Melton women celebrated at Christmas party

Group member Jane Sultana Picture: Joe Mastroianni

The Melton Women Making It Happen group will end a year of hard work with a Christmas lunch on Friday, focusing on the role of females in society.

The group, spearheaded by Djerriwarrh Health Services, was launched earlier this year to promote the role of women in the community and help eliminate domestic violence and gender inequality in the region.

DJHS chief executive Andrew Freeman said Friday’s event would celebrate the work of local women and inspire others to get involved.

“We’re working to empower and celebrate women as a key strategy to preventing violence against women,” Mr Freeman said. “We’re doing this through promoting women’s independence and decision-making, and challenging the gender stereotypes and roles.

“More than 657 domestic violence matters are dealt with every day in Australia by police, with at least one woman murdered by her current or former partner each week.”

Motivational speaker, businesswoman, author, triathlete and former international model Grace McClure will be a guest speaker at the lunch.

She’ll focus on women’s self-esteem and body image, leadership, resilience and growth of mindset.

The Christmas lunch starts at noon at the WestWaters Panorama Room, 10 Lake Street, Caroline Springs.