A veterinary nurse, an agricultural pilot, a mechanic and an outdoor educator are among 24 people who have graduated as Tasmania Fire Service firefighters after changing careers.
The graduating class completed an intensive 15-week program that began in late March, celebrating their success on Friday.
12 of the new firefighters will be stationed at Hobart Fire Brigade and 12 in Launceston.
TFS senior station officer and firefighter development program manager Dean Graue said the recruits were now “shift ready”.
“The instructor team are highly confident the trainees are ready for operations,” he said.
“The high standards and good habits developed on this recruit course are the start of a career serving the community and a dedication to a lifelong profession.”
Graue said the trainees had come from all walks of life, including teaching, trades, the military and other fire services.
He said the group had bonded closely over the course of the program.
“Over the past 15 weeks, these trainees have become very close and have gelled as a team better than we could have expected,” he said.
“I’m sure they will continue to be friends and support each other into the future.”
The recruits face another four years of training and assessment before they reach the rank of senior firefighter.
Course dux Renae Bonner, 25, previously worked in the health and fitness industry before signing up.
She was inspired to join after several family members took up roles in fire and emergency services and will be stationed with Launceston D Platoon.
Caleb Alaimo, 28, worked as a firefighter in Toronto, Canada, before moving to Launceston with his wife and young daughter.
Alaimo was chosen by his peers for the James Freeman Award for most valued firefighter, recognising both his skill and his willingness to support other trainees. He will also join Launceston D Platoon.
Graue encouraged others to consider firefighting as a career.
“While the selection process is challenging, it is achievable for those with good strength, fitness and ambition and leads to a rewarding and fulfilling career serving and protecting our communities,” he said.
