My name is Brandi Richardson, and I have been proud to call Bayles home for the past 23 years. After seeing a post showing our local firefighters struggling in extreme heat at the station due to an inadequate air conditioner, I knew something needed to be done. Our volunteers give so much to protect this community, and I felt compelled to step up and support them in any way I could

Victoria is currently facing an intense bushfire crisis, and our local volunteer firefighters at the Bayles Fire Brigade are on the front line protecting lives, homes, livestock, and our community.

These volunteers give their time, energy, and safety selflessly — often working long, exhausting shifts in extreme heat and smoke. While the station does have air conditioning, it does not work efficiently on extreme heat days, when it is needed most. This leaves our crews without adequate relief when they return from fires, training, or emergency call-outs.

Reliable, effective air conditioning is not a luxury — it is a basic necessity. It allows our volunteers to safely cool down, recover, and remain fit to respond quickly and effectively.

With prolonged heat, dry conditions, and increased fire activity across Victoria, our volunteers must be ready at all times. Having a station that provides proper cooling and recovery conditions is essential to ensuring they can continue to protect our community safely and effectively.

Every dollar raised will go directly toward upgrading or replacing the existing air conditioning system at the Bayles Fire Brigade, helping to support the wellbeing of those who work tirelessly to protect us all.

The cost of the air conditioner and Installation will be paid directly to the air conditioner company.

If the funds raised exceed the cost of the air conditioning unit and installation, all excess funds will be donated back through the CFA cannels, and the Bayles fire brigade can use the funds for other needs.

If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page.

Together, we can look after the people who look after us.

Thank you for your support.