BUSHFIRE brigades across the Perth Hills are seeking new volunteers as crews prepare for the next fire season following another demanding summer.

A Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) spokesperson said volunteers play a critical role in emergency response across Western Australia, particularly in bushfire-prone areas such as the Perth Hills.

DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm said “without volunteers, emergency services would be severely stretched. We rely on each and every one of them to keep our communities safe.”

A DFES spokesperson said local crews responded to a number of incidents over summer, including recent fires in areas such as Beechina, highlighting the ongoing need for trained volunteers.

“Volunteer firefighters are often among the first to respond to bushfires, particularly in semi-rural areas where access can be challenging and conditions can change quickly,” the spokesperson said.

Brigades in the Shire of Mundaring, City of Kalamunda and surrounding hills communities rely heavily on volunteers to respond to fires, assist with hazard reduction and support emergency efforts throughout the year.

In the Perth Hills, brigades typically begin recruiting after summer, with training for new volunteers starting in April as crews prepare for the next bushfire season.

Volunteers undertake training in fire response, equipment use and safety procedures.

“Not all roles involve active firefighting, with support roles such as communications, logistics and incident management also essential during emergency responses,” a DFES spokesperson said.

A DFES volunteer said the hills community depended heavily on local crews.

“Our community is at high risk of bushfire, it’s a great way to give back and contribute,” he said.

DFES said maintaining volunteer numbers outside of peak fire season was critical, with brigades preparing year-round for future incidents.

Residents interested in volunteering can contact their local brigade or visit the DFES website for more information.