By Deanne Jeffers
FIREFIGHTERS from across Victoria gathered in Mooroopna for the annual CFA/VFBV State Championships, which saw both urban and rural brigades competing in intense battles of skill and teamwork over two weekends.
However, the event was nearly derailed by a sudden deluge that caused minor flooding and fallen debris at the site just days before the second weekend of events.
Despite this setback, a massive clean-up effort by CFA volunteers and staff, along with the City of Greater Shepparton, ensured that spectators could enjoy nearly perfect weather as they cheered on the teams.
The Championships not only promoted the important values of teamwork and respect but also fostered camaraderie among members of different brigades, who came from various locations across the state. The corporate tent also featured the latest training and infrastructure highlights, and the event site was used to promote fire safety for school children.
The community of Shepparton was treated to a Torchlight Procession through the streets, highlighting the value of tradition in CFA, while the inaugural Outstanding Female Team Trophy was won by Beazley’s Bridge, providing a glimpse into the future of CFA. Melton A emerged as the overall winners of both the Urban Seniors and Urban Juniors events, while Napoleons-Enfield Brigade won the Rural Juniors events, and Hurstbridge A won the Rural Seniors Division 1 aggregate.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan expressed his delight and gratitude to all those who participated in the championships, saying they were an essential part of CFA’s volunteer culture and a highlight of their annual calendar.
The 2023 State Firefighter Championships were supported by the Victorian Government, and the organisers look forward to welcoming more volunteers, brigades, and local community members in 2024.
