Honouring Our Rural Women From Field To Frontline

Underbool Fire Brigade volunteer firefighter Cassey Gloster (Weston) Underbool Fire Brigade volunteer firefighter Cassey Gloster (Weston)

CFA is helping change history as it continues to celebrate and empower all its women of CFA this International Day of Rural Women.

On 15 October each year, CFA honours the dedication and contribution of its 12,500 women members, many of which are also primary producers, truly representing our rural communities across the state.

Underbool Fire Brigade volunteer firefighter Cassey Gloster (Weston) knows all too well the importance of gender equality having lived in a small rural town her whole life.

"Women should be celebrated until we're all equal," Cassey said.

"Back in the day, women supported the men by making food for the fireground. Times have changed and no matter what brigade I turn-out with, they're all inclusive, brave and courageous."

"I've been so well supported by great leaders at Underbool, Murrayville, Ouyen and Marong. We are not defined by gender, and it feels like family.

"Building equality can be challenging, especially in small townships, however when it comes to emergencies, everyone has something to offer and we're happy for anyone to have a crack. Small towns grow stronger when everyone can serve in some way.

"When women join their local fire brigade, they break barriers and show courage, strength and demonstrate leadership isn't defined by gender – we are a team.

"We're all different but we all have something to offer. We are also raising our kids around our fire brigades to become next generation firefighters."

Cassey has a background in agricultural research and is currently working for Mildura Council where she's heavily connected with farmers, delivering many projects in local communities.

She's working through many of the challenges of the drought-stricken region and highly values the importance of our hard-working agriculture community.

Cassey is the only operational woman in her brigade and while that's not an issue for her, she would love to encourage more women to join their local brigade.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer and International Day of Rural Women sponsor Stewart Kreltszheim said it's important for CFA and the broader community to celebrate women all year round.

"Women are the backbone of their communities, often juggling various responsibilities to keep everything running smoothly," Stewart said.

"As a father of three daughters growing up in provincial Victoria, I carry a deeply personal commitment to fostering an environment where every girl and woman feels seen, supported and empowered.

"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 always impressed by the various women's groups and committees which continue to build diversity, fairness and future female leaders of CFA – they do incredible work in supporting and inspiring women and should be proud of they what they continue to achieve."

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