Women gather for stories of inspiration

Speakers at the Aboriginal Women’s in Bourke last week – l-r: Pat Canty, Christine Corby, Robyn Martin, Helen Ferguson (at back), Lynette Lackay, Lynda Edwards, Executive Manager of Aboriginal Health Donna Stanley (at back), Lynne Russell from the Health Services Union (front), Molong Health Services Manager Deb Kenna (at back), Secretary of NSW Health Susan Pearce, and Director of Aboriginal Health NSW Geri Wilson. The poster was designed by Pollyanna Canty. Photo Twh

More than 90 women attended the two day Gook-int-ji Nhuungku Gathering in Bourke last week, including some of Bourke’s highest achievers in health administration.

The gathering was held at the Bourke Christian Church, organised by Western Local Health District Manager of Aboriginal Partnerships and Engagement, Pat Canty

“It’s important that Aboriginal women have their own narrative,” Pat said.

“The gathering was about acknowledging women in the workforce who have paved the way. We wanted the women attending to feel empowered and inspired from those who were not only in the audience but presenting at the gathering,” Pat said.

“We were fortunate to have the NSW Secretary of Health Susan Pearce attend for the whole two days, which is massive considering Susan is heading up a government agency.

“To give the gathering that time shows her commitment to health and to the women out here in western NSW and we were very fortunate to have her.

“The Minister for Women, Seniors, Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison was unable to attend but did a pre-recording and welcomed everyone, which demonstrated the importance of the gathering and that was great.

“We had 94 amazing women attend and they came from everywhere, not only the Local health District, but Sydney, Port Macquarie, Inverell and it was great to see women come from everywhere.

“One of our main speakers this year’s the NSW Premier Woman of the Year, Linda Edwards, who is a Bourke girl, and we were proud to see Linda awarded that prize and have her home and showing women you can do it, no matter what obstacles are in front of you.

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