RRT Support Fire Season Preparedness in Tasmania

RRT PRESS RELEASE

Monday, 26th October 2026

Rapid Relief Team (RRT) volunteers supported Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) personnel undertaking specialist remote-area training, providing meals throughout an intensive weekend exercise at the Stoney Head Military Training Site.

The training weekend saw 28 TFS personnel participate in a Remote Area/Arduous Training (RATs) course, designed to prepare firefighters for the physical and practical challenges of responding to emergencies in remote and demanding environments.

At the request of TFS, a team of 21 RRT volunteers supported the exercise, with seven volunteers assisting each day. Across the weekend, volunteers provided 185 meals, including breakfasts, packed lunches, dinner and breakfast supplies for participants to prepare on the final morning of the course.

Saturday’s packed lunches included Subway meals and Frontline Snack Packs, providing convenient meals while firefighters undertook training activities across the site.

Scottsdale Team Leader Larry Christian said RRT was proud to support firefighters as they developed critical skills ahead of the emergency season.

“These courses play an important role in preparing firefighters for challenging conditions, and we’re pleased to be able to support them with meals throughout the weekend,” Mr Christian said.

“Our volunteers were proud to assist the crews as they built their skills, endurance and readiness to respond when Tasmanian communities need them most.”

RATs Course Director Jim Preece also praised the volunteers for their contribution to the training weekend.

“Outstanding as always. The food was amazing and plentiful. The team were welcoming, polite and left the facilities clean and tidy,” Mr Preece said.

The RATs course helps firefighters build endurance, strengthen operational skills and prepare for deployments in remote and difficult-to-access areas across Tasmania.

Through catering support at training exercises and emergency preparedness activities, RRT helps ensure emergency personnel are supported as they develop the skills needed to protect their communities.

About Rapid Relief Team (RRT)

As the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, Rapid Relief Team (RRT) supports frontline workers, emergency services and local communities by providing meals, charitable donations and other practical assistance, as well as hosting community events.

These efforts reflect the Plymouth Brethren faith, which encourages members to support their communities through care, service and practical assistance.

Established in 2013 to assist emergency services during disasters and crises, RRT has grown to more than 16,500 volunteers worldwide, providing support through charitable donations, catering and community initiatives.

For more information, visit the Rapid Relief Team website.