Just like a real superhero, protecting people and assets are just part of the job that brings ample opportunities and something exciting every day for Air Force fire fighter Leading Aircraftwoman Grace Jarvis.
Leading Aircraftwoman Jarvis graduated from fire course in 2019 and her role falls within Air Force's emergency services (force protection) structure.
With no day ever the same, Leading Aircraftwoman Jarvis said she was trained to respond to aircraft emergencies, particularly fires and accidents.
"We are equipped to handle situations such as aircraft incidents, fuel spills, fires that may occur during take-off and landing, or even while aircraft is parked," Leading Aircraftwoman Jarvis said.
"We undergo specific training to effectively mitigate aviation-related emergencies."
Those who join RAAF Base Amberley's 23 Squadron emergency crew are valued members of a highly skilled and motivated team.
A minimum crew of 12 to four members provide support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, seven days a week, and they all share rotating shifts.
Being physically fit is crucial to perform the physically demanding tasks of being a fire fighter and is something Leading Aircraftwoman Jarvis also requires while representing Air Force in AFL.
"It's really important that we maintain our fitness to ensure we are able to carry heavy equipment and manoeuvre ourselves into confined spaces," Leading Aircraftwoman Jarvis said.
She said a typical day starts with a handover, vehicle and equipment check.
"We then conduct training to keep our skills up-to-date. This can range from smoking buildings out and doing search-and-rescue techniques to going over power points on different jets learning the dangers associated with them and how we can keep our members safe," she said.
"As well as the usual admin to keep everything organised and in running order in fire section as a whole."
Leading Aircraftwoman Jarvis had these words of advice for anyone considering becoming a fire fighter at 23 Squadron.
"Take the jump and do it," she said.
"It's a supportive squadron and you are given plenty of opportunities to network and meet new people, and CSG (Combat Support Group) as a whole is great to be a part of."
23 Squadron in Amberley is part of Combat Support Group and includes logistics, security, physical training instructors, mechanical equipment operations and maintenance section, fire, catering, movements, supply and personnel capability.
