Community & Business
13 September, 2024
Swiney takes RFS to next level
AT the scene of a fire, Chloe Swiney is there leading her team with strength and determination, serving as the Acting Inspector and Manager of Bushfire Mitigation with the Rural Fire Service (RFS).
Her primary role is serving as a First Nations bushfire mitigation officer, where she has been a key member of the RFS for the past five years.
Chloe’s inspiration to join the RFS was driven by a simple yet profound desire – to help her community.
In her role, Chloe assists the community in bushfire mitigation, a responsibility she does not take lightly.
“In my role I assist the community in bushfire mitigation. I believe this has a big impact on the community in preparing for bushfire season,” she said.
Her time in the RFS has taken her on many journeys, including a memorable trip to California in 2022.
There, Chloe participated in the Karuk Women’s Training Exchange (KTREX), learning traditional burning techniques alongside Indigenous women from around the globe.
This experience broadened her skills and reinforced the significance of traditional knowledge in contemporary fire management.
She also travelled to Canada to combat record-breaking wildfires on a four-week deployment with other wildland firefighters and agencies.
For those contemplating a future as a rural volunteer, Chloe’s advice is straightforward – visit your local rural brigade on a training day.
“(Those wanting to join the RFS) will be able to feel good about themselves helping the community,” she said.
“You will get life skills and training you won’t get elsewhere, and there is so much variety in the service whether operational of administrative or support.
“They will be able to feel good about themselves helping the community. You will get life skills and training you won’t get elsewhere, and there is so much variety in the service whether operational or administrative or support.”
