Bushfire Brigades and Fire Control Officers 

Bushfire Brigades

Volunteer bushfire fighters are a vital part of every community, helping to safeguard lives, protect property, and support public safety during emergencies. These dedicated individuals generously give their time and effort to serve their communities without financial reward. Across the Shire, many brigade members rely on their own equipment to respond to fires on both their own and neighbouring properties throughout the fire season, which typically runs from October to May each year.

The Shire of Cuballing under the current Work Health Safety Act 2020 is to ensure that all bushfire brigade volunteers remain safe and contribute effectively to the overall fire response efforts.

The Shire of Cuballing currently operates 2 Volunteer Bushfire brigades:

  • Cuballing
  • Popanyinning

Each Brigade is made up of:

  • Chief
  • Fire Control Officer(s)
  • Secretary/Treasurer
  • Active Fire Fighting Members
  • Auxiliary Members

Joining a volunteer fire brigade does not mean you have to fight fires on the front line. Brigades rely on a wide range of members with different skills and interests to keep operations running smoothly and support emergency responses. These roles are essential to the successful operation of a brigade and provide valuable support to frontline firefighters and the wider community. Volunteering can be a rewarding way to contribute, regardless of age, experience, or physical ability.

How do I become a Volunteer? 

Becoming a volunteer firefighter is a rewarding way to serve your community. In Western Australia, you can join the Bush Fire Service (BFS), Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS), or State Emergency Service (SES).

There are eligibility requirements which include:

  • Being over the age of 16 years old
  • Be in good physical and mental health
  • Pass a national police clearance (if applicable)

To apply, you will need to complete the Volunteer Bushfire membership application form. Once completed, please either drop off the form in person at the Shire administration office, or email through to project@cuballing.wa.gov.au. Once the form has been completed and returned to an Administration Officer, the Chief or secretary of your chosen brigade will need to approve your paperwork. Applications are lodged through DFES and details of your membership will be emailed to you directly if your application has been approved. To complete part B of your Volunteer Fire Brigade training, please go to Logon | DFES Department of Fire and Emergency Services

 

You can go to Our volunteering services and emergency response | DFES to find out further information.

Can i transfer my membership from my previous brigade to a new brigade? 

Yes, you can transfer your brigade membership to a new local government. You will still need to complete the Volunteer Bushfire membership application form and send to the new brigade administration office.

Can i be a registered with more than one fire brigade? 

Yes, you can be registered in up to 3 different fire brigades. Each application is treated as a new registration, so you will need to complete the Volunteer Bushfire membership application form for every new fire brigade.

Can i transfer my membership from my previous brigade to a new brigade? 

Yes, you can transfer your brigade membership to a new local government. You will still need to complete the Volunteer Bushfire membership application form and send to the new brigade administration office.

Can i be a registered with more than one fire brigade? 

Yes, you can be registered in up to 3 different fire brigades. Each application is treated as a new registration, so you will need to complete the Volunteer Bushfire membership application form for every new fire brigade.

Updating my Details 

If your personal details change, you will need to advise DFES. Please complete the Volunteer Member ship Change of Details form and return the Shire administration office.

 Bushfire Uniforms 

When your membership has been approved, it is the responsibility of the Shire to provide Protective clothing for Bushfire Brigade Members. This includes:

  • Helmet
  • Jacket
  • Pants
  • Gloves
  • Goggles
  • Masks and Filters
  • Boots

The Shire of Cuballing will contact you in regard to ordering your uniform and other necessary PPE (Personal protective Equipment). 

FCO's (Fire Control Officers) 

A Fire Control Officer is a designated authority—typically a senior volunteer member or municipal employee—tasked with overseeing bushfire brigade operations, ensuring compliance with fire safety laws, authorising burn permits, and leading firefighting efforts during wildfire incidents.

In the Shire of Cuballing, there are 12 Fire Control Officers, along with Chief Bushfire Control Officer and Deputy. In order to obtain burning permits or have any questions regarding fire season, you can contact your local FCO.

Chief Bushfire Control Officer  Anthony Mort  0429 898 214
Deputy Chief Bushfire Control Officer  Brayden Potts  0407 990 078
Popanyinning East

Duncan Patten

Graeme Dent

0429 875 155

0427 890 068
Cuballing Town Daniel Christensen 0438 865 685
Popanyinning Town  Tamara Allen 0400 976 597
Popanyinning West

Brayden Potts 

Dougal Haslam 

0407 990 078

0459 025 321
Cuballing East

Mike Burges

Rob Harris 

0427 836 045

0458 939 097
Cuballing West 

Nelson Young 

Jason Quartermaine 

0427 845 255

0428 334 991
Yornaning Shaun Wittwer 0428 887 869
Shire of Cuballing 

Chris Paget 

Bruce Brennan

0427 836 031

0427 836 063

In the event of an Emergency, you need to dial 000