From Fearless Child to Trailblazing Firefighter: Erin Tassell Breaks New Ground

The first time Erin Tassell climbed into a helicopter as a young girl, she felt nothing but excitement. That same fearlessness carried into adulthood as she dangled from helicopters while longlining above raging bushfires in Canada’s Banff National Park.

Raised in a forestry family, she grew up surrounded by the industry. She said her path became clear when she took a summer job as a seasonal firefighter while studying at university. She realised almost immediately that this was the life she wanted to build.

Tassell has now made history as the first woman to serve as a duty officer at the Department of Biodiversity and Attractions. The position has long been dominated by men and carries enormous responsibility. She leads Western Australia’s bushfire management efforts and oversees emergency responses that range from major fires to whale rescues and other critical incidents.

Her journey reflects a blend of courage, skill and determination, and she continues to redefine what leadership looks like in some of the state’s toughest environments.