Setting the standard

LAST Friday I, like many people around the world, celebrated International Women’s Day.

This year, the UN Women global theme for International Women’s Day was “Count Her In: Accelerating gender equality through economic empowerment”.

I am proud the City’s chief executive, Ali Wastie, is a woman, and that so many women in the organisation hold positions of leadership.

About two-thirds of management positions are held by women, which is the same figure for the makeup of our overall workforce.

It is important that we set the standard for others and to be seen as leaders in this space.

I was also thrilled to see some brilliant women recognised for their contributions to our region at the annual Women in Community Life Awards.

This event acknowledges the extraordinary influence and community leadership of women across Greater Geelong – particularly the impact they have made to promote and advocate for the advancement of gender equality.

Of the seven awards issued, it was nice to see that two of the winners, Yvonne Parker and Lee Fox, came from the Bellarine Ward.

Yvonne is a climate activist and volunteer with Geelong Sustainability and has long been an inspiration for women and girls with her advocacy efforts. Whether it is picking up rubbish on our beaches or simply proving that that you are never ‘too’ anything to have a go at something, she is a wonderful example of what it means to be invested in your community.

Yvonne is known for using her writing skills as an activist and is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in, which is a commendable trait.Lee’s story is remarkable as she is someone who has transitioned from being on the disability support pension to leading a team of mental health professionals.

By openly discussing her bipolar disorder journey and being in a position of influence, Lee has proven to be a persuasive role model for women and girls facing similar challenges.

I am in awe of Lee for highlighting how achieving professional success and personal growth is possible regardless of age, gender, and health challenges, and wish to congratulate her and all of the nominees for their achievements in creating a better world for women in Greater Geelong.

Upcoming shows at Potato Shed

The Potato Shed continues to bring entertaining performances to the Bellarine and April will be no exception.

Among the shows set to be held there next month are Indigenous singer and songwriter Emma Donovan, a retro-themed kids’ show called Children are Stinky, and a/lone, which is produced by Stacey Carmichael.

While attendees can expect a circus and good wholesome fun at the kids show, seeing Stacey’s name stuck out for me as she is a former Bellarine Secondary College student.

Stacey founded contemporary dance company Collision Dance, and her show comes to the Potato Shed direct from the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

The Potato Shed has a reputation for developing young talent, and promoting the work of locals, and a/lone is a great example of that.

The show is inspired by the experience of disconnection shared by many in our community, and delves into the depths of loneliness to unearth our capacity of embracing solitude.

I certainly encourage you to get along for a look, and check out the program to see what takes your fancy for April and the months ahead.

Cr Jim Mason

Bellarine Ward, City of Greater Geelong