41. CHERYL MCCARTHY

Cheryl's remarkable contributions to emergency services in New South Wales have earned her nominations as the Surf Lifesaver of the Year for both New South Wales and Australia. Collaborative Leadership: A Key to Success During our talk, Cheryl emphasised the importance of a collaborative approach to leadership. Recognising the diverse skill sets and experiences that each team member brings to the table is crucial. She believes that adapting one's leadership style to embrace and enhance the strengths of the team is essential for success. Her insights on leadership are not just theoretical; they are backed by her impressive nominations, which recognise her exemplary leadership qualities. Facing Fears and Embracing Challenges In a lighter moment, Cheryl revealed her fear of elevators, a surprising fact that led to a humorous exchange about the unexpected fears we all face. It's these human moments that remind us that leaders, too, have their vulnerabilities. Her passion for emergency response and management has been a driving force over the past five years, shaped by her diverse background. A Journey of Growth and Adaptation Cheryl's journey is a rich tapestry of experiences, from owning a small business to working in marketing, communications, and fundraising. Her 17 years in Canada, including time spent with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and the University of Calgary, have equipped her with invaluable skills. These experiences have taught her to navigate different organisational environments and to value the contributions of each team member. Learning from Bureaucracies and Self-Reflection Cheryl candidly discussed the challenges of adjusting to new leadership and the importance of honest self-reflection. She shared a poignant example of leaving a job due to a lack of communication, yet doing so with professionalism and dignity. Her ability to preserve relationships and learn from mistakes is a powerful lesson for all aspiring leaders. From Consultancy to Community Leadership Upon transitioning to Australia, Cheryl continued her consultancy business and became deeply involved in the local community. Her volunteer work at the surf club led to leadership roles in emergency management and response. She drew parallels between event management and emergency management, underscoring the importance of collaboration, communication, and preparedness. The Impact of the Black Summer Bushfires Cheryl's involvement in the Rural Fire Service and her experiences during the Black Summer bushfires of 2019-2020 were profound. She recounted the emotional and logistical challenges of managing a large number of people seeking refuge at the surf club. Her story highlighted the power of support, teamwork, and leadership in responding to such a devastating crisis. Teamwork and Recognition Throughout our conversation, Cheryl consistently attributed her success to the incredible team she works with. She expressed gratitude for their collaborative efforts and the inspiration they provide. Her humility and recognition of her team's role in her achievements speak volumes about her character as a leader. Leadership Lessons for Aspiring Leaders Cheryl's insights on leadership are invaluable. She stressed the importance of communication, reflection, and integrity. Aspiring leaders should prioritise listening, understanding motivations, and making tough decisions for the right reasons. Maintaining integrity, honesty, and inclusivity are non-negotiable traits for effective leadership. In Conclusion Our interview with Cheryl McCarthy was not just a conversation; it was a masterclass in leadership. Her experiences during the fires, her humility in acknowledging her team's contributions, and her unwavering commitment to community service are lessons for us all. Thank you, Cheryl, for your service and for reminding us of the impact one person can have when they lead with courage, compassion, and collaboration.