Two more well-trained and experienced members of the Martinborough fire brigade are being farewelled this month – leaving gaps to fill in the volunteer ranks.
Qualified Firefighter and Medical First Responder (QFF and MEDFR) Annah Rait, who served nearly 9 years and kept the crew laughing along the way, has relocated. QFF and MEDFR Melissa O’Brien is also moving on, but she encourages residents to reach out to the brigade and give volunteering a go.
“I first walked on station six years ago to see if I could help out,” Melissa said. “I assumed (it might be) in an admin role as I worked in an art gallery. Six years on and I’ve had an amazing time as a fire fighter and medical first responder.
“It’s been a time of high adventure and sometimes heartbreak, and always, always rewarding,” she told The Star.
“I went to training every week for three months before signing on. It’s been challenging, hard work, and I’ve loved it.”
“The camaraderie is the glue that binds us all as emergency responders, and you can’t beat it. Don’t be scared to give this a go, you may surprise yourself at what you can do. And don’t let age or being time poor put you off, we all give what we can.”
“Brigades are communities within communities – we exist in and are of the people in the area, and we need more people to join the brigade,” she added.
Calls this year: 59
As the South Wairarapa has moved into a restricted fire season, go to checkitsalright.nz to check if you need a permit for your fire.
The brigade trains every Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m.. If you want to come along and see what we’re about – we have roles available for Firefighters, Medical First Responders and Operational Support. Reach out to CFO Lisa Ireland (027 363 1066) or DCFO Brett Townsend (021 035 1450). We’d love to see you there.
