Applying for a Project Firefighter (PFF) position straight out of high school, proud Gunditjmara and Boandik man Josh Cottier landed himself a spot at the Casterton depot, working alongside a group of wonderful people for the 2019/2020 fire season.
Josh has since completed a degree at university during the ‘off’ season, and learnt a range of new skills, spent time outside all day and enjoyed seeing Victoria from a new perspective.
“I really enjoyed being a PFF for 4 years, doing something different each day and being able to work with your mates,” Josh said.
“There are Designated Aboriginal Positions available across the state, which is a great way to support the self-determination in the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).
These roles allow a greater opportunity for Aboriginal people to work for the department, and it’s really important for mob to apply for them.”
"It provides an opportunity for career advancement and also contributes to the broader efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion within DEECA, as well as positively impacting the Aboriginal community and local community.”
Josh is now working in the Traditional Owner Agreements Unit in the First Peoples Self Determination Division as a Program Officer based in Ballarat, implementing DEECA’s commitments associated with the Recognition and Settlement Agreement between the State of Victoria and the Barengi Gadjin Land Council.
“I firmly believe that my time as a PFF served as a crucial stepping stone as it allowed me to network across DEECA, learn practical skills like leadership and problem-solving as well as understanding how the department operates.”
“I’d encourage people to apply for a PFF role, it’s a great opportunity to explore Victoria and gain a diverse range of skills while working seasonally.”
“I firmly believe that my time as a PFF served as a crucial stepping stone as it allowed me to network across DEECA, learn practical skills like leadership and problem-solving as well as understanding how the department operates.”
“I’d encourage people to apply for a PFF role, it’s a great opportunity to explore Victoria and gain a diverse range of skills while working seasonally.”
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: 25/06/24