Published on Wednesday, 12 August 2026 at 9:00:00 AM

This International Youth Day (12 August), we're celebrating the young people who go above and beyond to make our community stronger. One of them is 2026 Young Citizen of the Year, Will Pether. 

A Hills local since the age of four, Will attended Mundaring Primary School and grew up playing sport with the Mundaring Roos and Hills Rangers. Today, he's making a different kind of impact through the Stoneville Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade. 

His journey began after witnessing a fire sparked by an exploding transformer on Great Eastern Highway in 2023. 

“There were embers flying into our backyard and a large tree across the road caught fire,” Will recalled. “The firefighters were there for hours and I stayed up watching them until about three in the morning.” 

Inspired by their efforts, Will joined the Mundaring Firefighters Cadets before visiting the Stoneville brigade, where he was warmly welcomed. Since then, he has completed extensive training, contributed to hazard reduction burns and attended incidents across the region, including recent fires in Baaling, Bullsbrook and Malmalling. 

Will credits much of his growth to the support of other brigade members. 

“Captain Greg and Lieutenant Lara have done so much for me. They’ve taught me skills, what to look out for, and helped me become the firefighter I am today,” he said. 

Beyond firefighting, Will says the friendships he has built have been just as valuable. 

“They’re people I can rely on and people who would have my back in everyday life situations. I’m so thankful they’ve taken me in and spent the time teaching me the necessary skills.” 

Will hopes more young people consider volunteering in their community. 

"If you're committed to giving back to the community, willing to work hard and build friendships, then the place is for you." 

If you’re interested in giving back to your community and becoming a volunteer like Will, head over to the volunteering page of our website/ 

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