A celebration of women

By Emily Donohoe

Mar 11, 2025

International Women’s Day dinner panellists (from left) Narelle Fraser, Denvah Matthews, Rebecca East, Jane Reid, Aunty Vicki Walker and master of ceremonies Angela Parker. Photos: Emily Donohoe Photo by Emily Donohoe

Close to 150 guests packed Rochester shire hall to recognise the contributions of women in the community on Thursday, March 6.

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Celebrating International Women’s Day, the Campaspe Shire Council dinner featured an insightful discussion with panellists Rebecca East, Narelle Fraser, Denvah Matthews, Jane Reid and Aunty Vicki Walker.

Kim Gilsenan, Sue Irvine, Macy Irvine and Megan Dehne. Photo by Emily Donohoe

The speakers shared stories and reflected on their experiences, achievements and challenges as leaders, in the workplace and day-to-day.

With diverse backgrounds, the women each brought a unique perspective to the conversation, led by master of ceremonies Angela Parker.

Local musician Jessica Lorraine performed at the event. Photo by Emily Donohoe

Local singer Jessica Lorraine sound-tracked the dinner, catered by Rochester-based The Harvest Taste, while the bar was serviced by Heathcote winery Silver Spoon Estate.

The event supported The Kyabram Gift, a charity that assists between 30 to 35 local families going through battles with cancer.