General News
20 November, 2025
New FFMVic recruits ready
Earlier this month, recruits from Forest Fire Management Victoria in the Wimmera came together in preparation for this summer's bushfire season, participating in intensive training camps.
Earlier this month, recruits from Forest Fire Management Victoria in the Wimmera came together in preparation for this summer's bushfire season, participating in intensive training camps.
They were among the the close to 40 new firefighters being welcomed in the Grampians region with hands-on training in Creswick.
The camps ensure seasonal fire and forest operations officers are prepared to respond to emergencies and carry out vital work to reduce bushfire risk.
Across the state, 636 new seasonal firefighters joined crews this summer to help protect communities and the environment.
Recruits complete four weeks of classroom and field-based learning, covering topics such as fire behaviour, safety and survival techniques, fire suppression and working around aircraft.
The camps offered hands-on experiences, including operating water pumps and chainsaws, as well as driving specialised firefighting vehicles.
Beyond emergency response, seasonal forest and fire operations officers also undertake important land management tasks, including mulching, mowing, slashing, and spraying.
They help maintain fuel breaks, public land roads, trails, and recreation sites and assist with planned burns.
Last year, FFMVic firefighters responded to more than 1265 bushfires across Victoria and delivered priority planned burns to help reduce the impact of future fires.
