Striving for balance: International Women’s Day

Monday, March 2, 2026 /

This year, International Women’s Day in Warrnambool will have a celebratory vibe. For the first time, South West TAFE, Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West and Warrnambool City Council have partnered to create an event at Flagstaff Hill with a focus on entertainment and education.

The action will take place on Friday, March 6 and includes DJ music, a barbecue, scavenger hunt, interactive workshops and a Women in Trades Expo.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is “balance the scales” which encompasses a promise that every woman and girl – regardless of background or identity – should be safe, heard and free to shape their own lives.

“Part of being able to shape the direction of your own life involves equal access to educational and vocational opportunities,” carpenter and TAFE Regional Coordinator Building Women’s Careers in Construction and Clean Energy Jacqueline Tippett said.

“So, to help balance the scales in a vocational sense we’re pleased to present the Women in Trades Expo at Flagstaff Hill that will feature displays on carpentry, plumbing and electrical trades,” Ms Tippett said.

“Women have shown they are equally as capable in any role and trades are no different.

“Tradies are in demand and there are great opportunities for women to ‘get on the tools’ and enjoy fulfilling careers.

“The expo is the perfect opportunity to find out what’s possible.”

Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West Chief Executive Officer Jodie Hill said the event would be a celebration of the diverse contributions women and gender-diverse people make in in workplaces, homes, communities and beyond.

“It’s also a call to action. We can all be part of positive, practical change in our community – we can all help to balance the scales,” Ms Hill said.

“We warmly invite everyone in the community to join us - to celebrate, connect, and learn.”

The event will be open for school visits during the day then from 4.30pm to 7.30pm the community is invited to come along.

Warrnambool Mayor Cr Ben Blain said the partnership approach to International Women’s Day had added enormous value to the day.

“We’re really pleased to host this at Flagstaff Hill,” Cr Blain said.

“The leading partners in TAFE and Women’s Health have developed a program of events that opens up the possibilities for women and girls.

“It aligns really well with the ambition to balance the scales and I would encourage all those who want to know more to come along from 4.30pm on Friday, March 6.

“It’ll be fun, educational, everyone is welcome and admission is free.”