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Catherine James
Manager Community Engagement
,
NSW Rural Fire Service
Catherine James is Manager of Community Engagement and a volunteer firefighter with the NSW Rural Fire Service. She leads the Service’s state-wide community engagement team, supporting Area Commands, Districts and members to deliver risk-based preparedness initiatives tailored to local communities.
Originally from Ireland, Catherine has lived and worked in Ireland, the United States, Italy and Australia. Her career began with Disney before moving into the education sector and then emergency services. Across each of these sectors, she has maintained a strong focus on capability development, service delivery, strategy, leadership and stakeholder engagement.
Catherine has been involved in the development and delivery of large-scale programs across the RFS, including the Community Field Liaison Officer training program.
In 2024, Catherine received the NSW RFS Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation for her work with the community of Jennings as a Community Field Liaison during a significant fire event. Now based in regional NSW, she brings a grounded and reflective leadership style shaped by lived experience, resilience and a deep commitment to service.
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