Christmas on the fire front: Lesley supports crews battling blaze

graphic of leaves
Lesley, wearing jeans and blue polo shirt, standing on the road to the left of a CFA vehicle with her hand on the door latch.

While many people were celebrating Christmas with family and friends, Intereach team member Lesley was on the frontlines of the Grampians bushfires, bringing vital emotional and psychological support to firefighters battling the destructive blaze. 

Deployed as part of the CFA Peer Support Team, Lesley spent four days in Horsham, visiting fire stations, checking in with exhausted crews, and spreading much-needed festive cheer.  

Her efforts offered a lifeline to emergency responders who faced enormous challenges as more than 76,000 hectares of land burned, along with homes, outbuildings and livestock. 

With support from Intereach through Emergency Services Leave, the Seymour Local Area Coordinator selflessly put her community first. 

“Fortunately, I’d already celebrated Christmas early with my daughter and her family. My husband, who is also in the CFA, spent Christmas with the neighbours, and we had a belated Christmas on December 28 when I returned,” Lesley said. 

“Being a CFA family, we understand that family celebrations are often put on hold. 

Lesley2 quote icon in teal rectangle

“It was a privilege to spend Christmas Day supporting these amazing people, many of them volunteers who give their time freely.”

Lesley (pictured right with another CFA volunteer during a bushfire near Sydney in 2019)

Lesley’s deployment was not just about offering psychological first aid to members and their families, but lifting spirits.  

“We tried to make it fun by putting on headbands, and Santa hats and the Peer Support Team even organised a visit from Santa which was great,” she said. 

Lesley’s days began with morning briefings at the Incident Control Centre before travelling to fire stations in the most affected areas. Her role as a peer involved checking in with firefighters, offering supplies, and ensuring their mental wellbeing.  

“These fires would have bought back memories of Ash Wednesday, Black Saturday and the 2019-20 north-east fires for some of the more experienced firefighters, while for the newer firefighters, it may have been their first significant fire,” she said. 

Lesley3

Even though they train for this and think they are prepared, often it is very confronting given that this fire was unpredictable with the weather.

Lesley (pictured left) with a fellow CFA Peer Support team member at the Bright fire station in 2020.

Lesley belongs to the Hildene Fire Brigade, after joining the CFA in 2001 as a way to give back to the community. She became a Peer Support Team member in 2008 after recognising its value in helping emergency responders navigate the emotional toll of their work.  

“The CFA Peer Support Program began after Ash Wednesday, when it became clear there was a need for emotional support for members and their families,” she said. 

“It’s important for responders to be able to speak with someone who understands their experiences.” 

Lesley reflected on the difference of the devastating Black Saturday bushfires of 2009. 

“I did two straight weeks, and it was extremely busy. So many people were impacted by those fires, with the loss of life and significant loss of property,” she said. 

“It was such a big event, and I still talk to members and their families who were affected by it.” 

Lesley’s story is a powerful reminder of the significant impact volunteers make, emphasising the contributions of others. 

Lesley4

There are so many individuals who dedicate their time to initiatives like this. Their efforts are invaluable and deserve acknowledgment,” she said.

“Volunteering is often challenging but incredibly rewarding. My question to others is, ‘why not volunteer’?” 

Lesley expressed her gratitude to Intereach for supporting volunteer activities. 

“Intereach has been so encouraging and accommodating. Their values of leadership, partnership, and social justice align perfectly with mine, which is why I love being part of this team,” she said. 

Intereach Co-CEO Michelle Tai said the organisation’s Volunteer Leave Scheme empowered employees to make a meaningful difference in their communities. 

“Lesley’s dedication is truly inspiring. Her efforts highlight the incredible impact our staff can have in their communities, and we are proud to provide flexibility and support to our team members in volunteer opportunities,” Michelle said. 

Intereach hopes Lesley’s story will inspire others to explore volunteering opportunities within their own communities. 

Lesley4

It doesn’t take much to give a little of your time to an organisation that’s a good fit for you,” Lesley said.

Lesley and a Fire Rescue member during a CFA planning day in Sydney in 2019.

“You might find it’s one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do.” 

If you are interested in working in a supportive and inclusive workplace, call Intereach on 1300 488 226 or check out our career opportunities at Careers – Intereach