18/05/2026
Last weekend, our members Jodi Hobbs & Tracey LyndonGribbrock, were incredibly honoured to be selected to take part in the CFA North-East Region Women’s Challenge Camp 2026 along with Vicki White from Hillcrest CFA they set off together for an unforgettable weekend dedicated to bringing together the amazing women of CFA for growth, challenge, connection, and plenty of fun.
Set amongst the stunning native bushland of the beautiful Ovens Valley, at the foothills of Victoria’s Alpine High Country, Valley Homestead Camp provided the perfect backdrop for an incredible two-day, two-night adventure.
This camp was all about stepping outside comfort zones, building confidence, learning new skills, expanding networks, and forming friendships that will last a lifetime. It was a weekend full of encouragement, empowerment, and laughter, with memories made that will never be forgotten.
The women were privileged to hear from an outstanding lineup of inspiring keynote speakers, each sharing valuable insights from their own CFA journeys and leadership experiences:
⭐ **Dr Kate Cashman**
⭐ **Deputy Chief Officer Gavin Thompson AFSM**
⭐ **Assistant Chief Fire Officer Steve Contessa (District 24)
⭐ **Emma Conway AFSM**
⭐ **Dawn Hartog AFSM**
⭐ **Natalie MacDonald**, former CEO of CFA
Their stories, advice, and leadership lessons were incredibly motivating and reinforced the importance of women supporting women within emergency services.
The weekend wasn’t just about leadership and learning, it was packed with exciting challenges designed to push personal boundaries and build trust, resilience, and teamwork.
Activities included:
HBDI Personality Quiz, helping participants better understand thinking styles, communication, and teamwork approaches.
The Power Pole Challenge, with both 7m and 10m climbs, finishing with a leap toward a trapeze while safely harnessed and supported by a six-person belay team!
Aerial Obstacle Course, tackling high ropes challenges that tested courage, balance, and determination.
Dual Flying Fox, an adrenaline-filled 220m ride soaring up to 20m above the ground.
Experiences like this remind us that the CFA is so much more than firefighting, it’s about community, leadership, personal growth, teamwork, and creating opportunities for everyone.
To any women considering joining CFA, there is absolutely a place for you. Whether you’re interested in becoming a General Firefighter, taking on a non-operational support role, community education, administration, logistics, fundraising, or leadership there is a role for everyone.
The CFA is stronger because of the incredible women who step forward to serve their communities.
If you’ve ever thought about joining, this is your sign. Come be part of something extraordinary at Little Yarra CFA. 🚒🔥