In reply: Community safety relies on people who are willing to stand up and serve. Fire and Rescue NSW is built on exactly that commitment. That was recognised in members' contributions to this debate. I thank the members representing the electorates of Myall Lakes, Liverpool, Terrigal, The Entrance, Oxley, Pittwater and Wakehurst. Firefighters and staff from across Fire and Rescue NSW work around the clock to protect lives and property, often placing themselves in harm's way so that others can feel safe in their homes and workplaces. Recent recruitment efforts have reinforced the strength of Fire and Rescue NSW as a modern, capable emergency service. Every member who contributed to this debate spoke from experience about what Fire and Rescue NSW means to them. They spoke about not just the crews responding to fires and motor vehicle accidents but also them responding to floods on the Mid North Coast, attending graduation ceremonies, and participating in a training exercise. I spoke about watching my son get on a truck to attend an incident that he almost did not survive.
As part of the recruitment effort, Fire and Rescue NSW is focused on reflecting and representing the community it serves. If someone can see it, they believe it, and I commend Fire and Rescue NSW on its diversity and inclusion initiatives, one example being the Indigenous Fire and Rescue Employment Strategy designed by Indigenous Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters in partnership with TAFE NSW. The program is a recruitment readiness pathway designed to provide equity and opportunity for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people to gain employment with Fire and Rescue NSW. From over 100 applicants, 22 participants were invited to undertake the six‑month program, which started in March this year.
I again acknowledge the Fire Brigade Employees Union [FBEU]. I have worked with the FBEU for a long time, including during the Black Summer bushfires in my former role as the shadow Minister for Emergency Services. I acknowledge my friend Leighton Drury and the role that he plays in representing firefighters and supporting a safe, professional and well‑resourced workforce. Constructive engagement between the union that represents the workers, Fire and Rescue NSW and the Government helps to maintain high standards and a culture of respect and accountability. I thank the mighty FBEU, whose badge I proudly wear. Being a firefighter offers a person purpose, teamwork and the chance to make a tangible difference. It is a role that demands courage and compassion in equal measure, and one that earns deep respect across the community.
I honour two retired firefighters from my electorate: Ian Sargent and Bruce Cameron. Thank you, fellas, for inspiring your colleagues, for your service, and for still speaking up on behalf of firefighters despite battling work‑related cancers. Whilst this motion focuses on recruitment, it is important that I acknowledge with respect those who have led in the past, those whose shoulders on which others stand. Finally, I give a shout‑out to the retained and permanent Fire and Rescue NSW stations in the Blue Mountains. They love the fact that I know their station numbers. I thank all the crews from the 301, 445, 359, 495, 361, 343, 226 and 386 crews. I commend the motion to the House.
