On Saturday, 6 September 2025, more than 1,000 firefighters and emergency service personnel from across Australia and the globe scaled the 28 floors of Crown Metropol for the 12th Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb.
Among them was Indian-origin volunteer Japinder Sandhu, who clocked a personal record of 8 minutes and 5 seconds. Sandhu dedicated his climb to the late Lynda Prentice, a Country Fire Authority (CFA) volunteer who devoted over 30 years to protecting communities before passing away on 28 June this year.
“This year, I dedicated my climb to Lynda Prentice, a remarkable CFA volunteer who served with unwavering commitment for over 30 years,” Sandhu said in a post, thanking Graeme Prentice and his family for allowing him to carry Lynda’s photo during the climb.
“Finished the 12th Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb 2025 with a record of 8 minutes and 5 seconds.”
The annual event challenges participants to ascend 28 floors in up to 25kg of firefighting gear and breathing apparatus, symbolising the daily mental and physical burdens carried by first responders. Some participants take on the additional challenge of climbing “on air” with self-contained breathing apparatus.
This year’s climb raised more than $1.1 million, surpassing its $1 million target, with funds going to Lifeline, the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation, and the 000Foundation to support cancer research, crisis support, and mental health initiatives.
For Sandhu, this year’s climb carried a deeply personal layer of meaning. It coincided with his 20th anniversary in Australia — a milestone that marks a journey from arriving in Melbourne in 2005 with little more than $2,000 in savings, to becoming an IT consultant, an emergency services volunteer, and now a symbol of resilience within the community.
Reflecting on his two decades in Australia, Sandhu said his journey had been shaped by resilience, choices, and the courage to pivot when life demanded.
“I failed, and I fell multiple times. Some incredible people lifted me, and I am deeply grateful to them. Other times, I had to find the strength to pick myself up and empower myself. We are all more resilient than we think.”
Sandhu recalled his early struggles with studies and work, and how he chose passion over pay on several occasions, decisions that ultimately shaped his career path.
In 2014, at a professional crossroads, he quit his full-time job, travelled, and eventually became an independent IT consultant — a choice he credits with broadening his horizons. “Doors won’t open unless you knock,” he said, describing his philosophy that persistence eventually brings opportunity.
“I’ve faced rejections many times. But on the odd occasion, someone listens, believes, and opens that door.”
Today, Sandhu balances his professional life with community service as a volunteer with Point Cook SES. His story, he says, is rooted in gratitude to his parents for their sacrifices and to Australia for offering him opportunities to contribute and grow.
Since its inception in 2014, the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb has raised over $4 million for health and emergency services charities.
For Sandhu, this year’s event was not only about raising funds and awareness for cancer, depression and suicide prevention, but also about honouring the spirit of service embodied by Lynda Prentice and countless other first responders.
“My climb is in her honour, celebrating her dedication to protecting our community and ensuring her memory fuels my steps.”
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