CARRUM Downs CFA has appointed its first ever female lieutenant. Claire Maloney was named the Carrum Downs brigade’s first female lieutenant last week. She is also the first fifth lieutenant in the brigade’s history.
Maloney said she will also serve as protective equipment manager, as the brigade welcomes a new breathing apparatus truck.
“It’s fun to be at the decision table with the brigade management team and get a peek behind the curtain,” she said. “I don’t think I started off with that in mind but it has definitely grown on me.”
Maloney ran a confidence course for crew trainers prior to her promotion. “I definitely learned lots through that and it helped me to get the confidence to step up into other roles,” she said.
Last week the Tyabb brigade also appointed Alida Goodchild as it fourth lieutenant. CFA deputy chief officer south east Trevor Owen said “these women are bringing fresh perspectives, strength, and dedication to their positions and inspiring the next generation of female leaders in CFA.”
First published in the Frankston Times – 5 August 2025