Mozzie Fire: Protecting homes, one sprinkler at a time

Mozzie Fire, a finalist in Australia’s Family Business 2024 competition, was born out of a terrifying experience during the Cudlee Creek Bushfire in 2019. For founders Ashleigh and Matt Smoker, the fire was a life-changing moment that sparked both fear and inspiration, leading to the creation of their family-run business, based in the Adelaide Hills.

“We were caught in a situation where I was home with our two kids—just two years and three months old at the time—and Matt was at work,” Ashleigh recalls. “It was a catastrophic fire day, and I had no way of defending the kids, pets, or property. So I left early and sat at my mum’s, listening to the news as the fire approached our home.”

By the time Matt returned that evening, the firefront had already swept through their property. With emergency services stretched beyond capacity, he spent the night battling spotfires on his own, determined to keep their home safe. That experience left the Smokers with one clear resolution: they wouldn’t leave next time. They would stay and defend their home—together.

“We didn’t want to be in that position again,” Ashleigh says. “But when we looked for bushfire solutions, we couldn’t find anything that met our needs—something simple, easy, fast, and that either of us could confidently use.”

So, the couple decided to design it themselves, using their experience and determination to develop innovative solutions for bushfire defence.

A family business with a mission

Mozzie Fire is now on a mission to revolutionise traditional bushfire protection. The Smokers manufacture portable bushfire sprinkler systems, built with as many Australian products as possible. Their commitment extends beyond products—they actively educate the community about bushfire preparedness through social media, blogs, and information flyers.

Ashleigh reflects on the unique challenges and joys of working together as a family. “Running a family business is hard—financial stress can feel very personal, and it’s tough to separate work from home life,” she says. “But working with your partner and bringing out the best in each other is something really special. “

Even the kids help out a little—“they learn life skills and have fun testing the sprinklers, which they think is just playing with water!”

The Smokers admit there are sacrifices, too. “Sometimes the closest thing to a family holiday is travelling interstate for a field day,” Ashleigh says with a laugh. But despite the hard work, the family wouldn’t have it any other way.

Rising from the ashes

Being named a finalist in Australia’s Family Business 2024 competition is a humbling experience for the Smokers.

“There are so many days where it feels like the challenges are getting on top of you,” Ashleigh says. “This recognition reminds us why we do what we do, reignites our passion, and encourages us to celebrate the wins, big or small.”

Winning the competition would mean more than just an award—it would provide a platform to spread their message further.

“While out talking to different communities, one thing we have found in common is there are so many people that feel they are not bushfire prepared, do not have the skills to be bushfire prepared or have the knowledge to know where to start to be bushfire prepared, “ Ashleigh explains.

“We are committed to starting the change to help these individuals and communities to be safer.”

Find out more about Mozzie Fire

Vote for Australia’s Favourite Family Business here

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