Daren is uncovering the hidden stories behind fire scenes
With nearly 25 years in fire investigation and emergency management, Daren has built a career defined by curiosity, critical thinking and a commitment to safer communities.
Like many firefighters, he was drawn to the profession by a desire to make a genuine difference.
“The opportunity to help people during what are often the most difficult moments they will ever experience was something that really appealed to me,” he said.
That calling evolved into a passion for fire investigation, combining technical problem solving with providing answers when they matter most.
“Every fire tells a story, and our role is to uncover that story through science, evidence and experience,” he said.
“For families, those answers can provide closure. For emergency services and the wider community, they help prevent similar incidents in the future.”
Daren said it is the ever-changing nature of the role that continues to drive him.
“No two fires are ever the same, and there is always something new to learn about fire behaviour, human behaviour, technology or the built environment,” he said.
Beyond the complexity of the work, it is the broader impact that keeps him motivated.
“Good fire investigation contributes to firefighter safety, community safety, product safety and public policy,” he said.
His work has included addressing emerging risks linked to lithium-ion batteries, an area of growing concern.
“Through investigations, research and collaboration, I have been able to contribute to improving understanding of these hazards and advocate for better safety practices,” he said.
“The goal is always the same, reducing the likelihood of future incidents and protecting lives.”
He said strengthening capability across the profession is just as important as individual investigations.
“Building a stronger investigation capability leads to better outcomes for the communities we serve.”
University study sparks a new way of thinking
Daren describes his decision to study a Bachelor of Emergency Services at CQUniversity as a turning point in his career.
“It was my first experience with undergraduate study, and I was quite apprehensive,” he said.
“I had spent my career in operational emergency services and felt somewhat out of place in an academic environment.”
That uncertainty gave way to confidence, supported by lecturers and a growing passion for learning.
“The experience opened the door to new ways of thinking that have continued to influence my career,” he said.
The degree strengthened his technical knowledge and developed critical skills in analysis, research and decision making.
“I learned how to critically analyse information and develop evidence-based arguments,” he said.
“Those skills shape how I approach complex problems every day.”
Skills for a changing landscape
For Daren, one of the most valuable outcomes of his studies was learning how to learn.
“That mindset has been invaluable as the profession has evolved,” he said.
“When I first became a fire investigator, the role focused on determining origin and cause through traditional techniques. Those fundamentals remain, but the profession has evolved significantly.”
Today’s investigators must understand emerging technologies, complex building materials and increasing expectations around scientific methodology and evidence-based decision making.
Daren said his studies helped prepare him for those challenges.
“Completing my degree and postgraduate studies gave me a broader understanding of emergency management, leadership and organisational risk,” he said.
Now Manager of the State Fire Investigation Unit, Daren was recently awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal and continues to prioritise professional growth for himself and his team.
“I continue to seek opportunities through professional development, collaboration and international engagement,” he said.
“I also see it as my responsibility to ensure our investigators are equipped to meet future challenges.”
Shaping the next generation of fire investigators
As his career has progressed, Daren has found increasing fulfilment in mentoring others.
“Developing people and building capability within the fire service is incredibly rewarding,” he said.
“Fire investigation is a team environment, and success is built on the people around you.”
He said watching investigators grow in confidence and capability is one of the most meaningful aspects of his work.
“Knowing the culture we have built will continue to benefit the organisation into the future is incredibly rewarding,” he said.
He believes strong investigators are defined not only by technical expertise but also by curiosity, integrity and a commitment to continuous learning.
Looking to the future
Looking ahead, Daren remains passionate about the future of emergency management.
“Emerging technologies, climate-related hazards and increasingly complex environments require us to think differently about prevention, preparedness and investigation,” he said.
He sees strong opportunities in combining science, technology and leadership.
“Whether through improved data analytics, digital tools or greater collaboration, there are opportunities to strengthen how we investigate fires and manage risk,” he said.
Despite rapid change, he said people will always remain central.
“Well-trained, curious and ethical investigators will always be at the heart of effective fire investigation,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, Daren encourages students to challenge self-doubt and embrace opportunity.
“Do not underestimate your potential. Be prepared to challenge yourself and remain curious,” he said.
“Growth often occurs when you take on challenges that seem beyond your capabilities. You may be surprised by what you can achieve.”
Start your journey in emergency and disaster management like Daren.
