News 
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 28TH MARCH
Event 1 – Ladder Race, One Competitor
|
1st |
OSBORNE PARK ORANGE (1) (Aiden Couzens) |
6.50 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
HOPPERS CROSSING A (1) (Brenton Lawrence) |
6.81 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MELTON WHITE (1) (Bailey Arandt) |
6.98 |
seconds |
|
4th |
TATURA (1) (Jeremy Withall) |
7.13 |
seconds |
|
5th |
DRYSDALE (1) (Anthony Connally) |
7.15 |
seconds |
Event 2 – B Section Hose & Ladder, Five Competitors
|
1st |
COHUNA |
23.45 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
DRYSDALE |
25.09 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WARRNAMBOOL |
25.78 |
seconds |
|
4th |
CRESWICK |
26.35 |
seconds |
|
5th |
BENDIGO |
26.61 |
seconds |
Event 3 – A Section Y Coupling, Four Competitors
|
1st |
TATURA |
7.94 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
PATTERSON RIVER |
8.23 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MORWELL |
8.70 |
seconds |
|
4th |
HARVEY |
8.82 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MELTON |
8.89 |
seconds |
Event 4 – A Section Hose & Ladder, Five Competitors
|
1st |
OSBORNE PARK ORANGE RECORD |
22.11 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
WARRACKNABEAL |
22.19 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
HARVEY |
22.64 |
seconds |
|
4th |
PATTERSON RIVER |
22.87 |
seconds |
|
5th |
HOPPERS CROSSING A |
23.22 |
seconds |
Event 5 – B Section Y Coupling, Four Competitors
|
1st |
KANGAROO FLAT |
8.34 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
CRESWICK |
8.36 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
KNOX GROUP |
9.02 |
seconds |
|
4th |
SALE Run off conducted for fourth place |
9.10 |
seconds |
|
5th |
OSBORNE PARK GREEN |
9.10 |
seconds |
Event 6 – B Section Pumper & Ladder, Five Competitors
|
1st |
COHUNA |
16.15 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
CRESWICK |
16.89 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
EUROA |
17.13 |
seconds |
|
4th |
WARRNAMBOOL |
17.15 |
seconds |
|
5th |
KANGAROO FLAT |
18.00 |
seconds |
Event 7 – Female Section Y Coupling, Four Competitors
|
1st |
WARRACKNABEAL RECORD |
9.18 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
KNOX GROUP |
9.55 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
HARVEY |
10.44 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MELTON |
10.73 |
seconds |
|
5th |
KANGAROO FLAT |
10.95 |
seconds |
Event 8 – A Section Pumper & Ladder, Five Competitors
|
1st |
DANDENONG |
16.28 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
HOPPERS CROSSING |
16.84 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WARRACKNABEAL |
17.33 |
seconds |
|
4th |
ECHUCA A |
17.39 |
seconds |
|
5th |
PATTERSON RIVER |
17.54 |
seconds |
Event 9 – Female Y Coupling, Two Competitors
|
1st |
ECHUCA |
13.17 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
PAKENHAM |
13.95 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
KNOX GROUP |
14.05 |
seconds |
|
4th |
NARRE WARREN |
14.36 |
seconds |
|
5th |
HARVEY |
14.65 |
seconds |
Event 10 – B Section Y Coupling, Six Competitors
|
1st |
KANGAROO FLAT RECORD |
33.54 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
CRESWICK |
36.07 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
COHUNA |
39.73 |
seconds |
|
4th |
SALE |
40.80 |
seconds |
|
5th |
KYNETON |
41.95 |
seconds |
Event 11 – A Section Marshall, One Competitor
|
1st |
MARYVALE (1) (Matt Royal) |
24.18 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
TATURA (1) (Jeremy Withall) |
24.54 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MELTON MAROON (2) (Bailey Rhodes) |
25.27 |
seconds |
|
4th |
DANDENONG (1) (Millar Anderson) |
26.17 |
seconds |
|
5th |
HOPPERS CROSSING A (2) (Brenton Lawrence) |
26.32 |
seconds |
Event 12 – A Section Y Coupling, Six Competitors
|
1st |
OSBORNE PARK ORANGE RECORD |
32.59 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
PATTERSON RIVER |
33.24 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
DANDENONG |
33.95 |
seconds |
|
4th |
NARRE WARREN A |
35.45 |
seconds |
|
5th |
HARVEY |
36.59 |
seconds |
Event 13 – Female Marshall, One Competitor
|
1st |
TATURA (Hayley Rennie) |
29.28 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
ECHUCA (Kaylea Blake) |
30.60 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
PAKENHAM (Shymma Harris) |
31.33 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KNOX GROUP (Rebecca Keats) |
31.66 |
seconds |
|
5th |
HARVEY (Kaitlin Naude) |
31.92 |
seconds |
Event 14 – Female Section Wet Hose, Two Competitors
|
1st |
ECHUCA (Shae Burns, Kaylea Blake) RECORD |
12.59 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
TATURA (Hayley Rennie, Sam Rennie) |
12.75 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
KNOX GROUP (Rebecca Keats, Isabella Gluskie) |
13.22 |
seconds |
|
4th |
WARRACKNABEAL (Isabella Orszulak) |
13.58 |
seconds |
|
5th |
NARRE WARREN (Samantha McKean, Gabby Keats) |
13.68 |
seconds |
Event 15 – B Section Marshall, One Competitor
|
1st |
MAFFRA (1) (Brent McKenzie) |
25.55 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
OSBORNE PARK GREEN (1) (Tom Evans) |
26.79 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
HORSHAM (2) (Jonothan Hornsby) |
27.33 |
seconds |
|
4th |
WERRIBEE (1) (Michael Trifflo) |
27.57 |
seconds |
|
5th |
OSBORNE PARK GREEN (2) (Dean Jordan) |
27.69 |
seconds |
Event 16 – A Section Hydrant & Tanker, Four Competitors
|
1st |
MELTON MAROON |
11.75 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
SWAN HILL |
12.00 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
DANDENONG |
12.44 |
seconds |
|
4th |
HARVEY |
14.73 |
seconds |
|
5th |
WENDOUREE |
14.33 |
seconds |
Event 17 – B Section Hydrant & Tanker, Four Competitors
|
1st |
COHUNA |
13.61 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
CRESWICK |
13.64 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WARRNAMBOOL |
13.91 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KANGAROO FLAT Run off conducted for fourth place |
14.37 |
seconds |
|
5th |
HALLAM |
14.37 |
seconds |
Event 18 – Female Section Hydrant and Tanker, Four Competitors
|
1st |
SWAN HILL RECORD |
17.38 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON |
19.22 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WENDOUREE |
20.37 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KYNETON |
21.18 |
seconds |
|
5th |
NARRE WARREN |
21.70 |
seconds |
SUNDAY 29TH MARCH
Event 19 – Female Hydrant Race, One Competitor
|
1st |
WARRACKNABEAL (Isabella Orszulak) |
15.25 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
BENDIGO (Natalie Watson) |
15.49 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
SWAN HILL (Amity Scott) |
15.73 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KERANG (Kendall Ash) |
15.92 |
seconds |
|
5th |
NARRE WARREN (Gabby Keats) |
16.42 |
seconds |
Event 20 – A Section Marshall, Two Competitors
|
1st |
MELTON WHITE (1) (Jesse Arandt, Bayllie Arandt) |
15.09 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
HARVEY (2) (Ethan Harding, Brodie Hewer) |
15.12 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MELTON MAROON (2) (Bailey Rhodes, Devante Johns) |
15.22 |
seconds |
|
4th |
TATURA (1) (Jeremy Withall, Nathan Rennie) |
15.31 |
seconds |
|
5th |
TATURA (2) (Matt Rennie, Luke Rennie) |
15.86 |
seconds |
Event 21 – Hydrant Race, One Competitor
|
1st |
MARYVALE (1) (Matt Royal) |
12.19 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
NARRE WARREN A (1) (Adrian Jones) |
12.35 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
TATURA (2) (Nathan Rennie) |
12.40 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MELTON MAROON (2) (Jack Geysing) |
12.44 |
seconds |
|
5th |
DANDENONG (1) (Millar Anderson) |
12.47 |
seconds |
Event 22 – Female Marshall, Two Competitors
|
1st |
ECHUCA (Kaylea Blake, Shae Burns) |
18.60 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
TATURA (Sam Rennie, Hayley Rennie) |
19.00 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
OSBORNE PARK (Nikki Jackson, Alyssa Bolger) |
19.19 |
seconds |
|
4th |
BENDIGO (Keeley Rooke, Natalie Watson) |
19.72 |
seconds |
|
5th |
WARRACKNABEAL (Isabella Orszulak, Zoe Morris) |
19.86 |
seconds |
Event 23 – A Section Hose & Reel Sixes
|
1st |
OSBORNE PARK ORANGE |
28.87 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON MAROON |
29.30 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WENDOUREE |
30.84 |
seconds |
|
4th |
HOPPERS CROSSING A |
31.21 |
seconds |
|
5th |
ECHUCA A |
31.69 |
seconds |
Event 24 – B Section Marshall, Two Competitors
|
1st |
OSBORNE PARK GREEN (1) (Dean Jordan, Tom Evans) |
16.46 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
WERRIBEE (2) (Michael Trifilo, Aiden Trifilo) |
16.81 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
COHUNA (1) (Lachie Mathers, Shannon Treacy) |
17.69 |
seconds |
|
4th |
EUROA (1) (Max Fuelanetto, Brodie Asquith) |
17.78 |
seconds |
|
5th |
KANGAROO FLAT (1) (Blake Harris, Michael Evans) |
18.20 |
seconds |
Event 25 – Female Section Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors
|
1st |
HARVEY - RECORD |
17.13 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
ECHUCA |
17.45 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
KANGAROO FLAT |
17.96 |
seconds |
|
4th |
SWAN HILL |
18.45 |
seconds |
|
5th |
PAKENHAM |
19.01 |
seconds |
Event 26 – A Section Hose, Hydrant & Pumper, Four Competitors
|
1st |
OSBORNE PARK ORANGE |
13.71 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
NARRE WARREN A |
13.80 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
PATTERSON RIVER |
14.75 |
seconds |
|
4th |
ECHUCA A |
15.55 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MELTON WHITE |
15.63 |
seconds |
Event 27 – B Section Hose & Reel Sixes
|
1st |
CRESWICK |
32.99 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
OSBORNE PARK GREEN |
33.20 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
SALE |
34.15 |
seconds |
|
4th |
EUROA |
34.34 |
seconds |
|
5th |
BENDIGO |
34.38 |
seconds |
Event 28 – B Section Hose, Hydrant & Pumper, Four Competitors
|
1st |
WARRNAMBOOL |
14.58 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
WERRIBEE |
15.80 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
CRESWICK |
15.81 |
seconds |
|
4th |
COHUNA |
16.27 |
seconds |
|
5th |
SALE |
16.53 |
seconds |
Event 29 – A Section Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors
|
1st |
TATURA- RECORD |
14.17 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON MAROON |
14.54 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
ECHUCA A |
14.69 |
seconds |
|
4th |
HARVEY |
14.93 |
seconds |
|
5th |
HOPPERS CROSSING A |
15.30 |
seconds |
Event 30 – Female Section Hose, Hydrant & Pumper, Four Competitors
|
1st |
WARRACKNABEAL - RECORD |
18.25 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
WERRIBEE |
18.79 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
NARRE WARREN |
20.45 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MORWELL |
21.03 |
seconds |
|
5th |
HOPPERS CROSSING |
21.89 |
seconds |
Event 31 – B Section Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors
|
1st |
KYNETON |
15.49 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MAFFRA |
16.62 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
COHUNA |
16.02 |
seconds |
|
4th |
OSBORNE PARK GREEN |
16.07 |
seconds |
|
5th |
WERRIBEE |
16.23 |
seconds |
Event 32 – Champion Fours
|
1st |
MELTON MAROON |
17.31 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
ECHUCA A |
18.30 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
TATURA |
19.02 |
seconds |
|
4th |
SWAN HILL |
19.55 |
seconds |
|
5th |
DRYSDALE |
19.55 |
seconds |
CHALLENGE EVENTS
Vic/WA Challenge, Hose & Reel Eights
|
1st |
WESTERN AUSTRALIA (Tod Bergerson, Mitch Golding, Peter Goodbourn, Ethan Harding, Zoe Hazelwood, Brodie Hewer, Greg Hunter, Kyden Toop, Kaitlin Naude) |
30.93 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
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
|
1st |
WEST (Kendall Ash – Kerang, Claire Longstaff – Bendigo, Zoe Morris – Warracknabeal, Amity Scott – Swan Hill) |
18.45 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
EAST (Teagan Holland – Morwell, Becca Keats – Knox Group, Hannah Norman – Echuca, Hayley Rennie – Tatura) |
18.85 |
seconds |
East v West, Hose & Reel Eights
|
1st |
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 |
|
2nd |
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
|
=1st |
MELTON A & KNOX GROUP |
92.00% |
|
|
2nd |
EUROA |
90.00% |
|
|
=3rd |
MORWELL & DANDENONG |
88.00% |
|
FINAL AGGREGATE RESULTS
Dry Aggregate
|
1st |
TATURA |
21 |
points |
|
2nd |
MARYVALE |
16 |
points |
|
3rd |
MELTON WHITE |
11 |
points |
Wet Aggregate
|
1st |
OSBORNE PARK ORANGE |
56 |
points |
|
2nd |
COHUNA |
46 |
points |
|
3rd |
MELTON MAROON |
44 |
points |
Female Aggregate
|
1st |
ECHUCA |
47 |
points |
|
2nd |
WARRACKNABEAL |
29 |
points |
|
3rd |
TATURA |
23 |
points |
SECTION AGGREGATES
‘A’ SECTION
|
1st |
OSBORNE PARK ORANGE |
64 |
points |
|
2nd |
MELTON MAROON |
52 |
points |
|
3rd |
TATURA |
43 |
points |
‘A’ SECTION WET AGGREGATE
|
1st |
OSBORNE PARK ORANGE |
56 |
points |
|
2nd |
MELTON MAROON |
44 |
points |
|
=3rd |
ECHUCA A & TATURA |
22 |
points |
‘A’ SECTION APPLIANCE AGGREGATE
|
1st |
DANDENONG |
11 |
points |
|
=2nd |
MELTON MAROON & OSBORNE PARK ORANGE |
8 |
points |
‘B’ SECTION
|
1st |
COHUNA |
49 |
points |
|
2nd |
CRESWICK |
48 |
points |
|
3rd |
OSBORNE PARK GREEN |
29 |
points |
‘B’ SECTION WET AGGREGATE
|
1st |
COHUNA |
46 |
points |
|
2nd |
CRESWICK |
43 |
points |
|
=3rd |
KANGAROO FLAT & WARRNAMBOOL |
19 |
points |
‘B’ SECTION APPLIANCE AGGREGATE
|
1st |
COHUNA |
18 |
points |
|
=2nd |
CRESWICK & WARRNAMBOOL |
13 |
points |
2026 CHAMPION COMPETITOR
|
=1st |
Jeremy Withall (Tatura) and Bailey Rhodes (Melton Maroon) |
24 |
points |
|
3rd |
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
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
|
1st |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
18.79 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Pearcedale A |
20.31 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Miners Rest A |
20.64 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Strathmerton A |
21.13 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Leopold A |
21.50 |
seconds |
Event 1B: Low Down Pump & Ladder – 11 – 15 years
|
1st |
Napoleons-Enfield A |
16.37 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
17.79 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Napoleons-Enfield B |
17.96 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Maiden Gully B |
19.02 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Doreen A |
19.16 |
seconds |
Chief Officer’s Challenge Event, Low Down Pump & Ladder
|
1st |
Maiden Gully B: Arlen Shay, Tianna Shay, Louis Jenkins & Chris Mason |
17.15 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Strathmerton A: Claudia Ciccone, Emma Bourchier, Eliza Bourchier & Ruby Fuller |
21.97 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
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
|
1st |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
22.49 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Leopold A |
22.56 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Elaine A |
25.44 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Pearcedale A |
25.68 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Elaine B |
26.22 |
seconds |
Event 2B: Wet Hose & Ladder – 11 – 15 years
|
1st |
Ascot & District A |
20.70 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
20.77 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Napoleons-Enfield A |
20.78 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Truganina B |
20.92 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Research A |
21.77 |
seconds |
Event 4A: Tanker – Priming, Pumping & Ladder – 11 -13 years
|
1st |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
25.52 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Mandurang A |
31.65 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Springhurst A |
33.12 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Pearcedale A |
35.40 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Gapsted A |
38.13 |
seconds |
Event 4B: Tanker – Priming, Pumping & Ladder – 11 – 15 years
|
1st |
RECORD: Napoleons-Enfield A |
21.58 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
24.99 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Truganina A |
25.11 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Ascot & District A |
25.92 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Glenlyon A |
26.44 |
seconds |
Event 5A: Hydrant & Tanker – 11 – 13 years
|
1st |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
30.47 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Mandurang A |
32.45 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Leopold A |
32.99 |
seconds |
|
=4th |
Elaine A & Elaine B |
35.15 |
seconds |
Event 5B: Hydrant & Tanker – 11 – 15 years
|
1st |
Napoleons-Enfield A |
24.04 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
25.05 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Ascot & District A |
26.36 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Truganina B |
29.95 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Doreen B |
30.75 |
seconds |
Event 6A: Tanker – Drawing Water from Tank – 11 – 13 years
|
1st |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
23.24 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Springhurst A |
24.61 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Gapsted A |
26.75 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Leopold A |
27.92 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Elaine A |
28.86 |
seconds |
Event 6B: Tanker – Drawing Water from Tank – 11 – 15 years
|
1st |
Maiden Gully B |
18.39 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Napoleons-Enfield A |
19.78 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
20.30 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Napoleons-Enfield B |
20.89 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Ascot & District A |
20.90 |
seconds |
Junior Firefighter Sprint Winners
11 – 13 years – Female
|
1st |
STRATHMERTON: Emma Bourchier |
|
2nd |
MANDURANG: Zoe Stewart |
|
3rd |
NAPOLEONS-ENFIELD: Violet Roberts |
11 – 13 years – Male
|
1st |
PEARCEDALE: Lenny Kakantonis |
|
2nd |
LEOPOLD: Benji Berryman |
|
3rd |
NAPOLEONS-ENFIELD: Hamish Kuchel |
11 – 15 years – Female
|
1st |
NAPEOLEONS-ENFIELD: Josie Roberts |
|
2nd |
MAIDEN GULLY: Tianna Shay |
|
3rd |
BEAZLEY’S BRIDGE: Sami Weir |
11 – 15 years – Male
|
1st |
MINERS REST: Nick Quirk |
|
2nd |
BEAZLEY’S BRIDGE: Henry Small |
|
3rd |
GAPSTED: Thomas Griffith |
FINAL AGGREGATE RESULTS
11 – 13 YEARS AGGREGATE
|
1st |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
80 |
points |
|
2nd |
Leopold A |
22 |
points |
|
3rd |
Mandurang A |
20 |
points |
11 – 15 YEARS AGGREGATE
|
1st |
Napoleons-Enfield A |
64 |
points |
|
2nd |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
46 |
points |
|
3rd |
Ascot & District A |
28 |
points |
CHAMPION TEAM
|
1st |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
126 |
points |
|
2nd |
Napoleons-Enfield A |
64 |
points |
|
3rd |
Ascot & District A |
28 |
points |
VFBV State President Encouragement Award winner: Mannerim 11-13 Years
Stan Ross Conduct Trophy winner: Gapsted
FINAL AGGREGATES
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 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
RECORD: Beazley’s Bridge A |
14.95 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Eldorado A |
14.97 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Moorooduc A |
15.62 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Hurstbridge A |
15.81 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Dunrobin/Nangeela A |
16.13 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 2 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Leopold B |
16.88 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Pearcedale B |
17.14 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Mandurang A |
17.15 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Hurstbridge B |
17.37 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Gapsted A |
17.91 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 3 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Ascot & District A |
17.24 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Miners Rest B |
18.66 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Hurstbridge D |
18.68 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Truganina D |
19.37 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Glenlyon A |
19.46 |
seconds |
Event 2: Wet Hose & Ladder
|
Division 1 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Leopold A |
14.97 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Eldorado A |
15.03 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Truganina A |
15.97 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Napoleons-Enfield A |
16.12 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Miners Rest A |
16.69 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 2 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Mandurang A |
16.07 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Elaine A |
16.78 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Dunrobin/Nangeela B |
17.46 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Leopold B |
17.69 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Eltham A |
17.77 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 3 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Glenlyon A |
17.34 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Maiden Gully A |
18.27 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Truganina C |
19.10 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Hurstbridge D |
19.18 |
seconds |
|
5th |
South East Region Staff Team A |
19.24 |
seconds |
Event 3: Tanker Hose Reel & Ladder
|
Division 1 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
RECORD: Leopold A |
39.85 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Hurstbridge A |
40.42 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Eldorado A |
41.24 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Moorooduc A |
41.73 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Beazley’s Bridge A |
43.26 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 2 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Leopold B |
50.22 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Hurstbridge B |
51.26 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Truganina B |
51.48 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Napoleons-Enfield B |
54.46 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Dunrobin/Nangeela B |
54.85 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 3 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Hurstbridge D |
47.80 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Mandurang B |
52.62 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Maiden Gully A |
54.79 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Ascot & District A |
54.81 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Eldorado E |
55.47 |
seconds |
Event 4: Tanker – Priming, Pumping & Ladder
|
Division 1 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Eldorado A |
20.73 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Leopold A |
21.24 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Moorooduc A |
22.06 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Truganina A |
22.67 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Hurstbridge A |
22.69 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 2 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Hurstbridge B |
23.96 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Pearcedale B |
24.45 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Eltham A |
24.62 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Mandurang A |
24.83 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Eldorado B |
24.98 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 3 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Glenlyon A |
23.53 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Maiden Gully A |
26.36 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Mandurang B |
27.45 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Glenlyon B |
29.22 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Truganina D |
29.66 |
seconds |
Event 5: Hydrant & Tanker
|
Division 1 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Moorooduc A |
20.04 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Dunrobin/Nangeela A |
20.30 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Napoleons-Enfield A |
23.34 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Leopold A |
23.39 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Moorooduc B |
25.83 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 2 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Mandurang A |
19.82 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Napoleons-Enfield B |
20.26 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Elaine A |
20.80 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Eldorado B |
22.34 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Strathmerton A |
23.12 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 3 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Hurstbridge D |
22.90 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Mandurang B |
23.05 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Doreen A |
23.83 |
seconds |
|
4th |
South East Region Staff Team A |
24.83 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Truganina D |
25.16 |
seconds |
Event 6: Tanker – Drawing Water from Tank
|
Division 1 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Hurstbridge A |
15.91 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Leopold A |
17.30 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Moorooduc A |
18.31 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Truganina A |
18.88 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Dunrobin/Nangeela A |
19.00 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 2 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Napoleons-Enfield B |
16.90 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Truganina B |
18.61 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Mandurang A |
19.09 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Eldorado C |
19.52 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Hurstbridge B |
20.18 |
seconds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Division 3 |
|
|
|
|
1st |
Truganina C |
19.53 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
Eldorado E |
21.19 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
Mandurang B |
21.20 |
seconds |
|
4th |
Maiden Gully A |
21.69 |
seconds |
|
5th |
Mandurang C |
22.57 |
seconds |
FINAL AGGREGATE RESULTS
DIVISION 1
|
1st |
Leopold A |
56 |
points |
|
2nd |
Eldorado A |
42 |
points |
|
3rd |
Moorooduc A |
38 |
points |
DIVISION 2
|
1st |
Mandurang A |
48 |
points |
|
2nd |
Leopold B |
36 |
points |
|
3rd |
Hurstbridge B |
32 |
points |
DIVISION 3
|
1st |
Hurstbridge D |
42 |
points |
|
2nd |
Glenlyon A |
34 |
points |
|
3rd |
Mandurang B |
32 |
points |
FEMALE AGGREGATE
|
1st |
Eldorado E |
45 |
points |
|
2nd |
Mandurang C |
18 |
points |
|
3rd |
Napoleons/Enfield C |
16 |
points |
Alan King AFSM Memorial Conduct Trophy: Eldorado Brigade
Aggregate Boards
Division 1
Division 2
Division 3
Female Aggregate
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 21st MARCH
Event 1 – Hydrant Race, One Competitor – Under 14 years
|
1st |
MAFFRA (1) (Tristian Scott) |
11.06 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
SWAN HILL A (1) (Natalia Barnes) |
11.16 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MELTON A (1) (Ricky Cassar) |
11.22 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MELTON A (2) (Ronan Steele) |
11.24 |
seconds |
|
5th |
WARRACKNABEAL A (1) (Joe Thompson) |
11.52 |
seconds |
Event 2 – Y Coupling, Two Competitors – Under 17 years
|
1st |
ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Archie Collier) |
11.98 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MAFFRA (Tyler Schoemaekers, Kye Bence) |
12.45 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MELTON A (Tyler Goudie, Ryder Millington) |
12.56 |
seconds |
|
4th |
GROVEDALE A (Koby Moores, Tom Warita) |
13.55 |
seconds |
|
5th |
SWAN HILL A (Xavier Morpeth, Chloe Howard) |
14.13 |
seconds |
Event 3 – Wet Hose Striking Second Disc, Four Competitors – Under 14 years
|
1st |
GROVEDALE A (Hamish Jenner, Bridie Meadows, Xavier Wilson, Matilda Weisier) |
19.72 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
ECHUCA A (Xavier Moylan, Lucas Brackenhofer, Emily Zlateff, Jasmine Wills) |
20.19 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WARRACKNABEAL A (Joe Thompson, Archie Nickleson, Victoria Wright, borrowed competitor) |
20.35 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KYNETON (John Pearce, Bonnie Tracey, Riley Sanders, borrowed competitor) |
20.43 |
seconds |
|
5th |
WERRIBEE A (Jack Atkins, Jake Davie, Aidan Green, Henry Weston) |
20.50 |
seconds |
Event 4 – Y Coupling, Four Competitors – Under 17 years
|
1st |
ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Archie Collier, Jack Alberni, Connor Drinkwell) |
9.37 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
WARRACKNABEAL B (Ruby Crisp, Riley Bish, Josh Nuske, borrowed competitor) |
10.43 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
HOPPERS CROSSING A (Isis Dawson, Christopher Dawson, Liam Parker, Lincoln Degenhardt) |
10.64 |
seconds |
|
4th |
WARRACKNABEAL A (Zander Jonasson, Ben Wright, Michael Wright, Maddison Bentley) |
10.69 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MAFFRA (Tristian Scott, Jacinta Schoemaekers, Tyler Schoenmaekers, Kye Bence) |
11.04 |
seconds |
Event 5 – Wet Hose Striking 1st & 2nd Discs, Four Competitors – Under 17 years
|
1st |
WARRACKNABEAL A (Zander Jonasson, Ben Wright, Michael Wright, Maddison Bentley) |
19.95 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON A (Tyler Goudie, Ryder Millington, Mason Pasco, Alexis Johnston) |
19.97 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MAFFRA (Tristian Scott, Jacinta Schoemaekers, Tyler Schoemaekers, Kye Bence) |
20.53 |
seconds |
|
4th |
HOPPERS CROSSING A (Isis Dawson, Christopher Dawson, Lincoln Degenhardt, Kaushal Date) |
21.18 |
seconds |
|
5th |
GROVEDALE A (Koby Moores, Tom Warita, William Warita, Xavier Wilson) |
21.23 |
seconds |
Event 6 – Marshall, One Competitor – Under 14 years
|
1st |
WARRACKNABEAL A (Joe Thompson) |
36.34 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
CRESWICK (Will Hand) |
36.78 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
SWAN HILL A (Natalia Barnes) |
37.14 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MAFFRA (Tristian Scott) |
37.25 |
seconds |
|
5th |
ECHUCA A (Xavier Moylan) |
37.34 |
seconds |
Event 7 – Wet Hose Striking 1st & 2nd Discs, Four Competitors – Under 14 years
|
1st |
KYNETON (John Pearce, Bonnie Tracey, Riley Sanders, borrowed competitor) |
23.01 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
SWAN HILL A (Boyd Jilbert, Alexander Morpeth, Toby Jilbert, Natalia Barnes) |
23.55 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
ECHUCA A (Lucas Brackenhofer, Emily Zlateff, Jasmine Wills, Amber Schmedje) |
24.50 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MELTON B (Royce Cruz, Yandel Cruz, Nathan Ilardo, Harry Nixon) |
24.89 |
seconds |
|
5th |
SALE (Will Saywell, Connor Knights, Opal Goode, Andy Gaudion) |
25.24 |
seconds |
Event 8 – Marshall, One Competitor – Under 17 years
|
1st |
ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield) |
29.69 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
SWAN HILL B (Uriah Cochrane) |
29.85 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
HAMILTON (Jordan Uebergang) |
35.06 |
seconds |
|
4th |
WERRIBEE A (Rose Higgs) |
35.39 |
seconds |
|
5th |
SWAN HILL A (Catherine Morpeth) |
35.39 |
seconds |
Event 9 – Wet Hose, Two Competitors – Under 17 years
|
1st |
ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Archie Collier) |
11.06 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON A (Ricky Cassar, Ronan Steele) |
11.25 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WARRACKNABEAL A (Ben Wright, Michael Wright) |
11.91 |
seconds |
|
4th |
HAMILTON (Jodan Uebergang, Jayda Bruni) |
12.37 |
seconds |
|
5th |
EYNESBURY A (William Greene, Eva Rogers) |
12.85 |
seconds |
Event 10 – Marshall, Two Competitors – Under 14 years
|
1st |
GROVEDALE (Hamish Jenner, Bridie Meadows) |
20.88 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
SALE (Will Saywell, Connor Knights) |
22.43 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
CRESWICK (Will Hand, Charlie Barber) |
22.88 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MELTON A (Ricky Cassar, Ronan Steele) |
22.91 |
seconds |
|
5th |
ECHUCA A (Xavier Moylan, Lucas Brackenhofer) |
23.04 |
seconds |
Event 11 – Wet Hose, Two Competitors – Under 14 years
|
1st |
KYNETON (John Pearce, Bonnie Tracey) |
12.28 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
ECHUCA A (Xavier Moylan, Lucas Brackenhofer) |
12.71 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
MAFFRA (Tristian Scott, Jacinta Schoemaekers) |
13.04 |
seconds |
|
4th |
ECHUCA B (Maddison Moylan, Jaxon Black) |
13.23 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MELTON A (Ricky Cassar, Ronan Steele) |
13.28 |
seconds |
SUNDAY 22nd MARCH
Event 12 – Hydrant Race, One Competitor – Under 17 years
|
1st |
ECHUCA A (1) (Mason Whinfield) |
13.03 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
ECHUCA A (2) (Archie Collier) |
13.38 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
KYNETON (1) (Chris Mason) |
13.43 |
seconds |
|
4th |
MAFFRA (1) (Tyler Schoemaekers) |
13.65 |
seconds |
|
5th |
GROVEDALE A (2) (William Warita) |
14.82 |
seconds |
Event 13 – Y Coupling, Two Competitors – Under 14 years
|
1st |
MELTON A (Ronan Steele, Ricky Cassar) |
12.77 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
SALE (Connor Knights, Will Saywell) |
13.88 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
WARRACKNABEAL A (Victoria Wright, Joe Thompson) |
14.48 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KYNETON (John Pearce, Bonnie Tracey) |
14.72 |
seconds |
|
5th |
ECHUCA B (Maddison Moylan, Tully Waterson) |
15.00 |
seconds |
Event 14 – Wet Hose Striking Second Disc, Four Competitors – Under 17 years
|
1st |
GROVEDALE A (Thomas Defrancesco, Koby Moores, Tom Warita, William Warita) |
17.28 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON A (Tyler Goudiel, Ryder Millington, Mason Pasco, Alexis Johnston) |
18.06 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Archie Collier, Jack Alberni, Ben Wills) |
18.29 |
seconds |
|
4th |
WARRACKNABEAL A (Zander Jonasson, Ben Wright, Michael Wright, Maddison Bentley) |
18.79 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MELTON B (Lily Leitch, Billie Welshe, Jayden Nixon, Charlotte Crawford) |
19.74 |
seconds |
Event 15 – Y Coupling, Four Competitors – Under 14 years
|
1st |
GROVEDALE A (Hamish Jenner, Bridie Meadows, Xavier Wilson, Matilda Weiser) |
9.74 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
WARRACKNABEAL A (Joe Thompson, Archie Nickleson, Victoria Wright, borrowed competitor) |
9.93 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
ECHUCA B (Maddison Moylan, Jaxon Black, Finlee Black, Tully Waterson) |
10.22 |
seconds |
|
4th |
CRESWICK (Makayla O’Connor, Will Hand, Charlie Barber, Izzy Kampman) |
11.02 |
seconds |
|
5th |
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
|
1st |
MELTON A (Ricky Cassar, Ronan Steele, Braxton Holden, Bentley Johnston) |
17.29 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
KYNETON (John Pearce, Bonnie Tracey, Riley Sanders, borrowed competitor) |
18.28 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
ECHUCA A (Xavier Moylan, Emily Zlateff, Jasmine Wills, Amber Schmedje) |
18.30 |
seconds |
|
4th |
GROVEDALE A (Hamish Jenner, Bridie Meadows, Xavier Wilson, Matilda Weiser) |
18.36 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MAFFRA (Trisitan Scott, Jacinta Schoemaekers, Shade Roberts-Taylor, Leo Di Ciero) |
19.40 |
seconds |
Event 17 – Marshall, Two Competitors – Under 17 years
|
1st |
ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Archie Collier) |
17.65 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
MELTON B (Lilly Leitch, Billie Welshe) |
20.51 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
GISBORNE (Zac Dickson, Lincoln Moyes) |
20.58 |
seconds |
|
4th |
GROVEDALE A (Koby Moores, William Warita) |
20.89 |
seconds |
|
5th |
MELTON A (Tyler Goudie, Ryder Millington) |
21.94 |
seconds |
Event 18 – Wet Hose Striking One Disc Twice, Four Competitors – Under 17 years
|
1st |
ECHUCA A (Mason Whinfield, Jack Alberni, Connor Drinkwell, Ben Wills) |
16.33 |
seconds |
|
2nd |
WANGARATTA (Will Thompson, Buddy Marshall, Evy Bongers, Jack Ambrose) |
16.78 |
seconds |
|
3rd |
SWAN HILL A (Xavier Morpeth, Catherine Morpeth, Chloe Howard, Sasha Hayes) |
17.41 |
seconds |
|
4th |
KYNETON (Charlie Tracey, Chris Mason, Will Quin, Patrick Sanders) |
17.53 |
seconds |
|
5th |
WARRACKNABEAL A (Zander Jonasson, Ben Wright, Michael Wright, Maddison Bentley) |
18.01 |
seconds |
CHALLENGE EVENTS
Chief Officer’s Challenge Event
|
1st |
ECHUCA A UNDER 17 YEARS TEAM (Mason Whinfield, Jack Alberni, Connor Drinkwell, Ben Wills) |
|
2nd |
MELTON A UNDER 14 YEARS TEAM (Ricky Cassar, Ronan Steele, Braxton Holden, Yandel Cruz) |
|
3rd |
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
|
1st |
EAST (Jaxon Black - Echuca, Ricky Cassar – Melton , Tristian Scott - Maffra, Adam Piper - Upwey) |
|
2nd |
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
|
1st |
EAST (Mason Whinfield – Echuca, Mackenzie Brynes – Eynesbury, Willow Goode – Sale, Lincoln Degenhardt – Hoppers Crossing) |
|
2nd |
WEST (Will Grant – Creswick, Ben Wright – Warracknabeal, Koby Moores – Grovedale, Lincoln Moyes – Gisborne) |
FINAL AGGREGATE RESULTS
DRY AGGREGATE
|
1st |
ECHUCA A |
47 |
points |
|
2nd |
GROVEDALE A |
21 |
points |
|
=3rd |
MELTON A and WARRACKNABEAL A |
19 |
points |
WET AGGREGATE
|
1st |
ECHUCA A |
35 |
points |
|
2nd |
KYNETON |
25 |
points |
|
3rd |
MELTON A |
24 |
points |
UNDER 14 YEARS AGGREGATE
|
1st |
GROVEDALE A |
26 |
points |
|
2nd |
KYNETON |
25 |
points |
|
3rd |
MELTON A |
24 |
points |
UNDER 17 YEARS AGGREGATE
|
1st |
ECHUCA A |
64 |
points |
|
2nd |
MELTON A |
19 |
points |
|
3rd |
WARRACKNABEAL A |
16 |
points |
GRAND AGGREGATE
|
1st |
ECHUCA A |
82 |
points |
|
2nd |
MELTON A |
43 |
points |
|
3rd |
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
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
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.
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.
 |
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 |
2026 State Championships - Information for Competing Teams
Written by VFBVAvailable 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.
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.
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.
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
Contemporary Volunteer Membership Model Options Paper
2025-26 VESEP Grants Announced
Emergency Services Tax Forecast Funding
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.
