An ABC investigation has revealed that the Queensland Fire Department (QFD) failed to formally discipline men who rang a bell when “attractive’ female recruits walked by to alert others so they “could have a look”. Instead, those involved received a “talking to” from Commissioner Stephen Smith, the chief HR officer at the time.
The practice occurred at the combined emergency services training academy in Whyte Island.
The ABC reports that more than a dozen people made allegations of a "macho hero" culture in QFD, where sexism and bullying complaints are swept under the rug. These people said a culture of fear and silence discouraged lodgements of complaints due to concerns that their career progression could be impacted or lead to reprisals.
Justin Choveaux, general manager of the Rural Fire Brigades Association of Queensland (representing firefighters), raised the bell-ringing incidents with the office of Minister for Fire and Disaster Recovery earlier this year, and wrote to Premier Steven Miles to suggest an investigation into QFD’s culture
Ms Sandy Brown, who currently serves as the first officer in Theebine, a group officer in Mount Kanigan, and an RFBAQ delegate, says despite her love for the role she is "ready to walk away" after experiencing bullying and sexism.
Source: ABC News 'Attractive' female firefighting recruits subjected to 'bell ringing' at Brisbane training academy