Japinder Sandhu

Climbing for CFA Point Cook

Hi Everyone,

On Saturday, 12 September 2026, I will once again be participating in the 13th Annual Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb.

This is one of Australia\’s most demanding charity events, where firefighters and emergency service volunteers climb 28 floors of Melbourne\’s Crown Metropol wearing approximately 25 kg of full firefighting protective clothing and breathing apparatus. Every step symbolises the physical and mental challenges faced by our first responders and helps raise vital funds for Lifeline, the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation, and the 000 Foundation.

This year, my climb carries a very special meaning.

I am proud to dedicate my stair climb to the memory of Laurie Russell ESM, who sadly passed away on 23 April 2026.

Laurie devoted more than 40 years of distinguished service to both the Victorian State Emergency Service (VICSES) and the Country Fire Authority (CFA). As Unit Controller for more than 32 years, he became the longest-serving Unit Controller in VICSES history. His leadership, humility, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to serving the community inspired generations of volunteers and left an enduring legacy across Victorian State Emergency Services (VICSES).

For those of us who volunteer, Laurie represented everything that emergency service leadership should be. His dedication, compassion, and selfless service continue to inspire us, and it is an honour to climb in his memory this year.

If you would like to support me and this incredible cause, I would sincerely appreciate your donation. Every contribution, no matter the amount, helps fund cancer research, mental health services, and crisis support for our emergency services community. Thanks to our event sponsors, 100% of every dollar donated goes directly to the beneficiaries.

Please support my climb by donating here:
👉 https://www.firefighterclimb.org.au/climber/japindersandhu/

Even if you are unable to donate, sharing this post would mean a great deal and help raise awareness of these important causes.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and continued support.

Together, let\’s Step Up to Fight Cancer, Depression and Suicide, while honouring the remarkable legacy of Laurie Russell ESM.

Kind regards,

Japinder Sandhu

9/11 Memorial

The Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb remembers the 343 Firefighters that lost their lives in the line of duty on 11th September 2001.

My stair climb race bib will include the name and photo of FDNY Firefighter Brian Cannizzaro in memory of their sacrifice made on that fateful day. Search and read more about Brian Cannizzaro.

So far, I've raised $2,717 of my $3,000 fundraising goal.

Recent donations from Japinder’s friends

  • $50
    Sandeep Singh
    one month ago ● Keep up the good work
  • $100
    Sanjay Gill
    3 months ago ● Good Luck with the Climb. Well done

Previous year’s results

2025

I raised $2,450

8:07.540 Donned only

2024

I raised $2,350

8:08.700 Donned only

2023

I raised $1,726

7:55.0 Donned only

2022

I raised $976 (plus $8 shared from my team fundraising)

8:27.493 Donned only