Technical four-wheel-driving experience was not something Ebony Stiles expected to take away from her first season as a Project Firefighter. But it's just one of many skills the diverse job offers its recruits.
Based at Heywood in the Far South West district, Ebony applied to become a Project Firefighter for the physical and mental challenge and for a career change.
"I was drawn to FFMVic for the opportunity to learn new skills, work in the outdoors and to work with friends," she said.
"I love being in the outdoors, learning new skills and being challenged daily."
The diversity of work ticked every box for Ebony, who has contributed to bush, road and recreational maintenance programs, bushfire response, planned burning and works associated with Glenelg Ark, the district's pest animal management program.
"I love being a part of contributing to making our bush accessible, helping with the delivery of planned burning to reduce bushfire risk, and the ecological burns that help with flora and fauna," she said.
Memorable experiences include an overnight backburning operation that provided a new opportunity to learn about fire behaviour while working to protect the community.
"It was rewarding because we knew that the edge we had worked on was now safe if the fire was to change direction as predicted it would in the morning," Ebony said.
The differences from bush to bush - which can be a matter of metres apart - and the opportunity to learn more about the local environment has been one of the highlights of her time with FFMVic.
"Even living just 20 minutes down the road, I never realised the amount of hidden gems we have within the bush, such as camping spots, little rivers and wetland areas," Ebony said.
She thinks the role would appeal to anyone that enjoys being in the outdoors, that enjoys learning new skills, and cares about the environment.
"If you are considering applying, do it," she said. "You never know where it will take you."
"I love being a part of contributing to making our bush accessible, helping with the delivery of planned burning to reduce bushfire risk, and the ecological burns that help with flora and fauna."
Join our ranks as Project Firefighters for the 2024/25 season
Forest Fire Management Victoria is recruiting Project Firefighters for the 2024/25 season from 4-28 July 2024.
This is your chance to make a profound impact, protect our communities, and preserve the beauty of our natural landscapes.
Recruitment window
4 to 28 July 2024
Opportunity
Open to all, with designated positions available for Aboriginal applicants, affirming our commitment to diversity and inclusion.
For more information on the roles and responsibilities, and to join this fulfilling journey, please visit Firefighting & employment.
More Our People, Their Stories
Discover more about the inspiring journeys and tales of our team who 'down tools' to play an important role in bushfire suppression and prevention activities, including planned burning.
Our People, Their Stories invites you to explore these impactful stories and the dynamic nature of firefighting.
Page last updated: 03/07/24