Sick kids to benefit from inaugural NSW Fire Brigades Calendar

NSW Fire Fighters have once again answered the call for help - all in the name of raising funds for young burns patients at The Children's Hospital at Westmead.

The NSW Fire Brigades 2007 Calendar features over 36 stunning images that capture the essence of the vital work of the men and women of the NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB). Depicting a wide range of activities involved in responding and managing emergencies, the Calendar offers an insight into the daily life of our state's professional firefighters.

NSWFB 2007 Calendar co-ordinator Sebastian Jacobs said he was proud to be associated with the project, which is a first for New South Wales.

"I've seen first hand the devastating impact that burns injuries can have on children and their families and that's one of the reasons I decided to get involved in such a worthwhile project," said Sebastian.

"All proceeds from the sale of the NSWFB 2007 Calendar will go towards helping young burns victims and their families on their road to recovery.

"We're so pleased to be able to do this to raise money for The Burns Unit at The Children's Hospital at Westmead and grateful for the support of our sponsors Boost Juice and OutingsGuide.com.au."

Dr John Harvey, Head of the Burns Unit at The Children's Hospital at Westmead thanked the NSW Fire Brigades for its ongoing support.

"The inaugural NSWFB 2007 Calendar is a great initiative. We are thrilled at the continued support of the NSW Fire Brigades to our Unit over the years. Not only do they donate their time by organising fundraising projects such as NSW Fire Brigades 2007 Calendar, but their staff also personally contribute through the payroll contribution scheme.

"The continued support of NSW Fire Brigades is vital for us to continue our working in providing the very best in specialist burns care to our young patients. We thank all involved in the production of the Calender and urge the community to get behind it."

The Children's Hospital at Westmead's Burns Unit is the paediatric arm of NSW Severe Burn Injury Service and is the referral centre for all major paediatric burns in NSW. Approximately 1000 children undergo treatment in the Unit every year, 200 as Inpatients in Clubbe Ward and 800 as Outpatients in the NSW Fire Brigades Burns and Plastic Surgery Treatment Centre. Burns patients require specialised treatment in the short and the long term and their needs are numerous. The treatment given to patients must not only cater for their physical needs but also their emotional needs.

The 2007 NSWFB Calender costs $14.95 and is available at the Boost Juice Bars in Galleries Victoria, George St Sydney or Wollongong Central, Queen St Wollongong or by calling Fire Fighter Sebastian Jacobs on 0422 837 773.