Dominique May’s appointment has been more than a century in the making.
Ms May has made history by being elected Werribee Fire Brigade’s first female lieutenant in the branch’s 103-year history.
The volunteer firefighter, who joined the CFA in 2002, will go from secretary to the position of 6th lieutenant, a position that will formally take effect from July 1.
Ms May said she believed her volunteering set a great example for her two-year-old daughter Asha.
“I want to show Asha she can be anything she wants to be when she grows up, but most importantly that giving back to your community is so rewarding,” she said.
“I hope to set an example for the other females of our brigade, to encourage and inspire them to become leaders within CFA.
“Being elected by your peers to take on such an important role is a very humbling experience.”
Captain Michael Wells said Ms May’s appointment was a powerful message for all female firefighters.
“Dominique is not only a highly competant firefighter, but she is also a well-respected member and leader within our brigade,” he said.
Werribee firefighters also elected Damien Milloy as 1st lieutenant, Paul Ryan as 2nd lieutenant, Michael Davie as 3rd lieutenant, Brett Packer as 4th lieutenant and Scott Green as 5th lieutenant. The team will manage the brigade for the next two years.
