Second term for Zonta president

LONG time member of the Zonta Club of Bendigo, Naidene Parry, has been named the group’s president for 2022 to 2024.

Ms Parry joined the club in 2001 and returns to the top job after a two-year term from 2006 to 2008.

“I joined Zonta because I wanted to work with likeminded women to bring about change to the lives of women and children in our community and around the world,” she said.

“I hope in my time as president to see more collaboration with our local Indigenous peoples and to see a financial literacy for women program commence.

“My aim at the end of my two-year term is that the Bendigo public is more aware of the role Zonta plays in their community.”

The club aims to advocate for and advance the rights of women on a local, regional and international scale, and Ms Parry said there were a range of opportunities for community work.

“These projects include birthing kits, scholarships, breast cushions and support for victims of domestic violence in very practical and effective ways,” she said.

The club farewelled outgoing president Raelene Schmidt who said the opportunity to lead was a privilege, despite challenges.

“The COVID pandemic affected meeting arrangements and planned activities, but in the face of such obstacles, we have achieved our goals and more by working together and being adaptable and resilient,” Ms Schmidt said.

“In addition to our ongoing projects, we ran our first mental health first aid program and initiated an achievement award for Indigenous women and girls, which will be awarded for the first time this year. Another highlight was the publication of the club’s forty-year history.

“I have enjoyed my term as Bendigo president and offer my very best wishes and support to Naidene and the new board for the year ahead.”