The program brought together 62 volunteers from a range of organisations, with Ms McLeish one of just 15 participants selected from SES units across Victoria.
Delivered over 10 weeks, the course included 10 online sessions and two face-to-face workshops at Life Saving Victoria, covering a range of topics designed to support both personal and professional growth.
Sessions covered practical strategies for managing nerves, presenting with confidence, setting goals and prioritising tasks.
Leadership development was a key focus, with personality profiling helping participants better understand their strengths, preferences and leadership styles.
The program also included training on influencing outcomes, equipping participants with tools and strategies to lead effectively.
Other sessions focused on psychological safety, including creating supportive environments and navigating difficult conversations, as well as the importance of self-care, wellbeing and avoiding burnout.
Ms McLeish said the experience taught her a lot about herself.
“It was a good confidence boost and great meeting so many different women that I aspire to be like one day and hearing their different stories,” she said.
Ms McLeish joined the Seymour SES four years ago. She was already volunteering with the CFA but wanted to “do a bit extra”.
“I thrive on being able to help in the community,” she said.
As an operational member, she has attended a wide range of incidents, including road rescues, boating operations, land searches and four-wheel driving.
She also serves as the unit’s boating team leader, a role she really enjoys.
“It involves looking after our boating equipment and making sure the boats are operationally ready to go when they need to,” she said.
Reflecting on her experience with the SES, Ms McLeish encouraged anyone considering volunteering to take the leap.
“There’s a role here for everybody,” she said.
