Meet Keeley the teenage firefighter

How many of us spend our spare time fighting fires? Keeley Taylor does.

The Manning Valley Anglican College (MVAC) student has spent many hours on the frontline for the Wallaby Joe Rural Fire Service (RFS). Keeley, who is only 16 years old, followed in her mother’s footsteps and became a volunteer after witnessing their vital role during the 2019 bushfires that ravaged the Mid Coast.

After entering the Wallaby Joe Junior Program two years ago, Keeley was trained under the watchful eye of RFS Brigade Captain Reverend Brian Ford. She now boasts basic bush firefighter qualifications.

So, what does your average weekend look like for a teenage firefighter? There is more commitment away from the frontline than you might first think.

Part of the job requires a community commitment – an educational aspect to help people prepare their homes and become fire aware. Prevention and education go hand in hand, which is why Keeley developed ‘Wear Yellow Day’ at MVAC in 2022.

For a simple gold coin donation, students don the colour yellow and meet members of the Wallaby Joe RFS to learn more about fire safety measures.

Unfortunately, fires can still occur regardless of the best education and prevention methods. In fact, one of the biggest blazes Keeley faced was a grass fire at Mt George, about 45 kilometres from the college, which was sparked by a lightning strike. After five days of burning and three days of volunteering on the frontline, Keeley was finally able to relax.

Many people might not share the same passion for fighting fires as Keeley, and she isn’t planning to stop anytime soon. “I love it. From the first day to my first fire, I’ve wanted to continue,” she said.

Keeley eventually wants to join Fire and Rescue full time but, for now, she has her sights set on completing Year 11.

Donations to the Wallaby Joe RFS are always welcome. Funds raised will help replace equipment and provide non-perishable food items to those in need.

You can meet Keeley and the team in person on the first Saturday of every month during the Wingham Farmer’s Markets at the Wingham Baptist Church.