Joining Emerald Fire Brigade

Joining the CFA as a volunteer firefighter is an easy process. However many questions have to be answered before you are able to make the important decision.
Discuss with your family first. This is most important. Remember! This is an emergency service. As a firefighter you will be exposed to possible dangerous situations.
Take into consideration the commitment on time. Emerald is a volunteer station. All volunteers put in as much time as they can spare. However, you will be expected to attend training on a regular basis and turn out.

The next step is to either log on to the CFA website and find the Recruitment link. Fill out the relevant form. This will be past onto the nearest station to your address or come down to the station and have a chat with the Recruits Officer. (The best time and day at Emerald is 7.00pm on Wednesday evening or 10.00am on Sunday mornings). If these days are not convenient, contact the station by phone and leave a message.

Frequently asked questions?
What is the process in joining the Brigade?
Once you have done the above, you will be given a Police Check form. All instructions are on the form to get it completed. (Recruits Officer will point out the necessary parts to be filled out and the necessary additional documents you need to fill out.)
Once the Police Check is completed, the application can proceed.
Will I need to have a medical check?
Part of the application is a disclosure of any past or present medical conditions. Depending on the condition, you may require a medical check.
When can I start training with the Brigade?
When the Police Check is returned from Victoria Police and approved by CFA. Normally this process takes about one month. You will then be issued with a CFA number. Until you have that number, you can not take part in any Brigade training or the Recruits course.
What is the age limit to join?
Over 16 years of age for the Senior Brigade.
How long is the Recruits course?
At the present time, 6 months. The Recruits training is on a Thursday evening and some Sunday mornings.
When can I start turning out on fire calls?
You must pass all modules on the Recruits course. It will then be up to the Brigade Captain whether you become operational.
When do I become a full member of the Brigade?
The first six months you are a probationary member. After this period, it will be up to the Brigade at a regular monthly meeting whether to make you a full member.
What is the social life like in the Brigade?
Each year in July the Brigade hold their Annual Presentation night and dinner. Each Christmas we host a Christmas party for families of members. All through the year we have social evenings such as Pool nights, Bowling evenings and BBQ's to name a couple. The last couple of years we have been Snapper fishing out in Port Phillip Bay. This will be an Annual event.

Photo: Emerald Service station fire. 23rd February 2009.