Maribyrnong City Council has recognised the incredible work of women who contribute voluntarily to their communities as part of its International Women’s Day celebrations.
Braybrook resident and 2006 Citizen of the Year, Lorraine Kennedy, was recognised for her outstanding volunteer work, which has spanned over 40 years.
“Lorraine Kennedy’s dedication and commitment to the Braybrook community reflects the immense contribution of local women. International Women’s Day was a great opportunity to recognise her leadership and all she has done for our community. She is an inspiration to us all,” said Councillor Grant Miles, Mayor of the City of Maribyrnong.
Kennedy’s volunteer work for the Braybrook community has included championing the creation of the Braybrook Community Health Centre (which became Western Region Health Centre), establishing the Western Region Tool Library, volunteering as Chair to the Western Region Health Centre, committee member of Braybrook’s Men’s Shed and fundraising for Christ the King school and working as Special Minister for Christ the King Church.
The International Women’s Day volunteering lunch was held as part of a Braybrook volunteering project and links with Council’s Revitalising Braybrook initiative.
In addition to this event, Council, through its community grant program, supported the art exhibition ‘Transience’ at the Footscray Community Arts Centre, which showcased the work of women artists from migrant and refugee backgrounds.
Council also held an International Women’s Day event in conjunction with Brimbank Council and Women’s Health West.
These events all shine a light on the participation of women in the community and celebrate and encourage women of all ages and backgrounds to take part in community life.
“International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the women in our lives: our mothers, daughters, sisters, friends and colleagues. As a community we have a duty to do all we can to ensure that women live in, and experience a gender equitable society,” said Cr Miles.
