What binds CFA members is the common goal to protect lives and property. But they are a diverse bunch – every member has a story and Faces of CFA introduces you to just some of those stories.
CAMERON SIBEIJN, ELAINE FIRE BRIGADE, DISTRICT 15
What is your CFA role?
I’m currently 1st Lieutenant at Elaine Fire Brigade and a Deputy Group Officer in the Buninyong Group. Prior to this I was in District 14 at Yarrambat where I recently stood down as captain to move to District 15.
In addition to my roles on the fireground, I also enjoy being an instructor, sharing the knowledge I have gained throughout my experience. I recently finished training as a Structural Fire Investigator, which I am thoroughly enjoying.
Why did you join?
The local brigade visited my high school to present on volunteering in the community, and I was immediately hooked. I signed up the next day and have never looked back. Eighteen years later I couldn't be happier.
The opportunity to give back to the community and help those in need is incredibly rewarding. I also appreciate the camaraderie in CFA. It truly feels like a second family.
What incident has had the greatest impact on you?
There have been many memorable experiences over the years, including significant campaign fires and interstate deployments. However, the ones that stand out the most are from the 2019-20 season, during which I participated in several deployments both interstate and in the alpine region.
The connections I made and friendships I developed during this time have been long-lasting.
Who have been your mentors in CFA?
I’ve been incredibly lucky to have so many people I could bounce ideas off or seek guidance from along the way. A key phrase I like to go by is ‘every interaction is an opportunity to learn something new”. Find people who will guide you and support you in your journey and always take the opportunity to pass it onto the next person.
What have been the highlights of your time in CFA?
Numerous memories come to mind from leading strike teams on deployments where we have made a significant difference, to holding the position of captain through some of CFA’s most challenging times. But my most satisfying experience in CFA is watching members walk away after attending training courses knowing you’ve been able to embed some knowledge and set them up for success back at their stations.
How do you motivate your brigade members?
To motivate the brigade, I believe in leading by example, actively engaging in tasks and getting the job done. With individuals or smaller groups, I like to share the knowledge I've gained throughout my journey and the insights others have imparted to me. I also like to push members to exceed their own expectations.
What lessons are you most keen to pass onto other members?
I've been fortunate to learn from several legends of firefighting, both within CFA and in private industry. One of my favourite quotes is from author John Flanagan: ‘don’t practise until you get it right, practise until you never get it wrong”. The fireground is such a dynamic place and the ability to make sound decisions in command and control comes from our training and experiences we build along the way. Lastly, I’d say never stop learning, keep developing, and look for ways to improve your firefighting skills.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy spending time with my family, whether it's camping in the bush or riding motorbikes. My passion for the emergency services sector also allows me to serve as the team leader for the local Ambulance Victoria CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) and spend my days off working as a casual PAD operator for Fire Rescue Victoria. The opportunity to give back to others as well as being part of growing and developing teams is a truly satisfying experience.
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