300 women across Gippsland united on International Women’s Day to share, learn and inspire at a workshop hosted by the ‘Women in Gippsland’ community group.
The event theme ‘Pressing for Progress’ encourages a community wide call to action to press forward and progress women’s equality in the face of those who resist it.
The workshop facilitated by Leah Mether, Director of Methmac Communications, included inspiring speeches from Larnder Park CEO Nicola Pero and former Baw Baw Shire councillor and Mayor Ruth McGowan.
Representing Baw Baw Shire Council was councillors Mikaela Power and Jessica O’Donnell, CEO Alison Leighton and 20 council employees.
Cr Mikaela Power, a strong advocate for women’s rights and equality, said it was inspiring to be in the same room as so many local women all listening, sharing stories and working together to better the future for women everywhere.
Cr Jessica O’Donnell described the event as a beautifully inspiring morning with a magnetic energy in the room.
“It is truly a time to reflect on gender equality, how far we have come, and how far we have to go. Well done to ‘Women in Gippsland’ for putting on another stellar event to celebrate local women”, she said.
CEO Alison Leighton praised the event as a fantastic opportunity for women across Gippsland to connect, collaborate and plan for a more inclusive and supportive community.
“International Women’s Day is a time for all women and men to reflect on the progress of women’s rights to date, to call for further changes to gender equality, and to recognise the achievements of women in our community”, Ms Leighton said.
“I am proud to work in an organisation that recognises the importance of gender equality and the need to create safe and inclusive work places. As CEO I take my responsibilities in this regard very seriously.
“Whilst we do have further work to do in this area, I would like to personally thank all of the men and women in this organisation and the wider community who understand the importance of, and are actively working towards, gender equality.”
