A country girl at heart, CFA volunteer Sarah Last is now tackling her new career as a professional footballer.
Sarah has been a volunteer with Powlett-Salisbury Fire Brigade since 2009. She comes from a family of CFA volunteers with her dad Alan, mother Rosemary, brothers Cameron and Luke, grandfather Richard and uncle Rick all members of the brigade.
“CFA has always been a huge part of our family so I always wanted to join the brigade,” Sarah said.
“I love being involved in things in my community. CFA has such a big impact and you can really see what they do to help you and people around you.”
Her Dad is the current Treasurer of the brigade and while Sarah doesn’t have an operational role with the brigade anymore, she often helps Dad with the book-keeping.
“When I can get home on weekends, I do non-operational roles for the brigade. I take the trucks out for a drive and help dad on the computer with rostering.”
Sarah moved to Bendigo two years ago to start her university degree in health promotion. She loved playing football and started her footy career with Bendigo Thunder in 2015. She never imagined she would be playing football professionally one day.
“I starting playing football because I love sport and it was a hobby of mine. The Carlton Football Club scout watched me play one of my games and recommended I try out for AFLW. Never in a million years did I think I would actually get in.
“When I was drafted to Carlton Football Club last October I was in shock. I had a wave of emotions – obviously I was very excited but the reality of it all hit me too.”
Sarah’s humble personality and kind-hearted nature is no doubt a great asset to her team and her brigade.
“From my personal experience, the earlier you start playing the better off you’ll be. Don’t ever rule yourself out. Work hard, put in the effort and be open minded. Be willing to give anything a crack,” she said.
CFA looks forward to continuing to watch Sarah kick goals on and off the field.
Photo courtesy Graeme Furlong, Carlton Media
Author: CFA Media