Shire short film to help ‘Break The Bias’

A NEW short film will help to ‘Break The Bias’ on March 8 when the Surf Coast Shire launches a short film featuring five inspiring women.

Paralympian Elle Steele, pro fighter Lani Williams, apprentice electrician Nelia Niveen and environmental pioneers Winsome Coutts and Harper Bolten will spread the message this International Women’s Day by sharing their journeys in the film.

“By sharing their stories, these five women are supporting the goal of a gender equal world,” Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton said.

“This year’s theme ‘Break The Bias’ asks us to call out gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping whenever we see it.

“The theme aligns with one of our council health and wellbeing goals – to promote gender equity. We hope this video is going to spark important conversations and create change.”

The short film, produced by Roseneath Creative, will be launched on council’s website www.surfcoast.vic.gov.au/IWD and across various shire social media channels.

It will also be screened at a number of community house-run events in Anglesea, Torquay and Winchelsea, and at Lorne Country Club’s ‘Get Into Golf’ Day.

“We’re delighted to support three of the local community houses hosting International Women’s Day events,” Cr Stapleton said.

“I have no doubt guests will be impressed by the calibre of women in the short film and how they are breaking the bias for girls and women of all abilities.”

Cr Stapleton said she was honoured to lead a council that includes five women, complemented by the organisation’s chief executive officer Robyn Seymour.

“It’s important that females in leadership roles are visible to young girls and women,” Cr Stapleton added.

“We know we’ve come a long way when it comes to gender parity but at the same time, there’s still a lot of work to be done to remove some of the hurdles females face on the path to become a leader.”

International Women’s Day is held annually to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It also marks a call to action to accelerate women’s equality.