You're invited to our 2025 International Women's Day event on Thursday 6 March. This year's theme is 'March Forward' and at Nillumbik, we're focusing on the impacts our younger generations are having on creating progressive change for gender equity.
This year's keynote speech will be delivered by Courtney Ugle, a proud Noongar woman who plays in the Victorian Women's Football League for the Footscray Bulldogs.
Having lost both her parents in tragic circumstances while she was very young, Ugle's resilience and growth have been remarkable. She is an experienced public speaker who recently founded social enterprise Waangkiny, which aims to empower communities to transform adversity into influence through the power of storytelling.
Joining Courtney Ugle for a panel discussion will be Councillors Naomi Joiner, Kelly Joy and Kate McKay, and Youth Council Mayor Orianna Edmonds.
Deputy Mayor Naomi Joiner said International Women's Day is an important event on the community's calendar.
"While we look forward to celebrating the achievements women have made across the world, International Women's Day is also a time to reflect on what more needs to be done to achieve gender equality," Cr Joiner said.
"The 'March Forward' theme is pertinent for Nillumbik – we have many young women leaders in our Shire who will go on to achieve great things, and who are making strides already.
"The three women councillors at Nillumbik, myself included, are new to Council, and we welcome the opportunity to meet and speak with residents at our International Women's Day event," she said.
Mayor John Dumaresq said Council is proud to support and celebrate International Women's Day.
"We look forward to welcoming Courtney Ugle to speak at our IWD function and invite all community members to this special event," Cr Dumaresq said.
The 2025 International Women's Day event will be a catered lunchtime event at Eltham Community and Reception Centre from 12-3pm. Tickets are $50 and includes lunch and a gift bag. There will an opportunity to network with other guests after the formal part of the function.
Tickets are on sale now at nillumbik.vic.gov.au/IWD
