Longreach in western Queensland celebrated its 100th anniversary of fire trials, showcasing the town’s firefighters’ skills and a unique tradition that has brought the community together over the years. The event features vintage fire equipment and has been held through World War II and conscription. Retired firefighter John Palmer praised the camaraderie developed among firefighters during these events, saying it lasts forever.
Longreach Fire Trials Celebrates 100 Year Anniversary
A Unique Tradition in the Outback Town of Longreach
The town of Longreach in western Queensland has celebrated the 100th anniversary of its fire trials, a unique tradition that showcases the skill of the town’s firefighters. The event features a vintage 1935 fire engine and includes singles and team events.
A Generational Legacy for Firefighting Family
For one family, firefighting is a generational legacy that continues to this day. Retired firefighter John Palmer said he believed the fire trials were unique to Longreach and had been held through World War II and conscription, even when some of the town’s firefighters were fighting overseas.
A Tradition That Brings the Community Together
The event has become an integral part of Longreach’s heritage, with over 100 former firefighters returning to the town for its centenary competition. The tradition has also evolved over time, with women participating in the trials since 1941.
Maintaining Vintage Equipment a Challenge
One of the challenges faced by the organizers is maintaining the vintage equipment used in the trials. The Dennis fire engine, first used in 1937, requires regular maintenance to keep it in race-ready condition.
A Camaraderie That Lasts Forever
Retired firefighter John Palmer said that the camaraderie developed among firefighters during these events lasts forever. “You go into dangerous situations together and you don’t ever forget that,” he added.
The Longreach Fire Brigade: A History of Service
The Longreach Fire Brigade was established in 1902, after fire destroyed dozens of businesses on the town’s main strip in 1898. Since then, the town has relied on a team of auxiliary firefighters, along with those in the Rural Fire Service, many of whom live on surrounding properties.
The Future of the Longreach Fire Trials
The tradition endured through World War II and organisers hope to see it continue into the future. The annual event showcases the skill of the town’s firefighters and features a vintage 1935 fire engine. What’s next? The tradition continues, with organizers hoping to see it endure for many years to come.
Longreach Firefighters Test Their Skills
The town of Longreach in Australia’s outback has been holding a unique tradition for over a century – the Longreach fire trials. This event, which has endured since 1924, brings the community together to watch local firefighters compete in physical challenges.
