For 33 years the Australian Firefighters Calendar has been more than just an annual tradition. The launch of the 2026 edition continues that legacy, combining striking photography with a clear charitable mission: to support animal welfare, disaster recovery and first-responder wellbeing both across Australia and the US.
A Tradition of Giving Back
Since its inception, the calendar has used its stunning images of frontline firefighters to raise funds and awareness for causes that matter. The 2026 edition builds on that history, following recent relief efforts including support for survivors of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024 and rapid assistance to animals affected by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires in January 2025. That response is emblematic of the calendar’s mission.
Responding to the LA fires: Pasadena Humane
Each year members of the calendar team travel to the United States for CatCon in Pasadena — an event celebrating feline culture and community. In January 2025, wildfires swept through the area the Australian Firefighters know well. In partnership with US printer Alan Hudson of MarkitPlace and fulfilment partner Selery, the Australian Firefighters Calendar turned immediate concern into action, producing a charity calendar with all proceeds directed to the Pasadena Humane Society.
„It was heartbreaking to watch the parts of Los Angeles we visit each year devastated by these fires. I stayed in constant contact with our friends there, and the firefighters featured in our calendars decided to produce a charity edition to raise funds and show solidarity with our US friends.“
David Rogers – Director – Australian Firefighters Calendar
Pasadena Humane became an emergency lifeline for hundreds of displaced pets. Within days of the first flames, the organization had taken in more than 800 animals — from cats crammed into offices to dogs sheltered in makeshift crates and even a pony housed in a garage. A dedicated team of emergency veterinarians, aided by staff from other shelters, worked around the clock to treat and reunite animals with their owners. While not every life could be saved, the efforts of Pasadena Humane and its partners eased the burden for countless families during an awful crisis.
“We are grateful for the support and donation from the Australian Firefighters Calendar. Knowing how close to home it was for the guys, who are very accustomed to dealing with disasters and wildfires like the ones we faced in January, makes it even more special. Thanks to their donation, we were able to help the animals affected by the Eaton Fire to the best of our ability”.
Kevin McManus – PR & Communications Director – Pasadena Humane
Kerr County Flood Relief
The reach of the calendar’s philanthropy extends beyond wildfire response. When catastrophic flooding struck Kerr County, Texas in July 2025, funds from the Australian Firefighters Calendar were donated to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund. Those donations supported rebuilding homes, mental health services for affected residents, and efforts to restore the local community spirit. Lincoln Decker, one of the firefighters involved, remarked on the personal connection to the disaster.
“Our family in Australia watched with deep concern as news reports unfolded about the events in Kerr County, Texas. With a sister and her family based in Texas, the images on television were a constant reminder of the human impact, and we felt compelled to help.
“It was a privilege to support the people of Kerr County during this difficult time. Having loved ones on the ground made every update personal, and it underscored how close-knit the ties are between the calendar firefighters and communities across the United States.”
Lincoln Decker – Senior Firefighter – Victoria Fire & Rescue
Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital — Support for rescue, veterinary care and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned native wildlife, enabling rapid response to wildlife emergencies and extended recovery services.
“In 2024 The Byron Bay Raptor Recovery Centre was opened and has been operational for about 19 months. It is a state-of-the-art facility specifically for the rehabilitation of sick, injured, and orphaned birds of prey, and it is currently full of patients. To date 100% of all birds of prey in our care have been released back into the wild. It houses the largest round Avery in the southern hemisphere. The honour of the naming rights for the recovery centre for 2025 has been given to the Australian Firefighters Calendar for their continual support to the hospital”.
Dr Stephen Van Mil – Founder and CEO, the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital
Wildcare Incorporated – Wildcare Inc is a non-profit wildlife care and rescue organisation in Darwin & Katherine, Northern Territory, Australia, which provides a support network for carers of sick, injured and orphaned wildlife.
The primary objective is to rehabilitate and release these animals back into their natural habitat and to raise community awareness concerning the care and conservation of native animals.
“The Australian Firefighters Calendar has been donating to Wildcare every year for 5 years now.
The calendar has provided vital support, not only donating money, but also calendars so that we can sell at our stands to raise further funds.
We were first approached by the calendar during a time when we were getting no government support at all, it was so difficult obtaining grants and were finding it very hard to continue with the cost of specialised food and vet fees for our native wildlife. With the support of the Australian Firefighters Calendar we have not only survived but thrived to 140 carers in the Northern Territory”.
Mignon McHendrie – 2025 NT Australian of the year award winner
South Australian Native Animal Rescue — Funding for transport, emergency treatment, foster care and public education programs that reduce human–wildlife conflict and improve outcomes for native species across South Australia.
Kids With Cancer Foundation — Programs and family support services that help children and families undergoing cancer treatment, including practical assistance, wellbeing resources and financial support for unavoidable costs.
CAVFA — Direct support for volunteer firefighters and their families through mental-health resources, welfare programs, training opportunities and essential equipment for rural and regional brigades across Australia.
Safe Haven Animal Rescue — Shelter operations, foster placement, veterinary care and adoption programs that help homeless animals find permanent, loving homes.
Wandering Warriors – Wandering Warriors was established in 2013 by SAS veterans in Queensland, dedicated to supporting veteran causes through impactful fundraising events. Wandering Warriors is a not-for-profit, registered charity dedicated to enabling a smooth transition from military to civilian life for veterans of Australia’s Special Operations Command and their families.
Five Editions to Appeal to Every Supporter
The 2026 release comes in five distinct editions, expanding options for supporters and animal lovers:
– Dog Edition: firefighters paired with rescued dogs of all shapes and sizes
– Cat Edition: candid and charming moments with playful felines
– Horse Edition: a tribute to rural resilience and the human–equine bond
– Mixed Animal Edition: koalas, farm animals, birds and more
– Hero Edition: powerful solo portraits of Australia’s bravest
Funds donated from calendar sales directly benefit a range of charities and initiatives, including wildlife rescue groups, first-responder mental health services and disaster recovery efforts, families affected by cancer treatment. Beneficiaries named for the 2026 edition include:
Where to Purchase
Website – www.australianfirefighterscalendar.com
Amazon US (amazon.com/AustralianFirefightersCalendar)
