General News
14 July, 2026
Horsham CFA gears up for September Stair Climb
THIRTEEN Horsham CFA volunteers will tackle one of Australia’s toughest firefighting fundraising events when they take part in the 12th annual Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb in September.
Horsham CFA firefighter and communications officer Kate Willis is among the volunteers taking on the challenge, marking her second time competing in this annual event.
Around 1000 emergency service personnel are expected to attend the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb, held on September 12.
Participants will climb 28 floors of the Crown Metropol Melbourne while carrying 25 kilograms of firefighting equipment to raise $1 million to support charities tackling mental health, cancer, and suicide prevention.
Mrs Willis completed the climb in 15 minutes last year and said she was looking forward to taking part in the challenge again.
“It’s my second climb,” she said.
The fundraiser is particularly important for Mrs Willis, whose father was a firefighter and lost his battle with cancer last year.
She said the three beneficiary charities - Lifeline, the Peter MacCullum Cancer Foundation, and the Triple Zero Foundation - all held a special place in her heart.
“All of the charities we are fundraising for are important to me.”
As she prepares for her second Stair Climb, Mrs Willis hopes the wider community will support the cause and help make a difference for the charities that have meant so much to her and many others.
“Every donation makes a difference,” Mrs Willis said.
“We’re climbing for causes that have touched so many lives.”
People wishing to support the Horsham CFA volunteers can donate through the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb fundraising website at www.firefighterclimb.org.au/donations/donate/cfa/horsham.
Read More: Horsham