MATT and Priscilla Wernert are gearing up to raise money for cancer research and crisis support by participating in the 12th annual Melbourne Firefighters Stair Climb next week. 
The Bridgewater Fire Brigade duo has been in training ahead of climbing 28 flights of stairs in Crown Metropol on September 6.
They will be in full firefighter turnout gear and carrying breathing apparatus to symbolise the burden of significant health and well-being issues faced by first responders and their families daily. 
“We’ve been working on our fitness and cardio over the past few weeks, it’ll be a huge physical challenge but we’re raising money for a good cause,” Matt said. 
Matt and Priscilla are aiming to raise $1000 each before they make their ascent.
 The event has been capped at 1000 first responders, with people from Australia and overseas travelling to Melbourne to participate. 
“We’re already planning to do it again next year and hopefully we’ll have a few more people from the brigade join us too,” Matt said. 
This year’s climb aims to raise $1 million for Peter Mac Cancer Foundation, Lifeline, and 000Foundation to fight cancer, depression, and suicide. A week out, the total is nearing $700,000.