Strathbogie Captain Dana Last
CFA is honouring the thousands of rural women who are the heart of Victoria’s regional communities, contributing leadership on the land and in their communities.
On 15 October each year, CFA recognises the dedication of its nearly 13,000 women members, many of whom are juggling their farming life and frontline life, representing our rural communities across the state.
A historical moment for Strathbogie Fire Brigade in the state’s northeast as they recently elected their first female Captain into the brigade.
Captain Dana Last said she’d like there to be more females in these roles who can lead by example.
CFA offers Women’s Challenge camps as one of many ways to build women’s networking across the organisation. Dana, who has recently attended these camps, is a strong advocate for the need to have a safe space for women to gather.
“I went to the first northeast Women’s Challenge camp and had an incredible time. The panel of speakers were so inspiring, and the challenges themselves were a huge confidence boost,” Dana said.
“The conversations I had with the other women on the camp have now become good friends.
“I went to the next camp as a leader, hoping to inspire other women to progress further in CFA.
“I’m hoping to become more involved in orchestrating the camps in the future. To have the ability to network with other women and to see those women making waves within their brigades and within CFA is really important.
“It’s a wonderful feeling of sisterhood.”
Deputy Chief Officer of North East Region and International Day of Rural Women sponsor Gavin Thompson said recognising and celebrating the contributions of women should be a year-round commitment for both CFA and the wider community.
“Women are the heart of our communities, balancing countless responsibilities while also helping local towns thrive,” Gavin said.
“Today is more than a date on the calendar, it’s a call to action to ensure our communities reflect the values of equity, opportunity and respect.
“I’m proud to see women like Dana being elected as leaders in their brigades. I hope the work CFA is continuously doing to empower women encourages more women to strive for the same goal.
“Our women’s network groups and challenge camps, amongst various other groups and committees are about giving women a safe space to feel supported by other women.
“I’m inspired by the dedication of these women’s groups across CFA which are helping foster inclusion, fairness and creating pathways for future women leaders.”