With donations from the local community, Jean Theaker and her husband Allan started the Mt. Forbes/Mutdapilly rural fire service in 1960 with "some leather beaters and a few 4 litre drums". From these humble beginnings, the fire service is still going strong thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers. Jean held the key position of Fire Warden of the chapter for 27 years, taking over from her husband after he became ill. The Fire Warden role has traditionally been filled by men, but despite this June says that she never felt her gender was an issue and thoroughly enjoyed the responsibilities the job entailed. These responsibilities included deciding fire permit applications and responding to fire emergencies. A move to nearby Ipswich earlier this year forced Jean's retirement from the position she loved. Her years of dedication were formally recognised in February by the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service, where it was highlighted that Jean was the only female fire warden in Queensland. She was awarded with a certificate of appreciation and a plaque to say 'thank you' for her valuable contribution to the Mutdapilly community. Despite retiring, Jean still keeps an eye on fire danger and weather conditions and remains a contributing member of the service, attending all the meetings and fundraising events of the chapter she helped found 41 years ago. |
By Natalie Martino Volunteer Writer, Volunteering
Queensland September 2001