Russell’s time in Country Fire Authority (CFA) began as a volunteer in 1972 and his career spanned more than 35 years working in a range of field and senior operational roles. He represented CFA in many state and national peak bodies and organisations associated with emergency management planning and operations. He was Chief Officer of CFA from 2001 to 2010. Since leaving CFA, he has worked across a range of government departments and statutory authorities in emergency management related fields.

