Women honoured in new book

THE lives, stories and contributions of older women in Ballarat are being celebrated in a new book.

Older Women’s Recipes for Respect Ballarat was recently launched at the Eureka Centre Ballarat.

It is part of the #TheBiscuitTin Project, which aims to raise awareness about older women’s contributions and shares the stories of 10 locals.

The Biscuit Tin Project in Ballarat was led by the City of Ballarat in partnership with Ballarat Community Health and the State Government.

“We are deeply grateful to the women who have courageously shared their stories – and to all those who are working to amplify their voices,” Ballarat Community Health CEO Sean Duffy said.

“The fight against ageism, elder abuse and gender inequality is a community effort.

“And it starts with respect. It starts with empathy. It starts with recognising the immense value that older women bring to our lives, and to our society.”

The women were part of a workshop held in June where they reflected on how older women are represented and what respect looks like.

“This project is about so much more than recipes, it’s about recognising the love, resilience and contribution of older women in our community,” mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said.

“As a city, we are committed to tackling ageism and building a culture of respect for all, including older people, which makes the stories in this book so important.

“The book reminds us that older women are leaders, carers, creators, and changemakers.”

#TheBiscuitTin Project was developed by charity Celebrate Ageing.

Call 5320 5500 or email [email protected] for a hard copy.

The book can also be downloaded online on the City of Ballarat website.