The 2026 Australian Firefighters Calendar has officially launched, with this year’s edition combining shirtless firefighters with adorable animals all for a powerful charitable mission.
Now in its 33rd year, the iconic calendar has become one of Australia’s most recognisable charity initiatives, raising millions of dollars for causes supporting animals, children and first responders.
The new collection includes five editions, Dog, Cat, Horse, Mixed Animal and Hero, offering supporters more ways to donate while showing the more playful side of Australia’s firefighters.
Funds raised will support various causes from wildlife recovery and animal care to mental health services for firefighters and assistance programs for veterans.
Proceeds from this year’s calendars will go towards these organisations: Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, Wildcare Inc. NT, South Australian Native Animal Rescue, Kids With Cancer Foundation, CAVFA, Safe Haven Animal Rescue and Wandering Warriors.
Dr Stephen Van Mil, Founder and CEO of the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital has thanked the calendar for their ongoing support, especially in helping them open and operate the Raptor Recovery Centre for sick, injured and orphaned birds of prey.
“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” he said.
The 2026 edition also highlights the long-standing relationship between the firefighters and animal welfare groups, showcasing Australia’s wildlife and companion animals alongside members of the firefighting community.
Wildcare Inc, a Northern Territory non-profit providing support for carers of sick, injured and orphaned wildlife have thanked the calendar for their donations.
“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,” said Wildcare Inc founder Mignon McHendrie.
“With the support of the Australian Firefighters Calendar we have not only survived but thrived to 140 carers in the Northern Territory.”
The Australian Firefighters Calendar first began in 1993 and has since grown into a global phenomenon, with sales extending overseas and proceeds supporting dozens of charities.
You can get a copy of the calendar (or all five) from the official website.
Images: Australian Firefighters Calendar
