General News
1 October, 2025
Stawell CFA team conquers stair climb
A group of Stawell CFA volunteers recently joined emergency service members from across Victoria to take on the gruelling Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb, tackling 28 floors of the Crown Metropol Hotel in full gear.
Representing Stawell CFA were Joseph Stubberfield, Steven Rudolph, Declan Holloway, Myles Gellie, Jai Smith, Zach Portelli, and Geoffrey Hateley.
Together, the team raised an impressive $4,477 for the cause.
For the crew, it was their first time competing in the event, and it didn’t disappoint.
Joseph Stubberfield said the climb pushed everyone to their limits.
“I certainly didn't have anything left in the tank at the end of it, a couple of us are fitter than I and they said they could probably go harder next year. I certainly could not have gone any harder.
“I think for a lot of us the start was really hard and the end was really hard, and a number of us don’t really remember much of the middle. It was an experience.”
He added the support crews and atmosphere made the challenge worthwhile.
“A lot of really kind people giving up their time to support as climb crew as well.”
Mr Stubberfield said the team’s goal was simply to complete the climb.
“The aim was certainly just to finish, it’s a pretty hard slog and there was a lot of people who were worse for wear at the top but we all made it, and that’s what we wanted. It was really good and it was good to be up there with such a large group and for all of us to finish, I think is quite an achievement.”
And for some, the event has sparked the motivation to do it all again.
“There are a few that will certainly climb again next year. There was a couple of people who basically got to the top and were ready to go again,” he said.
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