This article was originally published in print in the Swan Hill Guardian on March 8, 2019.
Nyah Nyah West Fire Brigade captain Miriam King:
FOR Nyah Nyah West Fire Brigade’s Miriam King, pictured, being a female captain feels to her like “walking against the current”.
Capt King joined the Country Fire Authority (CFA) 10 years ago when she moved to Nyah and was looking for a way to get involved in the community.
She said being a woman firefighter, let alone a female captain, has had it’s challenges.
“There just seems to be a bit more resistance, that you have to prove your abilities beyond that of the bloke standing next to you” she said.
“It’s in those times you need to dig your toes into the sand and push a bit harder.
“On occasion that resistance has made me want to give up but I’m always surprised at who reaches out and encourages me to keep going.”
Capt King said she had received “some amazing support and encouragement from many but you always get a few that you will never change their opinion”.
“CFA has taught me skills and challenged me well beyond what I ever thought I was capable of achieving and for that I’m grateful,” Capt King said.
The volunteer fire fighting captain said she had quickly developed a strong passion for fire fighting, looking for an opportunity to develop her skills and knowledge.
“I took on the position of communications officer then later as 2nd Lieutenant (training officer), but I never had any ambitions beyond that,” she said.
“Four years ago my brigade elected me as their captain.
“The captain’s role involves everything from the general administration of the brigade as well as leadership on the fire ground.”
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is #BalanceforBetter.
For Captain King the balance is the volunteering in the emergency services between work, CFA and her other interests to “help me keep life in perspective”.
“Being a captain can be very consuming at times and it’s important to take time out and relax,” she said.
When not out fighting fires or working full time, in the little time she has free, Capt King enjoys camping, fishing and photography.
Lillian Altman 