Roadshow to celebrate Central Highlands’ women

Central Highlands Regional Council invites women and men to join in the global celebration of International Women’s Day on 8 March 2019. Under the motto #balanceforbetter groups celebrating the day advocate for a more gender-balanced world.

Council will host a week-long roadshow across the region, bringing along guest speaker and former Queensland Country Women’s Association State President Joy Coulson.

Councillor Gail Godwin-Smith said the Central Highlands is a region of opportunities for women and the International Women’s Day roadshow is a great way to network, share stories and experiences.

‘Each year on International Women’s Day council facilitates events to bring people together to network, share stories and experiences that celebrate women’s achievements,’ Cr Godwin-Smith said.

‘Council is actively advocating for facilities and resources to contribute to gender equality, including improved childcare centres, flexibility, local career and development opportunities.

‘Also, our region is home to 13,241 women, many of whom work in the major industries of mining and agriculture, that are traditionally male-dominated.’

Joy Coulson said she is looking forward to visiting the region and share her story.

Now based on the Sunshine Coast, Ms Coulson comes from South Africa and is grateful for the opportunities Australia has provided her and her family, although she believes the challenges in gender-balance are the same around the world.

‘I’m grateful for the life I’ve lived and the opportunity to come to Australia and make it a home for my children,’ Ms Coulson said.

‘I have always believed in equal opportunities and making things works for the better, regardless of where I am.

‘If we live for the moment and take opportunities, work together and are positive along the journey, we will achieve great things.’

Ms Coulson was heavily involved in QCWA’s efforts alongside the State Government to launch the Queensland Drought Appeal to support people in regional Queensland who had been affected by drought, many of who are now affected by recent flooding.

Cr Godwin-Smith said Ms Coulson is a strong role model for all members of the community and encourages people to attend a session near them.

‘The Central Highlands region does not lack strong, generous and successful women but such is Joy’s experience as a senior member of Queensland’s largest and most wide spread women’s organisation,’ she said.

‘Join her at on the International Women’s Day roadshow and be inspired by her determination, spirit and compassion for others.’

The International Women’s Day events will be hosted at the following venues next week:

Monday 4 March, 10.00 am – 11.00 am, Rolleston Library

Monday 4 March, 3.00 pm – 4.30 pm, Springsure Library

Tuesday 5 March, 6.00 pm – 7.00 pm, Rubyvale Hall

Wednesday 6 March, 10.00 am – 11.00 am, Tieri Library garden

Wednesday 6 March, 3.00 pm – 4.30 pm, Capella Library

Thursday 7 March, 10.00 am, Blackwater Civic Centre Supper Room

Thursday 7 March, 2.30 pm – 3.30 pm, Dingo Hall

Friday 8 March, 10.00 am – 11.00 am, Emerald Library

For more information visit council’s website or phone 1300 242 686.