International Women’s Day celebrated at Murrook Highlight Section Myall Coast Port Stephens by News Of The Area - Modern Media - March 13, 2024 Students with member for Port Stephens Kate Washington and member for Paterson Meryl Swanson at the sold out International Women’s Day event. Photo: Henk Tobbe. IN the spirit of fostering gender equality and celebrating the achievements of women around the globe, local MPs Meryl Swanson and Kate Washington hosted an International Women’s Day (IWD) event on March 7 at the Murrook Culture Centre. The theme for this year’s IWD event was ‘Count Her In: Accelerating gender equality through economic empowerment’. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au The local IWD event is now in its sixth year, dedicated to celebrating and championing the economic empowerment of the women of Port Stephens. This year’s theme aims to collectively propel gender equality forward, ensuring that every woman is included and recognised. The event at Murrook Culture Centre featured a panel of impressive local school leaders, recognition of Port Stephens Woman of the Year, as well as an opportunity for local business women to promote their products and services at a ‘market’ following the formalities. Proceeds from the event were donated to Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services (PSFANS), the Yacaaba Centre and Indigenous women’s programs at Murrook Culture Centre. “Women’s voices are essential in decision-making processes, not just for their own benefit but for the betterment of society as a whole,” said Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson MP. “By coming together at this event, we’re taking a step forward in creating a more inclusive, equitable world.” Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington thanked the community for supporting the event once more. “After six years of hosting our International Women’s Day breakfast, Meryl Swanson and I still absolutely love it. “Years ago when we first designed it, we wanted to celebrate local women leaders and empower our local girl school leaders. “Little has changed since, even our event sponsors have stayed the same. “We’re grateful to Newcastle Airport, Tomago Aluminium and Hunter Water for partnering with us from the beginning, so proceeds can go to the Yacaaba Centre, PSFANS and women’s programs run by Murrook. “The highlight of the event has also been consistent over the years – with our impressive school leaders filling us all with hope for the future,” she said. By Marian SAMPSON
