Catherine Gorrie

Managing Director – Bushfire Consulting Services Pty Ltd
BPAD-Level 3 Certified Practitioner | Technical Expert | Industry Leader

Catherine has more than 18 years of experience in bushfire protection, environmental health, and building surveying. Since establishing Bushfire Consulting Services in 2010, she has worked closely with clients to ensure developments comply with all bushfire protection requirements. Catherine provides end-to-end support, from early planning through to project completion, including certification and compliance with Planning for Bushfire Protection and AS3959. She is highly experienced in negotiations with local Councils and the NSW Rural Fire Service.

In 2013, recognising a critical gap in understanding the complex legislative requirements for bushfire protection, Catherine established a training division. She has since delivered specialist seminars and webinars, training architects, councils, certifiers, and industry professionals across New South Wales.

Catherine also contributes to the industry as:

• FPAA BPAD Accreditation Panel Member (2024–current)

• Founding Director of the Bushfire Protection Association (2021–current)

• Technical Expert for the Global-Mark Codemark Program (2023–current)

Core Expertise

• Bushfire protection design and planning

• Bushfire risk management and modelling

• Compliance with Planning for Bushfire Protection and AS3959

• BPAD-Level 3 Certified Practitioner (BPAD 20751)

• Bushfire expert witness services

• Development and delivery of bushfire training (seminars/webinars)

• Strategic advice on bushfire protection measures for high-risk developments

Relevant Projects

Health Infrastructure – Tweed Valley Hospital, Tweed Valley (2021–2024)
Bushfire Certification of Plans for Construction Certificate and Occupation Certificate.

Ridgey Creek BESS Pty Ltd – Ridgey Creek Battery Energy Storage System (2023)
Bushfire assessment report for construction, operation, and maintenance of BESS.

Multiple Educational Establishments
Prepared bushfire assessment report for construction, operation, and maintenance Catholic Schools Parramatta, Springwood and Warnervale, Macarthur Anglican School, Blaxland High School, Aspect Schools – Western Sydney, Northern Beaches, Central Coast & Hunter, Al-Faisal College, Oakhill College, St Sava, Irfan, Mackillop, Moree Christian School, Blackheath Mountains Christian School, PAL Buddhist School and so on

RMS/Transport for NSW – Noise Abatement Program (2019–2021)
Applicant to Council via the Planning Portal; prepared BAL Assessments, provided advice on material selection, and submitted CDC applications.

Redevelopment of Bonalbo Hospital
Strategic fire management plan covering APZs, building standards, access design, landscaping guidelines, and water supply.