Firefighters and fire stations are often a source of awe and fascination for children – as many of us would know. So the Museum of Fire's annual art competition invites children in kindergarten to Year 6 from across Australia to imagine, interpret and express through paint, drawing and mixed media the ideas and inspirations that arise when we reflect on courage, service and leadership in our communities. For many participants, this was a journey of research, reflection and creativity. In 2025, Fire and Rescue NSW marked 40 years since women were first formally allowed to join the brigade as firefighters, a milestone that transformed the service and paved the way for generations of trailblazers. The competition's theme honoured this important anniversary, to celebrate the courage, achievements and enduring legacy of the women who stepped forward, broke barriers, and helped shape the modern fire service. I had the great pleasure of attending the Award Ceremony to marvel at the incredible artworks submitted and congratulate the talented prize winners. The work of the Museum of Fire is vital to ensuring we understand heroism not solely through words, but through imagination, observation and empathy.