Zonta Club of Bunbury Inc supports students and celebrates youth leadership

More than a backpack

As the 2026 school year began, the Zonta Club of Bunbury Inc, Australia, once again eased the pressure on local families through its annual School Backpack Project. Established in 2021, the initiative has become a vital community support program, helping students start the year confident, prepared and ready to learn.

With the continued generosity of major sponsor Tronox, Zonta members and volunteers filled backpacks with essential stationery and lunch boxes. Local craft groups also contributed handmade library bags and pencil cases, adding a thoughtful, personal touch that reflects true community spirit.

Thanks to fundraising efforts, craft group contributions, and Tronox’s support, Zonta Bunbury delivered 87 fully equipped backpacks to primary schools across the region. An additional 13 stationery-only kits were provided to Australind Senior High School to assist older students.

Schools identified families in need to ensure the support reached students who would benefit most, promoting equitable access to education. The club thanked all supporters and noted the project reflects collaboration, kindness and a shared commitment to children’s wellbeing. By providing essential supplies, the initiative helps reduce stress, boost confidence and support a positive start to the school year.

Bunbury’s Young Citizen of the Year

The Zonta Club of Bunbury Inc also celebrated youth leadership as Z Club President Isabella Chalker was named the City of Bunbury’s Young Citizen of the Year. Each year on Australia Day, members of the local community are invited to nominate individuals or groups for the Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, or Community Group/Event of the Year Awards. These awards recognize outstanding contributions to the local community, celebrating individuals who demonstrate leadership, inspire others, and initiate projects that enrich community life. The award was presented on 26 January during a Citizenship Ceremony hosted by the Mayor and a representative of the Australian Government.

The club proudly nominated Isabella, the inaugural President of the Manea Senior College Z Club, in recognition of her leadership and service. Isabella first became involved with Zonta in 2021 as a Year 7 student with the Kingia Z Club at Bunbury Senior High School and later served two years as club president.

After transferring to Manea Senior College in 2025, Isabella led the effort to establish a new Z Club by recruiting members, finding a teacher coordinator and guiding the chartering process. The Manea Senior College Z Club was officially chartered on 18 September 2025, with Isabella appointed as its inaugural president.

Beyond her Z Club leadership, Isabella has served on the City of Bunbury Youth Advisory Council, represented Bunbury at the 2025 WA Youth Parliament as Youth Minister for Health and Mental Health and volunteered with the Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre and the Bunbury Eisteddfod. She also represents Bunbury on the Australian Child and Wellbeing Atlas Youth Advisory Group.

The club said Isabella’s leadership, dedication to service and advocacy make her a deserving recipient of the Young Citizen of the Year Award.