Lake Taupō Volunteer Fire Brigade has entered a new era with the appointment of Tony Nield as Volunteer Brigade Leader and Mike Bush as Deputy. Their appointments reflect the move to amalgamate the rural, urban and operational support volunteer brigades at the Matai Street station, with the latter two having been relocated from the Lake Terrace Station. Since then, the team has continued to grow.
“We’ve got around 40 volunteers now,” said Nield. “They come from all walks of life, mums, dads, company directors, business owners, electricians, tradespeople and many more. We’re proud to have a diverse team, including about 25 per cent female.”
The brigade’s primary role is to support the career station in Taupō during an emergency response. However, all volunteers are trained to respond to incidents when career staff aren’t available as well. “There is the social side of it too,” said Nield.
Bush added, that the level of commitment is something new recruits need to understand.
“When we interview people, we make it clear: you’re volunteering for an emergency service. It’s a next-level volunteer role. You’ll be trained for crisis and disaster response.”
“It’s 24/7, effectively,” added Nield. “We’ve had a very busy summer with vegetation fires.”
While those have tapered off, callouts like structure fires and motor vehicle accidents continue year-round. Fire and Emergency is also beginning to assess how climate change might impact training and resourcing.
The brigade is always open to welcoming new members.
“We’re lucky in Taupō,” said Nield.
“People leave the brigade for natural reasons like job changes or moving away, and because of that, we’ve got the numbers to get three trucks out the door. No one can be available all the time, and we respect that.”
The brigade operates a variety of vehicles suited to urban, rural, and operational support needs.
“While our members may specialise, it’s one united brigade now,” said Nield. “This structure change – amalgamating three brigades and appointing leadership – is about cementing that.”
“It’s a national appointment,” said Bush. “It makes the management structure clear. Now we roll it out.”
The leadership duo said the brigade is in good heart, with strong support from the local community, especially from employers who release staff for callouts, and local businesses who provide donations and support.
While their roles come with added responsibility, Bush said they’re embracing the challenge.
“You put your hand up, get the job description, and say, ‘Okay, sweet. I’ll give it a go.’”
If you’re a team player, would like to learn new skills and keep your community safer, the Lake Taupō Volunteer Fire Brigade says it would love to hear from you. They’re always looking for volunteers to join us from a wide range of backgrounds and welcome people who are genuinely interested in helping others. Find out more and register your interest at: www.fireandemergency.nz/volunteer
