The Unseen Scars: Inside the Lives of Australia’s Volunteer Wildfire Fighters
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Despite facing heightened health risks, extreme environments, and grueling hours, volunteer firefighters across australia consistently put their lives on the line to protect their communities – frequently enough without expecting any recognition or financial compensation.
The relentless Australian summer brings with it the ever-present threat of bushfire. In Western Australia, a recent blaze tore through dense bushland, threatening homes and lives on the outskirts of an outback town. The scene, as recalled by veteran volunteer firefighter Kelvin Portland, was terrifying.”I’m sitting there, I’m going, what the hell’s that noise?” he remembered. “It was like a jet engine. it was that noisy, that loud.” The sky turned black as smoke obscured the light, and the sheer force of the flames created a storm-like atmosphere.
Decades of Dedication and the Weight of Trauma
Kelvin Portland has dedicated 37 years to volunteer firefighting, witnessing firsthand the increasing ferocity of these natural disasters. He and his colleagues at the Mundaring Bushfire Brigade face not only the immediate danger of the flames but also the lasting emotional and physical scars that come with the job. Years of service have taken a toll, with volunteers routinely exposed to traumatic events – from large-scale incidents and road crashes to assisting distressed members of the public facing their worst days.
This constant exposure carries a notable risk of secondary trauma, impacting the mental and physical wellbeing of those who dedicate themselves to protecting others. The work is physically demanding, often conducted in unrelenting heat, smoke, and challenging terrain, exacerbating these health risks.
Finding Strength in Camaraderie and Duty
Despite the sacrifices, a deep sense of duty and community motivates these volunteers. At the Mundaring Bushfire Brigade, both Kelvin Portland and a younger firefighter, Luke McCall, share a similar drive. For many, decades of service stem from the profound impact they have on people’s lives.
In the midst of chaos, firefighters rely on training and resilience. Kelvin focuses on “just going through your steps” during critical moments – a technique learned through years of experiance.Luke McCall found inspiration during his cadetship, witnessing the unwavering dedication of his colleagues during the devastating 2016 Yarloop bushfire, which left hundreds homeless.”They [my colleagues] just kept going and going and so I suppose if they can do it I could do it,” he said.
The bonds forged within these teams are crucial.Luke describes his fellow volunteers as his “second family,” emphasizing the importance of having a strong support network. “You’ve got to always have someone to fall back on,” he explained.
The Urgent Need for New Recruits
Though, the future of these vital brigades is uncertain. Kelvin notes a concerning lack of new recruits. “I can’t remember the last new member we had, it was quiet a while ago,” he said, adding that many express interest but hesitate to commit.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services is actively working to address this challenge, aiming to create more flexible volunteering roles and clearer pathways for cadets and junior members. Deputy Commissioner Craig Waters emphasized the bravery and unwavering dedication of these volunteers, stating they “show bravery and unwavering dedication to keeping communities safe without expecting acknowledgement or thanks.”
With 93% of Western Australia considered highly bushfire prone, particularly in the Darling Range (katta Moorda) where the Mundaring brigade is based, the need for volunteers is more critical than ever. Luke mccall, who joined the cadet program nine years ago, highlights the valuable dialogue skills he gained, noting that the program pushes individuals to speak confidently and effectively.
Despite the challenges, kelvin Portland has no plans to retire, finding fulfillment in knowing he has made a difference. “You get that feeling that I have done something, I have achieved something in my life,” he said. The dedication of volunteers like Kelvin and Luke underscores the vital role they play in safeguarding Australian communities.
