Caption: 'Mother Earth', created by Wimmera artist Maylah Howells, will be on display at Stawell Library from March 12 to 24 as part of the March Forward Art Exhibition.
Inspirational stories from regional women will be among the highlights of International Women's Day celebrations in Northern Grampians Shire.
Mayor Karen Hyslop encouraged people to celebrate the power, resilience and achievements of women at events in St Arnaud this Thursday and Stawell on Wednesday, March 12.
St Arnaud businesswoman Johanna Medlyn will host a panel discussion at St Arnaud Sporting Centre on Thursday night. The event, which includes a screening of the 'Equal the Contest' documentary, runs from 6pm to 8pm.
Cr Hyslop said organisers of the St Arnaud celebration were inspired by the journey of women in Australian Rules football.
"We are so lucky to have such an amazing line-up of speakers," she said.
"Abby Weir and her mother Melissa, a local teacher and youth advocate, will give insight into the modern journey of women and girls in football, and their experiences from a player and parent's perspective.
"Abby's insights will be via a recording due to placement commitments."
Cr Hyslop said Trina Summers and Megan Hortle would share some of the challenges they faced during childhood.
"Born in St Arnaud and now in their 50s, they both faced the challenge of having a passion for a game, but no opportunity to play it," she said.
"Their parents' strength to push through all barriers to allow them the opportunity to play a sport they love is inspiring."
The documentary is also football-themed and follows the story of the Mt Alexander Falcons, a community AFL club led by and for women and gender-diverse people.
"This is an amazing documentary about inclusion, gender equality and challenging old sporting traditions," Cr Hyslop said.
"If you haven't already, I encourage you to book your spot today. This is an evening not to be missed."
