As the Northern Territory continues its recovery from Tropical Cyclone Fina, it is timely that we take a moment to recognise and celebrate the remarkable career of a born-and-bred Territorian who has dedicated more than two decades to keeping our community safe.
Previous Acting Commissioner NT Fire and Emergency Service Collene Bremner retires this month after an extensive and distinguished career in the Northern Territory Public Service, during which she has empowered countless women and emerging leaders in the emergency management sector.
Across her career, Ms Bremner has served as:
Disaster Coordinator for Health and Community ServicesDirector of Security and Emergency RecoveryChair of the Australian and New Zealand Emergency Management Recovery Sub-CommitteeNorthern Territory representative on the National Aerial Firefighting Centre and AFAC Council
From 2016 to February this year, Ms Bremner led Bushfires NT as Executive Director, where she played an instrumental role in implementing the Bushfires Management Act 2016 and securing funding for the construction of the Bushfires NT Headquarters at Acacia Hills, which opened in 2020. Visitors to the Acacia Hills site will be familiar with the striking mosaic of the iconic red Bushfires NT flames at the entrance, a feature inspired by Ms Bremner's creative flair.
Following the establishment of Northern Territory Fire and Emergency Services (NTFES) last year, which brought together Bushfires NT, NT Fire and Rescue Service and NT Emergency Service, Ms Bremner stepped into the role of Acting Commissioner while Commissioner Andy Warton was on sabbatical leave. During this time, she led staff and management through the complexities of forming a new agency and fostering stronger partnerships across the Territory's emergency services.
In a meaningful full-circle moment earlier this year, Ms Bremner also oversaw the re-establishment of a Bushfires NT office in the Barkly region, in her hometown of Tennant Creek.
Acting Commissioner Collene Bremner leaves behind a legacy of leadership, resilience and community service.
Quotes attributable to Commissioner, NT Fire and Emergency Service, Andrew Warton
"On behalf of the Northern Territory Government and the Territory community, we extend our sincere thanks to Ms Bremner for her outstanding contribution."
"Her dedication has strengthened emergency management across the NT and supported the safety and resilience of staff, volunteers and the broader community. We wish her every success, happiness and fulfilment in her well-deserved retirement."
