Seeking a role that allowed her to help people while being outdoors, Jasmine McJames-Court, a qualified emergency nurse, was drawn to working in a role with Forest Fire Management Victoria.
A lover of four-wheel driving and outdoor activities, Jasmine applied for a Project Firefighter (PFF) position after seeing it on the Careers Victoria website.
"I was thrilled to secure my first preference at the depot in Olinda," she said.
Jasmine found her first season transformative. After completing the General Firefighter (GFF) training camp, Jasmine has been mastering skills such as chainsaw operation, complex four-wheel-drive training, and dry firefighting techniques.
Since her training, she has been involved in a variety of projects out in the bush, some of which include storm damage recovery and maintenance of fire access and strategic fuel breaks.
Jasmine feels a sense of pride seeing how the community responds to their work during emergencies.
"The community is appreciative, and our crews certainly feel their appreciation."
Working with a supportive team, Jasmine enjoys the physical challenges and the satisfaction of her work.
"You're constantly learning, challenging yourself mentally and physically."
She values the open communication and the strong bonds she has formed with her colleagues, especially during emergency deployments. "You really band together and support one another."
Jasmine's role is not just a job but a fulfilling career that aligns with her passions and allows her to make a significant impact statewide.
"I love the varied tasks and the opportunity to work in such diverse environments."
"The role is better than I ever imagined."
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