School’s cadets rewarded for role in training future heroes

Bridgetown High School’s cadet program received recognition at an awards ceremony held on March 5 at Optus Stadium.

The program won the Emergency Services Brigade/Group/Unit Support Award at the Department of Fire and Emergency Services Cadet Corps Awards 2019.

The award recognises a brigade, group or unit that has made an important contribution to the ongoing development of cadets and instructors.

Bridgetown Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, Bridgetown SES and the local bushfire brigades collaborated on the nine week program, aiming to introduce the Bridgetown High School Year 10 cadets to each of the emergency services and for them to consider a career in the emergency services.

Some of the activities cadets took part in included road crash rescue scenarios, using breathing apparatuses, vertical rescue at Talison Mine in Greenbushes, HAZMAT drills, fire extinguisher use, roof and rope safety and fire truck hose usage, as well as bushfire drills.

A spokeswoman from Bridgetown’s Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service said it was a great honour to receive the award.

“It’s reflective of the effort, not just of the team leaders or Bruce Taylor ... but everyone that has contributed to the program,” she said.

“It’s the first time that we’ve all joined together as an emergency group and we are very, very pleased that we’ve worked so well together and we can offer such a wonderful opportunity for our cadets.”