A farming family in Kippen, Anthony and Toni Dowling, are breaking barriers by successfully juggling their careers as on-call firefighters and managing a livestock farm. Anthony has been running Kinnell Farm for over 30 years and decided to join the Killin Community Fire Station as an on-call firefighter to supplement his income when he first started farming. Three decades later, he has found immense fulfilment in this role. Following in her father’s footsteps, Toni, at 25 years old, also decided to become an on-call firefighter in 2022 after a discussion at the kitchen table about the need for more crew members. She has embraced the training and is proud to serve alongside the team at Killin, with a bright future ahead of her in the Fire Service.
According to Dougie Morrison, crew commander at Killin Community Fire Station, farmers like the Dowlings make excellent firefighters due to their problem-solving skills, practicality, and familiarity with machinery. The family’s farming approach is to keep things simple with 200 ewes and a suckler herd, allowing them flexibility to manage the farm and respond to firefighting duties. Their story was featured on BBC Landward and highlighted by agricultural charity RSABI for their contributions to the community.
Aside from the physical demands, being on-call firefighters also provides mental health benefits by offering a break from farm work, fostering teamwork, and instilling a sense of pride in serving the community. Anthony recommends this dual career path to other farmers, emphasizing the camaraderie and personal growth it offers. The Dowlings’ commitment to both farming and firefighting reflects the resilience and community spirit prevalent in rural Scotland.
The dynamic between farming and firefighting showcased by the Dowling family serves as a testament to the dedication and versatility of rural communities. Their ability to balance demanding roles while supporting their local area underscores the valuable contributions made by farming families across Scotland. The blend of tradition, innovation, and service exemplified by Anthony and Toni Dowling sets a shining example for others in agricultural and emergency services sectors.