DEECA staff shared their expertise across topics including Traditional Owner engagement and protecting cultural heritage during emergencies, and showcased emerging research and projects when Melbourne recently hosted its annual Emergency Management Conference 2026.
Presenters included Tahlia Warren Brand, Trent Nelson, Damien Skurrie, Levi Lovett, Caleb Clarke, Manny Thalasinos, John Towt, Ellen Bailey, Sam Hillman and Tegan Brown, while Tom Robinson represented DEECA and FFMVic at the exhibition stand, engaging with conference delegates and highlighting the department’s emergency management partnerships with First Peoples.
In a conference highlight, Kat Horton, Senior Forest and Fire Engagement Officer, was recognised as a recipient of an Emergency Services Foundation (ESF) Scholarship. Through the scholarship, Kat will explore best practices in managing cumulative fatigue, particularly during campaign events, helping build knowledge that can support the wellbeing and resilience of emergency management personnel across the sector.
Kat will travel to Canada on a study tour alongside the two other scholarship recipients. 'It is an exciting opportunity to share this journey with others as I explore best practices in managing cumulative fatigue, particularly in relation to campaign events' Kat said.
The conference provided a valuable opportunity for DEECA staff to share insights, learn from peers across the emergency management sector and strengthen partnerships that support safer and more resilient communities.
Page last updated: 04/08/26