By KATH GANNAWAY
TWO Upper Yarra women will share their experiences of challenging prejudice at the International Women’s Day Lunch in Warburton on Thursday 5 March.
The topic for International Women’s Day this year is ‘Equality for Women is Progress for All’.
Presented as part of the Women of Interest series, Tiani Zia-Kane and Robynne Mauger will address the topic from their unique perspectives.
Tiani is an artist and pilgrim who travels widely, coming home to roost in the Upper Yarra Valley.
She was the first woman police officer stationed at Warburton and has since leaving the police force done volunteer work, fruit picking, office, retail and waitressing work.
Her playtime is spent at the Upper Yarra Sports Centre and swimming pool and bushwalking in Australia and overseas, along with a love of artwork and recycled textiles.
Other passions include religious studies, philosophy, reading, travel, an insatiable passion for learning and assisting others to assist themselves.
Robynne came to the Yarra Valley 25 years ago looking to live a clean and environmentally friendly lifestyle. The little farm in Launching Place that she shares with her partner, complete with a fully sustainable off-the-grid home, fits the bill.
Born in the 50s, on the cusp of female equality, Robynne said she was determined to overcome gender barriers and embraced every opportunity.
She has run a small signwriting business, a traditionally male-dominated industry which presented some challenges, as did choosing a same-sex partner after a traditional marriage challenged some people’s relationship beliefs.
She works at Upper Yarra Community House as the Corporate Services manager where her work life focuses on providing opportunities for others to enhance their lives.
Kerry Nicholas, one of the Women of Interest co-ordinators, said both women were well placed to talk on the topic.
“Tiani’s background and pursuits have given her many experiences of prejudice in family, education and work, and her wider platter of interests makes her a reflective and informed speaker on this year’s topic,” she said.
Likewise, Robynne, will have a lot to offer on the topic.
“She is well placed to open our eyes to ingrained prejudice,” Kerry said.
Anyone with an appetite for inspiration will find the speakers are an exceptional main course. The lunch will also be inspiring with everyone invited to contribute to the shared luncheon.
The event is at the Upper Yarra Arts Centre from noon to 3pm on Thursday 5 March.
Entry is by gold coin donation – thanks to support by the Warburton/Yarra Junction Community Bank Branches of Bendigo Bank, and Yarra Ranges Council.
For more information phone Kerry Nicholas on 0439 039 171 or Alison O’Brien on 0428 966 889.
