Zonta Club of Bendigo hosts Women's Flood Recovery luncheon

On 23 June, the Zonta Club of Bendigo Inc, Australia, hosted a Women's Flood Recovery luncheon that brought together 100 women from the flood-ravaged community in the nearby town of Rochester.

The women were given a gift bag upon arrival at the Rochester Bowls Club, and many attendees also received lucky door prizes donated by the club and businesses from Rochester and Bendigo.

Guests were entertained after lunch by guest speaker Kathy Mexted, a pilot, photographer, and author of Australian Women Pilots. Kathy also shared her experience of documenting recovery from disasters. Conversations and heartfelt connections filled the atmosphere as guests shared experiences and supported one another. It was a true celebration of the community's resilience and unity.

"Bendigo Zonta is immensely grateful for the generosity and support we received from Women's Health Loddon Mallee (WHLM), who provided a Flood Recovery grant that made this event possible. WHLM's commitment to the well-being and empowerment of women in times of need and to counter the gender inequalities amplified during emergencies and disaster situations is truly inspiring. The Zonta luncheon provided women with opportunities to regroup, reconnect and recover," said Club President Naidene Parry.

"The 2022 floods and recovery efforts continue to impact women in the Rochester community. Many are still involved in the cleanup and experience financial hardship."

"We were very pleased to be able to utilize the grant money to meaningfully support women's well-being in what has been a challenging time for many. Our club's luncheon was a testament to the power of resilience, support and collaboration."

Zonta Bendigo used some of the grant funds to support local businesses by having them supply lunch, drinks, coffee, items for gift bags and vouchers for door prizes.