Women in politics couldn’t be more front and centre in the media these days if it tried, and the recent ABC doco Ms Represented, which screened an account of politics from the female perspective, has been another prong in the fork.
Adding to the buzz this week in Byron Bay is Let’s Talk: Women in Politics which is bringing together local and national female politicians to share their stories, insights and perspectives on why Australian women are still largely underrepresented in politics.
The Community Hub, in collaboration with the Byron Community Centre and Sourdough Business Women, are holding the fundraising event this Wednesday to ignite debate and discussion about the journey of women in politics – past, present and future.
Let’s Talk: Women in Politics will be hosted by Mandy Nolan, who will be in conversation with Tamara Smith, Member for Ballina, Hon. Catherine Cusack MLC, Chair of the NSW State Development Committee, and Jenny Dowell OAM, former mayor of Lismore.
These four women will share their expertise and experience of their careers in Australian politics from various angles.
Jenny Dowell says that in the lead up to local government elections in December, the time is right for more women to step forward and nominate. ‘Being a councillor and mayor was the best job I’ve ever had despite the challenges. I hope that speaking of my experiences might encourage other women to think ‘I could do that’. Our councils are better when more women are elected.”
Sabine Muschter, founder of The Community Hub says that after Let’s Talk Menopause, we can present Women in Politics as the second in a series of informed conversations held at the Byron Theatre to connect, inform and inspire our community.
Community programs manager at the Byron Community Centre, Cherie Bromley, says she is delighted that the Byron Community Centre can present this informative and factual series of talks funded in part by the Byron Shire Council Community Initiatives Program. ‘The profits from this critical topic documenting women in politics will go towards our Feel Good Fridays women’s support group, a weekly opportunity for vulnerable women to access support and improve wellbeing.’
The Sourdough Business Women’s October Hub will be hosted upstairs on the Byron Community Centre verandah prior to the Let’s Talk event.
Sourdough’s Fiona Sheridan says Business Women is all about collaboration, support and the development of leadership for women in business in our community. ‘We’re thrilled with the opportunity to work with The Community Hub and Byron Community Centre in presenting what should be a fascinating and frank conversation with female leaders in politics. We’re also looking forward to hosting this month’s Byron Sourdough Business Women’s Hub upstairs on the verandah. Overall, this should be a very stimulating evening.’
Let’s Talk: Women in Politics will be held on Wednesday, 6 October from 7pm – 9pm, preceded by the Sourdough Business Women’s Hub from 5.30pm.
Audience members at Women in Politics will be invited to participate in the concluding Q&A session. Tickets available online at byrontheatre.com.
Please note: If the event is cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19 lockdown, all ticket holders will be contacted and arrangements made to transfer tickets to the new date or provide a refund.
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