Tuesday, 18 March 2025

 Jacinta ERMACORA (Western Victoria) (13:33): I was thrilled to partner with Moyne shire to host an International Women’s Day 2025 reception. I was prompted to do so because four of the seven councillors are women, and this is the first time that more than one woman has been elected to Moyne shire. I was able to speak at that reception about the women’s pain round tables that I held in Portland, Hamilton and Warrnambool and online and the feedback that I received at those round tables that will form part of the Victorian government’s inquiry into women’s pain. The importance of that inquiry was totally reinforced by the recent comments by former Triple M radio host Marty Sheargold. Mr Sheargold should have read the 13,000 submissions that women from across Victoria made before he made those comments. It just shows how important it is to make sure that we provide a voice for women in Victoria on the issue of pain. On the same evening the Inspiring Women of Moyne award winners were also announced. Koroit-based barber Kayla Grant was recognised for her advocacy in mental health. Trish Smith was recognised for her years of public service and spoke eloquently of her passion for teaching. She was proudly wearing a purple scarf given to her by Joan Kirner. My thanks to Moyne shire for organising such a special reception.