The Hunter Valley came alive over three action-packed days as Girls on Fire ran programs in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and Cessnock — or as we now like to call it, “Cessrock”! Young participants faced hands-on challenges, learned from emergency service experts, and discovered their own resilience and leadership skills.
Newcastle kicked things off at the PCYC, a central hub that allowed us to connect closely with the local community. Twenty-five participants from four schools — including Cooks Hill Big Picture — dove into teamwork, problem-solving, and skill-building activities.
Despite a total fire ban limiting some agency participation, the NSW Fire & Rescue volunteers on the day brought local knowledge, energy, and dedication that kept the girls fully engaged. Radio exercises, search and rescue simulations, and practical scenarios proved to be crowd favourites.
The venue’s facilities worked well for our high-energy challenges, offering shaded areas for cool-downs and plenty of space for team relays. A few small logistical bumps, like the lack of a BBQ, were easily outweighed by the enthusiasm of participants and volunteers alike.
RFS welcomed 20 participants the next day, including Indigenous participants and neurodivergent young people. Volunteers spanned a wide age range, bringing experience and excitement to every activity.
Scenario-based exercises, combined with superpower icebreakers, gave participants the chance to test their communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. The nearby bushland offered opportunities for land management activities, and shaded spaces allowed everyone to stay comfortable.
The focus on resilience-building paid off — the girls navigated challenges with confidence and curiosity, and volunteers reported high levels of engagement across the board.
Cessnock – 24th October
The final day in “Cessrock” brought 15 participants, supported by 16 volunteers and two learning support teachers, to the VRA shed. The group included Aboriginal participants and several neurodivergent young people, all ready for a day of hands-on fire and emergency challenges.
NSW Fire & Rescue, National Parks & Wildlife, and the VRA joined the program, providing guidance, expertise, and enthusiasm. The National Parks burn box activity and road crash rescue exercises were highlights, giving participants a real sense of practical skills and confidence under guidance.
Volunteers and agency partners were praised for their engagement and support, though one reminder arose around ensuring correct PPE during the road rescue exercises. The local Fire & Rescue crew and the generous host agency made the day smooth and enjoyable for all.
Deputy Mayor Charlotte McCabe joined us in Newcastle, State Manager NSW & ACT at Raise Foundation, Sally Kable dropped in to say hi, and other council representatives also attended, highlighting the community’s commitment to empowering young people and supporting hands-on learning experiences.
Hunter Valley Highlights
Across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and Cessnock, the Hunter Valley programs showcased curiosity, courage, and determination. Participants embraced challenges, supported each other, and explored what it means to step into fire and emergency careers. Volunteers, agency partners, and venues all played a crucial role in creating a safe, inspiring environment.
We can’t wait to return, continuing to spark confidence, resilience, and community connection in the Hunter Valley.
Thanks so much to RIEP for making this program happen.
Next stop? ACT for our NAB double header!
Come inside two days of fantastic Girls Fire and Resilience program 2025 action thanks to RIEP and schools from the Illawarra. It's all happening here!
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.
