Outward Bound welcomed volunteer members from the Country Fire Authority (CFA) in Victoria to our base in the Snowy River National Park in January, for a valuable training program.

The participants chosen have been earmarked as future leaders of their local CFA and play an active role in their community.

The CFA and Outward Bound have been working together for 17 years to help develop and train volunteer fire fighters. Outward Bound helps volunteers prepare for challenging situations by pushing the fire fighters beyond their comfort zones and developing their leadership skills.

Participants faced challenges including abseiling, canoeing, caving, hiking and rock climbing.

Jessica Campbell from the Allan's Flat Fire Brigade (CFA) said the course was very challenging, but rewarding.

"It was physically and mentally demanding and we weren't sure what was going to happen each day."

"I learned a lot about myself and how people react differently in different situations. I now have more confidence as a leader and in dealing with people in stressful times," Jessica said.

Matt O'Neil from the CFA said the course also helped him with his decision making skills.

"The course taught me to be more level headed and will help me to cope under stress. I also learned I can go beyond my boundaries," Matt said.

The CFA's Outward Bound adventure was part of a 12 day training program, where the volunteers spent three days participating on a Personal Development program to discover more about their personal values at the CFA Training College – Fiskville, before tackling the course with Outward Bound and returned to complete their final day at the CFA Training College.

Outward Bound is proud to offer these experience to the CFA and help them to provide such an important service to the Victorian community.