FIRE and Rescue NSW has completed the first two-day workshop as part of its 2024 relaunch of the Indigenous Fire and Rescue Employment Strategy.

Tracks to IFARES is an intensive assessment phase for potential participants of the IFARES program.

Earlier this month, 41 candidates, selected from more than 150 initial applicants, were put through their paces, with 25 participants progressing to the next stage of the program.

Designed by Indigenous FRNSW firefighters in partnership with TAFE NSW, Tracks to IFARES evaluates fitness levels, teamwork, cultural engagement, work readiness and alignment with FRNSW values. Over the two days, participants work with a team of Indigenous mentors, learning more about a career in firefighting.

The sessions included a mix of practical exercises such as search and rescue drills, fire management and familiarisation with the FRNSW Physical Aptitude Test (PAT), as well as mentor-led cultural yarns and skills assessments.

Senior firefighter, and IFARES co-ordinator and mentor, Joseph Griffin, who graduated from the program in 2016, shared his personal journey with participants.

Mr Griffin’s story is a testament to the success of the IFARES program.

After serving as an on-call firefighter in Maitland and facing several unsuccessful attempts at becoming a permanent firefighter, he joined the IFARES program in 2016. The program gave him the skills and confidence he needed to succeed, and he was appointed as a permanent firefighter in 2017.

“Keep trying, it’s competitive, and you might not be successful the first time. Take on feedback and work hard.” Mr Griffin said.

“This program is a big commitment, requiring one week a month for six months, so you need to be truly dedicated.”

Tracks provides participants with a deeper understanding of the expectations of FRNSW and the role of a firefighter and helps identify those best suited to progress to Phase 3 IFARES Training, which begins in March next year.

Successful candidates will complete a Certificate III in Fitness, provided by TAFE NSW with additional development in FRNSW drills, career readiness and cultural learning.

IFARES provides an invaluable opportunity to ensure FRNSW reflects the communities it serves, by helping to break down long standing barriers to Indigenous recruitment.