Brett Boatman farewells CFA

Brett’s connection to CFA began in 1984 as a junior member at Elmhurst Fire Brigade, following a long family history of volunteering in the Pyrenees. Ten years later he joined CFA as one of nine recruits at Fiskville, beginning what would become a distinguished 31-year staff career. 

Across that time Brett worked in multiple districts and held a range of senior roles, including Commander for Aviation and Alpine Operations, Assistant Chief Fire Officer across several districts, and, most recently, Deputy Chief Officer West Region. 

His latest role saw him play key roles in major incidents across the state, including the recent fires in Pomonal, the Grampians and the Little Desert.  

Brett also helped shape several important CFA initiatives, including doctrine for alternative energy systems, the Safe Work at Heights program, and improvements in operational readiness and safety. 

Reflecting on his journey with CFA at a farewell event in Buninyong, Brett said the organisation has always been part of his life. 

“CFA was never something I signed up for, it was just part of life in our house growing up,” Brett said. 

“CFA and life were interchangeable. When fire came through our district, the whole community just arrived. People showed up because that is what you did.” 

“The heart of CFA is in the pride of volunteers and the families who have served for generations,” he said. 

“You see the best of people when they are tired, under pressure and still turning up, CFA is built on relationships. It is built on people turning up for each other when it matters.” 

Brett said it has been a privilege to serve communities across Victoria, particularly in the west of the state. 

“I have loved this place, and I am looking forward to staying part of the CFA family,” he said. 

As he steps into his new role, Brett is not lost to CFA. He plans to stay connected by volunteering with Napoleons Enfield Fire Brigade.