The state champions finished behind highly rated Wyong Fire Brigade and Kootingal Rural Fire Service, with only three points separating first and second place.

Crew member Gerard Hanscombe said the team, which also includes Clinton Towill, Trent Smith and Cassandra Dickson, performed well in the hot conditions on both Saturday and Sunday.

Mr Hanscombe said a “couple of errors” cost the team time and the chance to challenge for a first place podium finish.

“We will polish up and do a bit of training ahead of the Gunnedah Regional Championships in May,” he said.

“You just have to keep practicing, and keep going over and over it.”

He said the brigade have a healthy competitive spirit, with a number of members keen to push for a place on the squad