By Laura Michell
Twelve months ago, Steve Hickling answered Epping CFA’s call for more volunteers.
The Bundoora resident was thinking about volunteering with a group that would allow him to help others when he heard the CFA was looking for recruits.
Mr Hickling said he was initially a bit apprehensive about joining the brigade, but quickly discovered the other volunteers were welcoming and helpful.
After completing training, Mr Hickling’s first call-out was to a gas leak at a house.
“I remember the adrenaline and thinking ‘I’m officially on a truck now, I’m not just a volunteer’,” he said.
“It is not something I’ve done before but you just have to trust your training.”
Mr Hickling has now attended about 60 call-outs.
He said volunteering with Epping CFA was a great experience, with his time at the station rostered around his full-time job and family responsibilities.
On Thursday, the brigade will launch its recruitment drive for 2019. This year, it is targeting volunteers with weekday day-time availability.
Details: www.eppingcfa.com.au
