Teen puts community first

Year 11 student Elijah Crowe is the youngest volunteer for the Morawa Town Fire Brigade and learning the value of giving back to his community.

Elijah, 17, started his training in 2015 in Bedfordale, continued at Kalamunda and now trains regularly at the Morawa Town Fire Brigade.

He said he is learning more than he expected from training with the service.

“Being a volunteer for the emergency services taught me how to support a community during an emergency and to keep my own problems in perspective,” he said.

“I learnt to work as part of team, and obtain new, practical skills along the way.

“I love being part of the emergency services and being involved in something so rewarding.”

During training sessions Elijah has also learnt skills including radio communications, how to read maps and the correct use of equipment in emergency situations.

While finishing his studies at the WA College of Agriculture in Morawa Elijah is inspiring other students to volunteer and learn more about the emergency service.

“I invited other college students to trainings, so they can see what it’s all about. I want them to get involved, enjoy the community feel and be part of a great team.”

Elijah is keen to continue volunteering with the emergency services and wants to live and work in a rural community after he graduates from school.

“I think the skills I have learnt at the emergency services would help me run my own farming property one day and allow me to stay living in a rural community.”

Morawa Town Fire Brigade Captain Kevin Beatty said they were always in need of volunteers.