Trailblazing women across the south east region are stepping up into roles which have only ever been held by men.
Deputy Chief Officer South East, Trevor Owen, said it was amazing to see dedicated women taking on the challenge of leadership roles.
“These women are bringing fresh perspectives, strength, and dedication to their positions and inspiring the next generation of female leaders in CFA,” he said.
In District 11 Bronwyn “Bronnie” Jonkers from Wairewa brigade is the secretary, treasurer and now the fourth Deputy Group Officer of Orbost Group.
Bronnie is the first female DGO in Orbost Group. Bronnie has been a volunteer for just over five years, starting in Wairewa before moving to Stratford and then back to Wairewa.
Since then, Bronnie has been on a whirlwind of a ride, completing Women’s Challenge Camps, doing lots of training and was elected to the position of 4th Lieutenant at Stratford Brigade along with Fundraising Coordinator role before moving back to Wairewa.
As a mum of three kids Bronnie knows about keeping busy but hopes she can continue to learn and push herself in her new role.
“I have grown to love being able to help as much as I can,” she said.
“I signed up thinking I would just be a firefighter and fight fires but since being in CFA I have justcontinued to grow.”She encourages all girls and women to think about getting involved in CFA.”It is a great community to get involved in and you make a lot of new friends, all the women aresupportive and you will be really supported in pushing yourself,” she said.
