MEET THE LOCAL FIERIES Brayden Arroita:

By day, he's a skilled cabinet maker, crafting cupboards and installing timber doors. By night, he's ready to jump into action as an auxiliary firefighter. For Brayden Arroita the balance between these two roles is a challenging yet rewarding experience.
From a young age, Braydon dreamed of becoming a firefighter:
"Ever since I was three, I always wanted to be a firefighter," he recalls.
When the opportunity arose, Brayden didn't hesitate to pursue his childhood dream. Now, he juggles his primary job with the unpredictable demands of firefighting, which can range from calm weeks to nights filled with multiple callouts.
His work as an auxiliary firefighter involves responding to various emergencies, from house fires to car crashes. The role comes with its challenges, especially when he faces the possibility of knowing the victims involved. However, a robust support system, including debriefs and counselling, helps him navigate the emotional toll.
One of his most memorable experiences was being deployed to the Tara bushfires early in his firefighting career. The experience, surrounded by seasoned firefighters, significantly impacted his growth and maturity in the role.
Despite the demands, Braydon remains passionate about both his jobs. His advice to anyone considering joining the ranks of auxiliary firefighters? "Just go for it—the sky’s the limit."

Brayden Arroita

‍