Forestville firefighter Scott Hardiman is receiving support from the firefighting community after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
Mr Hardiman, a Fire and Rescue NSW firefighter, was diagnosed late last year and has been off work since October 2025.
He publicly shared his condition on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, after recent years that included recovery from a workplace training injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Motor Neurone Disease, also known as ALS, is a progressive neurological condition that affects the nerves controlling movement, speech, swallowing and breathing. The disease is incurable and degenerative.
Mr Hardiman is a husband to Ellie and father to young son Ace.
Fundraiser for Scott Hardiman and Family
A fundraiser titled Standing with Scott in his fight against MND was created on 9 June to support Mr Hardiman, Ellie and Ace.
The fundraiser was organised by Claudia Attanasio and Matthew Hart for Ellie Bennett. It has raised $137,326 of a $140,000 AUD target, with 654 donors listed.
Money raised through the GoFundMe will be transferred directly to Scott and Ellie. The family faces physical, emotional and financial challenges, including medical expenses, specialist appointments, treatment costs and ongoing support as the disease progresses.
Ms Attanasio, a fellow firefighter, helped set up the appeal. The fundraiser describes Mr Hardiman as a dedicated firefighter, husband, father and friend who has spent years helping others and serving the community.
It also describes him as someone known for warmth, humour and care for others, with a strong focus on family, wellbeing and making memories.
Firefighting Support for Forestville Firey
Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM has recognised Mr Hardiman’s situation and supported the appeal for his family.
Commissioner Fewtrell described Mr Hardiman as one of two Hardiman brothers serving the community through Fire and Rescue NSW. He also acknowledged the support gathered around Mr Hardiman, Ellie and Ace from within the firefighting community.
The appeal has also been shared by Fire and Rescue NSW Station 484 Wallsend, which encouraged support for Mr Hardiman and his family. The station’s post referred to the firefighting community as being built on mateship and standing together through difficult times.
Donations have come from fellow firefighters and members of the public as the campaign nears its target.
Mr Hardiman, Ellie and Ace remain focused on time together, making memories and supporting him through each stage of the condition.
The campaign remains close to its $140,000 AUD goal as support continues for the Forestville firefighter and his family.
Published 20-June-2026
