March 8, 2013
South Burnett women gathered in groups at functions across the region today to mark International Women’s Day.
In Kingaroy, well-known bush author Sandy Thorne, from Lightning Ridge, was the guest speaker at an International Women’s Day Dinner organised by the Quota Club of Kingaroy at Kingaroy RSL.
Sandy shared tall tales and true from North Queensland and the outback, as well as reciting some self-penned bush poetry and telling jokes.
Her presentation was followed by an auction conducted by Bill Steffensen to raise funds to purchase a hoist to assist Kingaroy youngster Chloe Blinco-Kregenbrink, 4, who has irreversible nerve damage in her leg.
A total of $690 was raised.
Other money raised on the the night will assist cancer research and the AGL Action Helicopter Rescue Service.
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At St Mary’s Catholic College, senior students, teachers and parents gathered for breakfast and to listen to two guest speakers: teacher Pam Radcliffe and College Captain Samantha Watson.
Pam spoke of her journey from self-doubt to self-confidence as she moved from a world where women had no need for a senior education (as they would be staying at home) to university and a career.
“To be the best you can be, always put in your best effort and you will never be left wondering,” she said.
“Each generation of women stands on the shoulders of their mothers and grandmothers, and has a responsibility to give a leg up to the next generation of women.”
Samantha said she had been taught never to expect, or accept, to be disadvantaged because of her gender.
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South Burnett libraries also marked International Women’s Day with guest speakers at Kingaroy, Nanango, Blackbutt, Wondai and Proston libraries.
In Kingaroy, well-known local businesswoman Rhonda Hull spoke to a small gathering at 10:00am.
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Footnote: The popularity of International Women’s Day in recent years in a traditionally politically conservative area such as the South Burnett is ironic; the March 8 date can be traced directly to revolutionary Russia and socialist movements in the United States and Europe. The Soviet Union declared March 8 “International Women’s Day” in 1965. In 1977, the United Nations invited member states to proclaim March 8 as the UN Day For Women’s Rights and World Peace.
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At Kingaroy Library
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At St Mary’s Catholic College
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At the Quota Kingaroy Dinner
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