THOUSANDS are expected to converge on the Coffs Harbour Jetty foreshore this Friday, 23 October, for a free family event featuring an impressive lineup of emergency service and community organisations, food trucks, live music, a Firefighters’ Torchlight Parade and, for the finale, a fireworks display over the harbour.
The Community Engagement Evening is a curtain-raiser to the two-day 2026 NSW Firefighter State Championships, which will involve around 200 competitors from NSW and Victoria competing at the Maclean Street Sporting Fields on Saturday and Sunday.
In addition to firefighters, Friday night visitors at the Jetty who attend between 5pm and 9pm can expect to meet representatives from ADF Careers, Australian Army Reserve, Australian Navy Cadets, Marine Rescue NSW, the NSW State Emergency Service, the NSW Rural Fire Service and the NSW Police Force.
There will be hands-on displays and interactive exhibits, community safety demonstrations, and opportunities to meet local emergency service personnel.
Former championship competitor and Coffs Harbour firefighter Captain Mark Ellis said the event provided a unique opportunity for the public to engage with emergency services in a fun and welcoming environment.
“The Community Engagement Evening gives people the chance to meet firefighters and other emergency service volunteers, learn more about what we do and enjoy a fantastic night out with family and friends,” Captain Ellis said.
Members of the public are also warmly invited to watch the action at MacLean Street on Saturday and Sunday, and entry is free.
“These championships showcase the teamwork, determination and professionalism that firefighters rely on every day,” Captain Ellis said.
During the championships, the firefighters will showcase their skill, fitness, speed, teamwork and dedication in a challenging series of events designed to mirror scenarios that firefighters encounter in our communities every day.
“This is where some of the best firefighters in Australia come together to compete, showcase their skills and represent their stations with pride,” said Firefighter Championships Association President Jamie Loader.
“The competition is fierce, but the championships are about much more than winning.
“They’re about camaraderie, professionalism and connecting with the communities we protect every day.”
This event marks a significant return to Coffs Harbour, with the last championships held here in 2003 when the city hosted the Australasian Firefighter Championships.
By Eve NESMITH
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