Several of our members were in Canberra last week to represent Tasmania and join colleagues from across the country celebrating 75 years of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association at a special event hosted by ALGWA Patron, Her Excellency, the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor General of Australia.
L-R: Councillor Melinda Reed (ALGWA Tas VP), Mayor Rachel Summers (ALGWA Tas secretary), Mayor Kate Haberle, Her Excellency Sam Mostyn AC, former ALGWA national president Alwyn Friedersdorff, Mayor Dr Mary Duniam (ALGWA Tas president), Mayor Mary Knowles, Mayor Cheryl Fuller (ALGWA Tas treasurer)
The Governor General graciously stood for photos before giving an inspiring speech honouring indomitable Tasmanian Dame Enid Lyons and others who founded the Local Government Women’s Association in 1951, as well as all who have followed since as trailblazers, mentors and supporters of women’s participation in local government as elected councillors or as council officers.
Commemorating ALGWA’s 75 years of “courage, commitment and change – a testament to women who refuse to accept that local government should be shaped without them,” Her Excellency said women are often at the heart of the national story but seldom recognised, and called for more women to be nominated for Australian honours. Other gems included:
- “No-one pays a price for equality – we all rise when women rise.”
- “The first of anything always opens the door for others to follow…”
- “…leading with love and building relationships based on an ethic of care”
- “…leadership grounded in rigour, consistency and community”
Many attending had also heard the Governor General’s opening address at the ALGA National General Assembly in Canberra that morning, including her signature themes of kindness, care and respect for one another.
