Small Towns, Big Spirit At CFA Torchlight Procession

The tradition, which dates back to 1873, saw hundreds of CFA members march through the town after sunset, led by CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan and VFBV State President Samantha Collins, behind a fleet of vintage and modern CFA appliances.

Jason said the procession remains one of CFA's proudest traditions.

"The energy from both our members and the local community always makes for a truly special night," he said.

"It's a standout CFA tradition that showcases our pride, discipline, and unity as firefighters, and it was great to see that spirit shine through after a big day of competition.

"I want to thank the Mooroopna community for turning out in numbers and adding to the atmosphere."

Judges scored brigades on their appearance and parade performance, and it was the team from the Knox Group of Brigades who took out first place this year.

While some brigades were chasing silverware, for 4th Lieutenant of the Gapsted Fire Brigade and Junior Leader Craig Hodgetts, it was more about being part of the tradition.

With a population of just 173, Gapsted, in the state's northeast, is one of the smallest communities represented at the State Championships.

The team made its long-awaited comeback to the competition in 2019 after more than three decades away and has returned each year since with growing momentum.

"Between 1985 and 2019, Gapsted had no representation at the State Championships," Craig said.

"We're a very small brigade, so I started a junior team to try and build up our senior numbers."

"It's not about winning. I tell the kids, 'I don't care if you come last, just enjoy it. If you make mistakes, laugh about it and move on.'"

Craig first competed in the State Championships in 1982. More than 40 years later, he's focused on inspiring the next generation to carry the tradition forward.

"Back in the 80s, every brigade in our area had a team. Now we've only got four. It'd be great to see more come back," he said.

"This year, one of my former junior teams made their debut in the seniors, which was the goal all along."

"It was an incredibly proud moment to watch them march under the Gapsted banner."

"Even better was watching them win our town's first ever senior event, the Dry Hydrant, in the district 22 championships on Sunday the 23rd."

"We'll certainly be part of the procession and championships again next year."

Following a successful first year using LED torchlights in 2024, the new LEDs were used again this year.

The CFA/VFBV State Firefighter Championships will take place in Stawell in 2026.