DFES firefighter graduates move to Geraldton to begin new career in fire and rescue emergency service

Two graduate firefighters will move to Geraldton to begin their new careers in the emergency services after completing their training at firefighter school. Following an intense 21-week training program in Perth, Todd Mead and Blake Southwell were among 29 new firefighters to graduate on Monday night from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ 90th Trainee Firefighter School. The duo will travel to Geraldton to embark on their new careers based at Geraldton Fire Station. Mr Mead ran a carpentry business for 10 years and a building company for four years before choosing to become a firefighter. He said he was looking forward to moving to Geraldton in September or October once housing was settled. “I grew up in the Wheatbelt, I’m used to the country lifestyle so I was happy going anywhere, but Geraldton was a bonus because it’s close to the coast,” he said. “I felt like a piece of the puzzle was missing. I loved what I did but when it come down to fulfilment that box probably wasn’t being ticked. I love to help people and make a life changing difference to someone.” Mr Southwell was a prison officer working for the Department of Justice prior to his career change. He said he made the decision to shift to firefighting to work in a team environment and to challenge himself. “I was looking for greater satisfaction and a way to engage with the community in a positive way,” he said. “I’m looking forward to the change of lifestyle and to meet new work mates and get involved in the community.” Graduates were selected from more than 1200 applicants and were put through a gruelling practical and theoretical training program designed to prepare them for responding to fires, hazardous material incidents and road crash rescues. The trainees will use their training to perform heavy rescues, respond to structure fires, manage injuries at an incident and provide marine fire support. Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm wished the graduates well in their new careers. “Working in emergency services is an opportunity to make a real difference in your community and it’s wonderful to see such a diverse range of skills and experience among the latest trainee firefighter school,” he said. “With the bushfire season just over two months away, the 29 new firefighters will make a fantastic contribution towards a safer Western Australia.”