Local Brigade Recognized with Award Nomination

After years of dedicated service to the community, six members of the Feilding Volunteer Fire Brigade have been nominated for the prestigious Ngā Tohu Raukura Awards in the Collaboration, Partnership, and Influence category for 2024.

Organized by Fire and Emergency Services, the awards celebrate exceptional teams and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to both the organization and their communities. The nomination of these six brigade members reflects their invaluable role in mentoring and motivating young people through the local C.A.C.T.U.S. Youth Development Programme.

The C.A.C.T.U.S. programme is a volunteer-led initiative designed to foster teamwork, respect, self-discipline, and self-esteem while nurturing leadership skills. Students are selected for the programme by Feilding Police and School Principals and then participate in an intense six- to eight-week course held before school hours.

Helen Worboys, a spokesperson for C.A.C.T.U.S., emphasizes the dedication of the brigade members: “The brigade members attend C.A.C.T.U.S. sessions twice a week, committing their time outside of scheduled shifts, employment, and personal obligations. They provide crucial support, encouragement, and leadership, and their tireless efforts are integral to the programme's success.”

Georgia McKay, one of the nominated members, shares the personal satisfaction she gains from volunteering: “Staying fit is a key part of my life, and it’s incredibly rewarding to inspire students to build a positive relationship with fitness. Seeing their progress by the end of the programme is gratifying.”

As a result of the brigade’s involvement, a number of past C.A.C.T.U.S. participants have chosen to join the brigade once they reach the appropriate age.

The 11th C.A.C.T.U.S. programme is nearing its conclusion, with Year 7 and 8 students from Feilding Intermediate completing their ‘Longest Day’ before graduating from the course. To date, 348 participants have graduated from this volunteer-driven programme, which has been established and is organised by the Manawatū District Council, FENZ, NZ Police, Sport Manawatu, Feilding Christian Leaders Network and the Ohakea Air Force Defence Base.

(L to R): Award nominees Gareth Campbell, Daina Campbell, Glenn Baines, Ben Lockton, Georgia McKay, Bevin Wolland.