PORT MacDonnell was transformed into a sea of colour this weekend as bras of every size adorned trees, the foreshore and even the bespoke bronze statue in memory of one of the town’s most prominent residents.
Grant District Council Citizen of the Year Theresa Moulden died on July 10, 2019 after a four year battle with breast cancer, leaving behind a husband, three children and many friends.
Ms Moulden’s friends gathered at her hometown of Port MacDonnell over the weekend to celebrate her life, community involvement and significant achievements.
In a nod to Ms Moulden’s mischievous nature, the women boldly hung bras of every size and colour across the seaside town to honour their friend and raise awareness of early detection.
Approximately 80 bras were displayed around the town, alongside an oversized pink bra made of canvas and wire and printed signs urging women to get tested for breast cancer.
“It was really a random act of silliness, someone had mentioned we should hang our bras around Port Mac because she loved the town so much,” friend Simmion Booth said.
“She was that type of mischievous person and it is something she would have done.”
Ms Booth said the bras, which were on display from Friday to Sunday, had become a fun talking point over the weekend, but had also prompted serious conversations breast cancer.
“It brought a lot of people laughter,” she said.
“Some of the younger kids might not have understood what it meant, but the display raised the topic and might have got families talking about it.
“It really is a serious topic and there are kids who will sadly see their mothers in the same position and may not be prepared for it.”
Friend Salena De Kuyper said the unique display aimed to encourage women to have regular breast check ups.
“I recall her husband asking had she had the lump checked earlier, would she still be alive?” she said.
“That has always stuck with me, not knowing how long she had that lump.
“Early detection gives you a better chance of survival.”
Ms De Kuyper said while the first event was dedicated to honouring their friend, subsequent fundraising events will be held in the future, with proceeds to go to breast cancer charities.
“She was such a well-known person in the community who contributed much to the town,” she said.
“She does not deserve to be forgotten and we want to keep her spirit alive.”
Grant District Mayor Richard Sage praised Ms Moulden’s dedication to the community, labelling her as an inspiration.
Mr Sage – who organised the construction of the giant pink bras – said he was honoured to have worked beside Ms Moulden, whose list of achievements include Port MacDonnell Tourist Association president, Bayside Festival coordinator, Port MacDonnell Community Hall Committee vice chair and Allendale East Area School Governing Council
member.
“She loved the Bay,” he said.
“She never stopped thinking about tourism opportunities and what she could do next – she was one hell of a woman we will never forget.”
