DateBetween 19th January 2026 and 20th January 2026Date KnownExactDescriptionThese women balance full lives alongside their roles as volunteer firefighters. Together, they are mothers, aunties, educators, carers, organisers and neighbours who call Horsley Park and the surrounding area home. Their days move between classrooms, churches, aged care facilities, and school P&C committees, with a commitment to showing up for community that stretches well beyond the fire station. “A community is only as strong as the people who show up for it,” one woman reflects. Many have served with the RFS for more than a decade and play a vital role in sustaining this essential local service.
Each woman’s path to the Rural Fire Service is deeply personal, shaped by family legacy, loss, courage and compassion. Some were inspired by those who came before them, others by a desire to help, or by the determination to face fear and lead by example for their children. What binds them is a strong sense of belonging and a shared belief in service, learning and solidarity. “We aren’t just a team, we’re a family,” another woman adds. These women remind me of what I love so much about my community, the reassurance that when it matters most, someone will be there.
- Chloë Nour, February 2026PhotographerChloë NourGeolocation[1] Arundle Rd &, The Horsley Dr, Horsley ParkNotesThese photographs are part of the 2025 City Photographer project.
The volunteer firefighters in these photos are:
- Sarah Cameron
- Melissa O'Dwyer
- Rosabba O'Dwyer
- Rebecca Pearn
- Mikaela Ryan
Details
Image ColourColourTypeDigitalCopyrightPartial restriction. Please contact Fairfield City Heritage Services for image use.AcknowledgementChloë Nour 2025 Fairfield City Photographer. Image courtesy of Fairfield City Heritage Collection.
Rural Fire Service (Between 19th January 2026 and 20th January 2026). Fairfield City Heritage Collection, accessed 16/06/2026, https://heritagecollection.fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au/nodes/view/7205
