Child Protection Minister Simone McGurk has joined other daring Western Australians in abseiling 220 metres down the side of the Central Park building – one of Perth’s tallest buildings.
About 300 participants are taking part in this year’s Central Park Plunge, which is one of the largest charity abseil events to be held in a central business district.
Minister McGurk, who is also the Minister responsible for Women’s Interests, took the Plunge flanked by three female firefighters from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ (DBCA) Parks and Wildlife Service in a show of support for the department’s push to increase the number of women in fire management.
DBCA’s Parks and Wildlife Service launched its Women in Fire Management Action Plan 2019-22 last month, promoting gender diversity in the workforce and encouraging women to get involved in a rewarding but traditionally male-dominated industry.
In a nod to the annual event’s superhero theme, Minister McGurk joined the female firefighters in uniform for the descent to form a team of ‘superheros of sorts’.
She participated in support of Cahoots, a local non-profit organisation that provides inclusive opportunities for young people living with disability.
Cahoots is funded through the Department of Communities to provide empowering camps and programs for children and young people with disabilities, so they can develop friendships, skills and confidence.
The Central Park Plunge is the key annual fundraising event for Cahoots, which has set a fundraising target of $80,000 this year.
The event, which raised more than $532,000 for WA charities in 2018, has prompted leaders from across government, business and community to put their fears aside to raise funds for charity.
As stated by Child Protection and Women’s Interests Minister Simone McGurk:
“As the Minister for Child Protection, I’m all too aware that children need opportunities like Cahoots’ camps and outings – adventures, learning and bonding with other kids – to thrive.
“Despite not being especially fond of heights, I’m very grateful for the opportunity to support Cahoots’ fundraising efforts by taking the Plunge.
“The McGowan Government is proud to support organisations like Cahoots that provide an invaluable service to children and young people with disabilities.
“It is also committed to providing equal opportunities for all to progress their careers – particularly in traditionally male-dominated occupations like fire management.
“These female firefighters are dedicated and passionate about their jobs, and I hope taking the Plunge alongside them will encourage more women to consider a rewarding career in fire management.”
