International women’s day celebrated in macedon

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas is hosting a Virtual Cuppa with Riddells Creek local hero Ms Gill Metz AFSM to mark International Women’s Day 2022 which is on the 8th of March.

Ms Metz is a member of the Riddells Creek CFA and with more than 1250 incident responses under her belt, was a 2022 recipient of the Australia Day Honours Meritorious Service Award, the Australian Fire Service Medal.

Ms Metz has been in the CFA for the past 22 years in various roles including volunteer, secretary, firefighter and lieutenant. During her time at the CFA, Gill has been a fierce driver for change as well as advocating for increased youth engagement and increased diversity in brigades.

Ms Metz held the position of Assistant Chief Fire Officer for the Hume Region. Her role oversaw the operation of emergency preparedness and response, forest management and stakeholder relationships across four Fire Districts – Upper Murray, Goulburn, Murrindindi and Ovens.

The Virtual Cuppa will be held online to celebrate International Women’s Day.

The theme for this year’s IWD campaign is Break The Bias, a proactive campaign for women, by women in order to challenge stereotypes in workplaces, communities and schools.

This year women from across the world will be "striking a pose" by crossing their arms in solidarity across all social media platforms to show strength and unity.

If you would like to join this year’s IWD celebrations or participate in activities, please visit: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/

Quotes from Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas

"I am absolutely honoured to engage with women from our local community about what mattered to them for International Women’s Day 2022."

"Gill Metz is an absolute inspiration to women in Macedon. She has shown strength, grit and determination and has been recognised this year in the Australia Day Awards with Australian Fire Service Medal. Her ongoing work within our community is valued and she is a true role model."