Fight fire with fire
Monday 23 April 2012
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Fight fire with fire
![Royal Hotel Fire Royal Hotel Fire](/fileadmin/_migrated/pics/fight_article.jpg)
Fire and fun is a message not normally promoted by Queensland Fire and Rescue crews, but this weekend that's exactly what will take place at the Fire Fighter Competition for Far Northern firies.
Around 100 participants representing 14 stations will converge on Reynolds Park in Port Douglas to decide which team is the region's best.
Port Douglas' Auxiliary Captain Lou Leone said the teams to watch are Malanda, Atherton, and Edmonton, but Port Douglas will fare well in the competition.
"There are a few rookies we've got on board that are very keen. We'll give them a good run for their money.
"The crew that is participating for Port Douglas, a couple are new into the program and they've got fresh skills."
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Mr Leone said there is pride at stake, and is looking forward to renewing rivalries with neighbouring crew, Mossman. Asked if Mossman stood a chance against the crew from Port Douglas, Mr Leone replied "They can try."
"That's why we've got the writing on the back of our shirt nice and large, so they can read it from a distance," he added.
But it's not all about claiming bragging rights, Mr Leone said the event is as much about renewing friendships as it is about winning.
"Normally you get to work with other stations on big jobs such as Yasi, Larry, and recently the Mareeba fires. Getting together this way there is camaraderie, it's a friendly, challenging weekend.
"You get to catch up with some good old friends and make some new friends."
Port Douglas crew member Wayne Postlewaight will be competing in his first competition after 14 years' involvement with the station.
"There are ten events through the two days and some of the events might only run for two or three minutes but it's full, you just go for it.
"It's my first time in the competition team so I'm one of the rookies," he said.
The event is free to the public and the Port Douglas crew would love to see lots of locals get to Reynolds Park to cheer them on.
First and second placed teams will go on to compete in the State games later this year. The Far Northern competition will return to Port Douglas in 2013.
Pictured: Local fire fighters working together bring the Royal Hotel under control.