Community
15 March, 2024
“I think they might surprise themselves.”
TO mark International Women’s Day, which was held last Friday, Country Fire Authority (CFA) encouraged women to consider volunteering with their local brigades.
Sarah Blair, who moved to Camperdown around a year and a half ago, was one of many women who have joined the CFA and not looked back.
Ms Blair said she felt drawn to the values of the CFA.
“I felt an urge to contribute towards the community, and I also wanted to do something that was a bit different from anything that I’ve done before and wanted an opportunity to make new friends as well,” she said.
When not volunteering, Ms Blair can be found either enjoying the outdoors, cooking up a storm or working for the State Government in building and constriction.
She said her favourite things about the CFA were the various opportunities to train and learn new skills, and the supportive and welcoming environment created by members.
Ms Blair’s skills in community engagement, something that has followed her throughout her career, were something she easily carried over into the CFA.
“The skills that I have in that I’ve been able to utilise in the CFA, and I’m looking to contribute more of that in the future as well,” she said.
“I’m bringing a sense of humour along, which I think is really important because sometimes we deal with things that aren’t too pleasant.
“If I were to describe myself, I’d say I take my work seriously, but I don’t take myself too seriously.”
Ms Blair said those worried about support for the harder jobs will be relieved to know the CFA offers a lot of support to those who need it.
“There’s a really large focus on volunteer wellbeing; not that it surprised me, but it was really welcomed,” she said.
“For example, if there’s a particular situation that’s making you feel stressed or uncomfortable, you don’t need to continue to put yourself in that situation. The team that work alongside you are very supportive of that.
“When I attended my first car entrapment incident, I was really moved by how supportive my comrades were, not just on the scene, but the days following as well.
“People were reaching out to me and making sure I was okay. It is a lovely environment in that regard.”
Ms Blair said the CFA also offers free access to counselling and psychological support services.
She encouraged anyone who was interested to apply, or to go to the CFA station and have a look for themselves.
“I think a lot of women often take on the role of primary caregiver, and they may be on a career break while they raise their young family and invest time in that part of their life,” Ms Blair said.
“I think, by joining the CFA, there is the opportunity there to continue to develop their communication skills, leadership skills and teamwork.
“If someone thinks that they might not be strong enough, I think they might surprise themselves.
“I would hate for women to be deterred because they might not be able to bench press as much as the next guy.”
Ms Blair said there were many roles within the CFA available.
“It’s not about pure strength – it takes a team to get through incidents, so everyone has something to contribute,” she said.
Anyone interested in joining the CFA should visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteers-careers/volunteer-with-cfa/apply-to-volunteer or contact their local brigade
Read More: Camperdown