Woodend residents will have the chance to get fire-ready, meet local emergency service volunteers and explore the town’s emergency response facilities at a community open day this month.
Woodend CFA will host the event at its Urquhart Street fire station on Sunday, November 15, from 10am to 2pm.
New Woodend CFA Captain Rob Marsh said the open day was a great opportunity for residents to prepare for the approaching fire season while gaining an insight into the work of local emergency services.
“Meet some of your local emergency response volunteers and find out more about what we do,” he said.
The brigade last held an open day in 2024, which proved a great success, and organisers are promising an even bigger event this year.
Third Lieutenant and community safety officer Cara Nolan said the day would bring together a range of emergency services and community organisations.
Visitors will be able to meet representatives from SES, Red Cross and Victoria Police, as well as community groups including the CWA and Wildlife Rescue.
They can also inspect the CFA and SES facilities and emergency vehicle fleets, and learn more about volunteering with the services.
With the fire season approaching, Ms Nolan encouraged residents to use the opportunity to review their household fire safety plans and seek advice from experienced volunteers.
“Now that the weather is warming up, the community should be seriously thinking about preparing for the forthcoming fire season and developing their fire safety plans,” she said.
“This is a great opportunity to discuss your situation and plans with the expert volunteers at the Woodend CFA and to learn how best to prepare your property.”
The program will include interactive fire safety education sessions, children’s games and activities, Captain Koala, and live firefighting demonstrations involving real fire.
Students from St Ambrose will also give presentations about their involvement in the Schools in Fire Country program.
Families can enjoy a sausage sizzle and sweet treats prepared by the Woodend CWA, with plenty of other activities planned throughout the day.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the CFA’s FireWise Garden, which demonstrates how thoughtful garden design and plant selection can help create more bushfire-resilient properties.
The brigade memorial, honouring past and present volunteers, will also be open to visitors.
For more information, visit the Woodend CFA website or Facebook page.