From ashes to action.
How we got started
Dream it.
After the 2019-20 bushfires, our founder, Zahra Barrenger, decided that she would make Christmas cards for the Fernvale Rural Fire Brigade who helped save her family's home. Ever since then, she decided that she wanted to help those who put their lives on the line in order to protect others.
Take it.
In 2023, when choosing electives for the 10th grade, she chose 'The Project', a subject that allows students to purse and extend an area of intense individual skill or interest through mentorship in a one-semester passion-project. She thought that this would be the perfect opportunity to create a website that aims to support firefighters who are struggling with their mental health, so she took it.
Learn it.
Over the course of the first term, she spent her time researching the mental health of firefighters in Australia after the 2019-2020 black summer fires, as well as support websites created to help veterans which follow the same structure as the website she dreamed of one day building.
Make it.
With the help of her dad, volunteer firefighters, and employee firefighters across south-east Queensland, she created The Reboot Project. A website that aims to create a safe, supportive and informative environment for Queensland firefighters so that they know they are not alone in their battle.
Launch it.
At the start of June 2024, The Reboot Project, along with other class member’s accomplishments, was shared to a range of teachers, students, friends, and family for feedback and encouragement.
Share it.
Ever since then, The Reboot Project has become an available resource to firefighters all across Queensland who are interested in or are looking for mental health support.