We're the people you sometimes see on television, fighting bushfires and helping our community in times of emergency.
The CFS has thousands of volunteers across South Australia who train hard and risk their lives for their community. Unfortunately, there are many residents who don't do anything to prepare for bushfires and rely solely on the CFS. The problem is, there are never as many fire trucks as there are houses and sometimes the circumstances make it impossible for us to get to everyone. By preparing your property and writing a bushfire plan you can help us, help you.
The CFS offers a range of roles including:
- Firefighter
- Radio operations
- Catering
- Administration support
- Operational support
- Community education
- Fundraising
You will work side by side with other volunteers in times of emergency and learn new and valuable skills that will help you in day-to-day life and in your workplace.
Most of all you get to help make your community a safer place to live in and enjoy the support from your community for your efforts.
Meet our volunteers
Rachel
Lower Inman Valley Brigade
When I moved into the local area with my husband, we both joined the Lower Inman Valley CFS Brigade as a great way to contribute to our community as well as a way of getting to know lots of our neighbours. It has been something we have been able to do together, which has been good too. I was encouraged that even though I work in Adelaide, being available on weekends and evenings as well as the days I work from home meant I would still be of value to the Brigade. I have been going to call outs and strike teams now for almost 7 years. Our local Brigades have really a diverse membership- men and women from all walks of life, and of all ages, all who are made to feel very welcome. I am a professor of psychology and work at a University in Adelaide in teaching and research, and I like that the things I do with the CFS are completely different! The training has been very supportive, I have done lots of courses. and attend our weekly training, I now feel confident to attend call outs, I have recently got my truck licence too so am able to help out with driving – and my dad (who also had a truck licence) is really proud of that!
Ian
Strathalbyn Operational Support Brigade
I've been a CFS member since 2019. As a retired nurse academic I enjoy being part of the Operational Support Brigade (OPS) as it provides 'behind the scenes' support. As the Brigade's Training Coordinator I plan and deliver appropriate training and help support new members.
Being a Volunteer is very satisfying. You make a difference in your Community and they respect you as a CFS Volunteer.
Josh
Lower Inman Valley Brigade
I've been with the Lower Inman Valley Brigade for three and a half years now. During this time I have attended lots of training courses that have not only helped me become a better firefighter, but also a better leader. Many of the skills I have learned are transferable to everyday life, which is a huge benefit of being with the CFS.
When I'm not hanging onto the end of a fire hose, or leading a crew, I normally spend time with my partner and our child, both of whom, I'm told, are very proud of me. Being 32, I'm one of the younger ones in our brigade, which hasn't stopped me stepping up and being a Senior Firefighter. We could definitely use more younger people. I’m a professional actor too, which is a fantastic career and one that allows me to volunteer. I’m also a qualified mechanic, drummer, singer and mediocre guitarist. One of the best things about being with CFS is the sense of family, everyone gets along and we have some laughs but when our community is in an emergency situation, we all band together to help.
FAQs
The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) has brigades in over 420 locations across South Australia.
To find out where your nearest brigade is phone 1300 364 587 or contact us.
Before you are able to join, you must agree to a Confidential National Police History Check that is conducted by the South Australian Fire and Emergency Services Commission (SAFECOM).
You can get a copy of the form from your local brigade. All instructions and postal details are included on the form.
Once the Confidential National Police History Check has been undertaken you will receive a letter from the Chief Officer to tell you if you are able to apply to your local brigade or if your application has been rejected.
If you are able to apply, you then need to present the letter to the Brigade Captain or Brigade Administration Coordinator.
Your application to join a brigade is voted on by the brigade members. The brigade may accept, reject or defer your application.
If you are accepted, you will be on probation for six (6) months. If you join as a firefighter, during this time you must successfully complete the Brigade Fire Fighter 1 training.
CFS offers many opportunities to contribute according to your skills, interests and availability. There are three categories of membership that you may be able to apply for:
Firefighter
Firefighters are trained to deal with all kinds of emergencies including:
- Bush and grass fires
- Structural fires
- Storm damage and floods
- Motor vehicle crashes
- Hazardous chemical spills
- Industrial accidents
Operational Support
Operational Support members provide a range of valuable operations support services such as:
- Radio operations
- Logistics
- Catering
- Administration
Cadets
If you are between 11 and 18 years old you can join the CFS as a cadet. As a cadet you will be trained by qualified and experienced volunteers in:
- Firefighting skills
- Using fire hydrants and hoses
- Using ladders
- Using fire extinguishers
- Map reading
- Basic first aid
While it is commendable to help your community in the event of an emergency, it is always safer if you are able to make a commitment to the minimum levels of training and attendance on training nights.
No, all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Personal Protective Clothes (PPC) such as overalls, boots, gloves and helmets are provided.
Training is usually held once a week for most brigades. Some brigades train fortnightly or monthly, depending on local needs. Phone 1300 364 587 or contact us to find out when your closest brigade trains.
CFS has a commitment to its volunteers that no out of pocket expenses should be incurred as a result of undertaking a volunteer role. The CFS provides for all training, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Personal Protective Clothing (PPC) you need to do the job.
CFS recognises and values the contribution of its volunteers, including the time that is given. Apart from meeting the minimum requirements for training and skills maintenance, how much time you can offer can be negotiated with your Brigade Captain.