CREW prestige and bragging rights will be on the line this weekend when firefighters from around the state compete at the regional Firefighting Championships in Tamworth.

Twenty-one crews will be vying for championship honours in 11 events, racing up ladders, scrambling to connect hose lines and demonstrating agility, accuracy and excellence in team work, executing key firefighting and rescue capabilities.

The competition runs from 8am today until 1pm tomorrow at the Gipps Street Fields.

Fire and Rescue NSW and Rural Fire Service teams from Gunnedah, South Tamworth, Tamworth City, Uralla, Walcha, Casino, Cowra, Goulburn, Kootingal, Kurri Kurri, Morisset, Moss Vale, South West Rocks, Trangie, Ulladulla, Wangi Wangi and Wyong will compete.

The heats, along with another regional event at Goulburn in August, will lead to the State Championships at Coffs Harbour in October, when crews as far afield as Victoria will compete.

Fire and Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner, field operations, Michael Morris, said the Championships provide participants with the opportunity to enhance and develop essential skills in a fun and competitive environment.

“It’s chance to learn from rivals, renew and maintain crucial industry relationships, and to test each team’s skills in a safe setting,” he said.

“We invite the public to come along and enjoy the fun.”