With CFA volunteers at the heart of what he does as both a firefighter and staff member, Lukasz Lipnicki well and truly embodies the spirit of CFA and community service.
Working as a regional brigade administrative support officer for the past five years, Lukasz coordinates volunteer sustainability projects in the region, such as the District 9 and District 27 Women’s Network, Women’s Challenge Camp, and Diversity and Inclusion Working Group.
On the other side of the hose, Lukasz reflects fondly on his near four years as a Cockatoo Fire Brigade member, particularly enjoying the regular contact he gets with volunteers as it reminds him of why they do the work they do.
“Overall, being a CFA volunteer is fun. I enjoy the camaraderie of the brigade, the nature of the work, the callouts and more broadly being a part of our organisation for our community,” Lukasz said.
“I’m currently the brigade’s health and safety officer. My job has helped me understand the dynamics and the nuances of how CFA systems and processes work.
“Every day I travel across the south-east interacting with members in Districts 9, 10 or 27, even as far out as 11. Having the language and understanding of what firefighters face on the ground is invaluable.
“Having completed the General Firefighter course and attended incidents, working alongside other emergency services and being deployed to major fires has allowed for relatable conversations and the opportunity to build rapport.”
Lukasz said whether they are rolling out region-wide strategies, delivering supplies, or considering where to park when visiting stations, they are mindful of making each other’s lives a little easier.
“Our staff and volunteers lead busy lives and give CFA so much while asking for so little,” Lukasz said.
“I think it’s important that, wherever we can, we all consider how best to support each other in the decisions we make.”
Given Lukasz’s nature to assist in times of need, when Cockatoo was hit by a severe storm in February 2024, he was able to lend a hand to his brigade members behind the scenes.
“I decided to head to IGA to grab a few roast chooks, bread rolls, and a slab of soft drink for when they came back to refuel and swap crews,” Lukasz said.
“Pulling up to a hot meal and something to drink brought a lot of smiles out.”
