Recruits step up to the task

SPRINGVALE Fire Station is putting two new firefighter recruits through their paces.
Joel Cowton, 34, and Peter De Maria, 42, graduated from the 19-week training course at the Victorian Emergency Management Training College on 6 December.
They were among 30 men and women who took up placements at 14 fire stations across the state to work alongside volunteer members.
Springvale Fire Station is one of the state’s busiest and will put Mr Cowton and Mr De Maria’s studies to the test.
Mr De Maria calls Doreen home and previously worked in earthmoving.
“The most rewarding part of the job will be helping people in distress and doing community work,” he said.
Carrum Downs resident Mr Cowton was a Victoria Police officer.
“I am looking forward to engaging with the community, whether it’s teaching children safety around fire at schools or trying to help someone protect their home from a fire,” he said.
“I like the unpredictable nature of being an emergency services worker and the potential to get the very best out of yourself.”
CFA chief officer Joe Buffone said the hard work wasn’t over.
“They will be combining plenty of on-the-job training with the regular firefighting duties,” he said.
Mr Buffone said the recruits had graduated with the title ‘firefighter’ but the job involved so much more.
“During the last 19 weeks these recruits have tackled everything from school education to driver training and dealing with hazardous materials incidents,” he said.