An Australian Rural Fire Service volunteer has been charged for allegedly lighting a series of intentional bushfires in New South Wales.
Blake William Banner, 19, was arrested on Tuesday in connection with seven fires in Bega Valley, lit between October 17 and November 26.
NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said they have a "zero tolerance to arson" and Banner had been stood down.
"Our members will be rightly angry that the alleged actions of one individual can tarnish the reputation and hard work of so many.
"This type of alleged behaviour is the ultimate betrayal of our own members, and of the broader community," he said in a statement.
At 5:20pm on Tuesday (local time), police saw trees and grass on fire near where they had allegedly seen Banner sitting in a ute earlier that day. Police believe he returned later to fight the blaze in his role as a volunteer firefighter, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.
Banner appeared in Bega Local Court on Wednesday where he was charged with seven counts of intentionally causing fire and being reckless to its spread.
The court heard that he had no history of violence and was of good character.
He was granted conditional bail and is due to return to court on December 17.
His bail conditions require him to report to the Bega Police Station once a day, and he must remain at his home address between 8pm and 8am. He must be in the company of a parent if he leaves during this time, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
Banner is also required to attend and accept appointments for psychological treatment.
