Portarlington salutes firefighting women

PORTARLINGTON’S fire brigade paid homage to its female leaders this week in celebration of International Women’s Day.

Hollie Woodhart is a second-generation Portarlington firefighter, following in the footsteps of her mum and brigade secretary Karen, and is second lieutenant and brigade training officer with the local station.

Her role means that Hollie is one of the first people that guides new firefighters, helping them learn the skills necessary to serve their communities.

“I love seeing them progress, from not knowing anything to turning out to their first fire call,” she said.

“It can be challenging at times, but it feels amazing when you can see them finally getting skills down pat.

“The situation can change quickly on the fireground, and it’s important that we can adapt and stay calm.”

Portarlington CFA said Hollie’s skill, leadership and work ethic played a crucial role in volunteers building their confidence and capabilities to keep each other and their community safe in high-pressure environments.

But Hollie insists the brigade’s success is a team effort: “We have such a diverse group at Portarlington, which I think proves it doesn’t matter what your background is, anyone can join,” she said.

Portarlington was among a host of local fire brigades across the state who acknowledged their high-achieving female volunteers for International Women’s Day, which was celebrated around the world on Tuesday.