Celebrating International Women’s Day in Dubbo
In one of the largest gatherings of rural women in NSW, over 750 women from across the State met to celebrate International Women’s Day in Dubbo.
Designed as a break from the drought and a chance to celebrate women’s achievements locally and globally, the day featured a series of inspiring speakers and a range of information stalls.
The event was opened by the NSW Minister for Primary Industries Ian Macdonald who commended the fighting spirit of rural women affected by the ongoing drought.
He described their ability to keep striving to survive the financial pressures of drought and maintain family and community networks as 'nothing short of inspiring'.
The crowd then heard from locals Amanda Ferrari and Kerri Kerin who wrote Desperate Garden Wives - Unlocking the Mysteries of Gardening Out West along with Lucy Ferguson and Sally Montgomery. Their own frustration at not being able to have the gardens they so desired has now turned into a useful resource for others.
Mahboba Rawi provided a moving and inspirational picture of her life in Afghanistan, her love of now living in Australia, and her personal drive to support Afghanistan’s people rebuild their lives. Mahboba is the author of the autobiography Mahoba’s Promise and founder of an aid organisation, also called Mahoba’s Promise.
The event ended with laughter and motivation from Robyn Moore, a magnificent and genuine communicator who is the voice of Blinky Bill and star of How Green was my Cactus.
The day was initiated by the Rural Women’s Network (RWN) and sponsored by the State Government’s drought support program. It was organised by the RWN in partnership with Women Out West and the NSW Premier’s Department’s Office for Women.
Free buses transported women in from Wee Waa, Lake Cargelligo, West Wyalong, Orange, Mandurama/Blayney, Harden, Gunnedah/Coonabarabran, Crookwell, Walgett/Coonamble, Dungog, Brewarrina and Cowra to the event.
International Women’s Day is celebrated throughout the world on March 8, recognising the achievements of women, their contribution to society, and identifying areas where women’s lives can be improved.