPPERS CROSSING	16.84	seconds
3^rd	WARRACKNABEAL	17.33	seconds
4^th	ECHUCA A	17.39	seconds
5^th	PATTERSON RIVER	17.54	seconds

Event 9 – Female Y Coupling, Two Competitors

1^st	ECHUCA	13.17	seconds
2^nd	PAKENHAM	13.95	seconds
3^rd	KNOX GROUP	14.05	seconds
4^th	NARRE WARREN	14.36	seconds
5^th	HARVEY	14.65	seconds

Event 10 – B Section Y Coupling, Six Competitors

1^st	KANGAROO FLAT RECORD	33.54	seconds
2^nd	CRESWICK	36.07	seconds
3^rd	COHUNA	39.73	seconds
4^th	SALE	40.80	seconds
5^th	KYNETON	41.95	seconds

Event 11 – A Section Marshall, One Competitor

1^st	MARYVALE (1) (Matt Royal)	24.18	seconds
2^nd	TATURA (1) (Jeremy Withall)	24.54	seconds
3^rd	MELTON MAROON (2) (Bailey Rhodes)	25.27	seconds
4^th	DANDENONG (1) (Millar Anderson)	26.17	seconds
5^th	HOPPERS CROSSING A (2) (Brenton Lawrence)	26.32	seconds

Event 12 – A Section Y Coupling, Six Competitors

1^st	OSBORNE PARK ORANGE RECORD	32.59	seconds
2^nd	PATTERSON RIVER	33.24	seconds
3^rd	DANDENONG	33.95	seconds
4^th	NARRE WARREN A	35.45	seconds
5^th	HARVEY	36.59	seconds

Event 13 – Female Marshall, One Competitor

1^st	TATURA (Hayley Rennie)	29.28	seconds
2^nd	ECHUCA (Kaylea Blake)	30.60	seconds
3^rd	PAKENHAM (Shymma Harris)	31.33	seconds
4^th	KNOX GROUP (Rebecca Keats)	31.66	seconds
5^th	HARVEY (Kaitlin Naude)	31.92	seconds

Event 14 – Female Section Wet Hose, Two Competitors

1^st	ECHUCA (Shae Burns, Kaylea Blake) RECORD	12.59	seconds
2^nd	TATURA (Hayley Rennie, Sam Rennie)	12.75	seconds
3^rd	KNOX GROUP (Rebecca Keats, Isabella Gluskie)	13.22	seconds
4^th	WARRACKNABEAL (Isabella Orszulak)	13.58	seconds
5^th	NARRE WARREN (Samantha McKean, Gabby Keats)	13.68	seconds

Event 15 – B Section Marshall, One Competitor

1^st	MAFFRA (1) (Brent McKenzie)	25.55	seconds
2^nd	OSBORNE PARK GREEN (1) (Tom Evans)	26.79	seconds
3^rd	HORSHAM (2) (Jonothan Hornsby)	27.33	seconds
4^th	WERRIBEE (1) (Michael Trifflo)	27.57	seconds
5^th	OSBORNE PARK GREEN (2) (Dean Jordan)	27.69	seconds

Event 16 – A Section Hydrant & Tanker, Four Competitors

1^st	MELTON MAROON	11.75	seconds
2^nd	SWAN HILL	12.00	seconds
3^rd	DANDENONG	12.44	seconds
4^th	HARVEY	14.73	seconds
5^th	WENDOUREE	14.33	seconds

Event 17 – B Section Hydrant & Tanker, Four Competitors

1^st	COHUNA	13.61	seconds
2^nd	CRESWICK	13.64	seconds
3^rd	WARRNAMBOOL	13.91	seconds
4^th	KANGAROO FLAT Run off conducted for fourth place	14.37	seconds
5^th	HALLAM	14.37	seconds

Event 18 – Female Section Hydrant and Tanker, Four Competitors

1^st	SWAN HILL RECORD	17.38	seconds
2^nd	MELTON	19.22	seconds
3^rd	WENDOUREE	20.37	seconds
4^th	KYNETON	21.18	seconds
5^th	NARRE WARREN	21.70	seconds

SUNDAY 29^TH MARCH

Event 19 – Female Hydrant Race, One Competitor

1^st	WARRACKNABEAL (Isabella Orszulak)	15.25	seconds
2^nd	BENDIGO (Natalie Watson)	15.49	seconds
3^rd	SWAN HILL (Amity Scott)	15.73	seconds
4^th	KERANG (Kendall Ash)	15.92	seconds
5^th	NARRE WARREN (Gabby Keats)	16.42	seconds

Event 20 – A Section Marshall, Two Competitors

1^st	MELTON WHITE (1) (Jesse Arandt, Bayllie Arandt)	15.09	seconds
2^nd	HARVEY (2) (Ethan Harding, Brodie Hewer)	15.12	seconds
3^rd	MELTON MAROON (2) (Bailey Rhodes, Devante Johns)	15.22	seconds
4^th	TATURA (1) (Jeremy Withall, Nathan Rennie)	15.31	seconds
5^th	TATURA (2) (Matt Rennie, Luke Rennie)	15.86	seconds

Event 21 – Hydrant Race, One Competitor

1^st	MARYVALE (1) (Matt Royal)	12.19	seconds
2^nd	NARRE WARREN A (1) (Adrian Jones)	12.35	seconds
3^rd	TATURA (2) (Nathan Rennie)	12.40	seconds
4^th	MELTON MAROON (2) (Jack Geysing)	12.44	seconds
5^th	DANDENONG (1) (Millar Anderson)	12.47	seconds

Event 22 – Female Marshall, Two Competitors

1^st	ECHUCA (Kaylea Blake, Shae Burns)	18.60	seconds
2^nd	TATURA (Sam Rennie, Hayley Rennie)	19.00	seconds
3^rd	OSBORNE PARK (Nikki Jackson, Alyssa Bolger)	19.19	seconds
4^th	BENDIGO (Keeley Rooke, Natalie Watson)	19.72	seconds
5^th	WARRACKNABEAL (Isabella Orszulak, Zoe Morris)	19.86	seconds

Event 23 – A Section Hose & Reel Sixes

1^st	OSBORNE PARK ORANGE	28.87	seconds
2^nd	MELTON MAROON	29.30	seconds
3^rd	WENDOUREE	30.84	seconds
4^th	HOPPERS CROSSING A	31.21	seconds
5^th	ECHUCA A	31.69	seconds

Event 24 – B Section Marshall, Two Competitors

1^st	OSBORNE PARK GREEN (1) (Dean Jordan, Tom Evans)	16.46	seconds
2^nd	WERRIBEE (2) (Michael Trifilo, Aiden Trifilo)	16.81	seconds
3^rd	COHUNA (1) (Lachie Mathers, Shannon Treacy)	17.69	seconds
4^th	EUROA (1) (Max Fuelanetto, Brodie Asquith)	17.78	seconds
5^th	KANGAROO FLAT (1) (Blake Harris, Michael Evans)	18.20	seconds

Event 25 – Female Section Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors

1^st	HARVEY - RECORD	17.13	seconds
2^nd	ECHUCA	17.45	seconds
3^rd	KANGAROO FLAT	17.96	seconds
4^th	SWAN HILL	18.45	seconds
5^th	PAKENHAM	19.01	seconds

Event 26 – A Section Hose, Hydrant & Pumper, Four Competitors

1^st	OSBORNE PARK ORANGE	13.71	seconds
2^nd	NARRE WARREN A	13.80	seconds
3^rd	PATTERSON RIVER	14.75	seconds
4^th	ECHUCA A	15.55	seconds
5^th	MELTON WHITE	15.63	seconds

Event 27 – B Section Hose & Reel Sixes

1^st	CRESWICK	32.99	seconds
2^nd	OSBORNE PARK GREEN	33.20	seconds
3^rd	SALE	34.15	seconds
4^th	EUROA	34.34	seconds
5^th	BENDIGO	34.38	seconds

Event 28 – B Section Hose, Hydrant & Pumper, Four Competitors

1^st	WARRNAMBOOL	14.58	seconds
2^nd	WERRIBEE	15.80	seconds
3^rd	CRESWICK	15.81	seconds
4^th	COHUNA	16.27	seconds
5^th	SALE	16.53	seconds

Event 29 – A Section Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors

1^st	TATURA- RECORD	14.17	seconds
2^nd	MELTON MAROON	14.54	seconds
3^rd	ECHUCA A	14.69	seconds
4^th	HARVEY	14.93	seconds
5^th	HOPPERS CROSSING A	15.30	seconds

Event 30 – Female Section Hose, Hydrant & Pumper, Four Competitors

1^st	WARRACKNABEAL - RECORD	18.25	seconds
2^nd	WERRIBEE	18.79	seconds
3^rd	NARRE WARREN	20.45	seconds
4^th	MORWELL	21.03	seconds
5^th	HOPPERS CROSSING	21.89	seconds

Event 31 – B Section Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors

1^st	KYNETON	15.49	seconds
2^nd	MAFFRA	16.62	seconds
3^rd	COHUNA	16.02	seconds
4^th	OSBORNE PARK GREEN	16.07	seconds
5^th	WERRIBEE	16.23	seconds

Event 32 – Champion Fours

1^st	MELTON MAROON	17.31	seconds
2^nd	ECHUCA A	18.30	seconds
3^rd	TATURA	19.02	seconds
4^th	SWAN HILL	19.55	seconds
5^th	DRYSDALE	19.55	seconds

CHALLENGE EVENTS

Vic/WA Challenge, Hose & Reel Eights

1^st	WESTERN AUSTRALIA (Tod Bergerson, Mitch Golding, Peter Goodbourn, Ethan Harding, Zoe Hazelwood, Brodie Hewer, Greg Hunter, Kyden Toop, Kaitlin Naude)	30.93	seconds
2^nd	VICTORIA (Jason Black – Echuca A, Matt Bolger – Osborne Park Orange, Aiden Couzens – Osborne Park Orange, Ben Geysing – Melton Maroon, Brenton Lawrence – Hoppers Crossing A, Isabella Orszulak – Warracknabeal, Adam Saunders – Swan Hill, David Swain – Creswick, Stephen Ash – Kerang)	miss

East v West, Female Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors

1^st	WEST (Kendall Ash – Kerang, Claire Longstaff – Bendigo, Zoe Morris – Warracknabeal, Amity Scott – Swan Hill)	18.45	seconds
2^nd	EAST (Teagan Holland – Morwell, Becca Keats – Knox Group, Hannah Norman – Echuca, Hayley Rennie – Tatura)	18.85	seconds

East v West, Hose & Reel Eights

1^st	EAST (Millar Anderson – Dandenong, Devante Johns – Melton Maroon, Adrian Jones – Narre Warren A, Steve Myles – Dandenong, Matt Rennie – Tatura, Bailey Rhodes – Melton Maroon, Joel Shanahan – Patterson River, Jordan Simpson – Echuca A, Evan Bramley – Dandenong)	30.95	seconds
2^nd	WEST (Anthony Connally – Drysdale, Logan Hand – Creswick, Marshall Hand – Creswick, Blake Harris – Kangaroo Flat, Nelson Ibbs – Swan Hill, James Mullins – Osborne Park Orange, Cody Polack – Warracknabeal, Ben Watterson – Wendouree, Clinton Jonasson – Warracknabeal)	34.91	seconds

TORCHLIGHT PROCESSION

=1^st	MELTON A & KNOX GROUP	92.00%
2^nd	EUROA	90.00%
=3^rd	MORWELL & DANDENONG	88.00%

FINAL AGGREGATE RESULTS

Dry Aggregate

1^st	TATURA	21	points
2^nd	MARYVALE	16	points
3^rd	MELTON WHITE	11	points

Wet Aggregate

1^st	OSBORNE PARK ORANGE	56	points
2^nd	COHUNA	46	points
3^rd	MELTON MAROON	44	points

Female Aggregate

1^st	ECHUCA	47	points
2^nd	WARRACKNABEAL	29	points
3^rd	TATURA	23	points

SECTION AGGREGATES

‘A’ SECTION

1^st	OSBORNE PARK ORANGE	64	points
2^nd	MELTON MAROON	52	points
3^rd	TATURA	43	points

‘A’ SECTION WET AGGREGATE

1^st	OSBORNE PARK ORANGE	56	points
2^nd	MELTON MAROON	44	points
=3^rd	ECHUCA A & TATURA	22	points

‘A’ SECTION APPLIANCE AGGREGATE

1^st	DANDENONG	11	points
=2^nd	MELTON MAROON & OSBORNE PARK ORANGE	8	points

‘B’ SECTION

1^st	COHUNA	49	points
2^nd	CRESWICK	48	points
3^rd	OSBORNE PARK GREEN	29	points

‘B’ SECTION WET AGGREGATE

1^st	COHUNA	46	points
2^nd	CRESWICK	43	points
=3^rd	KANGAROO FLAT & WARRNAMBOOL	19	points

‘B’ SECTION APPLIANCE AGGREGATE

1^st	COHUNA	18	points
=2^nd	CRESWICK & WARRNAMBOOL	13	points

2026 CHAMPION COMPETITOR

=1^st	Jeremy Withall (Tatura) and Bailey Rhodes (Melton Maroon)	24	points
3^rd	Devante Jones (Melton Maroon)	21	points

2026 CHAMPION BRIGADE

The team members of Osborne Park Orange are:

Leigh Barclay
Matt Bolger
Nathan Bolger
Aiden Couzens
James Mullins
Jaxon Winsall

And coach – Col Jordan

FINAL AGGREGATE BOARD

FEMALE AGGREGATE

Published in HomePage Featured

Sunday, 29 March 2026 17:07

2026 State Rural Junior Championship

Written by VFBV

Final results for the 2026 State Rural Junior Championship held in Stawell on Sunday 39 March 2026 are now available.

The results are available for download at the bottom of this page.

Presentation photos and times for all events will be posted on VFBV's dedicated Championships Facebook Page.

Results for all events are available to view here.

Champion Brigade - Beazley's Bridge

11-13 years Aggregate

11-15 years Aggregate

Event 1A: Low Down Pump & Ladder – 11 – 13 years

1^st	Beazley’s Bridge A	18.79	seconds
2^nd	Pearcedale A	20.31	seconds
3^rd	Miners Rest A	20.64	seconds
4^th	Strathmerton A	21.13	seconds
5^th	Leopold A	21.50	seconds

Event 1B: Low Down Pump & Ladder – 11 – 15 years

1^st	Napoleons-Enfield A	16.37	seconds
2^nd	Beazley’s Bridge A	17.79	seconds
3^rd	Napoleons-Enfield B	17.96	seconds
4^th	Maiden Gully B	19.02	seconds
5^th	Doreen A	19.16	seconds

Chief Officer’s Challenge Event, Low Down Pump & Ladder

1^st	Maiden Gully B: Arlen Shay, Tianna Shay, Louis Jenkins & Chris Mason	17.15	seconds
2^nd	Strathmerton A: Claudia Ciccone, Emma Bourchier, Eliza Bourchier & Ruby Fuller	21.97	seconds
3^rd	Chief Chargers: ACO Alen Slijepcevic AFSM, DCO Adrian Gutsche, DCO Trevor Weston & Acting DCO Steve Alcock	21.10	seconds

Event 2A: Wet Hose & Ladder – 11 – 13 years

1^st	Beazley’s Bridge A	22.49	seconds
2^nd	Leopold A	22.56	seconds
3^rd	Elaine A	25.44	seconds
4^th	Pearcedale A	25.68	seconds
5^th	Elaine B	26.22	seconds

Event 2B: Wet Hose & Ladder – 11 – 15 years

1^st	Ascot & District A	20.70	seconds
2^nd	Beazley’s Bridge A	20.77	seconds
3^rd	Napoleons-Enfield A	20.78	seconds
4^th	Truganina B	20.92	seconds
5^th	Research A	21.77	seconds

Event 4A: Tanker – Priming, Pumping & Ladder – 11 -13 years

1^st	Beazley’s Bridge A	25.52	seconds
2^nd	Mandurang A	31.65	seconds
3^rd	Springhurst A	33.12	seconds
4^th	Pearcedale A	35.40	seconds
5^th	Gapsted A	38.13	seconds

Event 4B: Tanker – Priming, Pumping & Ladder – 11 – 15 years

1^st	RECORD: Napoleons-Enfield A	21.58	seconds
2^nd	Beazley’s Bridge A	24.99	seconds
3^rd	Truganina A	25.11	seconds
4^th	Ascot & District A	25.92	seconds
5^th	Glenlyon A	26.44	seconds

Event 5A: Hydrant & Tanker – 11 – 13 years

1^st	Beazley’s Bridge A	30.47	seconds
2^nd	Mandurang A	32.45	seconds
3^rd	Leopold A	32.99	seconds
=4^th	Elaine A & Elaine B	35.15	seconds

Event 5B: Hydrant & Tanker – 11 – 15 years

1^st	Napoleons-Enfield A	24.04	seconds
2^nd	Beazley’s Bridge A	25.05	seconds
3^rd	Ascot & District A	26.36	seconds
4^th	Truganina B	29.95	seconds
5^th	Doreen B	30.75	seconds

Event 6A: Tanker – Drawing Water from Tank – 11 – 13 years

1^st	Beazley’s Bridge A	23.24	seconds
2^nd	Springhurst A	24.61	seconds
3^rd	Gapsted A	26.75	seconds
4^th	Leopold A	27.92	seconds
5^th	Elaine A	28.86	seconds

Event 6B: Tanker – Drawing Water from Tank – 11 – 15 years

1^st	Maiden Gully B	18.39	seconds
2^nd	Napoleons-Enfield A	19.78	seconds
3^rd	Beazley’s Bridge A	20.30	seconds
4^th	Napoleons-Enfield B	20.89	seconds
5^th	Ascot & District A	20.90	seconds

Junior Firefighter Sprint Winners

11 – 13 years – Female

1^st	STRATHMERTON: Emma Bourchier
2^nd	MANDURANG: Zoe Stewart
3^rd	NAPOLEONS-ENFIELD: Violet Roberts

11 – 13 years – Male

1^st	PEARCEDALE: Lenny Kakantonis
2^nd	LEOPOLD: Benji Berryman
3^rd	NAPOLEONS-ENFIELD: Hamish Kuchel

11 – 15 years – Female

1^st	NAPEOLEONS-ENFIELD: Josie Roberts
2^nd	MAIDEN GULLY: Tianna Shay
3^rd	BEAZLEY’S BRIDGE: Sami Weir

11 – 15 years – Male

1^st	MINERS REST: Nick Quirk
2^nd	BEAZLEY’S BRIDGE: Henry Small
3^rd	GAPSTED: Thomas Griffith

FINAL AGGREGATE RESULTS

11 – 13 YEARS AGGREGATE

1^st	Beazley’s Bridge A	80	points
2^nd	Leopold A	22	points
3^rd	Mandurang A	20	points

11 – 15 YEARS AGGREGATE

1^st	Napoleons-Enfield A	64	points
2^nd	Beazley’s Bridge A	46	points
3^rd	Ascot & District A	28	points

CHAMPION TEAM

1^st	Beazley’s Bridge A	126	points
2^nd	Napoleons-Enfield A	64	points
3^rd	Ascot & District A	28	points

VFBV State President Encouragement Award winner: Mannerim 11-13 Years

Stan Ross Conduct Trophy winner: Gapsted

FINAL AGGREGATES

Published in HomePage Featured

Saturday, 28 March 2026 17:46

2026 State Rural Senior Championship Results

Written by VFBV

Final results for the 2026 State Rural Senior Championship held in Stawell on Saturday 28 March 2026 are now available.

The results are available for download at the bottom of this page.

Presentation photos and times for all events will be posted on VFBV's dedicated Championships Facebook Page.

Results for all events are available to view here.

Division 1 Aggregate Winner - Leopold A

Division 2 Aggregate Winner - Mandurang A

Division 3 Aggregate Winner - Hurstbridge D

Female Aggregate - Eldorado E

Alan King AFSM Memorial Conduct Trophy - Eldorado brigade

Event 1: Low Down Pump & Ladder

Division 1
1^st	RECORD: Beazley’s Bridge A	14.95	seconds
2^nd	Eldorado A	14.97	seconds
3^rd	Moorooduc A	15.62	seconds
4^th	Hurstbridge A	15.81	seconds
5^th	Dunrobin/Nangeela A	16.13	seconds

Division 2
1^st	Leopold B	16.88	seconds
2^nd	Pearcedale B	17.14	seconds
3^rd	Mandurang A	17.15	seconds
4^th	Hurstbridge B	17.37	seconds
5^th	Gapsted A	17.91	seconds

Division 3
1^st	Ascot & District A	17.24	seconds
2^nd	Miners Rest B	18.66	seconds
3^rd	Hurstbridge D	18.68	seconds
4^th	Truganina D	19.37	seconds
5^th	Glenlyon A	19.46	seconds

Event 2: Wet Hose & Ladder

Division 1
1^st	Leopold A	14.97	seconds
2^nd	Eldorado A	15.03	seconds
3^rd	Truganina A	15.97	seconds
4^th	Napoleons-Enfield A	16.12	seconds
5^th	Miners Rest A	16.69	seconds

Division 2
1^st	Mandurang A	16.07	seconds
2^nd	Elaine A	16.78	seconds
3^rd	Dunrobin/Nangeela B	17.46	seconds
4^th	Leopold B	17.69	seconds
5^th	Eltham A	17.77	seconds

Division 3
1^st	Glenlyon A	17.34	seconds
2^nd	Maiden Gully A	18.27	seconds
3^rd	Truganina C	19.10	seconds
4^th	Hurstbridge D	19.18	seconds
5^th	South East Region Staff Team A	19.24	seconds

Event 3: Tanker Hose Reel & Ladder

Division 1
1^st	RECORD: Leopold A	39.85	seconds
2^nd	Hurstbridge A	40.42	seconds
3^rd	Eldorado A	41.24	seconds
4^th	Moorooduc A	41.73	seconds
5^th	Beazley’s Bridge A	43.26	seconds

Division 2
1^st	Leopold B	50.22	seconds
2^nd	Hurstbridge B	51.26	seconds
3^rd	Truganina B	51.48	seconds
4^th	Napoleons-Enfield B	54.46	seconds
5^th	Dunrobin/Nangeela B	54.85	seconds

Division 3
1^st	Hurstbridge D	47.80	seconds
2^nd	Mandurang B	52.62	seconds
3^rd	Maiden Gully A	54.79	seconds
4^th	Ascot & District A	54.81	seconds
5^th	Eldorado E	55.47	seconds

Event 4: Tanker – Priming, Pumping & Ladder

Division 1
1^st	Eldorado A	20.73	seconds
2^nd	Leopold A	21.24	seconds
3^rd	Moorooduc A	22.06	seconds
4^th	Truganina A	22.67	seconds
5^th	Hurstbridge A	22.69	seconds

Division 2
1^st	Hurstbridge B	23.96	seconds
2^nd	Pearcedale B	24.45	seconds
3^rd	Eltham A	24.62	seconds
4^th	Mandurang A	24.83	seconds
5^th	Eldorado B	24.98	seconds

Division 3
1^st	Glenlyon A	23.53	seconds
2^nd	Maiden Gully A	26.36	seconds
3^rd	Mandurang B	27.45	seconds
4^th	Glenlyon B	29.22	seconds
5^th	Truganina D	29.66	seconds

Event 5: Hydrant & Tanker

Division 1
1^st	Moorooduc A	20.04	seconds
2^nd	Dunrobin/Nangeela A	20.30	seconds
3^rd	Napoleons-Enfield A	23.34	seconds
4^th	Leopold A	23.39	seconds
5^th	Moorooduc B	25.83	seconds

Division 2
1^st	Mandurang A	19.82	seconds
2^nd	Napoleons-Enfield B	20.26	seconds
3^rd	Elaine A	20.80	seconds
4^th	Eldorado B	22.34	seconds
5^th	Strathmerton A	23.12	seconds

Division 3
1^st	Hurstbridge D	22.90	seconds
2^nd	Mandurang B	23.05	seconds
3^rd	Doreen A	23.83	seconds
4^th	South East Region Staff Team A	24.83	seconds
5^th	Truganina D	25.16	seconds

Event 6: Tanker – Drawing Water from Tank

Division 1
1^st	Hurstbridge A	15.91	seconds
2^nd	Leopold A	17.30	seconds
3^rd	Moorooduc A	18.31	seconds
4^th	Truganina A	18.88	seconds
5^th	Dunrobin/Nangeela A	19.00	seconds

Division 2
1^st	Napoleons-Enfield B	16.90	seconds
2^nd	Truganina B	18.61	seconds
3^rd	Mandurang A	19.09	seconds
4^th	Eldorado C	19.52	seconds
5^th	Hurstbridge B	20.18	seconds

Division 3
1^st	Truganina C	19.53	seconds
2^nd	Eldorado E	21.19	seconds
3^rd	Mandurang B	21.20	seconds
4^th	Maiden Gully A	21.69	seconds
5^th	Mandurang C	22.57	seconds

FINAL AGGREGATE RESULTS

DIVISION 1

1^st	Leopold A	56	points
2^nd	Eldorado A	42	points
3^rd	Moorooduc A	38	points

DIVISION 2

1^st	Mandurang A	48	points
2^nd	Leopold B	36	points
3^rd	Hurstbridge B	32	points

DIVISION 3

1^st	Hurstbridge D	42	points
2^nd	Glenlyon A	34	points
3^rd	Mandurang B	32	points

FEMALE AGGREGATE

1^st	Eldorado E	45	points
2^nd	Mandurang C	18	points
3^rd	Napoleons/Enfield C	16	points

Alan King AFSM Memorial Conduct Trophy: Eldorado Brigade

Aggregate Boards

Division 1

Division 2

Division 3

Female Aggregate

Published in HomePage Featured

Sunday, 22 March 2026 13:25

2026 State Urban Junior Championship Results

Written by VFBV

Final results for the 2026 State Urban Junior Championships held in Mooroopna on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 March 2026 are now available.

The results are listed below and are also available for download at the bottom of this page.

Presentation photos and placegetters for all events have been posted on VFBV's dedicated Championships Facebook Page. Team times for each event are available for download at the bottom of this page.

SATURDAY 21^st MARCH

Event 1 – Hydrant Race, One Competitor – Under 14 years

1^st	MAFFRA (1) (Tristian Scott)	11.06	seconds
2^nd	SWAN HILL A (1) (Natalia Barnes)	11.16	seconds
3^rd	MELTON A (1) (Ricky Cassar)	11.22	seconds
4^th	MELTON A (2) (Ronan Steele)	11.24	seconds
5^th	WARRACKNABEAL A (1) (Joe Thompson)	11.52	seconds

Event 2 – Y Coupling, Two Competitors – Under 17 years

1^st	ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Archie Collier)	11.98	seconds
2^nd	MAFFRA (Tyler Schoemaekers, Kye Bence)	12.45	seconds
3^rd	MELTON A (Tyler Goudie, Ryder Millington)	12.56	seconds
4^th	GROVEDALE A (Koby Moores, Tom Warita)	13.55	seconds
5^th	SWAN HILL A (Xavier Morpeth, Chloe Howard)	14.13	seconds

Event 3 – Wet Hose Striking Second Disc, Four Competitors – Under 14 years

1^st	GROVEDALE A (Hamish Jenner, Bridie Meadows, Xavier Wilson, Matilda Weisier)	19.72	seconds
2^nd	ECHUCA A (Xavier Moylan, Lucas Brackenhofer, Emily Zlateff, Jasmine Wills)	20.19	seconds
3^rd	WARRACKNABEAL A (Joe Thompson, Archie Nickleson, Victoria Wright, borrowed competitor)	20.35	seconds
4^th	KYNETON (John Pearce, Bonnie Tracey, Riley Sanders, borrowed competitor)	20.43	seconds
5^th	WERRIBEE A (Jack Atkins, Jake Davie, Aidan Green, Henry Weston)	20.50	seconds

Event 4 – Y Coupling, Four Competitors – Under 17 years

1^st	ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Archie Collier, Jack Alberni, Connor Drinkwell)	9.37	seconds
2^nd	WARRACKNABEAL B (Ruby Crisp, Riley Bish, Josh Nuske, borrowed competitor)	10.43	seconds
3^rd	HOPPERS CROSSING A (Isis Dawson, Christopher Dawson, Liam Parker, Lincoln Degenhardt)	10.64	seconds
4^th	WARRACKNABEAL A (Zander Jonasson, Ben Wright, Michael Wright, Maddison Bentley)	10.69	seconds
5^th	MAFFRA (Tristian Scott, Jacinta Schoemaekers, Tyler Schoenmaekers, Kye Bence)	11.04	seconds

Event 5 – Wet Hose Striking 1^st & 2^nd Discs, Four Competitors – Under 17 years

1^st	WARRACKNABEAL A (Zander Jonasson, Ben Wright, Michael Wright, Maddison Bentley)	19.95	seconds
2^nd	MELTON A (Tyler Goudie, Ryder Millington, Mason Pasco, Alexis Johnston)	19.97	seconds
3^rd	MAFFRA (Tristian Scott, Jacinta Schoemaekers, Tyler Schoemaekers, Kye Bence)	20.53	seconds
4^th	HOPPERS CROSSING A (Isis Dawson, Christopher Dawson, Lincoln Degenhardt, Kaushal Date)	21.18	seconds
5^th	GROVEDALE A (Koby Moores, Tom Warita, William Warita, Xavier Wilson)	21.23	seconds

Event 6 – Marshall, One Competitor – Under 14 years

1^st	WARRACKNABEAL A (Joe Thompson)	36.34	seconds
2^nd	CRESWICK (Will Hand)	36.78	seconds
3^rd	SWAN HILL A (Natalia Barnes)	37.14	seconds
4^th	MAFFRA (Tristian Scott)	37.25	seconds
5^th	ECHUCA A (Xavier Moylan)	37.34	seconds

Event 7 – Wet Hose Striking 1^st & 2^nd Discs, Four Competitors – Under 14 years

1^st	KYNETON (John Pearce, Bonnie Tracey, Riley Sanders, borrowed competitor)	23.01	seconds
2^nd	SWAN HILL A (Boyd Jilbert, Alexander Morpeth, Toby Jilbert, Natalia Barnes)	23.55	seconds
3^rd	ECHUCA A (Lucas Brackenhofer, Emily Zlateff, Jasmine Wills, Amber Schmedje)	24.50	seconds
4^th	MELTON B (Royce Cruz, Yandel Cruz, Nathan Ilardo, Harry Nixon)	24.89	seconds
5^th	SALE (Will Saywell, Connor Knights, Opal Goode, Andy Gaudion)	25.24	seconds

Event 8 – Marshall, One Competitor – Under 17 years

1^st	ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield)	29.69	seconds
2^nd	SWAN HILL B (Uriah Cochrane)	29.85	seconds
3^rd	HAMILTON (Jordan Uebergang)	35.06	seconds
4^th	WERRIBEE A (Rose Higgs)	35.39	seconds
5^th	SWAN HILL A (Catherine Morpeth)	35.39	seconds

Event 9 – Wet Hose, Two Competitors – Under 17 years

1^st	ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Archie Collier)	11.06	seconds
2^nd	MELTON A (Ricky Cassar, Ronan Steele)	11.25	seconds
3^rd	WARRACKNABEAL A (Ben Wright, Michael Wright)	11.91	seconds
4^th	HAMILTON (Jodan Uebergang, Jayda Bruni)	12.37	seconds
5^th	EYNESBURY A (William Greene, Eva Rogers)	12.85	seconds

Event 10 – Marshall, Two Competitors – Under 14 years

1^st	GROVEDALE (Hamish Jenner, Bridie Meadows)	20.88	seconds
2^nd	SALE (Will Saywell, Connor Knights)	22.43	seconds
3^rd	CRESWICK (Will Hand, Charlie Barber)	22.88	seconds
4^th	MELTON A (Ricky Cassar, Ronan Steele)	22.91	seconds
5^th	ECHUCA A (Xavier Moylan, Lucas Brackenhofer)	23.04	seconds

Event 11 – Wet Hose, Two Competitors – Under 14 years

1^st	KYNETON (John Pearce, Bonnie Tracey)	12.28	seconds
2^nd	ECHUCA A (Xavier Moylan, Lucas Brackenhofer)	12.71	seconds
3^rd	MAFFRA (Tristian Scott, Jacinta Schoemaekers)	13.04	seconds
4^th	ECHUCA B (Maddison Moylan, Jaxon Black)	13.23	seconds
5^th	MELTON A (Ricky Cassar, Ronan Steele)	13.28	seconds

SUNDAY 22^nd MARCH

Event 12 – Hydrant Race, One Competitor – Under 17 years

1^st	ECHUCA A (1) (Mason Whinfield)	13.03	seconds
2^nd	ECHUCA A (2) (Archie Collier)	13.38	seconds
3^rd	KYNETON (1) (Chris Mason)	13.43	seconds
4^th	MAFFRA (1) (Tyler Schoemaekers)	13.65	seconds
5^th	GROVEDALE A (2) (William Warita)	14.82	seconds

Event 13 – Y Coupling, Two Competitors – Under 14 years

1^st	MELTON A (Ronan Steele, Ricky Cassar)	12.77	seconds
2^nd	SALE (Connor Knights, Will Saywell)	13.88	seconds
3^rd	WARRACKNABEAL A (Victoria Wright, Joe Thompson)	14.48	seconds
4^th	KYNETON (John Pearce, Bonnie Tracey)	14.72	seconds
5^th	ECHUCA B (Maddison Moylan, Tully Waterson)	15.00	seconds

Event 14 – Wet Hose Striking Second Disc, Four Competitors – Under 17 years

1^st	GROVEDALE A (Thomas Defrancesco, Koby Moores, Tom Warita, William Warita)	17.28	seconds
2^nd	MELTON A (Tyler Goudiel, Ryder Millington, Mason Pasco, Alexis Johnston)	18.06	seconds
3^rd	ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Archie Collier, Jack Alberni, Ben Wills)	18.29	seconds
4^th	WARRACKNABEAL A (Zander Jonasson, Ben Wright, Michael Wright, Maddison Bentley)	18.79	seconds
5^th	MELTON B (Lily Leitch, Billie Welshe, Jayden Nixon, Charlotte Crawford)	19.74	seconds

Event 15 – Y Coupling, Four Competitors – Under 14 years

1^st	GROVEDALE A (Hamish Jenner, Bridie Meadows, Xavier Wilson, Matilda Weiser)	9.74	seconds
2^nd	WARRACKNABEAL A (Joe Thompson, Archie Nickleson, Victoria Wright, borrowed competitor)	9.93	seconds
3^rd	ECHUCA B (Maddison Moylan, Jaxon Black, Finlee Black, Tully Waterson)	10.22	seconds
4^th	CRESWICK (Makayla O’Connor, Will Hand, Charlie Barber, Izzy Kampman)	11.02	seconds
5^th	SWAN HILL A (Boyd Jilbert, Alexander Morpeth, Toby Jilbert, Natalia Barnes)	11.31	seconds

Event 16 – Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors – Under 14 years

1^st	MELTON A (Ricky Cassar, Ronan Steele, Braxton Holden, Bentley Johnston)	17.29	seconds
2^nd	KYNETON (John Pearce, Bonnie Tracey, Riley Sanders, borrowed competitor)	18.28	seconds
3^rd	ECHUCA A (Xavier Moylan, Emily Zlateff, Jasmine Wills, Amber Schmedje)	18.30	seconds
4^th	GROVEDALE A (Hamish Jenner, Bridie Meadows, Xavier Wilson, Matilda Weiser)	18.36	seconds
5^th	MAFFRA (Trisitan Scott, Jacinta Schoemaekers, Shade Roberts-Taylor, Leo Di Ciero)	19.40	seconds

Event 17 – Marshall, Two Competitors – Under 17 years

1^st	ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Archie Collier)	17.65	seconds
2^nd	MELTON B (Lilly Leitch, Billie Welshe)	20.51	seconds
3^rd	GISBORNE (Zac Dickson, Lincoln Moyes)	20.58	seconds
4^th	GROVEDALE A (Koby Moores, William Warita)	20.89	seconds
5^th	MELTON A (Tyler Goudie, Ryder Millington)	21.94	seconds

Event 18 – Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors – Under 17 years

1^st	ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Jack Alberni, Connor Drinkwell, Ben Wills)	16.33	seconds
2^nd	WANGARATTA (Will Thompson, Buddy Marshall, Evy Bongers, Jack Ambrose)	16.78	seconds
3^rd	SWAN HILL A (Xavier Morpeth, Catherine Morpeth, Chloe Howard, Sasha Hayes)	17.41	seconds
4^th	KYNETON (Charlie Tracey, Chris Mason, Will Quin, Patrick Sanders)	17.53	seconds
5^th	WARRACKNABEAL A (Zander Jonasson, Ben Wright, Michael Wright, Maddison Bentley)	18.01	seconds

CHALLENGE EVENTS

Chief Officer’s Challenge Event

1^st	ECHUCA A UNDER 17 YEARS TEAM (Mason Whinfield, Jack Alberni, Connor Drinkwell, Ben Wills)
2^nd	MELTON A UNDER 14 YEARS TEAM (Ricky Cassar, Ronan Steele, Braxton Holden, Yandel Cruz)
3^rd	CHIEF’S CHARGERS (Acting Chief Officer Alen Slijepcevic AFSM, DCO Adrian Gutsche, Acting DCO Steve Alcock)

East v West, Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors – Under 14 years

1^st	EAST (Jaxon Black - Echuca, Ricky Cassar – Melton , Tristian Scott - Maffra, Adam Piper - Upwey)
2^nd	WEST (Amity Simons – Horsham , Henry Weston – Werribee, Natalia Barnes – Swan Hill, Jaxon Bruni – Hamilton)

East v West, Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors – Under 17 years

1^st	EAST (Mason Whinfield – Echuca, Mackenzie Brynes – Eynesbury, Willow Goode – Sale, Lincoln Degenhardt – Hoppers Crossing)
2^nd	WEST (Will Grant – Creswick, Ben Wright – Warracknabeal, Koby Moores – Grovedale, Lincoln Moyes – Gisborne)

FINAL AGGREGATE RESULTS

DRY AGGREGATE

1^st	ECHUCA A	47	points
2^nd	GROVEDALE A	21	points
=3^rd	MELTON A and WARRACKNABEAL A	19	points

WET AGGREGATE

1^st	ECHUCA A	35	points
2^nd	KYNETON	25	points
3^rd	MELTON A	24	points

UNDER 14 YEARS AGGREGATE

1^st	GROVEDALE A	26	points
2^nd	KYNETON	25	points
3^rd	MELTON A	24	points

UNDER 17 YEARS AGGREGATE

1^st	ECHUCA A	64	points
2^nd	MELTON A	19	points
3^rd	WARRACKNABEAL A	16	points

GRAND AGGREGATE

1^st	ECHUCA A	82	points
2^nd	MELTON A	43	points
3^rd	GROVEDALE A	40	points

2026 CHAMPION TEAM

The team members of BRIGADE are:

Jack Alberni
Lucas Brackenhofer
Archie Collier
Connor Drinkwell
Xavier Moylan
Amber Schmedje
Mason Whinfield
Ben Wills
Jasmine Wills
Emily Zatleff

And Coaches: Jordan Simpson, Colin Atkinson, Kirra Strickleton, Kaylea Blake and Captain Daniel Moylan

FINAL AGGREGATE BOARD

UNDER 14 YEARS AGGREGATE WINNER - GROVEDALE A

UNDER 17 YEARS AGGREGATE, DRY AGGREGATE, WET AGGREGATE AND GRAND AGGREGATE WINNER - ECHUCA A

Published in HomePage Featured

Thursday, 05 March 2026 16:19

March 2026 Newsletter

Written by VFBV

International Women's Day 2026
Each year on March 8 - International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women as well as calling for action to accelerate women’s equality.

This year’s theme is #Give- ToGain. Give To Gain emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Giving is not a subtraction, it’s intentional multiplication.

When women thrive, we all rise.

Throughout CFA and VFBV, there are countless examples of the contribution women make to our communities and our fire services. To each of the dedicated, highly skilled and much appreciated women in CFA and across all fire and emergency services, thank you for the outstanding contribution you make to making communities safer today and every day of the year.

As individuals, giving support means calling out stereotypes, challenging discrimination, questioning bias, celebrating women’s success, and more. Sharing our knowledge and encouragement with others is also key.

We all need to take action every day and everywhere to forge gender parity.

We also take this opportunity on International Women’s Day to re-share on our website many of the profile stories of influential and inspirational women across CFA that continue to inspire us.

Budget Pressure Remains
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer

With the advent of Autumn, we enter the home stretch of this year’s fire danger period. And while we are not out of danger just yet, the recent rains do provide a small reprieve that allow us to catch our breaths. Don’t be fooled though. Recent fires continue to highlight how dry conditions still are, and how quickly the top layer of soil can dry out and how fast fire will spread until there are significant reversals of the long term rain deficits. As predicted, we appear to be entering a heightened window of above average fire seasons over the coming years, and this year’s devastating fire season may have only been just the preview.

I again take this opportunity to thank and congratulate all volunteers on the incredible work done in responding to this season’s fires.

Importantly, over the next couple of months, the Victorian government will be finalising its State Budget for the upcoming year. And while our previous warnings have all been about predictions and forecasts, this year’s fire activity demonstrates the accuracy of what we have been saying for quite some time about the serious unsustainability of CFA’s funding and resourcing and the increased risks facing Victoria.

The passage of time since my past updates has also allowed some of our earlier predictions to be tested.

For example, the State Revenue Office (SRO) has now reported the total collections from the old Fire Services Property Levy in its final year before being replaced by the State Government’s new Emergency Services Tax.

SRO figures confirm the government collected an extra $191M in taxes in the 2024/25 period above the year before. Therefore, it is natural to ask from this extra revenue, how much were fire service base budgets boosted? The answer is both shocking and tragic. CFA’s annual report showed an increase of just $22M in grant funding, and FRV’s annual report showed an increase of $50M. Despite CFA again being shortchanged in the split, there is a much darker story at play.

At the height of the controversy over the government’s hiding of the CFA and FRV annual reports, government and agency media spin was at fever pitch selling these small increases as ‘proof’ that the fire services were being better funded and supported.

Just like carnival fun house mirrors that are designed to warp, twist, stretch and exaggerate our reflection into seemingly endless variations – I can think of no better representation for how fire service funding is being manipulated.

And while I disagree with most of the government’s spin, I do agree with them when they say that the funding arrangements are complex and it is often difficult to interpret. What they forgot to tell you though; is they have made it intentionally complicated in order to mask the shell game they are playing with CFA’s funding. There is an easy fix - table each agencies base budgets every year, end of story. Their refusal to do this should tell you everything you need to know.

For example, at the same time they claim they boosted CFA’s grants by $22M, they forgot to report that CFA posted an overall loss of $50.5M. In other words, CFA recorded $50.5M more in expenses, than what it actually managed to record from income. Similarly, FRV posted a $41.8M loss for the same period. Factor in the $74.4M loss CFA posted the year before, and the $54.7M loss FRV posted in its previous year, and collectively, the two agencies have been short almost $221M over the last two years alone.

The government’s denial of cuts also forgot to mention that they withheld $68.6M of the total grant funds from CFA to send to other government departments and entities. In other words – they say they have given CFA extra funding, but they instead send it elsewhere. In the private sector – this might be called money laundering – saying money is for one thing when it is actually meant for something else. In the public sector – it is referred to as “passthrough funding” and is explained away as simply being more “efficient” for government to fund these other things through CFA than directly. Go figure. Regardless of what you want to call it – it makes that supposed $22M boost look like the fig leaf it really is.

As I repeatedly remind officials, volunteers aren’t stupid – and neither is the Victorian public. They can see exactly what is going on here and the empty rhetoric really isn’t fooling anyone.

I am also reminded that under Fire Services Reform, there was a commitment for the Department of Justice and Community Safety to conduct a financial sustainability assessment of CFA and FRV (action 5.5) and for internal budgets to consider funding estimates over the forward estimates (5.8), which the department is reporting as “complete”. Given they have never publicly reported on the outcomes of these two actions, and given both agencies are posting year on year losses – one has to wonder what these reviews actually found, and why they have been hidden from view.

So, when we return to that extra $191M in taxes collected from the fire levy, how can it be that so little of that extra revenue was returned to the agencies as a funding boost?

The government’s response is telling. In between all the word salad sits a basic premise. And that is the admission that rather than send these extra funds to the fire agencies as a budget boost to base budgets, they have actually diverted these funds to pay for expenses that used to be covered by consolidated revenue. In other words – they are paying themselves back, so they can direct the savings from consolidated revenue to other pet projects. In a nutshell, the expenses usually paid for out of consolidated revenue is now just simply foisted onto the poor Victorian land holder through increased fire taxes. And they wonder why people are angry.

This is the same play book being used to divert 30% of the new Emergency Services Tax to fund other government departments and entities. Based on their May 2025 Gazettal, this year they will divert more than $464M of the new emergency services tax to other entities that used to be funded from consolidated revenue. This is enough money to replace every single overage CFA fire truck across Victoria in one single year.

With the government’s own climate modelling warning them about the increased risk to more frequent and more catastrophic fire seasons, it is hard to reconcile the rationale for not properly funding fire services as the fire risk grows higher and higher.

If there ever was a fitting metaphor for the inadequacy of CFA funding and resourcing – it would be the state of the CFA Fleet. Compare a 37 year old fire truck that was built and designed in 1989 with the government’s claim that Victoria “has the best funded fire services in Australia.”

The age of the fleet is the most visible, stark and public facing example of the mismanagement and unsustainability of current CFA funding.

Back in 2024, VFBV State Council requested our District Councils to work with brigades to help us build a comprehensive picture of the age of the CFA fleet. Since then, we have been quietly and tirelessly developing a full picture of CFA’s fleet of 2,300+ vehicles to inform our advocacy. I want to thank each and every brigade and delegate that has assisted with this work and helped us build an accurate picture.

As of January of this year, CFA’s oldest tankers are now 37 years old. They are now nearly double the maximum age that these trucks were designed for. And while proclaimed to be road worthy, no-one can claim these trucks provide volunteers with safe and reliable capability. No ABS, no airbags, no aircon, no traction control and all non-complaint with new emission standards, meaning diesel particulates from old dirty diesel engines are being pumped over the personal protecting clothing hanging on hooks around these old trucks in hundreds of tin shed brigades across the state. If the smoke and fumes of the fires we protect the public from were not bad enough, having to wear dirty personal protective clothing before we have even got to the fire is simply a disgrace.

It is incomprehensible for an emergency service, that relies on its vehicles to drive towards danger, not to ensure our crews are given the most safe and reliable trucks and equipment that they can be. To prioritise other funding when CFA volunteers are expected to drive the oldest fire fleet in Australia is criminal. And I don’t use that word just for dramatic effect.

In announcing new workplace safety laws in 2020, the Government said it wanted to send a strong message that “putting people’s lives at risk in the workplace will not be tolerated.” Well – right back at you Premier. Why are volunteer lives worth less to you?

VFBV’s latest analysis shows there are still almost 650 old single cab tankers that still require volunteers to ride on the outside of the truck in the open air – exposed to heat, cold and the toxic smoke and fumes.

Back in 2024, we estimated that CFA would have to build at least 100 trucks per year (85 Tankers and 15 Pumpers) each and every year – just to stop the age of the fleet going backwards and getting older and older. Government has jumped on comments by the CFA Chief Officer that there are approximately 167 trucks on order or in production. This sounds great, doesn’t it? Sounds like we must be building more than 100 a year.

As usual the devil is in the detail. While the Chief’s figures are correct – the full context of his statement is being twisted. What they forget to tell you, is that figure includes all the trucks from previous years that are still being built and yet to be delivered, and all the trucks ordered but are still years away. For example, we are still waiting for Medium Tankers that were ordered as part of the 2021/22 capital replacement program. So simply quoting a cumulative figure of trucks that have been ordered without revealing over how many years is just the usual smoke and mirrors.

The reality is 145 of CFA’s 218 pumpers are now passing their design age of 15 years. And 690 of the 1,702 CFA Tankers have passed their design age of 20 years. That is 835 trucks that require replacement immediately. And we are not even counting ultra-lights.

So, to understand why we still have so many trucks that belong in museums and not on our fire grounds, let us look at the track record of government funding for new appliances over the last five years. Not the promises – but the actual deliveries.

Between 2020 – 2025 CFA has taken delivery of just 3 new pumpers, and 200 tankers excluding slip-on’s and ultralights. Well short of the 500 required. That is an average of just 41 trucks per year. Also keep in mind, the minimum does not even start to address the age of the fleet – it simply holds it at status quo.

This year’s State Budget will finally put to rest how serious the current Victorian Government is about supporting CFA volunteers and restoring CFA’s funding and fixing the resourcing issues that will determine how well protected Victorians are from the next imminent Black Saturday.

And to lend from finance disclaimers - let’s hope recent past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.

Survey last chance

The annual VFBV Volunteer Survey will close shortly.

Scan the QR code below or visit the VFBV website to do the survey today. Paper copies are also available by calling the VFBV Office on (03) 9886 1141.

Parliamentary Inquiry into 2026 Fires

The Victorian Parliament’s Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee has announced a review into the 2026 Victorian summer fires.

The Committee describes their Inquiry as covering: The Committee will inquire into the 2026 summer fires across Victoria including preparation and planning by Government, emergency services agencies, causes and circumstances of the bushfires, funding equipment and appliances for the CFA, the emergency responses, resilience of critical services and infrastructure, the impact on community business and agriculture, the impact on the environment, the impacts of climate change, the impact of misinformation, interjurisdictional support and lessons from previous inquiries, report and Royal Commissions.

Details of the inquiry, the terms of reference and how to make a submission is available from the Inquiry’s website. The Committee has also announced that they have extended the deadline for submissions to Sunday 19 April 2026 in recognition that communities are still dealing with the impacts of these blazes around the state.

VFBV is also seeking contributions from brigades and members to assist with our submission. Further details on what VFBV is seeking information on is available from the VFBV website.

Donate now

The VFBV Volunteer Support & Recovery Trust fund (formerly Black Saturday Recovery Trust Fund) was established in 2009 following the Black Saturday fires.

This fund is established to respond to significant natural disasters such as floods, storms and bushfires impacting on CFA volunteers, and is calling for donations to support CFA volunteers who have been directly impacted by the 2025/26 Bushfires.

Donate at: www.givenow.com.au/volunteersupport

State Championships

Later this month the 2026 State Championships will be held in Stawell for the first time in 20 years. The Urban Junior Championship will take place on the weekend of 21 and 22 March with the Rural Senior, Rural Junior and Urban Senior Championships taking place the following weekend (28 and 29 March).

Alongside the second weekend of competition the popular Torchlight Procession will be held on Saturday 28 March through the centre of Stawell. Participation in the Torchlight Procession is open to all brigades not just those competing in the State Championships. If your brigade is interested in participating in the Torchlight Procession please reach out to the VFBV office via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Each year the Championships rely on more than 200 CFA volunteers who assist as judges and officials at both the Rural and Urban championships. If you are interested in helping out as a judge or official please contact the VFBV office on (03) 9886 1141 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to register your interest or find out more information.

Information for competing brigades has been circulated to all brigades who have registered a team and can also be found on the VFBV website.

Thank you
It has been a busy fire season. To all volunteers who have been called upon over the fire danger period – thank you for your outstanding contribution.

We acknowledge your untiring professionalism, experience and skill in keeping your communities safe.

Rebate Scheme
A reminder that the eligible volunteers rebate scheme is now open for eligible volunteers and life members to apply for a rebate on an eligible property under the Emergency Services Tax.

VFBV continues to hear misinformation about eligibility. Some members have reported they are not eligible due to the current rate freeze that paused the primary producer tax rate to last year’s levels.

This pause does not affect the rebate scheme, and members who own their primary place of residence or farm and are listed on the title, are encouraged to assess their eligibility for a rebate by logging into their CFA online account, to complete the CFA eligibility test.

To check the rules and eligibility requirements, you can visit: https://www.vic.gov.au/evrs If you are eligible and own an eligible property, head to Members Online to start the process.

Committee updates

Eight pages of updates from the CFA/VFBV Joint Committees are included in this month’s VFBV Quarterly Supplement that is included in this edition of Fire Wise.

VFBV provides a free copy of Fire Wise to all brigade Captains and Secretaries, as well as all Group Officers and Group Secretaries.

The 2-Minute Briefings from each committee provides a quick way to stay updated on important updates to the issues raised by volunteers through VFBV District Councils.

Electronic copies of the quarterly supplement can be accessed via the VFBV website.

2026 Annual Firefighter Memorial Service

CFA’s Annual Firefighter Memorial Service will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at VEMTC Central Highlands, Balan to honour firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty while protecting their communities.

The service is held on the Sunday, close to International Firefighters’ Day, and provides an important opportunity for family members, friends, CFA and VFBV executives as well as government representatives to come together to lay wreaths, remember lives and honour the personal sacrifices and commitment firefighters make each and every day.

Attendees are encouraged to RSVP by 20th April via www.cfa.vic.gov.au/rsvp

Contemporary Volunteer Membership Model Options Paper

All members are invited to have your say on a major piece of work, years in the making, that CFA claims will shape the foundations for flexible, clear and modern volunteer membership at CFA now and into the future.

The Options Paper seeks feedback on 13 recommended options that are designed to support real life circumstances and improve the way people join, stay, move between brigades, contribute in different ways, and transition roles over time. All while supporting brigades to broaden and maintain their membership and strengthen capability without the unnecessary burdens.

The options in the paper come directly from what volunteers and brigades have told CFA over the past several years about some of the unintentional barriers in the current model, that limit opportunities for volunteering.

For more information on how to provide feedback to both CFA and VFBV on the options presented as well a link to download the Options Paper visit the VFBV website.

SOP Feedback

CFA has requested VFBV review and provide feedback on 11 updated or new SOP’s. Please visit the VFBV website for links to download each of the SOP’s as well as VFBV’s comparison tables for the 9 updated SOP’s.

Given the importance of SOP’s in CFA’s operational doctrine, all members are encouraged to review and revised SOP’s and provide any feedback, suggestions or amendments including indicating support or non-support for the proposed SOP’s to VFBV ASAP.

Please visit the VFBV website to access the draft SOP’s and change logs to help guide your feedback as well information on how to provide feedback.

Bushfire Recovery Resources

VFBV has collated relevant recovery information and emergency grant information to assist members who may be personally impacted by the emergency.

There are numerous supports available to members, residents, farmers, businesses, individuals and communities but navigating these can be a time consuming and sometimes frustrating exercise with information hard to find and spread across multiple resources.

Please visit the VFBV website to download the latest fact sheet on the current resources and assistance available to impacted members in relation to the 2025/26 bushfires.

As with previous Fact Sheets of this nature, the information is rapidly changing, and we will update the fact sheet as fresh information becomes available.

Recent articles on the VFBV website
Donate Now – Supporting CFA Volunteers in a time of need

Now Open – 2025/26 VFBV Volunteer Survey

International Women's Day 2026

Bushfire Recovery Resources

SOP Feedback – December 2025

Contemporary Volunteer Membership Model Options Paper

2026 Annual Firefighter Memorial Service

Parliamentary Inquiry into 2026 Fires

Emergency Services Tax Forecast Funding

SOP Feedback – Various Interim SOP’s (October 2025)

2026 State Championships – Information for Competing Teams

Presumptive Legislation Update

Enjoy the VFBV monthly newsletter?
If you enjoy reading the VFBV newsletter each month, why not share it with your fellow volunteers?

Either share this page with others who may enjoy the articles or encourage other volunteers to sign up to receive their own copy via email each month here.

Want to read the VFBV 2-minute briefings from the CFA/VFBV Joint Committees?
The latest edition along with previous editions can be downloaded from the VFBV website here.

Published in HomePage Featured

Thursday, 05 March 2026 09:22

International Women's Day 2026

Written by VFBV

Each year on March 8 - International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women as well as calling for action to accelerate women’s equality.

This year’s theme is #Give- ToGain. Give To Gain emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Giving is not a subtraction, it’s intentional multiplication.

When women thrive, we all rise.

Throughout CFA and VFBV, there are countless examples of the contribution women make to our communities and our fire services. To each of the dedicated, highly skilled and much appreciated women in CFA and across all fire and emergency services, thank you for the outstanding contribution you make to making communities safer today and every day of the year.

As individuals, giving support means calling out stereotypes, challenging discrimination, questioning bias, celebrating women’s success, and more. Sharing our knowledge and encouragement with others is also key.

We all need to take action every day and everywhere to forge gender parity.

Members are reminded of our CEO's editorial that covered International Women’s Day history in great detail, including some helpful hints and tips that invite CFA members to reflect on how each of us can contribute to building inclusive brigade cultures where women are not only welcomed, but thrive. You can re-read that piece here: VFBV CEO Editorial - Taking the lead on IWD

We also take this opportunity on International Women’s Day to re-share below many of the profile stories of influential and inspirational women across CFA that continue to inspire us.

	VFBV CEO Editorial: Taking the lead. Inviting CFA members to reflect on how each of us can contribute to building inclusive brigade cultures where women are not only welcomed but thrive.

	Faces of CFA – Kay Granter

	Australian Fire Service Medal recognizes trailblazing leadership

	From training ground to fireground: a first strike team experience

	Empowering our women leaders

	Firefighting across the globe, from France to South Morang

	Capturing the Little Desert fire on canvas

	Faces of CFA – Kaylene Stocks

	District 7 women leading the way

	Honouring our rural women from the field to frontline

	The two of us

	Planned Burn Taskforce women’s workshop

	South West women jump in the driver’s seat

	South East women stepping up

	Loch Sport member leads by example

	Prestigious award for experienced brigade captain

	Challenge camp inspires strength, confidence and connection among CFA women

	Leading the way for women's comfort and hygiene

	Bright mother opens the doors of opportunity to next generation

	Faces of CFA - Kate Lamble

	Blue pants mark an era of inclusion for Werribee women runners

	First aid and family ties keep Kate involved in State Champs

	Tinambra mum joins in on Champs family fun

	Wimmera pair join forces to take on state's best

	Dedicated volunteer and esteemed trainer recognised for service

	CFA volunteer and educator awarded AFSM

	Volunteer leader awarded AFSM medal

	Echuca teen steps up to the frontline in NSW

	Morwell's Junior program stalwart honoured

	Brigade honours 30 years of communications support

	Recruiting the family to serve the community

	Spotlight on seven influential women captains

	Faces of CFA - Lesley Forman

	Igniting new skills in fire investigation

	Edithvale volunteer stepping up as Deputy Group Officer for the South East

	Tatura local puts her own spin on being a volunteer

	Volunteering sets Langwarrin Lieutenant up for success

	Mothers leading the next generation of CFA volunteers

	New women's team to compete in State Firefighter Championships

	Trusted mentor recognised with highest honour

	Rosebud firefighter happy to help in the mountains

	Breast cancer survivor tells her story to help fellow firefighters

	Faces of CFA - Bronwyn Hastings

	Local favourite becomes first women to captain Sorrento Fire Brigade

	Avenel CFA gains first woman in their Captain's seat

	Inspirational leader receives firefighting's highest honor

	Camperdown brigade is a second family for young working locals

	Buzzing after their first turnout

	Newest Mallacoota Captain aims to inspire others

	Rowville Fire Brigade’s women leading the way

	Female firefighter Sheryl Batrouney talks about breaking the bias on the fireground

	Inspiring leader and Captain – Sheryn Gallagher

	Female Captains share stories for International Women's Day

	A celebration of CFA's rural women

	Volunteers honoured by road naming

	Creating connections and investing in our youth

	Diversity at the forefront for AFSM recipient

	Diamond Creek Fire Brigade boosts confidence in young members

	CFA celebrates International Women's Day

	Volunteers who are staff

	Following in the family's footsteps

	The joy of being a junior leader

	Faces of CFA - Leonie Turner, Hoddles Creek Fire Brigade

	A commitment to service

	A passion to lead CFA's next generation

About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria.

This article is part of our series celebrating women in CFA for International Women's Day.

The first International Women’s Day gathering occurred in 1911, you can read more about the history of International Women’s Day on the International Women’s Day website.

https://www.internationalwomensday.com/Activity/15586/The-history-of-IWD

Published in HomePage Featured

Thursday, 05 March 2026 08:51

2026 State Championships - Information for Competing Teams

Written by VFBV

Available for download at the bottom of this page is information for teams competing in the 2026 State Championships in March at Stawell.

Below is highlighted information for each championship and the torchlight procession.

State Urban Junior Championship – 21 and 22 March 2026

Opening Ceremony: will commence at 0900 hours on Saturday with roll call from 0845, the order of brigades for the opening march is available in the information for competing teams. Please note that the start time for both days of the Urban Junior Championship is 0900 hours.

BBQ lunch: for competitors will be provided on Saturday, vouchers for the lunch will be available for collection on Saturday morning – please listen out for announcements.

Wristbands for competitors: where brigades have entered more than one team, the competitors will be required to wear a wrist band indicating which team they are part of. Coaches for brigades entering more than one team should attend the VFBV office to obtain wristbands for their competitors.

Testing of hydrants: Brigade hydrants to be used in the Hydrant Races must be weighed, checked and sealed on Friday afternoon between 1500 and 1700 hours, or on Saturday or Sunday mornings between 0800 and 0830 hours. Please note that access to the track grounds prior to 3pm is not permitted.

Appointment of judges and officials: a list of appointed judges and officials can be found in the information for competing brigades.

CFA Youth Forum: CFA will again be holding their Youth Forum on Saturday 21 March from 3:30pm in the Footy Club Pavillion at North Park. For further information please reach out the CFA's Youth Pathways Team via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Rule Book: a copy of the current rule book is available for download from the VFBV website.

State Rural Championships – Junior & Senior – 28 and 29 March 2026

Saturday 29 March – Senior Championship

Roll call for brigades will be at 0745 hours on the main oval adjacent to the competition track ahead of the opening ceremony commencing at 0820 hours.

The line up order for brigades can be found in the information for competing brigades available for download at the bottom of this page.

Number of competitors in each event: Teams are reminded that all events now have 4 competitors.

Make up roster: Brigades should familiarise themselves with the make up roster also included in the information for competing brigades and ensure that a member of their brigade is available to assist in rostered events.

Rule Book: a copy of the current rule book is available for download from the VFBV website.

Sunday 30 March – Junior Championship

The opening ceremony will commence at 0830 hours at the competition track.

A BBQ lunch will also be provided for all junior competitors on the Sunday and lunch vouchers will be available for competitors at the competition track.

Make up roster: Brigades should familiarise themselves with the make up roster also included in the information for competing brigades and ensure that a member of their brigade is available to assist in rostered events.

Rule Book: a copy of the current rule book is available for download from the VFBV website.

State Urban Senior Championship – 28 and 29 March 2026

Opening Ceremony: Roll call for brigades will be at 0745 hours on the oval adjacent to the competition tracks ahead of the opening ceremony commencing at 0820 hours. The information for competing brigades includes a copy of the order of brigades including brigades in the echelon movement.

Wristbands for competitors: Where brigades have more than one team entered, the competitors will be required to wear a wrist band indicating which team they are part of. Coaches for brigades entering more than one team should attend the VFBV office to obtain wrist bands for their competitors. If required replacement wrist bands can be issued on Sunday.

Testing of hydrants and equipment: Brigade hydrants to be used in the Hydrant Race must be weighed, checked and sealed on Friday afternoon between 1500 hours and 1700 hours, or on Saturday and Sunday mornings between 0730 hours and 0800 hours. Please note that access to the track grounds prior to 3pm is not permitted.

Make up roster: Brigades should familiarise themselves with the make up roster also included in the information for competing brigades and ensure that a member of their brigade is available to assist in rostered events.

Appointment of judges and officials: a list of appointed judges and officials can be found in the information for competing brigades.

Rule Book: a copy of the current rule book is available for download from the VFBV website.

Torchlight Procession – 29 March 2025

The Torchlight Procession will take place on Saturday 28th March commencing at 2030 hours, with all Brigades to assemble no later than 2000 hours.

Brigades will be assembled in Groups and report for Roll Call in their respective groupings in the carpark on the corner of Church Street and Allen Street, Stawell at 2000 hours on Saturday. Each group of brigades will be headed by a CFA vehicle.

Any brigade participating in the Torchlight Procession will be supplied with LED torches by CFA to be returned at the completion of the Torchlight. These will be collected by CFA personnel located in the Senior Citizens Centre Hall, located on Victoria Street.

Brigades should refer to CFA Circular distributed prior to the Championships, for details of the Groups and line up order of Brigades.

LED Torches and Name plates for the Torchlight Procession: Brigades are to collect their Name Plate and LED Torches for the Torchlight Procession from 2pm on Saturday afternoon at the competition track. These will be available for brigades to collect from the hose repair personnel situated on the Newington Road side of the Urban Main Track after 1400 hours on Saturday. CFA personnel will be present at the assembly point of the Torchlight to collect bags and excess torches and torches will be collected at the end of the Torchlight Procession.

CFA Information for Competing Brigades

Information distributed by CFA for brigades who are competing in the State Urban Senior Championship and the State Rural Championships will be distributed to brigades closer to the Championship. Once distributed it will be available for download at the bottom of this page.

Included in this information will be the final line up of brigades for the Echelon Movement and the groups for the Torchlight Procession.

Travel Claim Reimbursement

Travel reimbursement: for competing brigades and judges and officials from non-competing brigades must be submitted to CFA by midnight Sunday 3rd May 2026. Travel claims can be completed online here https://tinyurl.com/2026-travel-claim or by completing and returning the form attached to this email. Any claims submitted after Sunday 3rd May will not be accepted by CFA, so please do not delay in returning your claim form.

Bus Travel: A reminder to brigades if they are wishing to claim for bus travel to the State Championship this must be approved by CFA prior to the Championship, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to seek approval.

Questions or queries

Please contact the VFBV office via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (03) 9886 1141.

Published in HomePage Featured

Thursday, 19 February 2026 12:11

2026 Annual Firefighter Memorial Service

Written by VFBV

CFA’s Annual Firefighter Memorial Service will be held on Sunday 3 May 2026 at VEMTC Central Highlands, Balan to honour firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty while protecting their communities.

The service is held on the Sunday, close to International Firefighters’ Day, and provides an important opportunity for family members, friends, CFA and VFBV executives as well as government representatives to come together to lay wreaths, remember lives and honour the personal sacrifices and commitment firefighters make each and every day.

Annual Firefighter Memorial Service details

Location: Victorian Emergency Management Training Centre, Central Highlands, 128 Ingliston Road, Ballan

Date: Sunday 3rd May 2026

Time: 2pm

Dress: CFA uniform or smart casual attire

RSVP: by 20th April 2026 online via www.cfa.vic.gov.au/rsvp

Light refreshments will be provided at the end of the service.

Livestream: A link to the service livestream will be available closer to the service date on CFA's website.

For further information please contact CFA via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Published in HomePage Featured

Friday, 13 February 2026 15:16

Parliamentary Inquiry into 2026 Fires

Written by VFBV

The Victorian Parliament’s Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee have announced a review into the 2026 Victorian summer fires.

Details of the Inquiry can be found here on the Parliament of Victoria website.

The Committee describes their Inquiry as covering:

The Committee will inquire into the 2026 summer fires across Victoria including preparation and planning by Government, emergency services agencies, causes and circumstances of the bushfires, funding equipment and appliances for the CFA, the emergency responses, resilience of critical services and infrastructure, the impact on community business and agriculture, the impact on the environment, the impacts of climate change, the impact of misinformation, interjurisdictional support and lessons from previous inquiries, report and Royal Commissions.

The terms of reference are available for download below, with the Committee announcing submissions closing on 15th March 2026.

While Victoria is still in the middle of the fire season, and brigades are still actively responding, as always VFBV will cooperate and contribute to the inquiry. While the closing date for submissions does not appear to fully appreciate the unique pressures that CFA volunteers and brigades are still under, VFBV will do our best to advocate for brigades in a calm and professional manner on the issues that members have told us are important to them.

Notwithstanding the obvious time pressures, brigades and members are encouraged to contribute to the Inquiry, which can be made via: Submissions - Inquiry into the 2026 summer fires across Victoria - Parliament of Victoria.

Contributions to VFBV's submission:

If brigades or members do not wish to personally contribute to the inquiry – they may also consider submitting to VFBV to inform our submission.

Terms of reference numbers #1, #2, #3 and #4 are the most likely to be the most interest to brigades and groups.

VFBV is keen for brigades and groups to provide any evidence or supporting documents that can assist with our submission. VFBV is keen to have evidence on any aging fleet concerns and breakdowns, impacts from inadequate funding, as well as lack of engagement through municipal planning committees regarding roadside and other fuel reduction burning, as well as any organisational issues that people feel relevant to the 2026 bushfire season response.

Any members or brigades who have completed after-action reviews and deployment surveys from CFA are also welcome to forward a copy of what they have submitted to inform our submission and saves members from needing to double up on providing input.

Any member, brigade and group feedback can be forwarded to your local VFBV Support Officer or via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Published in HomePage Featured

Wednesday, 04 February 2026 16:23

February 2026 Newsletter

Written by VFBV

Complementary, yet not identical efforts
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer

I wish to start this month by reiterating my words of thanks that was published on the 14 January, and is reproduced on page 3 of this month’s Fire Wise. On behalf of the whole VFBV family we continue to acknowledge the absolutely incredible work that has been done, and continues to be done, by CFA members in fire affected communities across the state.

As at writing, heatwave conditions continue across large parts of the State and are expected to last until the first few days of February. All up, this has been the longest heatwave event in Victoria since 2009.

Highlighting the high and sustained workload our crews are still shouldering, as at January 30 there are currently seven major fires across the state, with more than 435,000ha of land burned.

While numbers are still being compiled, more than 12,000 volunteers have been deployed, not counting the thousands who have remained in area for local coverage, or who have put themselves on standby. These numbers demonstrate CFA’s incredible volunteer surge capacity and why it is so important to protect it from further decline.

I also continue to be humbled by the modesty of our members who mourn every loss yet refuse to give up. That inextinguishable community spirit shines even brighter, as members battle what at times are unstoppable beasts of mother nature.

And while the losses are widely reported, I remain frustrated that more is not done across the sector to measure and estimate the incredible saves. With real time mapping and predictive modelling underpinning the majority of our community warning systems, I believe it to be a significant missed opportunity to not recognise and value the incredible combined efforts of our firefighters and other agency personnel. If we can plot polygons on maps based on rate of spread, weather and fuel loads, surely it is not beyond our capability to provide some rough estimates of what was achieved by the incredible work done by our crews working to pull these fires up.

It’s important to similarly acknowledge the contribution of members who provide day to day coverage and township protection of their local areas. These sacrifices allow other crews and members from each brigade to be dispatched far and wide to support incidents afar. Similarly, those who contribute through support roles are all equally important and vital to our mission of saving life and property.

A quick shout out to our wonderful DMOs who have been working tirelessly keeping the fleet operational - no small feat in its current state. The relationships they have established with volunteers through their regular maintenance schedules during the year really pays off during campaign fires, as members have trust in the people they know and have a pre-existing relationship with.

A huge thank-you also to all our delegates and officials who have been working to support affected brigades to access additional support resources. Sadly, as is often the case, the same disasters that affect our communities also affects our own members. Tragically, this season has seen the highest level of CFA volunteers who have lost their own homes from campaign fires since Black Saturday, with more than 20 of our own members’ homes lost.

Highlighting the profound commitment of volunteers to their communities, the majority of these members were actually on fire trucks or deployed to the fireground saving other people’s property when their own homes were lost.

As a result, the VFBV Welfare Fund and VFBV Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust have been working tirelessly to support members in hardship. Just in January alone, the Trusts have provided more than $150,000 in grants to members affected, with priority being to those who have lost their primary places of residence.

This has put significant workload onto the Trustees of each Trust, and I want to pass on my heartfelt appreciation to our volunteers who take on these roles, and who’s work is often unseen in the background.

I also want to pass on my appreciation and absolute awe of the brigade Captains, officers and members with whom we have been working with to support these members. Each brigade we have worked with has been under immense pressure with simultaneous demands in continuing to fight active fires within their communities, as well as having to care for those members personally impacted. In each case, far from simply looking after their own, each brigade has been leaning heavily into supporting community wide recovery works, and I cannot articulate the immense pride I feel seeing our very capable brigades and volunteers lead their communities through what are very very difficult days. From catering for community members who have lost everything, to supporting relief centres, providing drinking water, generators, fuel and livestock feed – these efforts are all on top of their active firefighting.

It is these intrinsic community connections and networks that some miss when trying to figure out why CFA brigades have such a high level of trust and connection within their local communities. Our fire brigades are far more than simply a building or shed to store fire trucks. They are the beating heart and soul of the very communities in which they are located. While often underestimated, they are the glue that builds community resilience.

The demand on our Trusts does not come without consequence. Our Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust in particular, is now almost completely depleted. This fund relies on donations to do its vital work and is only activated during large scale emergencies. As such it holds very little reserves and therefore relies on donations following the event. The now spent reserves were only made possible due to the generous corporate donation from the Barlow Impact Group following the 2019/20 bushfires.

And while asking for donations it is not an activity we relish, it is a necessary requirement to support the crucial work we do in supporting CFA volunteers during these kind of events. The article on page 3 of this edition’s Fire Wise publication outlines some of the previous work of our Trusts.

Brigades, Groups and members of the public may donate via the GiveNow platform or for larger donations and to avoid processing fees being deducted from your donation, direct deposit details are available at www.supportcfavolunteers.com.au

I also draw members attention to our Bushfire Recovery Resources Fact Sheet that was published in early January and has been updated as information changes.

In our experience, people experiencing hardship are often overwhelmed and do not have time to search, find and navigate the various assistance that is available. Our Fact Sheets try to put all relevant resources into a single document that can either be viewed electronically – or handed to someone who can then assess what they need most. We can post a printed copy by contacting This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or the office on (03) 9886 1141.

Since our January edition, there has been a significant number of developments across our multi-year campaign for fairer CFA funding and resourcing. The outpouring of community support, awareness and concern for CFA’s lack of fair funding was due in large part from deliberate community awareness we have been building over the last few years. We have provided the detailed and trust worthy analysis highlighting issues with CFA’s budget, the age of the fleet, and lack of support for CFA more generally including basic volunteer amenity.

Unsurprising, following recent fires there was also a significant convergence of political activity and attention as Government tried to deflect much deserved criticism from its decade’s long underinvestment in CFA and ideological attacks.

Be assured that VFBV is undertaking high levels of advocacy within government, CFA and across our sector. These discussions are robust and ongoing as one would expect following recent developments.

As a peak body, our commitment is to always honour and respect the hard-earned volunteer reputation, ensuring we represent volunteers with dignity, strength and professionalism. Our authenticity and restraint build trust and respect. Effective advocacy is not achieved by simply shouting the loudest. Mother Teresa is often quoted as saying “I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things.”

Ultimately our goal is to move the needle and achieve long-term bi-partisan support for fairer funding of CFA, a sustainable and safe firefighting fleet, and greater support and respect for CFA volunteers and the vital role volunteer brigades play now and for the future.

This requires deliberate effort, strategic intent and building credibility and trust with those we interact. A year ago, to the day, I wrote about the short sightedness of current government policies and the obvious learnings from disasters such as the RMS Titanic. Two years prior to that I wrote about the forgotten lessons from Ash Wednesday and the high price we pay in Victoria for those lessons. And just last month, prior to the current bushfires even starting, we covered the critical measures of under resourcing of CFA.

These arguments will not be won or lost within a single bushfire season. They never have before. Long term change requires hard work and sustained efforts.

We cannot decry the effects of politicisation of the fire services, and then simply resort to playing politics when it suits. I firmly believe the overall politicisation of the fire services has been the single worst thing to inflict our sector and the vital work of an emergency service.

VFBV efforts are therefore focussed not only on the emergency at hand, but working across the political divide to engage, educate and change the minds of decision makers without resorting to partisan politics, or exploiting community anguish. While alternate tactics may bring temporary relief, they will ultimately lead to a state of perpetual grievance, counter grievance and turmoil. None of which will work for the communities with which we protect.

And while I do not criticise the efforts of others, I assertively reject any suggestion that only identical approaches and tactics will prevail. We must each play to our strengths and see others as a complement to our own.

Our warnings have been clear, and our ability to influence stakeholders will ultimately rest on relationships built on trust and respect. We are not afraid to engage with frank and fearless advice, but personal attacks rarely win the argument. This doesn’t mean going softer, or avoiding the hard discussions, but it does mean being strategic and using our influence with scalpel precision.

I appreciate we are navigating a very complex and emotional environment. I also appreciate the anguish that is fuelling people’s emotions and acknowledge they are genuine grievances. We are focussed on the long journey, and we still have a way to go. We must not betray our principles for the illusion of short-term gain no matter how alluring. We continue to invite government to partner with volunteers using the principles and promises made under the Volunteer Charter and join us in building a safer and more resilient Victoria.

Stay safe and look after each other.

Donations to support CFA volunteers in a time of need
VFBV delegates and officials are working with affected brigades to access support available through the VFBV Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust and the VFBV Welfare Fund. With a large number of members directly impacted, high demand is expected.

Our Trusts support members who have been impacted by large bushfires and helps those that have lost their homes, fencing, machinery, stock, equipment and/or livelihoods. We have two different donations mechanisms for people to choose from when donating. At this time, our preference is that donations are made to the VFBV Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust but we welcome donations to either.

The VFBV Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust is only activated during large emergencies. It has previously been activated during the 2009 Black Saturday Fires, 2019/20 Bushfires, the 2022 Floods, February 2024 Grampians National Park fires and now for the 2025/26 bushfires. The Trust only maintains very small reserves of funds, and is completely reliant on public donations. Current reserves were made possible by a corporate donation from the Barlow Impact Group who generously provided support during the 2019/20 Black Summer Fires.

With reserves low, support is dependent on donations being received. Currently, the Trust is supporting CFA volunteers who have lost their primary place of residence. After this work is complete, the Trust will consider broader support for members who have suffered property damage, outbuilding and other losses across the impacted areas.

During the 2019/20 bushfires, the trust provided high impact support grants, general support and relief grants and fast emergency relief payments. It also funded trailer mounted pumps for each of the Groups across the fire affected areas to provide legacy support for those brigades impacted.

All donations over $2 are tax deductible. You can donate to this Trust by clicking on the link below or via: https://www.givenow.com.au/volunteersupport

The VFBV Welfare Fund is a capital fund that is designed to last forever. It provides grants (up to $5,000) for those volunteers experiencing hardship. It is only available to members, and brigades who pay an annual subscription fee to cover all their members, their families, and long-serving ex-members. This year, 93% of CFA Brigades have chosen to cover their members. The Fund has paid out more than $2.85 million in grants since its inception.

As a capital fund, all donations are invested in interest bearing government approved institutions (term deposits) and the interest each year is used to fund any Welfare Grants. The capital is preserved, and keeps pace with inflation by each year calculating the gap between grants paid and the revenue required, with an annual subscription fee paid by brigades. This year, that fee was $80 per brigade which represents incredible value to cover every single member and long serving ex-members and their families. This model ensures the capital is preserved forever, and CFA volunteers now and in the future will always be protected.

The Welfare Fund is currently working in co-operation with the Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust to assist those members who have lost their homes.

All donations over $2 are tax deductible. You can donate to the Welfare Fund by clicking on the link below or via: https://www.givenow.com.au/vfbv

For any large donations, we highly recommend members use direct deposit to the relevant bank account, to avoid transaction fees being deducted from your donation. Bank account details for each Trust can be found on our VFBV website.

Brigades and Groups are permitted to make donations under CFA’s Brigade Finance Policy, under clause (23) which specifically states: “(23) Brigades may donate funds to the VFBV Welfare Fund, or VFBV Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust on approval via resolution at a Brigade meeting.”

A new micro site has been launched for use as a public facing fundraiser. This site is available at www.supportcfavolunteers.com.au and we encourage you to promote this link through your private networks.

If you have any questions, please speak to your local State Councillor or VFBV Support Officer, or phone the VFBV office on (03) 9886 1141.

2025/26 Survey Now Open

This year’s VFBV Vol Survey is now open.

The survey is the largest of its kind and provides an annual snapshot of volunteer opinion, using questions on issues chosen by volunteers.

All responses are confidential, with only de-identified results going straight to decision makers. The results are studied by the CFA Executive, the Department of Justice and Community Safety, the Fire Services Implementation Monitor, and the Victorian Government. Issues highlighted by volunteer feedback and responses drive further initiatives and investment to try and improve the things that volunteers raise as priority issues.

Now in its 14th year, the survey is the oldest, most credible and robust analysis of emergency service volunteer opinion in Victoria.

The survey measures volunteer opinions on what is important to them, and how well CFA is performing according to what they are experiencing. By repeating the survey each year, important trend analysis allows decision makers to evaluate efforts to address key issues, and whether or not the selected improvements are being effective. VFBV uses the results to drive important volunteer advocacy, and push for improvements on the issues that volunteers tell us they value the most.

Scan the QR code below or visit the VFBV website to do the survey today. Paper copies are also available by calling the VFBV Office on (03) 9886 1141.

The survey allows you to rate what’s going well, what needs improvement and an opportunity to suggest key issues requiring further attention. Help us help you and have your say today.

State Championships - Final Reminder

A final reminder that entries and judge and official nominations for the 2026 State Championships will close on Sunday 15 February 2026.

For information on how to enter your team or nominate as a judge or official for any of the championships please visit the VFBV website.

This year’s State Championships will be held in Stawell across two weekends. The Urban Junior Championship will be held on the weekend of 21 and 22 March. The following weekend (28 and 29 March) will see the Urban Senior and Rural Junior and Senior Championships take place.

The popular Torchlight Procession will also be held on Saturday 28 March in the Stawell CBD, participation in the Torchlight Procession is open to all brigades not just those competing in the State Championships.

If you would like further information on the Torchlight Procession or the State Championships please contact the VFBV office via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Australia Day Honours

VFBV congratulates the five CFA members who were awarded the prestigious Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in this year’s Australia Day honours list.

The five members who were recipients of the Australian Fire Service Medal are: Kelvin Bateman from Dunrobin-Nangeela fire brigade in District 4; Brendan Blake from Loddon Vale Fire Brigade in District 20; Emma Conway from District 9 Headquarters Brigade; Garth Johnson from Langwarrin Fire Brigade in District 8; and Gavin Parker Commander in District 27 and member of Neerim South Fire Brigade in District 9. Fire Rescue Victorian Commander Graham Kirk also received an AFSM.

Each of these members has been recognised for their innovation, leadership, leading brigades through major emergencies while also advocating for volunteers and leading innovation in CFA’s fleet, training and equipment.

You can read more about these members on page 10 of this month’s edition of Fire Wise or on the VFBV website.

Bushfire Recovery Resources

VFBV has collated relevant recovery information and emergency grant information to assist members who may be personally impacted by the emergency.

There are numerous supports available to members, residents, farmers, businesses, individuals and communities but navigating these can be a time consuming and sometimes frustrating exercise with information hard to find and spread across multiple resources.

Please visit the VFBV website to download the latest fact sheet on the current resources and assistance available to impacted members in relation to the 2025/26 bushfires.

As with previous Fact Sheets of this nature, the information is rapidly changing, and we will update the fact sheet as fresh information becomes available.

Eligible Volunteers Rebate Scheme
A reminder that the eligible volunteers rebate scheme is now open for eligible volunteers and life members to apply for a rebate on an eligible property under the Emergency Services Tax.

VFBV continues to hear misinformation about eligibility. Some members have reported they are not eligible due to the current rate freeze that paused the primary producer tax rate to last year’s levels. This pause does not affect the rebate scheme, and members who own their primary place of residence or farm and are listed on the title, are encouraged to assess their eligibility for a rebate by logging into their CFA online account, to complete the CFA eligibility test.

To check the rules and eligibility requirements, you can visit: https://www.vic.gov.au/evrs

If you are eligible and own an eligible property, head to Members Online to start the process.

ESF International Women’s Day event

The Emergency Services Foundation (ESF) is holding its annual International Women’s Day event on Thursday 5 March 2025 at the MCG.

The event will include keynote speakers; though provoking discussions on diversity, culture and leadership; insights into life during and after emergency services careers; and the presentation of the ESF Diversity and Inclusion Awards which celebrate outstanding initiatives and champions across member agencies.

For event details or to book tickets visit the ESF website.

Presumptive Rights Advisory Committee vacancies
Nominations are being sought for a Chairperson and committee members of the Presumptive Rights Advisory Committee (PRAC).

The PRAC is established under the Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation and Fire Services Legislation Amendment (Reform) Act 2019 and provides advice in relation to presumptive rights compensation claims. It consists of up to 15 members and provides advice to WorkSafe Victoria in relation to volunteer presumptive rights compensation claims.

More information about the role and requirements are available on the Boards Victoria website for the role of Chairperson and Committee Member including eligibility requirements. Nominations will close on Sunday 8 February 2026.

Contemporary Volunteer Membership Model Options Paper

All members are invited to have your say on a major piece of work, years in the making, that CFA claims will shape the foundations for flexible, clear and modern volunteer membership at CFA now and into the future.

The Options Paper seeks feedback on 13 recommended options that are designed to support real life circumstances and improve the way people join, stay, move between brigades, contribute in different ways, and transition roles over time. All while supporting brigades to broaden and maintain their membership and strengthen capability without the unnecessary burdens.

The options in the paper come directly from what volunteers and brigades have told CFA over the past several years about some of the unintentional barriers in the current model, that limit opportunities for volunteering.

For more information on how to provide feedback to both CFA and VFBV on the options presented as well a link to download the Options Paper visit the VFBV website.

SOP Feedback

CFA has requested VFBV review and provide feedback on 11 updated or new SOP’s. Please visit the VFBV website for links to download each of the SOP’s as well as VFBV’s comparison tables for the 9 updated SOP’s.

Given the importance of SOP’s in CFA’s operational doctrine, all members are encouraged to review and revised SOP’s and provide any feedback, suggestions or amendments including indicating support or non-support for the proposed SOP’s to VFBV ASAP.

Please visit the VFBV website to access the draft SOP’s and change logs to help guide your feedback as well information on how to provide feedback.

Fire Wise – February 2026 online only edition

The February 2026 edition of Fire Wise has been published online only, this edition and past editions are available from the Fire Wise website for a small subscription fee.

You can support Fire Wise and the role it plays as an independent voice in keeping volunteers informed by becoming a subscriber. To become a subscriber visit the Fire Wise website or contact the Managing Editor of Fire Wise, Gordon Rippon-King either by phone 0402 051 412 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Recent articles on the VFBV website
Donate Now – Supporting CFA Volunteers in a time of need

Now Open – 2025/26 VFBV Volunteer Survey

Bushfire Recovery Resources

Australia Day Honours 2026

SOP Feedback – December 2025

Contemporary Volunteer Membership Model Options Paper

2025-26 VESEP Grants Announced

Emergency Services Tax Forecast Funding

2025 Drought Relief Resources

Emergency Responder PTSD trial

SOP Feedback – Various Interim SOP’s (October 2025)

2026 State Championships Entries Now Open

Presumptive Legislation Update

Enjoy the VFBV monthly newsletter?
If you enjoy reading the VFBV newsletter each month, why not share it with your fellow volunteers?

Either share this page with others who may enjoy the articles or encourage other volunteers to sign up to receive their own copy via email each month here.

Want to read the VFBV 2-minute briefings from the CFA/VFBV Joint Committees?
The latest edition along with previous editions can be downloaded from the VFBV website here.

Published in HomePage Featured

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Monday, 02 February 2026 15:52

Australia Day Honours 2026

Written by VFBV

Among almost 1,000 Australian’s honoured in the Australia Day Honour’s List 2026 were five CFA members who were awarded the prestigious Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM). VFBV congratulates the five members recognised with an AFSM for their contribution to CFA and the wider Victorian community.

Kelvin Bateman AFSM – Kelvin has been recognised for his leadership, mentoring and volunteer advocacy as a CFA member for more than 46 years. Kelvin has held numerous leadership positions including but not limited to Captain, Deputy Group Officer, VFBV State Councillor and Board Member and DPC Chair. He has been a strong advocate for improved infrastructure and fleet resources for District 4 brigades, building a comprehensive overview of the status of all stations and trucks to assist with his campaign. Kelvin has long been involved in the Rural Championships which he sees as an important avenue to encourage young members to join CFA with many juniors going onto hold leadership positions in CFA. You can read more about Kelvin here.

Brendan Blake AFSM – a CFA volunteer for more than 50 years, Brendan has been recognised for his role in designing the precursor to today’s ultra-heavy tanker as well as for his advocacy for diversity and inclusion. Brendan has increased the number of female members involved in CFA in his area and also been involved in identifying issues that rural decline creates for volunteer emergency services and the surrounding communities. You can read more about Brendan here.

Emma Conway AFSM – Emma has served as both a volunteer and career firefighter with CFA for more than 20 years. As a staff member Emma actively championed initiatives supporting youth engagement, women in leadership and diversity and inclusion as well as taking on front line roles during critical incidents. Emma now works for AFAC as Deputy Director of Operations and continues to volunteer with CFA as a member of the District 9 Headquarters brigade focusing on supporting incident management. You can read more about Emma here.

Garth Johnson AFSM – for over 40 years Garth has been CFA volunteer primarily at Langwarrin brigade. At Langwarrin Garth has been instrumental in the development of Langwarrin brigade’s rescue appliance which has since become a standard for road rescue vehicles, he has also been involved in the development of CFA’s road rescue training package. Garth is also passionate about mental health for emergency responders and spends time travelling across Victoria meeting with members and discussing his experience with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). You can read more about Garth here.

Gavin Parker AFSM – Gavin joined the Neerim South brigade as a volunteer in 1975 and then went onto to join CFA as a career firefighter in 1995. Since then Gavin has served in a number of frontline and leadership roles across Victoria. Outside of his operational leadership, Gavin has been recognised for his innovation in introducing thermal imaging cameras to CFA and is recognised as the organisations subject matter expert. He also developed and delivery formal thermal imaging camera training into CFA to enhance firefighter safety and capability. You can read more about Gavin here.

VFBV also congratulates former CFA staff member Graham Kirk from Fire Rescue Victoria who was also recognised with an Australian Fire Service Medal in the Australia Day Honours this year.

Congratulations also for another eight former and current CFA members were awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM): Elizabeth Bate, Beverley Edwards, Ian Kellett, Major Neil Leckie, Geoffrey Penny, Graeme Robb, Gordan Simpson and Christine Welsh.

Nominations for AFSM's

Nominations for AFSM's are accepted at any time through CFA's Honours and Awards Committee.

The AFSM honours the distinguished service of members of fire services who make an exceptionable contribution to their communities. The AFSM recognises those whose service is above and beyond the normal zealous and faithful discharge of normal or ordinary service, either in the short or long term.

CFA volunteers are often modest and reluctant to seek out recognition for the service they have provided to their community and may not have a realistic appreciation of the impact they have had on CFA, their community, within VFBV or your Brigade or Group. They’re not in it for the honour or glory, but it’s up to each of us to ensure we take the time to say ‘thank-you’ to those people who have stepped up and help inspire us all to do better.

If you know a quiet achiever who has contributed to CFA, who goes above and beyond what could be reasonably expected of someone in a similar position, please consider nominating them for an AFSM.

The Australian Honours system has been designed to break down artificial barriers and open the Australian Honours to all parts of our society. Any member of the community can nominate any other Australian citizen for an award.

It is also critically important we encourage nominations for groups who are typically under-represented in Australian Honours like the AFSM. In particular we are encouraging a greater gender mix.

Women in particular are under-represented in AFSM’s awarded when we consider the thousands of women within the fire services across the country. And while things are improving, much more can be done.

There are so many exceptional CFA women and men deserving to be recognised, so please consider nominating someone you feel is deserving.

A common misconception is that only those members who have decades worth of service are recognised by the Honours system. The AFSM is not a long-service award, its sole criterion is distinguished service. And while prolonged service forms part of the key criteria, ‘prolonged’ is considered by the honour and awards committee’s to be taken in context as to what is considered ‘longer than usual’ and in context of what is ‘above and beyond’ the normal or ordinary service expected. Exceptional service that is sustained over a period of time can be considered as satisfying the criteria. For example, has the members contribution been in excess of expectations for a ‘normal’ member and over what duration? The Committee will consider the nature of the service or achievement within the context of a member’s service history when weighing up the various criteria.

This is especially important for women within CFA who may have their service overlooked simply because they haven’t been a Captain or Group Officer for 30+ years. While these are important leadership roles – our service is a team environment, and everyone’s contribution is valued.

Nothing should take away from the incredible achievement decade long service is, but the Honours system is designed to recognise those that make a significant contribution, and to represent the things that our communities believe to be deserving of recognition, including from those who are perhaps trailblazers for others to follow. Think of those people who have pushed the boundaries or have been first to reach and hold leadership positions that has been inspirational to those around them. For example, think of members who have overcome additional barriers, like English not being their first language and who have toiled away to learn the language and become masterful communicators designing new innovative community safety engagements to CALD communities and serving as a role model for other community members. Who are the people you look up to? Who are the people who have really made a difference in your Brigade or Group?

Distinguished service includes service that is above and beyond and can be short-term or prolonged. It is service that can be exemplified by; responsibility for an outstanding event that has proven to be of significant benefit to the fire service or community; development of a new system, procedure or technique that is unique and made a significant contribution to the fire service; or outstanding leadership in the encouragement and development of others, particularly youth within the fire services.

While it can seem daunting to nominate a potential recipient, some guiding principles that could assist in completing a nomination for an AFSM are:

- In what role(s) has the nominee excelled?
- How has the nominee demonstrated service worthy of recognition?
- How has the nominee’s contribution affected a particular field, locality, brigade, group or community at large?
- Over what period has the nominee made a major commitment?
- Has the nominee’s contribution been recognised elsewhere?
- What makes this person stand out from others?
- What specific examples can be provided to show how the nominee’s contribution(s) have been outstanding?

Nominations for awards are strictly confidential. The person being nominated should not be approached for information or advised of the confidential nomination at any stage of the process.

Additional Resources to Assist

Honours and Awards Toolkit

Guide to Preparing Nominations for the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM)

AFSM Nomination Form

Want to discuss a potential nomination or need some more information? Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

About the Australian Fire Service Medal

Introduced in 1988, the Australian Fire Service Medal recognised distinguished service by members of Australian fire services and is awarded to both volunteer and paid members. The award recognised the distinguished service by members of a State or Territory Fire Service, a Fire Service of an agency of the Commonwealth, and the Fire Services of the External Territories of Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling Island) and Norfolk Island.

The medal is awarded twice a year as part of the Australia Day award and King's Birthday award announcements.

Criteria for the Australian Fire Service Medal

To be considered for this award it would be expected that the nominee has given service beyond the norm exemplified by:

Prolonged service distinguished by exceptional performance in a particular area that has proved significant benefit to the fire service; and one or more of the following.
Responsibility for and management of an outstanding/exceptional event that has proven to be of significant benefit to the fire service, a community or community safety generally.
Development of a new system, or procedure, or technique that is unique and has made a significant contribution to the fire service, a community or community safety generally.
Outstanding leadership in the encouragement and development of others, particularly youth, within the fire service and the fostering and furthering of the aims of the fire service to the long-term benefit of the fire service and the community.
Demonstrated creativity in the development and implementation of innovative changes that have made a significant contribution to the fire service, fire/emergency operations, or the interests of community safety.

Published in HomePage Featured

Wednesday, 14 January 2026 16:44

January 2026 Newsletter

Written by VFBV

2025/26 Bushfires – Thank-you!
On behalf of the whole VFBV family, I wish to acknowledge the incredible work being done by brigade, groups and all CFA members supporting communities through the current bushfires and say thank-you. With thousands of volunteers still on the front lines and in support roles, and more than 10,000 activated last week alone, we wish to acknowledge the incredible efforts being undertaken to protect and support your communities.

And while morale is being tested, and tensions are high – it is a good time to reflect on the narrative of CFA for its 80th anniversary which described a story of profound commitment, of bravery, altruism and loss. Volunteer brigades history is a story of adaptation fuelled by an inextinguishable community spirit, which has carried us though some of the toughest moments Victorians have ever had to face.

In a similar vein, the spirit of CFA that was epitomised following the 2009 Black Saturday Fires as a message from our communities was immortalised by these words which echo today:

Hailing from all walks of life, you are the fathers and mothers, our brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, our grandparents, neighbours and our friends. You help protect us, without wanting of recognition or reward. In our time of need you are there. Your courage and compassion are inspiring, your loyalty unquestionable. You comfort us with a tender hand; you stand at the face of nature’s beast and fight for our lives and our land. You are the essence of the true meaning of community. You epitomise the Australian spirit, the spirit of CFA.

Be proud of your efforts, and know that what you do is meaningful and valued. Our community will need us for what will be a very long road to recovery, and the only way we can do our best for them is to be the best versions of ourselves. We are proud of you and all your efforts under very trying circumstances. We grieve each loss and continue to give it our all regardless of the adversity we face. We will support you each step of the way. Look after yourselves and most importantly, look after each other.

Adam Barnett, CEO – Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria

Donations to support CFA volunteers in a time of need
VFBV delegates and officials are working with affected brigades to access support available through the VFBV Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust and the VFBV Welfare Fund. With a large number of members directly impacted, high demand is expected.

Our Trusts support members who have been impacted by large bushfires and helps those that have lost their homes, fencing, machinery, stock, equipment and/or livelihoods. We have two different donations mechanisms for people to choose from when donating. At this time, our preference is that donations are made to the VFBV Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust but we welcome donations to either.

The VFBV Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust is only activated during large emergencies. It has previously been activated during the 2009 Black Saturday Fires, 2019/20 Bushfires, the 2023 Floods and now for the 2025/25 bushfires. The Trust only maintains very small reserves of funds, and is completely reliant on public donations. Current reserves were made possible by a corporate donation from the Barlow Impact Group who generously provided support during the 2019/20 Black Summer Fires.

With reserves low, support is dependent on donations being received. Currently, the Trust is supporting CFA volunteers who have lost their primary place of residence. After this work is complete, the Trust will consider broader support for members who have suffered property damage, outbuilding and other losses across the impacted areas.

During the 2019/20 bushfires, the trust provided high impact support grants, general support and relief grants and fast emergency relief payments. It also funded trailer mounted pumps for each of the Groups across the fire affected areas to provide legacy support for those brigades impacted.

All donations over $2 are tax deductible. You can donate to this Trust via: https://www.givenow.com.au/volunteersupport

The VFBV Welfare Fund is a capital fund that is designed to last forever. It provides grants (up to $5,000) for those volunteers experiencing hardship. It is only available to members, and brigades pay an annual subscription fee to cover all their members, their families, and long-serving ex-members. This year, 93% of CFA Brigades have chosen to cover their members. The Fund has paid out more than $2.85 million in grants since its inception.

As a capital fund, all donations are invested in interest bearing government approved institutions (term deposits) and the interest each year is used to fund any Welfare Grants. The capital is preserved, and keeps pace with inflation by each year calculating the gap between grants paid and the revenue required, with an annual subscription fee paid by brigades. This year, that fee was $80 per brigade which presents incredible value to cover every single member and long serving ex-members and their families. This model will ensure the capital is preserved forever, and CFA volunteers now and in the future will always be protected.

The Welfare Fund is currently working in co-operation with the Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust to assist those members who have lost their homes.

All donations over $2 are tax deductible. You can donate to the Welfare Fund via: https://www.givenow.com.au/vfbv

For any large donations, we highly recommend members use direct deposit to the relevant bank account, to avoid transaction fees being deducted from your donation. Bank account details for each Trust can be found on our VFBV website.

Brigades and Groups are permitted to make donations under CFA’s Brigade Finance Policy, under clause (23) which specifically states: “(23) Brigades may donate funds to the VFBV Welfare Fund, or VFBV Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust on approval via resolution at a Brigade meeting.”

If you have any questions, please speak to your local State Councillor or VFBV Support Officer, or phone the VFBV office on (03) 9886 1141.

Make it count
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer

Published 2 January 2026 in Fire Wise.

Five years ago, I welcomed in the New Year and said good riddance to the one just gone.

One can’t help but be reflective this time of year, but if I’m being honest, I’ll admit it’s getting harder and harder to remain optimistic that government will finally see the error of its ways and adjust its current policy settings to better support and enable CFA to be all it could be. Given we are one of the most fire prone places in the world, I dare say the Victorian community would very much appreciate it as well.

There is only so long our warnings can go unheeded until a day of reckoning. An under resourced, under supported CFA is akin to cancelling your home insurance policy straight after you get robbed.

As I remarked on Premier Allen’s ascendancy to the Premiership, the change of leadership would either be an opportunity to be part of the solution or part of the problem. Sadly, on all reasonable measures it would appear to be the latter.

And thankfully - while the days of all out contempt for volunteers and CFA through their reform agenda is largely behind us, there is yet to be substantive movement on the key policy areas setting CFA up for failure. We’ve told them, CFA has told them and their own independent fire services implementation monitor has told them in no uncertain terms. What more can we do?

Maybe you’ve heard that parable about a man clinging to his chimney on the roof of his house as flood waters surround him. He prays to God for help. A man in a rowboat comes by and tells him to jump in. The stranded man yells “its ok, I’m praying – God will save me.” A short time later as the waters continue to rise, a motorboat comes by and tells him to hop aboard. The stranded man repeats the same refrain that he’s praying and God will save him. Finally, a helicopter comes by and drops a rope to rescue him, and he again waves them away, saying he has faith, he’s praying and God will save him.

A short time later, the flood waters completely overcome him and the stranded man dies. In Heaven, he asks God - given his faith and his prayers - why did God abandon him in his time of need and not save him? God replied – “What are you talking about. I sent a rowboat, a motorboat and then a helicopter. What more did you expect?”

So, have I given up optimism as this year’s New Year’s resolution? No - far from it. I’m actually more determined than ever.

As Martin Luther King Jr said “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” On the other side of the pond, eighteenth century English poet Alexander Pope wrote “Hope springs eternal in the human breast” referring to our insatiable appetite to think something better is always coming.

At the end of the day, a volunteer organisation relies on optimism to survive. Our forebears served as wonderful role models in constantly pursuing improvements and to always keep trying, no matter the difficulty. They too at times had to wait for natural disasters to finally spur governments into action. Human inability to learn from history is sadly a common infliction.

If anything - patience and persistence are one of our defining strengths as a volunteer association. Long after topics and issues come and go, our pursuit for strategic meaningful long-term improvement that places community safety above all - never wanes.

Speaking of learning from history - in the July 2004 edition of ‘The Fireman’, Fireman Sam asked the question “Is red tape killing vols?”

He opined: “..where would we be if it were not for the volunteer effort that has helped to make Australian life what it is today.”

“We are fortunate that many in the community are still that way inclined. But I fear the number is dwindling. It is certainly more difficult to attract volunteers. Sadly, it is also more difficult to be one.”

“What was a trickle of change has developed into a flood.”

“Over the past four or five years there has hardly been a month go by when there wasn’t some new piece of legislation, local government by law, Code of practice, government department procedural process, statutory authority requirement, or competency requirement that somehow impacted on the numerous volunteer organisations that help keep a community running on a day to day basis.”

He summarised that far from seeking payment or reward, volunteers seek the satisfaction of seeing good results for their efforts and the feeling that it has all been worthwhile. He also said the other form of ‘reward’ that volunteers would really appreciate is that their efforts are facilitated and supported by government and administrators.

How is it then, that 20 years later government and bureaucrats are still not able to grasp the simple concept of valuing and respecting our volunteers?

The most recent example are last months media releases heralding the announcements of this year’s VESEP grants. Don’t get me wrong – VESEP is a wonderful program that was developed in partnership between government, CFA and VFBV before being extended across the sector. The government should be congratulated for continuing with it, and boosting it significantly. Given its roots, and the collaboration of the three signatories to the volunteer charter - it should not be surprising that it is immensely popular and has grown year after year.

Unfortunately, far from any acknowledgement of this partnership, we were served a release bereft of any such modesty or humility and instead given vulgar self-congratulation and spin.

Worse – the government media releases took credit for more than $30 million in grants, and the “biggest ever grants for emergency services volunteers”.

Hiding in plain sight of course, was every dollar that CFA, SES, LSV and Coast Guard volunteers donated as a VESEP contribution. The omission is both stark and insulting.

Not a single reference to the fact that this year for example, CFA volunteers contributed a new record of almost $4 million in brigade funds earned from fundraising and hard work.

Is the government so indifferent that the men and women making immense sacrifice to serve their communities in their time of need just might be looking for some form of acknowledgment or basic understanding of what they do and what motivates a volunteer based organisation?

Can you remember a time that police chipped in for their police vehicles? Or paramedics for their ambulances? Can you imagine a group photo of departmental public servants posing for a photo with the Minister to hand over the keys and celebrate the governments replacement of their government fleet vehicle every 3 years?

And we can’t even manage a simple thank-you or acknowledgement that volunteers - rather than simply accept a handout, worked hand in hand with government to fund and replace millions of dollars’ worth of trucks and equipment?

Let’s not forget that for many brigades, these contributions represented decades of painstaking fundraising and sausage sizzles to build up the funds to eventually apply for a grant in the first place.

Or is it the embarrassment of the inconvenient truth that volunteer fire brigades must actually scrimp and save to buy their own essential pieces of trucks and equipment their communities rely on simply because the State does not properly fund them to begin with?

So, allow me to say a heartfelt thank-you. I can’t profess to speak on behalf of all Victorians, but I’m yet to meet one that doesn’t respect and appreciate the incredible contribution that emergency service volunteers make to the State.

To put the volunteer contribution into perspective, CFA volunteers have contributed more than $41 million in funds to the program over the past 20 years alone. An incredible achievement and legacy worthy of acknowledgement.

Add this to the conservative indicative value of the $2.5 billion dollars that Victoria’s emergency management volunteers contribute to Victoria each and every year through their volunteering, and you really are left with an obvious answer to Fireman Sam’s question of where would we be without it? Think creek and paddle.

Which brings us to the metaphorical creek without the paddle.

VFBV continues to draw attention to the complete inequity of CFA’s budget, and the governments prolonged attack on CFA’s resourcing and support. Despite government media releases spruiking “record funding” – our reality is far from the nirvana they falsely proclaim.

In January last year, I walked members through our analysis tracking the governments lack of investment in CFA over the past five years. We found that despite increased costs and high inflation, government have inexplicitly invested less and less in CFA’s base funding year after year since reform in 2020.

We must continue to maintain the pressure on highlighting the smoke and mirrors being played with CFA’s budget, and the inescapable aging CFA fleet that sees volunteer firefighters stuck on the back of almost 700 old single cab tankers breathing in the smoke and fumes on 40 degree days and sweltering in the sun.

Don’t forget that of the $500M extra in tax revenue the government is due to collect this year from their new Emergency Services Tax hikes, only $10M of that extra has been allocated to the CFA truck replacement base budget. That is less than one-tenth of the funds required to maintain CFA’s fleet of 2,389 trucks.

We must continue to educate decision makers and the general public about the escalating risks of relying on such an ageing fleet and the inherent safety risks this represents. The grounding of the entire FFMVic G-Wagon fleet late last year should be a stark warning to those that dismiss the ageing CFA fleet and convince themselves that a well-maintained fleet of trucks can last forever.

A single volunteer injury (or worse), is far too high a price to pay for government inaction.

For all members that were called to duty over the Christmas and New Years break, a huge thank-you. For those that covered your absences at home and work – thank-you also.

And while we face numerous challenges, we should never lose sight of the incredible difference you each make every day in your communities. If last year culminated in celebrating the first 80 years of the formation of CFA, January 2026 represents the first steps of our next 80 years. We owe it to not only our forebears but ourselves to make each of them count.

Stay safe.

2025/26 VFBV Vol Survey

This year’s VFBV Vol Survey is now open.

The survey is the largest of its kind and provides an annual snapshot of volunteer opinion, using questions on issues chosen by volunteers.

All responses are confidential, with only de-identified results going straight to decision makers. The results are studied by the CFA Executive, the Department of Justice and Community Safety, the Fire Services Implementation Monitor, and the Victorian Government. Issues highlighted by volunteer feedback and responses drive further initiatives and investment to try and improve the things that volunteers raise as priority issues.

Now in its 14th year, the survey is the oldest, most credible and robust analysis of emergency service volunteer opinion in Victoria.

The survey measures volunteer opinions on what is important to them, and how well CFA is performing according to what they are experiencing. By repeating the survey each year, important trend analysis allows decision makers to evaluate efforts to address key issues, and whether or not the selected improvements are being effective. VFBV uses the results to drive important volunteer advocacy, and push for improvements on the issues that volunteers tell us they value the most.

Scan the QR code below or visit the VFBV website to do the survey today. Paper copies are also available by calling the VFBV Office on (03) 9886 1141.

The survey allows you to rate what’s going well, what needs improvement and an opportunity to suggest key issues requiring further attention. Help us help you and have your say today.

State Championships

A reminder that team entries and judge and official nominations for the 2026 State Championships are now open and will close on Sunday 15 February 2026.

VFBV has again waived the entry fees for the 2026 State Championships in an effort to encourage more brigades to enter a team in any of the four state championships. To enter your brigade or team or to nominate as a judge and official for the 2026 State Championships visit www.tinyurl.com/2026-entry

The 2026 State Championships begin with the Urban Junior Championship held on the weekend of 21 and 22 March 2026, with the Rural Junior and Senior Championships and the Urban Senior Championship taking place on the weekend of 28 and 29 March 2026.

The popular torchlight procession will also take place on Saturday 28 March through the centre of Stawell. Participation in the Torchlight Procession is open to all brigades taking part in the Championships as well as brigades who are not competing at the State Championships. If your brigade is interested in taking part in the Torchlight Procession contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to register your interest.

For information about the 2026 State Championships including updated rule books for both the rural and urban championships, details of location competitions being held around the state and links to enter your team or nominate as a judge or official visit the VFBV website or contact the VFBV office via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (03) 9886 1141.

2025/26 Affiliations
Thank you to all brigades and groups who have re-affiliated and helped VFBV stand up for volunteers.

Affiliation sends a strong message that volunteers are united and will work together to achieve positive outcomes that benefit not only brigades, but the broader community of which we all protect. It also provides access to the VFBV Welfare Fund, which since its inception has distributed more than $2.85 million in grants to volunteers who have fallen on hard times.

Brigades are reminded that 31st December was the deadline for paying this year’s Welfare Fund subscription. Subscription to the Welfare Fund ensures that all members of the brigades are able to access a grant if they find themselves in financial hardship if due to loss of work, family illness or accidental injury. Waiting periods apply for subscription payments received after the 31st December 2025.

If you are unsure if your brigade’s payments are up to date, please reach out to your local VFBV State Councillors or contact your VFBV Support Officer.

Bushfire Recovery Resources

VFBV has collated relevant recovery information and emergency grant information to assist members who may be personally impacted by the emergency.

There are numerous supports available to members, residents, farmers, businesses, individuals and communities but navigating these can be a time consuming and sometimes frustrating exercise with information hard to find and spread across multiple resources.

Please visit the VFBV website to download the latest fact sheet on the current resources and assistance available to impacted members in relation to the 2025/26 bushfires.

As with previous Fact Sheets of this nature, the information is rapidly changing, and we will update the fact sheet as fresh information becomes available.

Rebate Scheme
A reminder that the eligible volunteers rebate scheme is now open for eligible volunteers and life members to apply for a rebate on an eligible property under the Emergency Services Tax.

CFA volunteers intending on claiming the volunteer rebate will be required to first log-in to their CFA online account, to complete the CFA eligibility test.

To check the rules and eligibility requirements, you can visit: https://www.vic.gov.au/evrs

If you are eligible and own an eligible property, head to Members Online to start the process.

Contemporary Volunteer Membership Model Options Paper

All members are invited to have your say on a major piece of work, years in the making, that CFA claims will shape the foundations for flexible, clear and modern volunteer membership at CFA now and into the future.

The Options Paper seeks feedback on 13 recommended options that are designed to support real life circumstances and improve the way people join, stay, move between brigades, contribute in different ways, and transition roles over time. All while supporting brigades to broaden and maintain their membership and strengthen capability without the unnecessary burdens.

The options in the paper come directly from what volunteers and brigades have told CFA over the past several years about some of the unintentional barriers in the current model, that limit opportunities for volunteering.

For more information on how to provide feedback to both CFA and VFBV on the options presented as well a link to download the Options Paper visit the VFBV website.

SOP Feedback

CFA has requested VFBV review and provide feedback on 11 updated or new SOP’s. Please visit the VFBV website for links to download each of the SOP’s as well as VFBV’s comparison tables for the 9 updated SOP’s.

Given the importance of SOP’s in CFA’s operational doctrine, all members are encouraged to review and revised SOP’s and provide any feedback, suggestions or amendments including indicating support or non-support for the proposed SOP’s to VFBV ASAP.

Please visit the VFBV website to access the draft SOP’s and change logs to help guide your feedback as well information on how to provide feedback.

Fire Wise – January 2026 online only edition

The January 2026 edition of Fire Wise has been published online only, this edition and past editions are available from the Fire Wise website for a small subscription fee.

You can support Fire Wise and the role it plays as an independent voice in keeping volunteers informed by becoming a subscriber. To become a subscriber visit the Fire Wise website or contact the Managing Editor of Fire Wise, Gordon Rippon-King either by phone 0402 051 412 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Recent articles on the VFBV website
Donate Now – Supporting CFA Volunteers in a time of need

Now Open – 2025/26 VFBV Volunteer Survey

Bushfire Recovery Resources

SOP Feedback – December 2025

Contemporary Volunteer Membership Model Options Paper

2025-26 VESEP Grants Announced

Emergency Services Tax Forecast Funding

2025 Drought Relief Resources

Emergency Responder PTSD trial

SOP Feedback – Various Interim SOP’s (October 2025)

2026 State Championships Entries Now Open

Presumptive Legislation Update

Enjoy the VFBV monthly newsletter?
If you enjoy reading the VFBV newsletter each month, why not share it with your fellow volunteers?

Either share this page with others who may enjoy the articles or encourage other volunteers to sign up to receive their own copy via email each month here.

Want to read the VFBV 2-minute briefings from the CFA/VFBV Joint Committees?
The latest edition along with previous editions can be downloaded from the VFBV website here.

Published in HomePage Featured

Wednesday, 14 January 2026 11:29

Bushfire Recovery Resources

Written by VFBV

Updated 16 January 2026 with additional resources and assistance available (Originally issued 14 January 2026)

During major disasters, VFBV collates relevant recovery information and emergency grant information to assist members who may be personally impacted by the emergency. As fires and blacking out operations continue across Victoria, VFBV recognises these bushfires are having a significant impact on many CFA Volunteers, their families and communities.

There are numerous supports available to members, residents, farmers, businesses, individuals and communities, but navigating these can be a time consuming and sometimes frustrating exercise with information hard to find and spread across multiple sources.

Available from the attachment link at the bottom of this page is a Fact Sheet on current resources and assistance available to impacted members in relation to the 2025/26 bushfires.

While most of this information is available from various sources online, the people impacted the worst are often in areas with no power, internet or mobile phone reception due to the emergency. The Fact Sheet can be printed and handed to someone who may be in need of assistance. Printed copies may also be requested from the VFBV office via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (03) 9886 1141

In our experience, people experiencing hardship are often overwhelmed and do not have time to search, find and navigate the various assistance that is available. Our Fact Sheets try to put all relevant resources into a single document that can either be viewed electronically – or - be printed out and handed to someone who can then assess what they need most.

As with previous Fact Sheets of this nature, the information is rapidly changing, and we will update and collate as fresh information becomes available. We have linked to resources where possible, so updated information can be referred to later if changed.

We will continue to monitor and update as appropriate, and if you are aware of additional information or assistance if you could please make your local VFBV Support Officer aware so we can update as appropriate.

Published in HomePage Featured

Thursday, 25 December 2025 09:16

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Written by VFBV

On behalf of everyone at VFBV, we wish all members, delegates, friends and supporters a very happy and safe Christmas and New Year.

We wish to especially acknowledge those of you and our members who will be called away over the Christmas and New year period serving their communities.

CFA volunteers work tirelessly to support and protect their communities 24/7. They will be giving up precious time with their families and loved ones to ensure their communities remain protected this holiday season. We take this opportunity to thank each and every one of our CFA Volunteers for the tremendous work they do in protecting our communities.

To all our volunteer firefighter's on the front line, and to the thousands of others who support in our communities or behind the scenes, well done and thank-you for your incredible contribution year after year.

To the families, employers and supporters of CFA volunteers we say thank you. Your support is crucial to the work our members do in protecting Victorian communities from fire and building safe and resilient communities, 365 days of the year.

May everyone have a Safe and Happy Christmas.

Stay safe over the holiday season, and please look out for one another.

Published in HomePage Featured

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CFA Volunteers are the unpaid professionals of our Emergency Services. VFBV is their united voice, and speaks on behalf of Victoria's 60,000 CFA Volunteers.

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2026 State Urban Championship Results

2026 State Rural Junior Championship

2026 State Rural Senior Championship Results

2026 State Urban Junior Championship Results

March 2026 Newsletter

International Women's Day 2026

2026 State Championships - Information for Competing Teams

2026 Annual Firefighter Memorial Service

Parliamentary Inquiry into 2026 Fires

February 2026 Newsletter

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January 2026 Newsletter

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