The Northern Territory Fire and Emergency Service (NTFES) proudly announces Station Officer Yva Woerle as the inaugural recipient of the Women in Fire and Emergency Services Award. The award recognises an individual who has made a significant contribution to supporting, advancing and promoting women within the agency.
A firefighter for over 10 years, Yva began her career in 2015 and was promoted to Station Officer with the Training and Development Command in October 2025. She is currently based at Berrimah Fire Station, where she performs the Recruit Course Coordinator role.
Throughout her career, Yva has served across Darwin Command at stations throughout the region as a Leading Firefighter and Acting Station Officer. She has also undertaken relief Station Officer and Senior Station Officer roles in Jabiru and Tennant Creek. A highly experienced trainer and assessor, she has delivered road crash rescue, pump operations and wildfire training to recruits, volunteers and auxiliaries for many years.
Yva has been instrumental in establishing the Female Firefighter Network, challenging perceptions in a traditionally male-dominated environment and advocating for improved working conditions. She works to embed meaningful change into policy and ensures the voices of volunteers and auxiliary firefighters, particularly in remote areas, are heard.
Respected for her integrity, compassion and professionalism, Yva is known for supporting the wellbeing and safety of her crew, particularly during the most challenging incidents. Her leadership continues to empower female members from their first day in the service and reinforces that they are valued and capable of excelling within NTFES.
Quotes attributable to the 2026 winner of the Women in Fire and Emergency Services Award, Yva Woerle:
"Reflecting on my journey, I hope to see more people standing up and championing change, more female leaders, and more women supporting each other."
"I hope that by advocating for women, asking the questions others haven't, pushing through when things get hard, I can help create an environment where more women feel safe to speak up and play an active role in driving the progress our organisation needs."
"I like to think that the Female Firefighter Network Steering Committee is just the beginning, and it will continue to morph and evolve into whatever it needs to be to support females in the service. As new members join and become involved, they will bring fresh ideas and solutions. I hope it serves as a space that challenges our thinking and helps influence any changes required to continually improve the workplace now and into the future."
Quotes attributable to NTFES Commissioner Andrew Warton:
"Yva Woerle exemplifies the leadership and dedication this award celebrates. Her work to support and advance women within our service is helping shape a stronger, more inclusive future for emergency services in the Northern Territory. We are proud to recognise her as the inaugural recipient."
"The Women in Fire and Emergency Services Award reflects NTFES's ongoing commitment to fostering diversity, equality and inclusion, ensuring every member can thrive and lead."
