THE 20th anniversary of Women in Business and Regional Development (WiBRD) has been marked with festivities throughout the year.
Over the past two decades, the organisation has empowered and connected hundreds of women across the Limestone Coast to help them achieve their business and career goals.
To celebrate the significant milestone, WiBRD invited current and past members, sponsors, supporters and the general community to join them at their Christmas and birthday celebration at The Apple Farm last month.
Guests enjoyed entertainment by Lizzie Coke and a selection of local food and wine.
WiBRD founder Elaine Pollock presented a captivating speech touching on why she started the organisation and what it stands for today.
“Across Australia there was rural decline, many women were forced from the land to take up employment to subsidise farm incomes,” Ms Pollock said.
“Training for women was negligible and, if available, was limited to capital cities.
“Business networks for women were non-existent and yet we represented 50pc of the population.
“I realised I needed the support of other women – leaders within their own community and many who were recognised leaders within their respective industries.”
In November 1998, Southern Cross University was coordinating women in regional development roundtables across Australia.
Ms Pollock saw this as her opportunity to engage those leaders.
“True to form, by lunchtime these vibrant, enthusiastic women were committed to the formation of a network in the Limestone Coast,” she said.
“From memory, our first meeting was held in Naracoorte on November 25, 1998.
“20 years on we celebrate the continuation of this network, which goes far beyond my early expectations.
“I must acknowledge the pioneering women who over the years have become dear friends and who have remained loyal and proud of the network.”
Current chair Cathy Lunnay spoke of the exciting plans WiBRD had in place for the near future.
“We have listened to feedback from our members and the wider community and we are putting in measures to not only connect women in our community, but provide advocacy and opportunities for celebration,” Ms Lunnay said.
“‘We will connect you’ is the commitment we are making to our members and partners and we are excited to see this transpire.
“We are focused on creating meaningful, mutual and long-lasting relationships with partners, not sponsors.
“In order to remain sustainable and relevant, we must commit ourselves to leveraging the partnerships we have to create the greatest value we can for our members.”
Ms Pollock and 2018 hall of fame inductees Wendy Richardson, Elizabeth Hodges and Tammy Whitehead cut a stunning cake made by local business and member Moments to Savour.
