In a candid interview with Darin Sullivan, a well-known local figure and dedicated firefighter in Kiama, The Bugle delved into three critical subjects: climate change, increased fire risk this summer, and the importance of maintaining good mental health.

Darin Sullivan, a seasoned firefighter with over 35 years of experience, currently serves as the Station Officer at Shellharbour Fire and Rescue NSW. In addition to his firefighting duties, Sullivan is a committed surfer and admin of the Kiama Community Page on Facebook. He shared his perspectives on climate change, fire risks, and strategies for preserving mental well-being.

Climate Change: A Growing Concern

Darin Sullivan's journey towards becoming an advocate for climate change began with his exposure to the 1994 NSW fire disaster as a young firefighter. It wasn't until the 2003 NSW/Canberra firestorm, however, that he became deeply aware of the potential impact of climate change on bushfires. Later, as a union official, Sullivan realized the importance of addressing climate change in the firefighting industry due to the rising danger it presented. In 2010, he played a pivotal role in positioning his union firmly in support of climate change action, making it one of the first firefighters' unions in the country to do so. Sullivan emphasized that the scientific consensus on climate change is now stronger than ever, and its effects are becoming increasingly evident, making the issue a top priority for firefighters and the community they serve.

Increased Fire Risk in Summer: The Changing Landscape

Discussing the upcoming fire season, Sullivan highlighted the connection between climate change and fire risks. He acknowledged that the evidence is clear: climate change is shortening the intervals between severe fire seasons. He pointed to recent catastrophic fires in Hawaii and Canada as examples of the urban interface being threatened by increasingly devastating fires. Reflecting on the historical patterns, Sullivan noted that the traditional five to ten-year gap between severe fire seasons is diminishing. While he didn't anticipate a severe fire season in the immediate future, he acknowledged that historical patterns might not apply due to changing conditions and the unpredictability of climate change.

Maintaining Good Mental Health: A Personal Journey

As someone exposed to traumatic events in his role as a firefighter, Darin Sullivan shared insights on preserving mental health. He recommended getting a dog and mentioned that regular surfing provided an effective escape from daily traumas. Beyond his personal strategies, Sullivan has also been actively involved with 'Movember' to address mental health issues, especially within emergency services. By working with Movember, he has contributed to raising awareness and funds to support mental health initiatives, specifically targeting PTSD and related issues.

Community Engagement and Kiama Community Page

Sullivan's deep connection to the Kiama community was evident throughout the interview. He discussed the importance of the Kiama Community Page on Facebook, where he has been an admin for five years. The group serves as a valuable source of information, although it comes with its challenges in moderating discussions and resolving issues that arise on social media. Sullivan emphasised the significance of respectful dialogue and listening to different perspectives, especially when dealing with sensitive topics.

In conclusion, Darin Sullivan's extensive experience as a firefighter, his dedication to raising awareness about climate change, and his commitment to supporting mental health make him a prominent figure in the Kiama community. He is a true example of someone who strives to leave a positive impact on his beloved Kiama and its people.

For more insights from the interview with Darin Sullivan, you can listen to the recorded podcast on The Bugle's website.