Breaking the bias this International Women's Day

Published on 22 February 2022

A panel of exceptional local women will speak about their experiences of “breaking the bias” and encouraging gender equality in their industry during local International Women’s Day celebrations on Tuesday, 8 March.

A free morning tea, occurring outdoors at Kerang’s Sir John Gorton Library from 10am, will see Gannawarra Shire Council’s Director Community Wellbeing, Stacy Williams and Northern District Community Health Chief Executive Officer, Mandy Hutchinson interview panel members on their work and achievements in the community.

"Celebrating International Women’s Day is an annual event where we collectively have an opportunity to pause and reflect on how we, as women, can support and nurture each other to be the best we can be. Women cheering on and learning from other women can result in powerful and meaningful insights and potential change," Ms Hutchinson said.

“The Gannawarra is proud to have held International Women’s Day celebrations since 2019, with this year’s morning tea the first community in-person event of this kind to occur since 2020,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, while also marking a call to action for accelerating gender equality.

“This year’s theme is #BreakTheBias, which encourages the acceptance of a diverse, equitable and inclusive world that is free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.”

Panel members who will be featured on the day include local business owner and physiotherapist, Lauren Edwards; Kerang District Health Chief Executive Officer, Kellie Byron-Gray; and Bendigo Pioneers NAB League Girls player, Demi Greenwood.

“Panel members are looking forward to inspiring those in attendance with their life stories and how their actions are leading to gender equality,” Mr O’Reilly said.

Bookings are essential. To book, please visit www.trybooking.com/BXMVP

This event is hosted by Gannawarra Shire Council in partnership with Northern District Community Health and is funded by Gannawarra Shire Council through the Victorian Government’s Community Activation and Social Isolation (CASI) Initiative.