With 28 floors, 700 steps, and 25 kilograms of gear, the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb is no small feat.
But for Murchison volunteer firefighter Xavier Reilly, every step is a symbol of support for those fighting battles we often can’t see.
They’re battles he knows all too well.
“Cancer has been something that’s struck close to home a few times in my life,” Xavier said.
“I’ve had family and close friends suffer from multiple forms of cancer over the years. And the mental health side of the event also hits close to home — I’ve struggled with depression and carry trauma from what I’ve witnessed in my time with the CFA.”
The Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb is an annual charity event that sees firefighters and emergency service personnel from across Australia — and beyond — ascend 28 floors of the Crown Metropol Hotel in Melbourne.
Wearing up to 25 kg of full firefighting gear and breathing apparatus, participants climb in solidarity with those affected by cancer, depression, and PTSD.
Since its inception in 2014, the climb has raised over $4 million for mental health initiatives and cancer research, shining a light on the often unseen burdens faced by first responders and the wider community.
Xavier was just 11 years old when he signed up as a junior firefighter. Now 27, he understands just how mentally demanding the role can be — but like the stair climb, he shows up for others.
“PTSD is something many first responders deal with — even if they don’t realise it,” he said.
“All it takes is the right question, and suddenly, you’re recalling the smallest details of an event.
“That’s when you know there’s more going on behind the scenes.”
Despite the challenges, it’s the people and the purpose that keep Xavier going.
“It’s the friendships within your brigade, the people you meet when you’re deployed to other regions — it’s knowing you’re making a difference, helping your community, and maybe even saving someone’s life or livelihood,” he said.
“That’s a good feeling.”
In preparation for the big climb, held this year on Saturday, September 6, Xavier has been giving it his all.
But he’s no stranger to the challenge — this will be his third time tackling the challenge.
After completing his first event in 9 minutes and 9 seconds in 2023, he returned the following year and shaved that time down to an impressive 5 minutes and 55 seconds.
Now, he’s determined to go even faster.
“Physically, I’m thankful because I spend a lot of time preparing for Spartan races around Australia and internationally,” Xavier said.
“Mentally, it’s a bit tougher — for every excuse not to train, you’ve got to come up with a reason to push through.
“For me, it’s simple. If I don’t train, I know I’ll suffer when the big day comes. I need to be mentally and physically ready.”
As for his goal this year?
“If I could hit the low 5-minute mark — or even high 4s — that would be awesome,” he said.
“But honestly, anything under six again would be great.”
With every step, Xavier is setting out to prove that strength isn't just about muscle — it's about heart, resilience, and showing up for others.
If you’d like to help him reach his fundraising target of $1000, donations can be made via the Murchison Fire Brigade Facebook page.
He’s also planning a few fundraisers in the lead-up to the big day, so keep an eye on the page for updates and event details.