Townsville celebrations for International Women’s Day

One of Townsville’s many International Women’s Day events was celebrated jointly by the North Queensland Legal Women’s Services and Queensland

Human Rights Commission, with guest speaker Torres News correspondent Velma Gara invited to speak about her media and basketball background.

“There are different ways that we can embrace or be embraced for our individuality,” Velma said.

“So we can have equality for all women, but all women are different and need to be supported as individuals.”

A separate event, held at Community Gro in Rasmussen, was attended by many, as was a celebration by the Shield of H.E.R.S. (Honour,

Empower, Resect and Survive), a weekly gathering of Indigenous women during school terms to share tools of empowerment and a safe place to yarn, laugh and meet new people.

Community Connect Coordinator Topsy Mola encouraged the women to step out of the box and take on opportunities as they were presented.

“We have the right to take on any challenges and be proud of who you are,” she said.

The event encouraged the attendees to practice self-care and activities included making scrubs, putting on facial masks and hand massages.