When James Massey joined the Rural Fire Service at 21, it was almost expected of anyone who lived on the land.
Fifty years on, he hasn't looked back.
But these days, finding young men and women with a similar sense of duty to replace his generation is a difficult task.
As the current volunteer force is ageing, Mr Massey says groups like rural firefighters are having a long hard look at their recruitment options.
"I was sitting in a meeting in Brisbane recently, and that's what was being discussed: How do we do it?" Mr Massey says.
"We used to have a high school program, and I realise that it doesn't cost two-and-six to run it.
"But it was a great way of getting kids within the district to participate."
Mr Massey says attitudes have changed since he first enrolled.
"I think it's a very different world," he says.
"It's a sort of case where we need to try and show that there is a lot to be gained by doing it."
Calling on the next generation
Volunteering Australia chief executive Mark Pearce says people don't need to regularly volunteer to feel a part of a community anymore.
"Certainly the desire to engage in the community has not diminished," Mr Pearce says.
"There is a real appetite for people to engage and participate within their communities, but attitudes towards volunteering and community expectations have changed."
A national strategy released by Volunteering Australia earlier this year found people wanted flexibility, more choice, and a sense of value when joining a community group.
"The one tip to attract more volunteer experience is to ensure that their role meets their expectations," Mr Pearce says.
"Make sure that the volunteer feels part of the organisation and can match their time and effort with the organisation's mission."
An emotional achievement
Mr Massey has found himself in front of numerous fires in his Rural Fire Service career, including the 2018-2019 Black Summer blazes.
But he's also spent time offering community support, both in emergency and daily events.
His dedication has been recognised with a string of accolades over the years including a bravery medal and OAM.
Mr Massey says his biggest driver to continuing his role with the Rural Fire Service is the sense that he's doing something to protect his community.
The Stanthorpe local now sits on the Queensland State Board of Operational Strategic Working Group, which designs and modifies trucks to improve safety.
"The way we have come so far in the last 50 years, it's quite unbelievable," he says.
Mr Massey says reaching the half-century milestone is a special achievement.
"It was an emotional day for my family because they've watched me walk out that door for all those years," Mr Massey says.
"And they never know when you're coming home or if you are coming home."
While he's reluctant to commit to a date when he'll finally clock off from the RFS for good, the veteran volunteer knows the day will eventually come.
"I don't think I'll make the tonne," he says.
