Our People
3 December, 2025
Willaura Captain focused on training, youth and the future
WILLAURA CFA’s new captain, Joel Michell, has hit the ground running since taking on the role earlier this year, bringing fresh energy and an eye to the future. Spending more than a decade with the brigade, Joel joined Willaura CFA soon after moving to town. He said stepping up felt like a natural way to contribute.
“When I came into town, it was like you kind of have to. No pressure or anything, but being new to the town, it was a good way to meet people and help out as much as I can,” he said.
With few people in the brigade taking on leadership positions, Joel gradually moved through the ranks.
“I started coming to meetings, then got a lieutenant’s gig, made my way up to training officer, and now captain. This year’s gone quick.”
Training has always been Joel’s focus, and as captain, he set about restructuring how the brigade operates.
“I did a hell of a lot of paperwork and created a management program for the brigade, a way to bring up juniors so we’ve got members for the future,” he said.
Joel hopes to explore re-establishing a junior brigade in the new year, giving local youth a place to learn, socialise and engage with the CFA.
He has already set up a small chillout area inside the station for younger members.
He said building routine and consistency has been key.
“We’ve put in regular training sessions, which has never really been the case here. We’re trying to get the younger generation, people in their 30s, to be a bit more involved and train once a month.”
Joel’s commitment extends beyond Willaura, helping out with surrounding brigades where possible.
“When the Grampians fires were on at Christmas time, these are the guys who were standing next to you. So whatever I can do to help them, I’ll certainly do in the future,” he said.
“Anyone that gets new equipment, I’m more than happy to go down and talk to them about it.”
His leadership approach is grounded in transparency and shared knowledge.
“I like to lead by example. I want everyone around me to have all the information I have in my head,” he said.
To ensure continuity, Joel has created what he calls a future captain’s folder, a collection of information, processes and lessons that any brigade member can access.
“I’m all about empowering the people around me. If they’re better at what they need to do, then I don’t have to do a lot at all,” he said.
“If everyone knows exactly what they need to do, and they know what I know, everything’s going to run smooth.”
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