Faces of CFA – Kaylene Stocks

 

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.

 

KAYLENE STOCKS, WINCHELSEA FIRE BRIGADE, DISTRICT 7

What is your CFA role? 
Brigade captain.   

Why did you join? 
I wanted to give back to my community – the same community that’s always been there for me and my family. Growing up, I watched my family dedicate more than 45 years to Winchelsea Fire Brigade, and that had a big impact on me. After raising my kids, I felt it was my turn. I wanted to learn new things, challenge myself and be part of something meaningful. I’d already spent years quietly helping out in the background, so officially joining just felt right. It’s more than volunteering. It’s continuing a family legacy and doing my part to help others. 

What incident has had the greatest impact on you? 
My first callout. It was a serious car accident just outside of town. I remember feeling nervous, not knowing exactly what to expect. But what stood out the most was watching all the emergency services come together – CFA, Ambulance, Police – and seeing the helicopter land right there on the road. It was one of those moments where everything felt surreal. 

I’ll never forget helping carry the patient to the helicopter, knowing every second mattered. Being part of that team effort really hit home just how important our role is. After the incident, CFA organised a debrief and offered peer support, which meant a lot. It helped me process everything and made me feel truly supported. That experience reminds me just how strong and connected we are – not just as a brigade, but as a wider emergency services family. 

Who have been your mentors in CFA? 
I’ve been fortunate to have many mentors I regularly rely on. My dad has been one of the biggest influences in my life. He’s taught me to get in there, get it done and do it right. That mindset has stuck with me through every challenge. 

I’ve also had incredible guidance from Group Officer Mark Brown, ex-Captain Rod Taylor and my Commander Gavin Fitzgerald. Each of them has offered support, advice and a steady presence. I’m proud to stand beside people who not only back me, but also help shape the way I lead. 

What have been the highlights of your time in CFA? 
Some of the biggest highlights for me have been the support, the memories and the friendships made along the way. The people you meet through CFA become more than just fellow volunteers; they become part of your extended family. It’s not just about your own brigade either. The support you get from the wider CFA community (neighbouring brigades, group leaders and even people you’ve only met on the fireground) is something really special.

That sense of connection, of having each other’s backs no matter what, is what makes it all so meaningful. 

How do you motivate your brigade members? 
I lead by example. I don’t ask anyone to do something I wouldn’t be willing to do myself. I believe in jumping in, working hard and showing up for the team because that kind of attitude is contagious. 

I try to create a space where everyone feels supported, heard and valued. Sometimes it’s just about checking in, having a chat or reminding someone that what they’re doing matters. I also like to highlight the small wins, celebrate the effort and remind people why we do what we do. 

What lessons are you most keen to pass onto other members? 
Back yourself. You’re more capable than you think and you don’t need to know everything on day one. Ask questions, be open to learning and don’t be afraid to step up. Also, lean on your team. You’re never in this alone. There’s always someone who’s been there before and is willing to help you through it.  

Treat people the way you want to be treated whether they’ve been around for 30 years or just signed up last week. Everyone brings something valuable. 

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you never stop learning. Every job we attend, no matter how big or small, teaches us something. It might be a new skill, a different way of approaching a situation, or simply learning more about your crew and how you work together. That’s part of what keeps it rewarding – you’re always growing, always improving and always becoming a better version of yourself. 

What do you like to do in your spare time? 
Spending time with my children and grandchildren is what I cherish most. Quality time with the people I care about is really important to me and always recharges my energy. Beyond that, I love getting outdoors. Camping is one of my favourite ways to unwind and connect with nature.

I’m also really into photography. Capturing moments and beautiful scenes gives me a creative outlet and a fresh perspective. 

 

Submitted by	News and Media