He also said he’s had the opportunity to oversee the brigade move forward with new technology in the last year, including the introduction of the new state-of-the-art and high tech fire helmets

As well as availability systems on their iPhones.

Upgrading technology for the brigade was one of Ryan’s main future focuses when he stepped into the role in November 2014, following the retirement of his predecessor, veteran firefighter Don Smyth.

“It’s been a great challenge, especially balancing life, but with such a great crew that has made it a lot easier,” Ryan said.

The Young Fire & Rescue NSW brigade is now at full strength, having recruited five new firefighters over three months at the beginning of the year.

And Ryan has been there alongside them from start to finish.

“We’ve watched them from the interview stage to actually being able to get on the truck, to ordering clothes and equipment for the new firefighters and to training,” he said.

“It’s been challenge getting the station up to full strength and finding a good fit [for all firefighters].

“The last time it was at full strength was when I started about 10 years ago.”

One thing Ryan has noticed about his brigade since taking the reins is the high praise they’ve received about their training.

“We’re always getting comments from our trainers, whether that’s rescue training or drills,” he said.

“And it shows when we’re out there things have ran smoothly.

“We do well in all pulling together as a great crew for what is required from such a busy little town.”

Ryan said it was quite a big deal the brigade has never had to rely on firefighters from other areas to man their station.

And it was even more of a testament of the kind of firefighters he has beneath him when someone from Young always stood up to help out another station.