CFA women at the forefront

A training campus in Ballan has played host to a CFA women’s training day, boosting the confidence and skills of local female firefighters.

Around 20 women gathered at the Central Highlands Victorian Emergency Management Training Campus (VEMTC) on Ingliston Road last Monday.

Coming from brigades around Ballarat, Geelong, and Ararat, the volunteers took part in training across several scenarios including using internal and external Breathing Apparatus equipment, some wildfire-based scenarios, and a networking lunch.

Sebastopol Fire Brigade Lieutenant and Secretary of CFA District 15s Women’s Reference Group, Vanessa Park, said connecting with other volunteers was a critical part of the day.

“These days really help women build their confidence on the fireground. Some brigades don’t get as much training as others, so it’s a great opportunity to learn new things that some volunteers may not learn at their usual brigade training,” Lt Park said.

“There may be specific tips that might help women, and we really get to share these skills and tips. These women’s training days are held across the state, and there are plenty of other opportunities like the Women’s Burn Day at Cape Clear, which is a great chance for women to use their skills around fire.”

The training was conducted by instructors from Central Highlands VEMTC, including volunteer instructor in training Kayla Manning from the Daylesford Fire Brigade.

“We cater for everyone from wildfire to full structure fires, and it doesn’t matter what your skill base is or qualifications. The day is all about women training in a safe environment at these training grounds, and just having a real go,” Ms Manning said.

“A lot of women come from brigades where there are not many females, which can sometimes be difficult, so it’s great to come and build those connections. It’s a great environment to learn from each other and despite whether you’re here as participants or as the instructor, you feel like you’re really doing the job together.”

The VEMTC facility was officially opened last November, with the opening attended by Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes and Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle.