Meet Natalie and Ember, the duo injecting a new meaning to ‘vanlife’ with their cross-country efforts supporting Australia’s front-line workers, right from the helm of their fit for purpose Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.     

Ember the Golden Labrador isn't just any canine companion – she works as a volunteer crisis response dog for Victoria Police and the state's Country Fire Authority. The pair’s mission is clear; to bring comfort and support to those who face trauma in the line of duty – a sentiment close to home for owner Natalie Brindle, Leading Firefighter with Fire Rescue Victoria.     

Throughout her tenure in the fire service, Natalie has witnessed first-hand the importance of mental health support for emergency response workers. Her solution? Integrating dogs like Ember into resilience-building initiatives. "There has been plenty of research and successful programs using trained dogs with emergency response workers and I could see the value in having a program for Fire Rescue Victoria and the Country Fire Authority.” 

The pair have managed to marry their passion for support work with their love for adventure, travelling across Australia in their custom Sprinter Panel Van, enabling them to visit even the hardest to reach areas of the country.    

Ember lends a helping paw to those affected by trauma, whether it be through providing in-person support, or participating in fundraising events such as the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb.     

“Her presence helps put people at ease, which leads to people being able to discuss difficult mental health issues while feeling safe. Often people start talking while interacting with her as she breaks down emotional barriers.”   

Though it's not just all work and no play for Ember – in her spare time, she loves indulging in all that Australia has to offer; beach trips, trail walks, and eating at the local spots. And she does it all in style, travelling in their Sprinter which has been fully customised by Built for Advanture to suit their unique needs.   

1. Why did you choose a Sprinter van?

The Sprinter is the perfect vanlife companion, offering a large, fully customisable canvas to suit anyone’s needs – even a well-travelled dog!  

2. What is Ember’s favourite spot in the van?  

Ember has a special spot on the passenger front seat. It is high enough for her to  see out of the window and soak up the views.  

3. Can you tell us a unique feature of Ember’s vanlife setup?   

The passenger front seat features a custom seat extension with a comfortable dog bed over the top, giving her plenty of space to stretch out and nap. Here she has her own aircon vent and a harness which clips into the seatbelt to keep her safe while we travel.   

4. What about you, Natalie? What do you love about the Sprinter?  

My Sprinter has been fitted out as a mobile tiny house. It is self-contained and has everything for living and travelling around the country, making it our home away from home that ticks all our boxes.  

5. Where to next?  

Ember has a busy year ahead fundraising for her final Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb, her last of seven years. Additionally, we are planning many more trips in our van, with the next adventure up North to Darwin and far North Queensland.

Follow Ember’s journey here, and support her final stair climb here.

If you or someone you know needs support, Lifeline provides 24-hour crisis counselling, support groups and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online. 

Words by Jamie Batters

Content commissioned by Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific Pty Ltd.