Plymouth Brethren Christian Church volunteers provide over 1,300 meals to support firefighters during summer fires in New South Wales.

Plymouth Brethren Christian Church volunteers have contributed to disaster relief efforts by providing meals to emergency workers responding to summer fires in New South Wales, Australia. Over 100 members of the church’s Rapid Relief Team (RRT) served more than 1,300 meals to firefighters and other emergency personnel, supporting them during two recent fires.

The RRT was deployed to the Attunga State Forest fire in the New England region, where Tamworth-based volunteers dedicated over 250 hours of service, preparing a total of 886 meals. The team also assisted the New South Wales Rural Fire Service following a grass fire in Hill End, near Bathurst. Bathurst volunteers cooked 450 meals over three days, providing essential sustenance during extreme heat conditions.

RRT local team leader Peter Stead emphasized the importance of supporting emergency services, stating, “RRT is always ready to step forward to support the New South Wales Rural Fire Service, because we know how crucial they are to protect our community this time of year.” He noted that while the period is typically a vacation, emergency workers often face increased demands, and the volunteers worked day and night to prepare and serve meals to sustain their energy and morale.

Emergency personnel received a variety of meals, including RRT-exclusive hamburgers, chicken burgers, and beef nachos, along with snacks, coffee, and soft drinks. These efforts reflect the RRT’s mission to provide practical support during times of crisis.

Established in 2013, the RRT has grown to include over 14,500 volunteers who assist emergency services with meals and other forms of support. The team also engages in community outreach through donations and charity events, demonstrating a commitment to service and compassion.

In addition to disaster relief, the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church has participated in broader community initiatives. Recently, the church welcomed an Australian journalist to its halls, homes, and businesses, offering insight into its practices and addressing misconceptions about its identity. The church has also joined other religious and community groups in Australia in expressing solidarity following an attack on the Jewish community in Bondi Beach, underscoring a commitment to unity and mutual support.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)