Last Sunday I had the pleasure of hosting the eighth Fanny Brownbill luncheon in
Geelong, which commemorates the first woman Labor member of the Legislative
Assembly in this state. It was fitting to hold such a celebration during the
100th anniversary of women’s suffrage in Victoria. Minister Maxine Morand spoke
on the fight for women’s suffrage over 100 years ago and the significant
milestones and achievements made by women since.
It was fantastic to see women who participate in all areas of
our society at the lunch — women who are collectively optimistic about the
ongoing struggle for gender equality. It was great to see June Bradbury, who
came all the way from Casterton. June was one of the first female local
councillors in Victoria and the first woman full member of the Collingwood
Football Club.
Jennifer Wills also attended; she is a recent inductee on the
2008 Victorian honour roll of women.
Guests were also treated to a wonderful speech made by a
Brownbill family member, Max Drayton. Max brought Fanny Brownbill to life as he
spoke of his memories of the woman he affectionately knew as Ma Brownbill. I
take this opportunity to thank everybody involved in last Sunday’s event. It was
inspiring and very enjoyable.