Malcolm Hayes has returned to CFA’s District 17 in the state’s west as Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO), bringing more than 30 years of emergency services experience to the role.
Born and raised in Horsham, Malcolm began his firefighting career as a junior with the Horsham Fire Brigade before going on to serve with the RAAF Fire & Rescue, ACT Fire & Rescue, Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service, CFA and FRV.
“It’s a bit of a full-circle moment for me, to come back to the Wimmera in this role after more than three decades in emergency services is pretty special,” Malcolm said.
“I’ve had the opportunity to work in a lot of different roles and places over that time, but Horsham is where it all started. I’m looking forward to bringing that experience back and giving something back to the community that gave me my start.”
Malcolm has held senior roles with CFA previously, including Commander of State Driving, where he oversaw statewide driver training and helped introduce CFA’s driver training trucks, simulator program and first Women Driver Educator Program.
A qualified Level 2 Incident Controller, Malcolm has extensive experience responding to major emergencies, with specialist expertise across hazardous materials, technical rescue, fire investigation and aviation firefighting.
His service has also been recognised with a Chief Officer’s Commendation for his role in responding to the Pentland Hills school bus crash response, as well as a Commissioner’s Unit Citation for the Morwell Coal Mine Fire.
As Acting ACFO, Malcolm said his focus would be on supporting volunteers and the broader community.
“I’m looking forward to getting out, meeting people and understanding what’s happening across the district,” he said.
“As we head towards the fire season, the focus is on being prepared.
“That’s something we all have a role in, from our brigades and partner agencies through to every household and community across the region.”