What We Do

The Sanctuary Golf Resort buzzed with energy as 200 people gathered for what would become an unforgettable International Women's Day celebration, hosted by the Zonta Club of Bunbury on March 9th. The morning air was filled with conversation, inspiration, and a shared commitment to making the most of this special day.
 

The event took a powerful turn when guest speaker Dr. Kim Farrington, Co-Head of Department at Perth's Sexual Assault Resource Centre (SARC), stepped up to the podium after breakfast. She began by stating she was going to discuss some difficult truths before outlining her role at SARC. Using research and personal experience she shared the disturbing connection between internet pornography and sexual assault, while arming the audience with practical strategies to help to combat this growing crisis.
 

Club President Amanda Whittle painted a vivid picture of both progress and challenge. While women's rights have made significant strides since the 1995 Beijing Platform for Action, she explained, new threats loom on the horizon. Her call to action rang clear: "Together, we can be the generation to close the gap to achieve gender equality. We simply can't afford to take a step back."
 

The heart of the morning belonged to four remarkable local women - Bunbury's "Hidden Gems" who were presented with a symbolic yellow Zonta rose, a certificate of commendation and enthusiastic applause they so richly deserved.

• Chef Brooke Cochrane, whose culinary talents have fuelled countless Chefs’ Long Table Charity Lunches 

• Yvonne Irwin, whose tireless fundraising efforts have become legendary at the Salvation Army South West 

• Marleen Milne, whose gentle presence has comforted countless families at the Bunbury Regional Hospital's Campus Carers' Group

• Deidre Wasley, who has opened her heart and home to over 300 children as a foster and respite carer.
   

The morning's celebrations included a spotlight on the next generation of female leaders by Area Director Kimberley Robbins. Isabella Chalker was presented with the Zonta Bunbury 2025 Young Women in Leadership Award, while Auri Mahar was a recipient of the Josephine Spaull Performing Arts Scholarship - both standing as bright beacons for the future.