AWE at ESF IWD Event in Bairnsdale, East Gippsland, Victoria

AWE was proud to partner with the Emergency Services Foundation to host an International Women’s Day event in Bairnsdale, East Gippsland, Victoria on 28 February. Almost 50 women (and a few men!) from across the emergency management sector gathered to increase camaraderie, support, and acknowledgement, and to understand and generate ideas to overcome gender-specific factors that influence mental health outcomes.

AWE’S Vice-President Amanda Lamont says she was taken by surprise by the candour, vulnerability, honesty and courage shown by the women speakers, not only in standing up to share their personal stories, but the stories of courage and fortitude and determination.  Amanda said, “I was moved and inspired and went away hopeful about a future emergency management sector led by these women.”

Andrew Crisp, Commissioner Emergency Management Victoria once again attended the event, and instead of asking Andrew to have a photo with us, this year we asked Linda Crisp, Andrew’s partner to join us for a photograph. It is important to remember that the partners of those in the emergency management sector have such an important role to play in emergencies. Thanks for coming along Linda, we would love to have you join our network.