While many people were celebrating Christmas with family and friends, Intereach team member Lesley Read was on the frontlines of the Grampians bushfires, bringing vital emotional and psychological support to firefighters battling the destructive blaze.
Deployed as part of the CFA Peer Support Team, Ms Read spent four days in Horsham, visiting fire stations, checking in with exhausted crews, and spreading much-needed festive cheer.
Her efforts offered a lifeline to emergency responders who faced enormous challenges as more than 76,000 hectares of land burned, along with homes, outbuildings, and livestock.
Ms Read’s days began with morning briefings at the Incident Control Centre before travelling to fire stations in the most affected areas. Her role as a peer involved checking in with firefighters, offering supplies, and ensuring their mental wellbeing.
“These fires would have brought back memories of Ash Wednesday, Black Saturday, and the 2019–20 north-east fires for some … while for the newer firefighters, it may have been their first significant fire,” she said.
“Even though they train for this and think they are prepared, often it is very confronting.”
Ms Read joined the Hildene Fire Brigade in 2001, and became a Peer Support Team member in 2008 after recognising its value in helping emergency responders navigate the emotional toll of their work.
“The CFA Peer Support Program began after Ash Wednesday when it became clear there was a need for emotional support for members and their families,” she said.
“It’s important for responders to be able to speak with someone who understands their experiences.”
Intereach has six offices across Victoria, and boasts more than 500 staff and 100 volunteers.
The organisation supports children and families, older people, those living with disability or mental health concerns, and carers.
If you, or someone you know needs support, call 1300 488 226, or visit www.intereach.com.au.
