Filipino firefighters keeping Australian town safe

Pyramid Hill is a small town of around 500 people in Victoria, Australia. Over the past ten years, the community has seen a significant boost to its population especially with the growing number of Filipinos who have started calling the town home.

Businesses in Pyramid Hill have expanded. Many migrants have also taken up crucial volunteer roles in emergency services such as firefighting. Just recently, seven Filipinos were recruited to the local Country Fire Authority.

The addition to the town’s fire department has been welcomed by Captain of the Pyramid Hill Brigade Steve Mann saying that the community is grateful for the increased numbers, especially with the predicted early and long bushfire season.

Filipinos contributing in a special way

Councilor Cheryl McKinnon recognizes the Filipinos’ work expanding businesses ranging from piggeries to grocery stores. She also adds that the Filipino community in Pyramid Hill has added a cultural vibrancy to the town.

However, McKinnon expressed her concern with regards to the new changes in visa arrangements, which have made it “really difficult” for skilled migrants to qualify for work.

“They’ve had three knocked back recently, who failed in their test when previously they would have actually been able to come out,” McKinnon said.

“It’s just a real shame and it would be great if we could address that.”

via ABC / Larissa Romensky