South West Women Jump In Driver's Seat

Lauren Minns, Dereel Fire Brigade

More than 30 women in CFA have recently added trailer reversing and truck driving to their skillset, having taken part in a dedicated Women's Driving Skills Day in the states' southwest.

Members from 21 brigades gathered on Saturday, 21 June at the North Geelong Cotton On Headquarters hoping to boost their confidence in operating and handling large vehicles and trailers.

A member survey revealed there was a strong desire among women in CFA's District 7 to build practical skills in a supportive environment, with operational driving highlighted as a key priority.

Eight volunteer driver educators and CFA District 7 leaders were on hand to assist the guided training, and to encourage progression to more complex manoeuvres once comfortable.

The event, run by CFA's District 7 Women's Network, is just one of many development opportunities to strengthen collaboration between members and support the growth of practical skills.

Having just finished her General Firefighter course, participant and Dereel Fire Brigade secretary and firefighter Lauren Minns thought it was the perfect timing to jump in the driver's seat.

"I've been non-operational for three years, so driving a truck wasn't really on my radar, however having just finished my training, I felt this would be the perfect environment to learn," Lauren said.

"Since my training sessions, I've got a whole new sense of appreciation for how much truck drivers have to think about, and my role as a supporting crew member too, with guiding and reversing."

The day focused on trailer reversing and tanker driving, with some participants opting to embark on supervised training on the road.

While Lauren has had experience towing horse floats and trailers, she was yet to tackle a vehicle that long before.

"Driving the truck itself was definitely a highlight, because I was pretty nervous about that. I really wanted to give it a go and not walk away from the day having not done it," Lauren said.

"Heading out on the road wasn't something I was expecting to achieve that day either. But our driving instructor Stephen was so supportive and so clear with his instructions.

Lauren said the atmosphere was key to their learning, with participants grouped together based on skill level to reduce intimidation.

"I was a total beginner, so having someone who was similar to me in the same group made it less confrontational and it really added to the experience," Lauren said.

"It was a great opportunity to connect with like-minded people and make new connections.

"Everyone was on a real high. The vibe was chatty, energetic, and I think a lot of people achieved new things and gained a real confidence boost that day."

CFA South West Volunteer Sustainability Team member Jess Brittain who assisted in delivering the day, said the event was overwhelmingly positive, with more than half of the women expressing interest in taking on driving responsibilities within their brigades.

"It was amazing to see the change in the women as the day went on. You could see some were quite nervous to start, but with support from their peers and the driver educators, everyone gave it a go," Jess said.

"By the end of the day, the energy had completely shifted. They were proud of themselves and each other, it was so pleasing to see them walk out a bit taller and more confident," Jess said.

The District 7 Women's Network will host their next event, a hot fire training day at VEMTC Central Highlands on Saturday, 11 October.