Mildura Firies Triathlon Success

by James Wong
on behalf of the CFA Sports and Recreation Association Commitee

The annual Coomealla Triathlon Club – Emergency Services Triathlon was held in Mildura on Sunday 16th March, bringing some success to the firies who represented the Mildura Fire Station Staff.

In 2007, CFA entered a team in the annual event for the first time, which turned out to be the first time all three emergency services (Police, Ambulance and CFA) had participated. It was an opportunity for the local Mildura Fire Station staff to check out the competition, and set a benchmark for this year’s event.

(l to r) Stewart Stevens, Luke Kneebone, Reece McNally, Emma Conway, Ashley Mulcahy and Trent McKinnon

As a result of the effort in 2007, there was a greater emphasis on training and putting together two teams for this year’s triathlon. Although it was difficult to co-ordinate training due to the roster, we were still able to put together two very competitive teams.

The late withdrawal of two of our finest athletes in Ron Shiner and Rob McNally served as a major blow to the team's overall preparation, as they were both an integral part of the team structure. However, the holes were easily filled by some of our more committed staff, along with the help of Rob McNally’s son, Reece – who I think would give the old man a bit of a run for his money!

The overall outcome didn’t quite go to plan, with the Ambos taking home the silverware to make it back to back victories. The Coppers, however, were unable to get a team up for the early start; we can only hope they can provide some additional competition next year.

The efforts of our two teams, CFA “A” – Stewart Stevens, Reece McNally and Luke Kneebone and CFA “B” – Emma Conway, Trent McKinnon and Ashley Mulcahy, were rewarded with a prize each.

CFA “A” took out fastest Male Team and CFA “B” was able to snatch fastest Mixed Team, resulting in all six participants receiving a medallion. Special mention needs to be made of Stewart Stevens’ effort of not only completing the swim leg for CFA “A”, but then going on to complete the remainder of the triathlon as a personal feat. Well done Stewy!

Although we may not have been able to secure the Emergency Services shield for this event, it was certainly through no fault of not looking the part. We hoped we might stun the competition with our new, bright red uniforms, which were made available through the generosity of both Bill Johnstone – Operations Manager Region 18 and the CFA Sports and Recreation Association.

So a big thank you for providing the funds for these uniforms, and helping us look a little more professional – it didn’t go unnoticed!

Thanks again to all involved, and to those who came to support the teams on the day. Hopefully next year – with a bit more training - we can go one better.

Well done!