The jobs are part-time with ACT Parks and Conservation, yet this has not deterred people in the past, with up to 150 applying.

Employing additional fire fighters over summer stems from recommendations from inquiries in the aftermath of the Canberra 2003 firestorm.

Senior fire management officer Scott Farquhar says most applicants are motivated by the opportunity for a green change. 

“A lot of people see it as a foot in the door to get into the Parks Service. Parks is an employer of choice, a lifestyle as much as it is a profession,” Mr Farquhar said.

An information night will be held at Stromlo Depot on Cotter Rd on Wednesday, June 22, for applicants to learn more about the jobs and speak to current members of the team. Fifteen positions are open.

Mr Farquhar says successful applicants will begin training from September 1, and will be available to help with prescribed burns in spring and for the summer fire season.

The seasonal fire fighting program has been running for about 12 years, and has drawn a wide range of skilled people, from a marine biologist to rural fire volunteers who want to become permanent fire fighters.

Mr Farquhar says the keen interest has turned recruitment into a buyers’ market for the employer because of the skilled people on offer.

“Fire fighting is a mandatory component of just about everyone in the Park Service,” Mr Farquhar said. 

“Fire is a land management tool, as much as a threat, we do a lot of ecological burns for various habitats, [for example] grasslands, to re-generate growth.”

Fire, forest and roads manager, with ACT Parks and Conservation, Neil Cooper, says people who want to make a difference to the safety of our region, and who enjoy working outside are encouraged to join the fire management team.

“The seasonal fire fighters assist with fuel reduction, hazard assessment and other fire management activities on ACT Government managed land,” Mr Cooper said.

“They also help provide increased capacity for the ACT Rural Fire Service Parks Brigade and assist with fires in remote areas.

“We are looking for people who can work well in a team and are keen to learn new skills.

While experience is always a good thing, the successful applicants will be given full training in bushfire fighting, chainsaw operations, driving four-wheel drives, advanced first aid, and other on-the-job duties.”

Mr Cooper said seasonal fire fighters gained valuable skills and experience.

“Nearly half of last year’s seasonal fire fighters are still employed with the fire management team. 

There are 15 places available in the seasonal fire team, including three seasonal crew leaders.”