Sophie and Doug Amos
When 16-year-old CFA member Sophie Amos set out for the NSW State Firefighting Championships in Wagga Wagga late last year, she never imagined she'd return home to Echuca with real-life firefighting experience under her belt.
Sophie and her Echuca Fire Brigade teammates were returning to their accommodation after a long day of competition when the smell of smoke caught their attention.
Driving through the streets to investigate, they discovered flames lighting up the night sky.
"When we pulled around the corner, we couldn't see or hear any fire trucks, so I got on the phone to call triple zero," Sophie said.
"Almost immediately after, a fire truck came racing towards us. We introduced ourselves to the crew and asked how we could help."
Sophie, who had only recently completed her General Firefighter Training, soon found herself assisting at the fireground, setting up water points, connecting hoses, and unkinking lines.
"Everything I'd learnt during training really came together in that moment," Sophie said.
Back at their accommodation, Sophie's father and CFA member, Doug Amos, waited anxiously for updates.
"To see her head off to her first fire was a moment I'll always remember," Doug said.
"I knew she was with a capable crew, and I was confident she'd step up. Sophie has worked so hard for this, from helping during the 2022 Echuca floods to earning Junior Firefighter of the Year last summer."
Firefighting is a family tradition for the Amos family. Sophie grew up inspired by her father, uncle, and cousin, all members of the Echuca Fire Brigade at one time or another.
She joined CFA's junior running team at age 13 and has been a dedicated member ever since.
"CFA has really helped me grow as a person," Sophie said.
"I've met amazing people and gained skills I never thought I'd have. I'd recommend it to any young person, you never know where it might lead you."
Sophie hopes her experiences can inspire other young people to consider volunteering.
"Being on the front line of an actual fire showed me the real impact we can have," she said.
"It's not just about fighting fires, it's about being part of something bigger."
