Taradale and Malmsbury fire brigades recently hosted a 'Women in Leadership' high tea at Malmsbury Town Hall.
Organisers of the High Tea. “Any organisation that does not fully reflect the community it engages with cannot achieve its full potential."
Women from local CFA brigades, Ambulance Victoria, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and the local community came together to listen to speakers talk on the topic of leadership. It was also an opportunity to meet other women who work in emergency services.
Speakers included Margaret Augerinos, CEO for the Centre for Non-Violence, Mary-Anne Thomas MP, Member for Macedon, and Dr Jessica Crofts from Macedon Ranges Shire Council.
“This opportunity was made possible through a grant from Loddon Mallee Region of CFA and is one of many great initiatives across the state,” said Malmsbury Fire Brigade Captain Tony Stephens.
“For CFA to effectively fulfil its mission, its membership must be representative of the community we serve. Right now female numbers are under-represented across CFA, particularly in operational and leadership roles.
“The same goes for members from minority groups, including the LBGQTI community and people with English as a second language.
“By supporting our women with events like this, it not only shows that CFA values their work, but also demonstrates to those who may consider CFA as a career or volunteering option that it is an inclusive and increasingly diverse organisation.
“By increasing the diversity across CFA is not only a win for us at the brigade level, but a win for the community as a whole.”
Captain Stephens’ views were echoed by Taradale Fire Brigade Lieutenant Leanne Schomacker.
“In a rural environment it can be a real challenge for community members to stay connected, and opportunities to network in a meaningful way are few and far between,” she said after attending the high tea.
“This event allowed like-minded women to get together, discuss issues, listen to successful influential guest speakers and hopefully continue to break down the barriers to female participation in organisations such as CFA and also in leadership roles generally.
“Women make up approximately 50 per cent of the population, and for any organisation to maximise its potential it must reflect, in its employee or volunteer base, the community it seeks to represent.
“Any organisation that does not fully reflect the community it engages with cannot achieve its full potential.
“Our local brigades, as well as many others throughout the state, are working hard to break down the barriers, identify and address issues and encourage all that can make a positive contribution to take the next step.”
For more information you can contact Malmsbury or Taradale fire brigades direct or visit them on Facebook.