Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre Hosts Inspiring Morning Tea for International Women’s Day

HBNC proudly hosted a morning tea last Friday the 7^th of March to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, bringing together 50 participants for an inspiring and empowering event. The gathering provided a space for professional women in our community to share their experiences, insights, and advice as leaders and mentors, reinforcing the importance of connection, resilience, and support.

With the theme of sisterhood resonating throughout the room, the event featured a line-up of distinguished speakers who spoke passionately about the challenges and triumphs faced by women in professional environments. Their words encouraged attendees to embrace growth, support one another, and push forward towards a more equitable future.

Fiona Terrell, Solicitor at Carswell and Co., set the tone by reminding attendees to “get comfortable being uncomfortable,” emphasising the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone to achieve success. Michelle Hay from UniSC & Jobs Fraser Coast shared an eye-opening statistic, stating that gender equality is still 130 years away if progress continues at the current pace. She also humourously pointed out the absurdity of fake pockets in women’s clothing and reinforced the message that “lighting another woman’s fire does not diminish your own.”

Jess Lane, representing Rally for a Cause, urged women to use their experiences to mentor and lead others, fostering strength and resilience in future generations. Katie Elder, HBNC Board Member and Solicitor, encouraged women to recognise their own achievements, stating, “We are so good at lifting others up, but we are quick to personally lay down the red carpet for our own negative thoughts.” She urged women to celebrate both their own successes and those of others.

Entrepreneur, writer, singer, and entertainer Teresa Wagstaff inspired the room with her words: “Don’t look back, you’re not going that way.” She emphasised the power of learning from setbacks, viewing them as opportunities for growth and self-kindness.

The morning tea was a beautiful reflection of HBNC’s mission to create a strong and connected community. It served as a reminder that by lifting each other up, offering mentorship, and fostering a culture of inclusion and empowerment, we can accelerate progress towards gender equality and ensure that every woman feels valued and supported.

HBNC extends its heartfelt gratitude to the speakers and attendees for making this event such a meaningful and uplifting experience. Together, we continue to champion the values of integrity, social justice, compassion, collaboration, and openness, striving towards a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.