The Illawarra really turned up the heat for two incredible days of Girls on Fire action — and what a showcase it was!
From the moment participants pulled on their gear, they were right in the thick of it. There were turn-out relays, strength and stamina challenges, and hose work that soaked more than a few willing teachers. The girls practiced using extinguishers and fire blankets, learned land-management hand tools from National Parks and Wildlife, tried sandbagging for flood prevention, and tackled reduced-visibility drills around a shipping container.
They worked in teams, built confidence, shared stories, and cheered each other on. The program also focused on uncovering personal “superpowers”, communication skills, and learning how to stay calm and think clearly when things get tough — all core parts of resilience and leadership.
We were joined by an incredible line-up of fire and emergency experts:
Each agency brought their own expertise and enthusiasm, showing what’s possible when you choose a career in fire and emergency services. A huge thank you to every volunteer and team member who made these sessions such a success.
While a few small hiccups popped up on the second day — a bit of marathon-related traffic for the bus to navigate and the heat of the day — the overall spirit and engagement were outstanding.
We also welcomed WIN News and journalist Lauren Ivory.
The Dapto RFS and Shellharbour Airport venues gave us the space we needed for big-action relays and shaded rehab areas. Volunteers and participants alike were fully engaged, with plenty of agency resources and great teamwork across the board.
The NPWS sessions were a standout favourite, especially under the trees where participants could talk to rangers about land care, wildlife, and environmental management. For one participant, this sparked a real interest in joining the ranks once she finishes high school.
The girls loved the variety, the teamwork, and even the spotlight when local news cameras showed up. Most were curious or excited about future pathways into emergency services, with several asking detailed questions about next steps and training.
We were honoured to welcome Cr Ann Martin from Wollongong City Council, who has a strong background in bushfire prevention and flood preparedness. She spent time at every rotation and spoke with CEO and founder Bronnie Mackintosh about how programs like Girls on Fire build local resilience.
We also had a visit from Shellharbour City Council Deputy Mayor Kellie Marsh and Wollongong City Councillor Jess Whittaker — both first responders themselves with the Rural Fire Service and Ambulance NSW. It’s always inspiring to see local leaders who walk the talk.
Across both Illawarra days, around 47 participants and 20 volunteers took part. The group included young women from all kinds of backgrounds including European, Pacific Island, African, Thai, and Middle Eastern backgrounds — all bringing their own perspectives and energy.
What stood out most was their courage, their teamwork, and their determination to push through challenges. Whether it was the hose work, navigation drills, or problem-solving activities, the Illawarra girls brought their A-game.
After such a strong showing, it’s no surprise we’re already planning to come back. The Illawarra gets it done — no matter the task, no matter the hurdle.
Thank you so much to RIEP for bringing us to the Illawarra!
Next up, the Girls on Fire crew heads to Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, and Cessnock for more fire, resilience, and community spirit.
Thank you to everyone — from our agency partners and council visitors to the volunteers, teachers, and participants — for making the Illawarra programs such a success.
Another week of hands-on fire and emergency adventures across the Hunter Valley built confidence, teamwork, and resilience in young participants.
Are you an adult in the Riverina exploring your employment and career options? Girls on Fire is offering a free, hands-on program in Wagga for adults to explore careers in fire, flood & emergency services. Open to all, hosted by SES Ashmont and supported by Workforce Australia. Find out more now.
Girls on Fire empowers young women through free regional training that builds confidence, jobs, and disaster resilience across Australia.
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live. Girls on Fire pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.
