International Women’s Day began in Europe and the United State in the early 1900s, whereby women were campaigning for equal wages, status and the right to vote. The event is also recognised by the United Nations, in realisation that peace and social progress requires active participation and equality of women.

Maroondah celebrates International Women’s Day with a breakfast held at the Karralyka Centre to reflect on the contribution women make to their workplaces, families and communities.

This year the Maroondah International Women’s Day celebrations commemorated the Centenary of Girl Guides, with two speakers from Guides Victoria.

As the Mayor of Maroondah I officiated the proceedings of International Women’s Day and introduced the two guests:

Good morning and welcome to Maroondah City Council’s breakfast to celebrate International Women’s Day 2010. It is wonderful to see so many people eager to start the day with friends and colleagues.

This breakfast is an opportunity for all community members – both men and – to celebrate this special day.

I would like to welcome this morning

• Cr Tony Dib and his wife Janet
• Cr Ann Fraser
• Cr Nora Lamont
• Cr Rob Steane and his wife Linda
• Cr Natalie Thomas
• Frank Dixon, Chief Executive Officer of Maroondah City Council
• and Helen Croxford and Marianne Di Giallonardo Directors of Maroondah City Council

We are also pleased to welcome two male representatives among us and I would like to extend a warm welcome to Senior Constable Stuart Sorrell from Ringwood Police and Bryan Allchin, Editor of the Maroondah Leader

International Women’s Day had its beginnings in Europe and the United States in the early 1900s. It pays tribute to the campaign by ordinary women for an improvement in the poor working conditions, for equal wages and the right to vote.

International Women’s Day now unites many millions of women across the world and celebrates the contribution that women make to their workplaces, their families and their communities.

This morning we have two special guest speakers from the Girl Guides movement in this their 100th year. Our first speaker is Billee Henry, a local guide leader for Croydon South. Billee will be discussing her local involvement in Guides and formally introduce our second speaker, Wendy Lewis, Chief Executive Officer, Girl Guides Victoria.