With the winter solstice upon us, the thermometer plummets below zero and a heavy frost forms across the bush capital. But as we gradually pass the middle of winter our thoughts turn to preparing for a looming bushfire summer.
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For millennia, fire has been a natural element within this landscape. The pages of history weave a narrative of bushfires shaping, moulding and influencing the environment that today reflects our urban existence.
Indigenous communities respected the role fire played in the natural rhythm of life long before Europeans ventured upon these limestone’s plains. A lightning strike would bring new growth post-fire, supplementing bush tucker, providing ease of passage through a forested environment. Over time this ancient landscape has felt the change brought about by the human hand. Where fire once naturally occurred we have built our beautiful city, created water catchments, altered the vegetation. A multi-faceted, complex landscape has evolved. Yet fire is still a natural influence.
Today we view fire as a crucial tool in the land custodian’s tool kit. A tool which is applied to the ecosystem, not excluded. The application of fire into this landscape is pivotal in striking the right natural balance, protecting life and property.
In preparing for summer, we’ve launched our annual bushfire fighter recruitment drive. We are encouraging those who enjoy working in the great outdoors to join our ranks.
Our seasonal fire fighters play an important role in assisting with fuel reduction, hazard assessment and other bushfire management activities across all land tenures. Our summer fire crews also increase the skilled professional capacity of the ACT Rural Fire Service with bushfire suppression operations.
We are looking for people who excel working in a cohesive team environment, individuals who are keen to challenge themselves while learning a new suite of qualified skills. While experience is desirable, the successful applicants will be given comprehensive training in bushfire fighting, chainsaw operations, four-wheel driving, advanced first aid, along with a raft of specific on-the-job tuition.
This year we have 18 places available, including crew leaders. ACT Parks & Conservation Service provides over 140 fully trained permanent fire fighters to assist the ACT Rural Fire Service in fire management activities across the bush capital.
If you’re interested in challenging yourself and serving our community, follow the link to our seasonal fire fighter at jobs.act.gov. Applications close June 30.
- Brett McNamara is Regional Manager with ACT Parks & Conservation Service.
