New fire chief calling for help

June Ross says she loves being in the Fire Service, prompting her to put her hand up to be chief.

The first challenge facing Omapere's new fire chief is boosting the number of volunteers in the stretched brigade.

June Ross, who lives in the Opononi area, took on the role after the resignation of Mere Morunga and a period when the brigade was run by Far North fire boss Allan Kerrisk.

Ms Ross, who has been a volunteer firefighter for the past eight years, said someone had to step up.

"We needed it. Someone had to stand up and show a bit of leadership. I love being in the Fire Service so I put my hand up."

Training was a large part of the job so her previous roles as training officer and senior station officer would stand her in good stead.

Currently the brigade has 12 volunteers on its books but needs 20 to ensure a crew is available day or night.

With many of Omapere's firefighters working elsewhere around the district, getting a crew together during daytime is especially challenging. Major emergencies, such as the fire that destroyed the Opononi Four Square last winter, can be tough.

Only three volunteers arrived on the first truck to confront what was by then a raging inferno. They managed to hold the flames at bay until more help arrived, saving the adjoining hotel and nearby community hall.

Ms Ross said other brigades, such as Kaikohe and Rawene, provided back-up but both were some distance away.

While being a firefighter didn't pay in dollar terms it was hugely rewarding, she said.

"The camaraderie in the Fire Service is great. It's a big, tight-knit family, and it's rewarding to be a volunteer and help out your own community."

It was also a chance to learn new skills and get qualifications. The Fire Service could help recruits get their heavy vehicle driver's licence.

Five of the brigade's members were women but a few more were already keen to join, Ms Ross said.

The Omapere Fire Brigade will be at the Wild West Festival in Waimamaku, South Hokianga, this Saturday hoping to find some new recruits.

The brigade will also be running the kids' combat challenge, in which pairs of children race to finish a series of challenges such as carrying a hose up a tower and hitting a target with a fire hose.

The Wild West Festival runs from 10am to 4pm on State Highway 12, Waimamaku. Cowboy-themed attractions include a shoot-out on the main street, gumboot and keg throwing.

Entry is free with proceeds to Hokianga Health.