Scout Camp Multi-purpose Tower opening

The weather was beautiful outside and the Scout Camp was calling. Mayor Kidd and I had accepted an invite to view the new Multi-purpose Tower at the Scout Camp. There was a set up in place and you could hear the squeal of excitement and laughter as we ventured near. Then you could see what all the excitement was about a 7 meter high flying fox is set up permanently.

We went through the official ceremony and cutting of the ribbon for the gate and then the surprise came. Reg and I were asked if we would like a turn on the flying fox. Remaining brave I smiled and said yes! why I said yes I will never be sure of except that I was probably to worried about people knowing I have a huge, yes huge fear of heights.

Anyway I am past that now and yes Reg and I did jump from the flying fox, in fact we did it twice and it was a real hoot. Well done to the coordinator's and Scout Association there will be many happy moments shared there and a new adventure for those visiting.

"Wool Expo" and "Rural Fair" Marsden Rural History Research Centre

Unfortunately I missed this event but my husband attended in my place. In fact he was so impressed with the set up he decided to become a part of the event with a stall showcasing our Budgeting Pack. He said the event was well organised and there were plenty of people in attendance. This is the first year for this event which was intended to be a family friendly day out covering many facets of rural life both past and present.

Education is a big part of the Marsden Centre charter, for this reason they saw the "Wool Expo" and "Country Fair" as an ideal opportunity to bring rural life and history to people of all ages. I hear the event was a huge success and I look forward to the same again next year.

Australian Local Government Womens Association AGM

I have attached the link to our newsletter from the forum held at Queanbeyan. Our last annual forum was a huge success with many new Councillors now joining the association.

Visit Australian Local Government Women's Association to learn more about the conference and upcoming news.

I was re-elected as the Country Vice Chair person and welcome contact with people wishing to learn more about our association or wanting to make contact about other issues. Please email me at frossiter@bigpond.com

Women In Business- A Forum for Success

In March, regional women in business were invited to an engaging and rewarding day at Orange Ex Services Club. The inaugural Regional Women in Business Forum presented a new, highly interactive opportunity designed to assist regional women in the growth and development of their businesses.

There was plenty of information and real strategies to deal with challenges encountered in the regional business world. There was also the opportunity to learn and develop in the company of other successful women.

The regional Women in Business forum was developed for women who are looking to explore further opportunities to grow and develop their business in Regional NSW, as well as having a deeper understanding of practical strategies to deal with key challenges in the business world.

The forum provided a relaxed atmosphere which allowed networking and further business opportunities. There were several key speakers the major one being Kerry Pottharst. Kerry Pottharst is the Australian Gold Medalist in Volleyball. She inspires both on and off the volleyball court and inspired us all with her life story and challenges. She also helped us face our fears encouraging some of the women to walk on glass.

Other speakers included Mary Brell who is the Managing Director for Keys to Success, Val Myote manager of Curves Orange and Lee Blume from Action Coach Orange. All inspiring and encouraging ladies to listen to and their go get it attitude and believe in yourself talk definitely helps you get motivated.

A women's business group is in the process of being set up and I will keep you updated on the progress.

Handicraft Presentation for the Country Women's Association of NSW

This is the second year running now that I have been able to stand in for the Mayor and give out the certificates and gifts for the handicraft presentations. As per usual there was a great deal of craft from the various different towns and I am so glad that I was not the judge. I have to say I wouldn't have minded doing a bit of shopping as well because the products are so well finished off with detail. You know you are getting quality because all items are made by real people who love what they do.

I enjoyed talking with the contestants, the organisers and the visitors. I understand that their is quite a bit of work not only put into preparing the items but also in setting up the displays and moving them around. I understand that the organisers were on their way to Sydney for there next stop.

I do hope I get the chance to come along again next year.

Visit the Country Women's Association web-site, better still become a member!

Internationa Women's Day 2009

International Women's Day is celebrated around the world each year on the 8th March. It is an important occasion to take time out to reflect and celebrate the achievements and gains made by women and to focus on the job still to do working towards equality for women around the world.

International Women's Day provides an opportunity for communities to recognise and celebrate local women's achievements and the contribution they continue to make to the area. The Office for Women's Policy, NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet provided one thousand dollars to Orange City Council to work with local community groups to organise this event to celebrate locally the 2009 International Women's Day.

The theme for 2009 is "Sharing and Caring for the Future" and the day let us focus on the contribution of women in their caring roles, in both the paid and unpaid workforce, and explore the strategies needed to share the responsibility for caring across our community.

In Orange we are fortunate to have a variety of organisations to assist those who care for our most vulnerable. These organisations provide a range of services which include in home assistance such as cleaning and personal care, assistance with meals, whether providing a delivered meal or shopping service, respite for carers in the individuals own home, in the community or, where appropriate, in an aged care facility and information and referral services to link carers to ongoing support appropriate to their individual needs and circumstances. Details of these services can be found on Council's website.

Strategies to assist carers and share a load might include offering to pick up a few things at the local grocery store, doing an odd job around the home, stopping in for a cuppa and having a chat. These few simple strategies can provide carers with much needed assistance and socialisation and also let carers know they are not alone.

We had several guest speakers at this event they being Jan Savage who was announced as the Orange Electorate Women of the Year and Dr Ruth Arnold who spoke about health and in particular Orange Base Hospital's new development and regional service.