The Championships are one of the Fire Brigades’ proudest and longest traditions, running for more than 100 years and are designed to develop, maintain and enhance the operational skills of fire fighters and promote a professional image of the NSW Fire Brigade to the community.

Cootamundra firefighter Paul Walsh said the games started as a fun, competitive way for fire brigades to interact with each other. They have grown to the point where the NSW Fire Brigade now gears training towards the activities performed as part of the games.

Local firies are encouraging the community to attend Jubilee Park tomorrow and Sunday to barrack for their town as the men and women compete in 13 fire fighting related events designed to test speed, skills and teamwork.

Twenty-five stations from across the state will compete, bringing more than 150 firefighters to town.

The last time Cootamundra took out the Championships was in 1991, making it a long time between drinks. With an enthusiastic local team, Cootamundra firefighters are hoping to taste success once again this year, however say whatever happens they are looking forward to a fun weekend.

All Cootamundra station members will be involved in the championships in one way or another, be it part of the competing team or working behind the scenes.

Mr Walsh said preparations for the event are coming together well and the firies could be seen at the park earlier this week setting up.

A number of school students will be at Jubilee Park today taking in the action.

The championships are a true community effort, with a number of groups assisting in the preparation and running of the games.

The Cootamundra Rotary Club will be at Jubilee Park with its food van, the State Emergency Service will provide security, the Apex Club will be there with their jumping castle, the Men’s Shed has been busy making plaques to give as gifts for each team and Cootamundra Shire Council has been helpful in getting the park ready.

There is free entry into the park for what will certainly be an entertaining weekend of action.

The Championships will take place from 8am each day, with the official

opening to take place at 11am

tomorrow.

In addition to the events, their will be plenty of other things to see, with fully equipped fire trucks for the kids to check out, a jumping castle and more.