Six volunteers from Werribee Fire Brigade are preparing to climb up 28 flights of stairs in their full firefighting gear – but not to battle a blaze.
They will be climbing to the top of the Crown Metropol hotel in Melbourne wearing 25 kilograms of gear to raise funds for the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute.
Brigade treasurer Matt Mannix, who has taken on the annual Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb since its inception three years ago, is looking forward to returning to the event.
“We’re hoping to raise $343 each, signifying the 343 firefighters who lost their lives during [the World Trade Centre attacks on September 11, 2001],” he said.
Joining Mr Mannix will be fellow volunteers Olivia Cox, Ben Savory, Simon Roberson, Rohan Ford and Dominic Trifilo.
Preparing for the event, the group has been practising by running up the stairs of Quest Werribee.
“We’re trying to get used to the extra weight and heat,” Mr Mannix said.
“The fitness is what appealed to us. It’s a good way to keep fit and ready for summer, but it’s also the competitive atmosphere with other brigades.
“We’re heavily involved in the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal and we’re always looking for charities to support.”
Mr Mannix hopes to complete the stair climb in less than five minutes and 30 seconds, beating his personal best of last year.
To support the Werribee Fire Brigade volunteers in their September 3 stair climb, visit firefighterclimb.org.au/station/cfa/werribee
