THE PARTNERSHIP of three strong female leaders of our great city is giving a hand-up to some of our most vulnerable residents.
Division One Councillor Pye Augustine, local disability services CEO and community leader Donna Cavanagh and Hannah’s House’s Hayley Dunikowski have teamed up to investigate possible new houses for at-risk women aged 25 years and under.
One of the prospects is a house at Wulkuraka that will be a haven for victims of domestic violence and homelessness.
Cr Augustine told Local Ipswich News why this was an important story to be told.
“Three strong women collaborate in our community to get a good outcome,” she said.
“A friend came to me with a property he wanted to rent out but only to a service provider that does good things for our community.
“I contacted Donna Cavanagh, and she contacted Hayley from Hannah’s House.
“Now, more women suffering domestic violence and homelessness have support.”
Her own supporters say this project stands as another example of Cr Augustine’s commitment to the region and her ability to connect people and get things done.
“It’s a property that has three bedrooms with three toilets – so perfect for women and privacy,” Cr Augustine said.
“At your most vulnerable time, you still want to feel like yourself.”
Cr Augustine had not previously worked or collaborated with Ms Cavanagh or Ms Dunikowski, but when the opportunity arose a second thought was not needed.
“I know the important work these two women are doing in our community,” she said.
“Donna working in the disability space and Hayley in the DV space.
“It was great to collaborate to get this outcome for our community.
“Being a member of Zonta Ipswich, assisting women in dire need whether it be homelessness or a DV situation is very important and one that I have advocated for over the past couple of years.
Ms Dunikowski said: “Everybody is on their own unique journey.
“It’s a wonderful partnership”
