Accolade for airport firefighters

Emergency crew from Broome Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting proved they were hot stuff after finishing runner-up for a national award.

The team, based at Broome International Airport, was among three finalists shortlisted from 26 crews for the Airservices Australia Crew of the Year award, held as part of International Firefighters’ Day.

The accolade recognises a crew’s professionalism, initiative, teamwork and community involvement.

Broome narrowly missed out to Rockhampton.

Observed annually on May 4, International Firefighters’ Day'''''' is a tribute to five Victorian firefighters who died on January 4, 1999, while battling a wildfire near Linton, Victoria.

BARFF station manager Inspector Mat Morrissy said the recognition was testimony to the outstanding work of his team.

“It’s no surprise to me because we’re a very diligent and efficient crew,” he said.

“I’m very proud of our guys and girls and what they do.”

To coincide with IFFD, theBroome Advertiser attended an open day at BARFF and toured the station.

The crew are part of more than 900 firefighters on standby around the country at the nation’s 26 busiest airports ready to respond rapidly to any emergency at and around the airport.