Women at Tarrengower support the local CFA | Corrections Victoria

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The women at Tarrengower Prison contribute approximately 180 hours per month supporting the local community through community lunches and work with local Country Fire Authority (CFA) stations.

The women at Tarrengower Prison contribute approximately 180 hours per month supporting the local community through community lunches and work with local Country Fire Authority (CFA) stations.

Bill Chapman coordinates the Tarrengower community work site visits at the Castlemaine CFA and believes that this work, whilst supporting the CFA, gives the women a sense of purpose in giving back to the community.

The women have been cleaning the Castlemaine CFA and polishing the trucks since the new station opened almost 12 years ago.

Bill describes the women as ‘not afraid of hard work’ and says ‘the job’s always beautifully done’, adding that everyone works well together and he enjoys the interaction and discussions he has had with the many women who have participated over the years.

Bill, in his 80s, first got involved with the CFA through his father in 1935, and his relationship with the CFA, which he calls a ‘family affair’ has continued for 70 years with his children also involved in the service.

Now retired, and no longer an active CFA member he enjoys seeing the women gain confidence and learn new skills. He says it’s especially rewarding to see those who are ‘city girls’ develop an appreciation of rural services and enjoys sharing his stories with them over a cup of tea.

Bill also spends his spare time doing valuable work supporting the men at Loddon Prison and Middleton through his work with the Prison Ministry.

The longstanding relationship between Tarrengower Prison and the Castlemaine CFA is a great partnership built on teamwork and cooperation, and Bill is excited to see it continue for many years to come.

We are grateful for the support of organisations like the CFA, and wonderful individuals like Bill, whose support actively contributes to the successful transition and reintegration journey of the women at Tarrengower.