A Conversation with Cheryl McCarthy
Hello, everyone! I’m your host at The Courage to Lead, and I recently had the privilege of speaking with an extraordinary guest, Cheryl McCarthy.
Cheryl’s conversation gives us a taste of the stories we will be exposed to in the publication of The Coffee Table Book from She Inspires Me Australia (Michelle Boundy) of the 30 Inspiring Women in Emergency Services in New South Wales for 2024. Cheryl is one of the representatives from Surf Lifesaving New South Wales and shows us the calibre of what women in Emergency Services in New South Wales are doing.
From Cheryl’s remarkable contributions to emergency services in New South Wales have earned her nominations as the Surf Lifesaver of the Year for both the state and Australia. It’s an honour to share with you the insights and experiences from our conversation, which I believe will inspire and enlighten many of you.
The Genesis of Leadership
Leadership is a journey that often begins in the most unexpected places. For Cheryl, it was during her early years, playing sports and observing different leadership traits. She shared a pivotal moment when she learned valuable lessons from a poor leader. This experience was instrumental in shaping her aspirations and understanding of what it means to be a good leader. Cheryl’s story is a testament to the idea that we can learn as much from negative experiences as we can from positive ones.
Collaborative Leadership: A Key to Success
During our talk, Cheryl emphasised the importance of a collaborative approach to leadership. Recognising the diverse skill sets and experiences that each team member brings to the table is crucial. She believes that adapting one’s leadership style to embrace and enhance the strengths of the team is essential for success. Her insights on leadership are not just theoretical; they are backed by her impressive nominations, which recognise her exemplary leadership qualities.
Facing Fears and Embracing Challenges
In a lighter moment, Cheryl revealed her fear of elevators, a surprising fact that led to a humorous exchange about the unexpected fears we all face. It’s these human moments that remind us that leaders, too, have their vulnerabilities.
The Role of Emergency Management Coordinator
Cheryl currently serves as the Emergency Management Coordinator for the southern zone of Surf Lifesaving New South Wales. She spoke about the thrill of being part of a new emergency management team and the recent success in forming a cohesive unit. Her passion for emergency response and management has been a driving force over the past five years, shaped by her diverse background.
A Journey of Growth and Adaptation
Cheryl’s journey is a rich tapestry of experiences, from owning a small business to working in marketing, communications, and fundraising. Her 17 years in Canada, including time spent with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and the University of Calgary, have equipped her with invaluable skills. These experiences have taught her to navigate different organisational environments and to value the contributions of each team member.
Learning from Bureaucracies and Self-Reflection
Cheryl candidly discussed the challenges of adjusting to new leadership and the importance of honest self-reflection. She shared a poignant example of leaving a job due to a lack of communication, yet doing so with professionalism and dignity. Her ability to preserve relationships and learn from mistakes is a powerful lesson for all aspiring leaders.
From Consultancy to Community Leadership
Upon transitioning to Australia, Cheryl continued her consultancy business and became deeply involved in the local community. Her volunteer work at the surf club led to leadership roles in emergency management and response. She drew parallels between event management and emergency management, underscoring the importance of collaboration, communication, and preparedness.
The Impact of the Black Summer Bushfires
Cheryl’s involvement in the Rural Fire Service and her experiences during the Black Summer bushfires of 2019-2020 were profound. She recounted the emotional and logistical challenges of managing a large number of people seeking refuge at the surf club. Her story highlighted the power of support, teamwork, and leadership in responding to such a devastating crisis.
Teamwork and Recognition
Throughout our conversation, Cheryl consistently attributed her success to the incredible team she works with. She expressed gratitude for their collaborative efforts and the inspiration they provide. Her humility and recognition of her team’s role in her achievements speak volumes about her character as a leader.
Leadership Lessons for Aspiring Leaders
Cheryl’s insights on leadership are invaluable. She stressed the importance of communication, reflection, and integrity. Aspiring leaders should prioritise listening, understanding motivations, and making tough decisions for the right reasons. Maintaining integrity, honesty, and inclusivity are non-negotiable traits for effective leadership.
In Conclusion
Our interview with Cheryl McCarthy was not just a conversation; it was a masterclass in leadership. Her experiences during the fires, her humility in acknowledging her team’s contributions, and her unwavering commitment to community service are lessons for us all. I am deeply appreciative of Cheryl’s willingness to share her story and am inspired by her leadership in emergency management. Thank you, Cheryl, for your service and for reminding us of the impact one person can have when they lead with courage, compassion, and collaboration.
Click on the link below to listen to this wonderful leader.