If you’re the partner of a volunteer firefighter, it’s likely many people have said your partner is amazing over the past few weeks. What they haven’t told you, is that your role is also vital – and you’re doing a great job.

I see you there, and I’d love for others to see you, too.

Megan Blandford with husband Steve and children Abbey (R) and Iris. Credit:Lucy Taylor

It’s well documented that firefighters are heroes – and rarely has that been acknowledged as thoroughly as during the current horrendous fire season. Images abound of those on the frontline, battling extreme conditions as they save lives and properties.

But there's another set of heroes, of whom we’re not hearing or seeing images: the partners of these volunteers.