Empowering volunteer firefighters through development training

In October 2024, the DFES Bushfire Centre of Excellence hosted the third round of its Bushfire Officer Development program, an initiative designed to enhance the skills and operational readiness of volunteer firefighters across Western Australia.

This comprehensive, live-in program welcomed 16 experienced volunteers eager to enhance their management and leadership capabilities in a bushfire context.

The program offered a balanced approach to learning and practical application, combining intensive classroom instruction with hands-on field exercises. Participants engage in a variety of topics, including personnel management, conflict resolution and technical bushfire skills such as fire weather analysis and machine supervision. These topics equip volunteers for real-world operational challenges and foster a peer-mentoring culture that strengthens bushfire brigade operations statewide.

Participants, including representatives from Bush Fire Service, Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, Volunteer Fire and Emergency Service as well as two officers from Department of Justice, thrived in the collaborative and supportive environment.

The program also included evening sessions designed to maximise learning opportunities and ensure each volunteer is well-equipped to lead effectively and adapt to the evolving challenges of bushfire management.

Course attendees engaged in activities focused on self-reflection, collaboration and public speaking. Through tools like the DiSC profile assessment – (D)ominance, (i)nfluence, (S)teadiness and (C)onscientiousness – volunteers gained deeper insight into personal motivators, a key aspect of for effective leadership.

Participants applied their skills in high-pressure bushfire simulations to reinforce their decision-making abilities. This critical hands-on component is essential for effective operational leadership during emergencies.

The program offers a unique networking opportunity for aspiring officers to connect with fellow volunteers, share best practices and help build a resilient leadership community within DFES.

Participants said that they not only enhanced their communication and leadership abilities but also gained valuable personal reflection skills.

Robert Schmidt from Baldivis Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services Brigade praised the course and the opportunity to put the skills into practice through exercises. 

“I’ve learned how to manage stress in challenging circumstances, push forward as part of a team and navigate difficult conversations for positive outcomes. The exercise was a prime example – staying calm and level-headed under stress demonstrated the skills we were taught,” Schmidt shared.

Watch the video to hear more about the training experience.

For volunteers that are looking to get involved in the program this year, keep an eye out on Volunteer Hub for more information.

For more information, contact the Bushfire Centre of Excellence Training Team at bcoetraining@dfes.wa.gov.au