ZONTA Ipswich marked International Women’s Day last Friday with a sold-out community breakfast celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the world.
The event also coincided with Zonta Rose Day, held in the same week as International Women’s Day, offering a moment to honour past accomplishments while recognising the ongoing work of those advancing gender equity.
Funds raised from the breakfast will directly support Zonta Ipswich’s local service projects, including Leadership Awards, Education Awards for students, support for women experiencing domestic and family violence, Breast Cancer Comfort Cushions and Drain Bags, and Baby Jumpers for families in need.
Zonta Ipswich President Jane Reid said International Women’s Day remains a cornerstone event for the organisation and a powerful reminder of the work still required to achieve gender equality.
“International Women’s Day is one of the premier events in the Zonta calendar, but it also marks an important celebration of the achievements of women in our Ipswich community, across Australia and around the world,” Ms Reid said.
“This year marks 31 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. This bold, visionary agenda promised that every woman and girl would have the right to education, healthcare, economic independence and a life free from violence. But three decades on, in so many areas, we are being pulled back and losing ground we thought was secure.”
The 2026 International Women’s Day campaign theme, Balance the Scales: dignity, fairness and safety for all, calls on every member of the community to advocate for change, raise their voice and demand fair, inclusive and accessible justice for every woman and girl.
Zonta Ipswich, alongside Zonta clubs worldwide, continues its mission to build a better world for women and girls – one where communities are safe, fair and inclusive, where women’s voices are heard, and where gender equity is the norm.
Members are working to dismantle barriers, challenge outdated norms, ensure representation in decision-making spaces, and champion justice and dignity for the next generation.
For more than 30 years, Zonta Ipswich has proudly hosted its annual International Women’s Day Breakfast.
Ms Reid said the growth of local celebrations reflects a positive cultural shift.
It shows the power of being courageous and taking the first step to commit to transformation – Zonta Ipswich paved the way, and now there is visible, active support across our community.
