Ranks & Structure
Understanding the brigade's rank hierarchy and organizational structure
The Waitara Volunteer Fire Brigade follows a structured rank system that recognizes experience, qualifications, leadership, and commitment. Each rank carries specific responsibilities, expectations, and represents a progression in skills and service to our community.
Operational Ranks
Chief Fire Officer (CFO)
Brigade leader responsible for overall management and governance. Reports to FENZ district, manages brigade administration, member welfare, and represents the brigade externally.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO)
Second-in-command who supports the CFO in brigade management. Takes charge when the CFO is unavailable and assists with administrative and operational coordination.
Senior Station Officer (SSO)
An experienced Station Officer with advanced training. Often commands larger or more complex incidents. May take on additional brigade responsibilities and mentor other officers.
Station Officer (SO)
The primary incident commander at fires and emergencies. Commands crews at incidents, makes tactical decisions, ensures crew safety, and manages resources on scene.
Senior Firefighter (SFF)
An experienced Qualified Firefighter with additional courses and advanced knowledge. Has completed extra training modules and has more operational experience.
Qualified Firefighter (QFF)
Has completed FENZ basic firefighter training modules. Has the knowledge and courses required to operate as an operational firefighter at emergency calls.
Firefighter (FF)
An active member who is still completing FENZ training modules. The difference from Qualified Firefighter is the courses and knowledge level - still learning required skills.
Recruit Firefighter (RFF)
A new member just starting their FENZ training. Attends emergency calls but is not yet allowed to be an operational firefighter. Learning basic skills and brigade procedures while supporting at incidents.
Operational Support Ranks
Operational Support Station Officer (OS-SO)
A station officer in a support role. Leads specialized support functions like communications, logistics, or technical support. Coordinates support operations during incidents.
Operational Support Senior Firefighter (OS-SFF)
An experienced firefighter in a support role. Provides technical expertise and mentorship. Combines operational experience with specialized training.
Operational Support Qualified Firefighter (OS-QFF)
A qualified firefighter providing support functions like communications, logistics, or technical roles. Works alongside operational crews to ensure effective incident management.
Operational Support Firefighter (OS-FF)
A firefighter in a support role. Provides essential support functions during incidents, such as communications, logistics, or safety management.
Operational Support Recruit Firefighter (OS-RFF)
A recruit member in a support role. Learning the fundamentals of their support function and how to contribute to brigade operations.
Medical First Responder (MFR)
Provides advanced medical care at incidents. Assesses patients, provides initial treatment, stabilizes injuries, and coordinates with ambulance services.
Support Ranks
Brigade Support (BS)
A non-operational member providing essential support functions like administration, community events, fundraising, public education, and equipment maintenance. Helps the brigade run smoothly so operational members can focus on emergency response.
Rank Progression
Members advance through ranks based on experience, training completion, and demonstrated skills. Each rank requires specific training and assessments. The brigade provides comprehensive training, mentorship, and clear pathways for advancement whether you're interested in operational leadership, specialized skills, or support functions.
Interested in Joining?
Learn more about how you can become part of our team and start your journey through the ranks.
Join the Brigade