Media Release: 19 February 2004

CELEBRATING MUMS IN THE OUTER WEST

Tracy Bartram is the star attraction at an International Women's Day community event, 1 to 3pm on Tuesday 9 March 2004 at the Wyndham Leisure and Events Centre, 80-82 Derrimut Road Hoppers Crossing.

Beyond the Picket Fence: celebrating the diversity of women in 21st century families' is jointly presented by Women's Health West and the Council for Single Mothers and their Children.

Tracy Bartram – comedian, speaker, singer and recently radio announcer on Fox FM – will perform at the event, which is the fifth International Women's Day celebration organised by Women's Health West, and the first ever in Wyndham.

"We're so excited to be bringing an event like this to the outer West for the first time," says Women's Health West CEO Melissa Afentoulis. "International Women's Day has been celebrated around the world since 1911. It's a great chance for women to get together to both stand up for their rights and celebrate their achievements."

'Beyond the Picket Fence' will be very much an event for the community, with comedy, kids' entertainment and delicious afternoon tea.

This event will celebrate the diversity of women in modern families, including single mothers. "Single mothers have come a long way in the 30 years the Council for Single Mothers has been around," says Liz Branigan. "But there's still so far to go. This is a chance for women to celebrate how far we've come, to look at future challenges, and to find out what supports are available."

Speakers include Helen Yandell from Western Suburbs Legal Service, who will speak about the rights of women in the family, particularly the recent media debates and Parliamentary Enquiry on joint custody issues. Fartun Farah from the Fertility Access Rights Education Program at Women's Health West will speak about the experience of refugee mothers, and Joy Murphy Wandin, Aboriginal Elder of the Wurundjeri people, will speak about Indigenous women and family issues.

Entry to 'Beyond the Picket Fence' is free and everyone is welcome. For more information or to book call 9689 9588 by 4 March.

FIND OUT MORE about our events.

MEDIA CONTACT

For more information or to arrange an interview please contact our Chief Executive Officer Melissa Afentoulis or our Communications Officer on 9689 9588 or via email.