On a cold July morning in Bangholme, 22 volunteers gathered to learn how to lead with fire. Not just in the literal sense – although they did get hands-on with hoses and gas props – but in the broader sense of what Girls on Fire is really about: igniting confidence, connection, and community through action.

This was no ordinary training day. It was the Girls on Fire Mentor Induction – a full-day workshop designed to equip volunteers from all walks of life with the tools they need to mentor young women in emergency service and disaster preparedness camps.

And from the start, the energy was contagious.

Here's what happened at the first ever Girls on Fire mentor training day

Laying the Groundwork

The day kicked off with a Welcome to Country, safety briefing, and overview of the Girls on Fire mission. That mission? To give young women real experience in fire and emergency service settings, build their leadership skills, and show them what they’re capable of – all while having fun.

After a crew assignment icebreaker (where mentors used their “superpowers” to team up), the group got straight into personal protective clothing (PPC) drills. It wasn’t just theory – they learned by doing. One mentor said it best:

“It’s infectious. I love seeing the girls getting their hands dirty… it’s such a highlight watching them come out of their shells.” – Leah, Emergency Management Victoria

Deep Dives and Practical Training

Mid-morning brought a deep dive into how the program works behind the scenes – from history and values to logistics and agency involvement. Then came a practice run at one of the camp’s key activities: the gas pit drill. This gave mentors the chance to try out their facilitation skills and prepare for supporting real participants on camp day.

There was also space for reflection, strategy, and learning. Workshops on gender, allyship, wellbeing, and psychological safety offered practical tools for managing group dynamics, inclusion, and mental health – things just as critical as fire drills.

And it paid off.

“Girls in particular… some of them feel that they might not be able to be a firefighter or be SES. Once they get a feel of it, they'll feel confident.” – Clarine, SES

“This is my opportunity to impart some knowledge, share my experiences, and empower our girls into the future.” – Jan, NSW RFS

The Big Picture

By the end of the day, mentors weren’t just trained – they were inspired. They understood how their role fits into something bigger. Girls on Fire isn’t just about inspiring girls to join emergency services – though it does that too – it’s about shifting culture, building resilience, and changing what leadership looks like.

Here’s what the post-event survey told us:

• 100% rated the experience “Good” or “Fantastic”
• Confidence in mentoring after the session? 4.75 out of 5
• 92% saw huge value in the program for future recruitment
• 83% agreed it helps build disaster literacy and leadership in young people

Mentors also shared what they found most valuable:

• Making connections with like-minded people
• Understanding the camp set-up and knowing what to expect
• Learning the “why” behind the program and feeling inspired to contribute
• A strong, supportive culture that made everyone feel welcome

A few wanted more tips on facilitation, more info on child-safe practices, and clearer pre-event logistics. Feedback we’ll take on board as we grow.

More Than Training – It’s a Movement

What stood out most from the day was that mentoring wasn’t a one-way street. Mentors shared that they were learning just as much as the young people they came to support.

“I’m going to learn from them. I’m going to build my courage. I’m excited. I’m dancing. I’m happy.” – Amanda, CFA

“It’s not just about the fire stuff – the teamwork, the confidence… those skills go way beyond the program.” – Lou, FRV

And perhaps the most wonderful thing of all? The way the day brought different agencies together – CFA, SES, Ambulance Victoria, Fire and Rescue, Emergency Management Victoria – all learning, laughing, and leading side-by-side.

“There’s nothing else like this. Seeing what other agencies do, working together – it’s powerful.” – Shandelle, CFA

Want to experience Girls on Fire mentor training for yourself?

 
Join us in Toowoomba this August, the ACT this October, and stay tuned for more updates via the newsletter and social media as we roll out!