Speakers

Gerard Mann is a career firefighter and senior instructor with Fire Rescue Victoria. With over 14 years of operational and instructional experience, he has become a leading voice in modern firefighting practices—particularly in structural and high-rise firefighting, the development of strategic and tactical instruction, and firefighter safety. Gerard has played a pivotal role in the design and delivery of tactical firefighting programs across the Australian firefighting training pathway. His work spans both skills acquisition and maintenance in structural firefighting, high-rise operations, wildland-urban interface (WUI) firefighting, and critical fireground decision-making. His contributions have influenced regional training frameworks, underpinned by a strong emphasis on evidence-based tactics and the integration of international best practices. An international speaker and educator, Gerard has presented at major industry events including FDIC International in Indianapolis, The Tall Building Fire Safety Conference, Fire Protection Association Australia, and IFE Australia. He has also delivered Hands-On Training (HOT) programs in both the United States and the United Kingdom, including the Elkhart Brass Tactical Event at the Fire Service College (FSC). Gerard’s sessions are known for challenging outdated models and fostering critical thinking around fire dynamics, operational doctrine, search and rescue, and firefighter survival. Whether on the drill ground, in the classroom, or on the international stage, Gerard is committed to advancing the profession through practical experience, contemporary science, and a relentless focus on improving outcomes for crews and communities.