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Woman defying stereotypes to fight fires across Victoria

When I’m sitting on the back of the truck on the way to a call and I look around to see who’s in the cab with me, I don’t look at male and female, I see who’s got my back.

Bridgett Young, 21 year old girl from Devon Meadows is a vol. firefighter, showing other young women they are capable of joining something that is typically male dominated. Picture by Wayne Taylor
Bridgett Young, 21 year old girl from Devon Meadows is a vol. firefighter, showing other young women they are capable of joining something that is typically male dominated. Picture by Wayne Taylor

I joined my local CFA almost two years ago and it is of the greatest things I have ever done. I am immensely proud to be part of such a big and diverse family.

I work a regular nine to five job during the week and I needed something more in my life, something that would fullfill my need to do something good, to push myself and to make a difference in the community. I found that very quickly in the Devon Meadows Fire Brigade.

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We recently spent the weekend at the Grantville fires and it was a lot of hard work but being in such a good team and with all the training behind me it was a really eventful weekend.

Bridgett Young, 21 year old girl from Devon Meadows is a vol. firefighter, showing other young women they are capable of joining something that is typically male dominated. Picture by Wayne Taylor
Bridgett Young, 21 year old girl from Devon Meadows is a vol. firefighter, showing other young women they are capable of joining something that is typically male dominated. Picture by Wayne Taylor

It always confuses me when people call me brave for being a part of the CFA because it’s a male dominated work space as if that is what makes it brave.

When I’m sitting on the back of the truck on the way to a call and I look around to see who’s in the cab with me, I don’t look at male and female, I see who’s got my back. We’re all sitting there for the exact same reason.

Devon Meadows Fire Brigade at Grantville recently. Pic: Supplied
Devon Meadows Fire Brigade at Grantville recently. Pic: Supplied

Anyone with anything to do with the CFA will tell you there’s a lot involved but there’s nothing more rewarding.

I would strongly encourage anyone from any background to inquire about doing something in your local community and doing something for nothing is something you won’t regret.

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Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/south-east/woman-defying-stereotypes-to-fight-fires-across-victoria/news-story/86e581b9e92c28db2251fc28f6c82c2a