Sandy – Hobart Fire Brigade

Current Rank:

Senior Firefighter

Why did you want to become a firefighter?

I wanted a job where no two days are the same, and to work as part of a team in difficult and challenging ways. This job allows me to challenge myself physically and mentally, while helping the community at the same time.
I’ve had some great opportunities to do some really cool stuff – I’m a member of the confined space, urban search and rescue, and trench rescue teams. I’m also a Critical Incident Stress Management peer, which is my way of giving back to, and supporting my colleagues through some of the more challenging times.

What career were you in before becoming a TFS firefighter?

I was a Correctional Officer for three and a half years and before that I was in the Australian Army for eight.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to apply to become a TFS firefighter?

The main advice I would have for a potential candidate it to ensure you know what the job is before you apply. It’s not all about putting out fires!It’s also really important to maintain a good level of fitness and live a healthy lifestyle.

What would you say to someone who’s often wondered but never applied to become a TFS firefighter?

Give it a go! It’s a long process and you don’t always get in first time, but the more times you try, the better you will get at it. Unless you are one of the lucky ones who does get in first time!

What are your future aspirations within the TFS?

There is so much room to diversify and seek promotion within TFS. I would love to get into the training area and instruct on a recruit course.
I am also a qualified member of the urban search and rescue team, so I would love to perform that role outside of Tassie if that opportunity presented itself.

How does the role fit with your lifestyle?

All firefighters at my rank work shift work. The roster is four days on (two days, two nights) and then four days off. Needless to say, it’s awesome for work/life balance!

What interests do you have outside of work?

I play Aussie rules footy, love spending time with my friends, going to music festivals and tending my veggie patch!