A photo of a volunteer firefighter breastfeeding her baby on the Country Fire Authority Facebook page has sparked online debate and is inspiring other mothers to join the organisation.
The post has received around 40,000 likes and shared more than 4500 times since being published earlier this week.
A CFA spokesperson wrote that 1.4 million people had viewed the image and only two had ‘unliked’ the CFA page.
Many others applauded the mother, Angela Joy, and the CFA for supporting breastfeeding women.
Ms Joy told the ABC her husband took the photo near the Tallygaroopna station in northern Victoria, where they are both members, after the CFA requested pictures that represented Australia.
“While this wasn’t the iconic koala or gum tree firefighter image, I sent it in. To me, it represented how grateful I am to be a firefighter in the CFA in a more mature Australia working for such a diverse organisation.”
The mother of four said the image was not about normalising breastfeeding, but if it had that effect, it was an added bonus.
“One of the comments I saw was a young mum contemplating volunteering with the CFA but wasn’t sure if they’d be supportive,” Ms Joy said.
“But after seeing my photo she said she was definitely going to volunteer.”
A number of mothers have expressed a desire to join the CFA in the comments on the post.
A great result.
Top Comments
There is nothing wrong with breastfeeding and baby. Women's breasts are only for feeding a baby and DO NOT HAVE TO COVER UP. There is nothing sexual about feeding a baby and anyone who is bothered by seeing a breast while a woman is feeding a baby needs some serious help (probably shouldn't be around kids.). adverts on tv, going to the beach, general clothes that people wear day to day now show more. Get a grip people
What's wrong with breastfeeding discreetly these days?????
Could I please get a comprehensive set of rules and regulations surrounding exactly when and where women are allowed to breastfeed so that I don't overstep the boundaries of 1950s decorum?
Oh, wait, it's 2016. And this is discreet.
Go do a Marty McFly and make your way back to 1955. You'll fit right in.
A baby only cares that it is hungry, and doesn't care about being discreet. Get over yourself.
You both have misinterpreted what I was saying. Quick to jump the point as usual. A cloth covering the boob will go a long way. People do not want to see the boob. Honestly the conclusions you guys jump to are so ridiculous. Talk about getting defensive. Yes we have rights but have some decorum!!!!!
I thought the photo was discreet, I actually scrolled past and didn't realise she was breastfeeding!