The program, which started in Mallacoota in 2023, boosts response capability of popular holiday locations by allowing CFA volunteers to respond while travelling to the area.
This Easter the program will head north-west within CFA’s District 20, with nine brigades along the Murray River signing up to host volunteers from other areas to assist their response over the busy period.
The north-west pilot will include Bamawm Extension, Echuca, Echuca Village, Koondrook, Lake Charm, Murrabit, Torrumbarry, Wyuna and Yambuna.
These locations have been chosen to account for the increase in visitors to the area, as people take advantage of getting away for the much-loved Easter break and school holidays.
Current operational members who are firefighters are invited to turn out with the participating brigades while they are on holiday.
Members bring along their pager and gear, and if there is a call they are welcome to respond, however the program is purely voluntary.
CFA Deputy Chief Officer North West Region Trevor Weston said the program hopes to provide a big boost to the area.
“The Vols on Hols program has already had huge benefits in other parts of the state, and we are excited to see it come to the north-west,” Trevor said.
"While holidays are of course for spending time with family and friends, we know that our members always want to help, and may wish to assist the local CFA brigade if they are in town.
“With plenty of people expected to head to the area over the upcoming holidays, any of the nine brigades taking part would welcome some extra hands on deck.”
CFA members heading to the area can get in touch with the Volunteer Sustainability Team by emailing North West Region Volunteer Sustainability Team Manager Lisa Clinch at l.clinch@cfa.vic.gov.au
