By ANEEKA SIMONIS
HE’S Pakenham CFA’s newest firefighter and he may just be their lucky charm.
Since starting with the unit on Tuesday 28 June, new recruit David MacDonald, 38, and his emergency service crew have not been deployed to any emergency situations in the area.
Mr MacDonald admitted he was itching to get out there and help the community, but conceded no action was good action when it came to his new line of work.
“I got into the job because I want to help people in need … turn a bad day into not such a bad day,” he said.
“I haven’t been out yet. It’s kind of like the great unknown … but that means there has been no-one in need.”
In response to suggestions he may be the station – and community’s – good luck charm, he simply laughed, and went on to say he would be ready for the call when it came.
He and fellow newcomer Damien McGuigan, 29, are Pakenham CFA’s newest recruits – both from vastly different background but united in their commitment of care.
Mr MacDonald came to the unit after years as a professional bagpiper for the Victoria Police while Mr McGuigan’s career to date has been in construction management.
The pair, both without volunteer experience, join the CFA during a controversial time as it continues to battle the State Government and United Firefighters Union over a three-year EBA dispute.
But it was all of little concern to Mr MacDonald.
He says he’s had a one-eyed focus on his firefighter training, and the issue does not seem to be impacting his fellow Pakenham fireys.
Pakenham CFA First Lieutenant Michael Corzelius earlier told Star News Group the issue had been blown out of proportion, accusing State Government leaders of using them as pawns in their political “beat-up”.
He said paid and volunteer firefighters had a great working relationship at the unit.
