ABOUT US

Jason D’Silva is a Senior Fire and Life Safety Engineer at Transport for NSW, bringing extensive experience from previous roles at Nutbrook Engineering Group, Precision Fire Protection Services, and Norman Disney & Young. He holds a Master of Fire Safety Engineering from the University of Western Sydney and a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from both the University of Technology, Sydney, and California State Polytechnic University-Pomona. With expertise spanning fire engineering, mechanical engineering, and project management, Jason is recognized for his contributions to advancing fire and life safety across complex building and infrastructure projects.

Brayden Sinnamon is a senior fire and emergency management professional with extensive expertise in strategy, planning, and innovation. As an Assistant Chief Fire Officer with Fire Rescue Victoria, he has led initiatives that strengthen workforce capability, harmonise services, and deliver community safety outcomes.
He holds dual Master’s degrees, an MBA (Strategy and Planning) from Deakin University and a Master of Emergency Management from Charles Sturt University, each awarded with executive honours. A Chartered Manager and Member grade within the IFE, Brayden is committed to advancing professional standards, collaboration, and innovation across Australia’s fire engineering community.

Angela Fearnley is a Trustee Director of the global Institution of Fire Engineers, bringing international perspective and strong connections with fire brigades worldwide. She is a Senior Fire Engineer with a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Fire Engineering.
Skilled in advanced fire and smoke modelling and evacuation modelling, Angela applies both prescriptive and performance-based approaches to achieve holistic, practical outcomes. She is a strong advocate for the next generation of fire professionals, working to increase representation and advancement of women and underrepresented groups across the built environment while advancing community safety through collaborative design.

Cameron Simpson brings over 11 years of experience with Fire & Rescue New South Wales, specialising in frontline firefighting, hazardous materials response, and fire investigation. A qualified Hazardous Materials Technician and Fire Investigation Technician (IAAI-FIT), he combines technical expertise with leadership credentials, holding advanced qualifications in public safety, leadership, and management. Beyond the fireground, Cameron has served in multiple director-level roles with Surf Life Saving, contributing to governance, safety, and emergency services committees. He is dedicated to advancing community safety and resilience across the emergency services sector.

Gerard Mann is a Station Officer and Senior Instructor with Fire Rescue Victoria, bringing over 14 years of operational and instructional experience to the IFE Australia Board. He specialises in structural and high-rise firefighting, tactical instruction, and firefighter safety, integrating evidence-based practices and international learnings into Australian training. Gerard has designed and delivered national tactical firefighting programs and presented at major industry events, including FDIC International (USA) and the Tall Building Fire Safety Conference (UK). He is dedicated to advancing knowledge, professionalism, and collaboration within the fire sector.

Marianne Foley is a collaborative leader and technical innovator in fire engineering, currently contracting on performance-based projects across the built environment. Previously, she was NSW Regional General Manager for TSA Management, leading a 260-person consultancy team, and Building Sector Leader at Arup Australasia, serving on the Region Board for seven years. A past Arup Fellow, Marianne has delivered notable projects including the Watercube Beijing National Aquatic Centre, Metro Martin Place, and the Charles Perkins Centre. She has also contributed to the NSW Architects Registration Board, Object Gallery Board, and NSW Cladding Product Safety Panel.

Paul is an experienced executive and current Managing Director of Bali Expo Hire, one of Indonesia’s largest exhibition suppliers, and Asia-Pacific Expo Hire, a leading conference and event management company. He previously served as Executive Officer of the Fire Protection Industry Board, working with the Commonwealth on the national permit scheme, and has held multiple CEO roles across various associations. Paul sits on several not-for-profit boards and is Chairman of the Victorian State Ballet. He holds a degree in marketing and multiple master’s degrees in business and commerce.

Michael Conway is a Board member representing engineering registration through IFE Australia and the IFE Registrants Group (IFERG) at the International Head Office. A Chartered Engineer since 2017, he joined IFERG in 2018 and is dedicated to supporting engineers through professional registration and maintaining rigorous assessment standards. With 16 years of experience as a firefighter and expertise in mechanical and fire engineering, Michael worked in consultancy with GHD before returning to fire engineering with Queensland Fire Department in 2011. He continues to contribute to fire safety, engineering standards, and mentoring engineers through IFE registration.

Mark Reilly is the President-Elect of the Institution of Fire Engineers globally and will assume the role of International President in 2026–2027. With extensive leadership experience across fire and emergency management, Mark has been instrumental in shaping initiatives that strengthen community resilience and international collaboration. He has also worked closely with organisations such as the Minderoo Foundation, contributing to the establishment of the Resilience Corps and advancing strategies to enhance disaster preparedness. A strong advocate for global cooperation, Mark is committed to empowering professionals across the fire sector and championing the role of the IFE in driving excellence worldwide.

Fiona Perrin specializes in Membership Management and Growth, with expertise spanning health, safety, wellbeing, and fire protection. Known for her problem-solving skills and pragmatic approach, she excels at navigating complex challenges and building strong relationships across diverse organizations. A dedicated “do-er,” Fiona combines effective communication, research, and data analysis with strong time management, adaptability, and empathy. Her passion for volunteering and event organization further reflects her commitment to making a positive impact, making her a highly valued contributor to the board.

Currently an Adjunct Professor at Deakin University. Has a Doctor of Business and also a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Management. Attended a number of programs at Harvard University
A wide range of experience in Fire Services, including 2 years as Chief Fire Officer, NT Fire Service, and 10 years as Chief Fire Officer, MFB, Melbourne. Was Director Asia Pacific and Middle East for NFPA for 7 years. More recently, working with new technologies in the Fire/ Emergency Sector
Has a breadth of experience in the public, not-for-profit, and private sectors and exceptional international networks.

Matt is an accomplished Creative Director with over 20 years of experience delivering design and communication solutions across industries ranging from professional services to major consumer brands. Matt has worked with organisations including Engineers Australia, the Australian Water Association, and the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, and partnered with the UK branch of the Institution of Fire Engineers to ensure brand consistency across all touchpoints. He is also a part-time lecturer at the University of Sydney, teaching design to postgraduates.

David Dow brings extensive experience from his service with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and his current role with the WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services. With a distinguished career in fire and emergency services, he has contributed to both national and international initiatives aimed at enhancing fire safety and emergency response. Recognised for his leadership and technical expertise, David plays a key role in promoting excellence and fostering collaboration within the fire engineering and emergency services community.