News
16 July, 2024
A flaming icebreaker
Eighty-five firefighters from across Somerset and West Moreton Bay converged at the Kilcoy Showgrounds on Saturday, July 13, for the annual Operation Icebreaker.
![Group shot of all firefighters in front of water bomb heli-tac.](https://somerset-4634.kxcdn.com/img/containers/assets/news/group-photo.jpg/9a0592b3c5baba6caaf99d3f9b3f8720.jpg)
The training event, organised by the Stanley River Rural Fire Brigade Group, is designed to hone firefighting skills and familiarisation with appliances in preparation for the upcoming fire season.
The event also promotes the need for effective communication and teamwork, ensuring all firies have the best knowledge and skills to protect their local communities.
Firefighters competed side by side with leaders including Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt and QFES West Moreton Area Director Paul Storrs.
Mr Storrs said the event was “amazing”, and everyone “had a blast”.
Many of the volunteers commented on the positive aspects of the experience, with young volunteer Chloe Maples saying the event helped with her skills and appliance knowledge, working on different pumps.
Aside from training, additional resources available included a heli-tac demonstrating water bombing, State Heavy Attack tankers exhibiting new technology and a new medium appliance.
Participating areas included Kilcoy, Wamuran, Moore/Linville, Delaneys Creek, Woodford, and Toogoolawah.
The Stanley River Group appreciate the support of Somerset Regional Council who provide the venue free of charge
![img_7267.jpg](https://somerset-4634.kxcdn.com/img/containers/assets/img_7267.jpg/6e93e39f5a86c2dabc4f241d8ffeb0f6.jpg)
![img_7271.jpg](https://somerset-4634.kxcdn.com/img/containers/assets/img_7271.jpg/ed4efdcbca0dfe400e95d56d1df08350.jpg)