FOR these local women, joining the ranks of male–dominated careers was a daunting move, but both Myrtleford police officer in charge sergeant Domenica Hunkin and Myrtleford CFA captain Gloria Pizzolitto are so glad they took the jump.
Domenica, a self–proclaimed "stubborn person" said she decided from a young age that policing was going to be her career.
"When I was young I just had it in my head I wanted to join the force; I didn't have any particular influence but I'm very stubborn so I just did it," she said.
"It was a big eye opener, I've been in the force for 20 years and it was a bit different back then; an extremely male–dominated organisation but, nevertheless, I was still able to get through and do what I needed to.
"With time both the organisation and the community expectation has changed and women are more encouraged to climb that ladder and reach for higher ranks.
Latest Stories
"In 2018 I decided to go out and become a sergeant and one thing led to another and now I'm the officer in charge and the first female sergeant at Myrtleford station.
"Thankfully, Romina McKewn being in her position at the Bright station was exciting for the community so she paved the way for me which was fantastic.
"I wasn't as shy or nervous as I would have been if she wasn't in that role first, but I was still coming to Myrtleford and wasn't sure how I'd be taken by the community or current members.
"It's been exciting and I've really seen a change in community opinion and they love having me here.
"I've been specifically sought out by women who need someone to talk to about more sensitive issues so it feels important to be here."
Domenica said she would absolutely recommend this career for other young girls and women.
"I've come across some new recruits who are discussing what I was worried about when I started," she said.
"Things like wondering how you can have a family as well as climb the ranks and my advice is you can have your cake and eat it too; you can do it all.
"You're supported to be flexible and if you want to do those things in life and achieve those goals and career choices you can because we're coming into a different era where women are encouraged to go out there and have a family while still having career."
Gloria first joined the Myrtleford brigade at the end of 2007 after her brother asked her to attend a meeting with the local crew and she has now been captain for four years.
"It was at that point that ex–captain Allan had asked me if I was interested in joining," she said.
"I was quite shy back then and wasn't overly sure of myself so I joined with my best friend and we began the basic training together.
"I eventually gained confidence over the years and was elected into a lieutenant role in 2015; learning from ex–captain Gary and following into captain in 2019.
"Back when I first joined, there weren't many women in the Brigade; only three at the time.
"One joined with me and the others were behind the scenes in secretarial and communications roles.
"We, like other brigades, also have a ladies auxiliary which helps out for events and fires when food needed to be prepared for weary firefighters.
"Looking around CFA early on, like Myrtleford, there weren't many women about and even fewer in leadership roles, so it was was a little daunting to step up.
"That being said, I had the full support of my brigade as well as other members in outer brigades and our Wodonga District Office."
For Gloria, joining the CFA has been like gaining a new family.
"I would absolutely recommend this to other women; I've gained new skills and vast networking opportunities with a variety of wonderful individuals and scenarios," she said.
"There are many roles which you can put your hand to; not only on the frontline of firefighting, but behind the scenes roles like treasurer, catering, training or logistics.
"There is something for everyone.
"If you're unsure whether volunteering with CFA is the right fit for you, take a breath and take a chance; you never know until you actually try it."
