News
13 August, 2024
Blake’s Canadian blaze of glory
Kilcoy local Blake Anderson has taken his firefighting skills and desire to help others overseas, as he embarked on August 2 to Canada to help combat the large wildfires currently impacting the Alberta region.
The 21-year-old has been a committed member of the Mount Kilcoy Rural Fire Brigade (RFB) since the age of 16, joining the RFB in 2019 and the auxiliaries in 2022.
Blake is following in the footsteps of many of his family members as an Aussie firie, now taking full advantage of his 40-day deployment to save lives, give back to the community, and learn about a new local culture.
“Every day, we get the opportunity to work with new people and equipment throughout the State of Alberta,” Blake told The Sentinel from his Alberta base.
“It’s a very different routine compared to back home. Not something I have ever done before at this level.”
Blake described his first week as an absolute “roller coaster,” but added it was the “opportunity of a lifetime” as he absorbed the Canadian culture and atmosphere.
“There is so much to learn and take in,” he said.
“The culture and environment continue to amaze me.
“Every chance I get while over here, I’m taking the opportunity to ask questions and inquire about Canadian culture, the environment, and the different ways people understand and interact with fire.
“Canada is an amazing country, full of breath-taking scenery and great people.”
Alberta has hundreds of wildfires burning, including 10 that are out of control, according to local news reports.
One fire alone has already burned through more than 100,000 hectares in northern Alberta, with 600 firefighters and 45 helicopters desperately trying to bring it under control, reports say.
Mount Kilcoy Sandy Creek RFB 1st Officer Glen Rollinson said Blake is “great,” always very enthusiastic and ready to jump into action.
“He loves going to fires, getting out there and getting the job done,” he said.
“We wish Blake and the rest of the team all the best for a safe trip.
“We’re proud of your commitment and know you’ll represent Aussie firefighters well.”
Blake is part of a deployment that includes hundreds of firefighters from around the world trying to help fight the Canadian wildfires.
This is Blake’s first international deployment.
