Losing a home in the Kinglake fires in 2009 and seeing her dad dedicate his life to volunteering inspired Vanessa Williams to become one of CFA’s newest career firefighters.
Vanessa graduated at VEMTC Craigieburn last week and is looking forward to starting on shift at Point Cook Fire Station today.
“Losing our home on Black Saturday has driven me to want to give back to the community, which was so amazing to us in our time of need,” Vanessa said.
“Even though my husband and I now live in Geelong with our two boys, I still believe that my journey can help others.”
Vanessa plans to focus on learning and building as much experience as she can to grow her firefighting career.
Previously a secondary school teacher, Vanessa expects her new career move to offer more physical and mental challenges while interacting with her community as a firefighter.
“The teacher in me loves the idea of then passing this knowledge on to others. Who knows where this may lead me?” she said.
Vanessa is looking forward to learning more about the Point Cook community, having only moved nearby to Geelong with her family a few years ago.
“I love working in a team environment and can’t wait to be a part of the CFA family and the Point Cook community,” she said.
For more information about Firefighter Recruit Course 3, click here.
Also read about fellow firefighter graduates Emre Altiparmak and Daniel Pearce.
Author: CFA Media