The career firefighting session for women at Bangholme Training Ground yesterday (Sunday) gave more than 60 women valuable insight into this varied role.
Eight female and male career firefighters from several CFA integrated stations told their career stories, while offering advice on how to prepare for the involved process of applying to get a place on the coveted firefighting recruit course.
Recruitment Consultant Tegan Fisher said the session was successful in highlighting particular opportunities and challenges women come across during the application process and once they arrive on station as a career firefighter.
“Everyone was very positive, saying they found the day really informative, with the stories and content they heard motivating them to either start training or to ramp up their physical preparations for this upcoming recruitment round,” Tegan said.
“People learnt a lot about the recruitment process and what was involved, including how much physical preparation is needed to not only complete the recruitment process but also how physical the role of a career firefighter is.
"Our team was pleasantly surprised to hear so many of the attendees were planning to apply when the next round of applications open on 26 April."
Women asked a range of questions including what it’s like to be a mum and a career firefighter; how to manage shift work; balancing sporting commitments and general pros and cons of this career.
“It was great to hear people asking questions that helped the whole group get a better understanding of the role so they could make a really well informed decisions and submit their applications with confidence that they know what steps come next,” Tegan said.
Participants then got an opportunity to try out some sections of the Physical Ability Test where they took on physical challenges including dragging a dummy and hose, and crawling through tunnels.
“This activity gave a really hands-on insight into the level of physicality the role of a firefighter demands, allowing participants to test their existing skills to figure out what they would need to work on before applying for a place on the recruit course,” Tegan said.
Visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/firejobs to find out more about becoming a CFA career firefighter. The next round of applications opens 26 April.
Author: CFA Media