VFBV

On behalf of the VFBV Board and volunteer leaders across CFA, it is with sadness and regret that I write to advise members that today Minister Merlino announced the sacking of the CFA Board, and shortly after this there was a separate announcement from CEO Lucinda Nolan, announcing her resignation effective immediately. This is a sad day for CFA and a sign of the incredibly challenging times we find ourselves in.

I don’t wish to mix messages about my disappointment in the Government’s move to sack the CFA Board nor the pressures that have led to CEO Lucinda Nolan deciding to resign with my thanks and praise for the work that all of these people have done for CFA during their time with us. But I certainly will have more to say about that concern elsewhere.

For now my message is thank you to each and every one of the CFA Board members for your contribution, your values and your efforts. We haven’t always agreed about every decision but certainly on this threshold issue of your stance to attempt to save CFA, you have been exemplary.

To Lucinda Nolan, CFA’s first ever female CEO, I know I speak for volunteers across the state with our admiration for your integrity, your openness and your strong leadership. There have been many challenges confronting CFA in recent years, and many described you as the bright light on the hill that was going to help us move forward in a terrific way. The work you were likely to do has been cut short and Victoria will be the worse off. Thank you in the short time you were here, you have left a strong mark on CFA and we won’t forget you.

Andrew Ford

VFBV Chief Executive Officer