General News
23 March, 2025
Hendron acknowledged for service to women's health
In celebration of International Women's Day (IWD) 2025, a luncheon was held in Horsham Town Hall featuring a panel of women speaking about the power of collective action and advocacy for more equitable healthcare outcomes in the Wimmera.
In celebration of International Women's Day (IWD) 2025, a luncheon was held in Horsham Town Hall featuring a panel of women speaking about the power of collective action and advocacy for more equitable healthcare outcomes in the Wimmera.
Themed 'March Forward', IWD 2025 was dedicated to "turning promises into progress".
Guest speakers contributing to this action included Carolyn Mogharbel from 1800 My Options, Shannon Hill from Women's Health Grampians, and Emily Smith, who spoke about the By Five children's health service bringing specialists to rural families by connecting them with local GPs by telehealth.
The IWD event organising committee also farewelled colleague Marianne Hendron, who had been part of the organisation's development and evolution almost since its inception 11 years ago.
"Ms Hendron will leave Women’s Health Grampians this month and has made a substantial contribution," committee member Robyn Lardner said.
"Marianne has been instrumental in healthcare change initially in the Wimmera for over 15 years, from senior social work roles to managerial positions, before widening her scope to include the Ballarat area and focus on women and families for the past 10 years when she was appointed CEO," Ms Lardner said.
"The committee has felt her presence throughout the years and with her gentle guidance, knowledge and support the group has received, arriving where it needs to be today.
"But beyond that, the committee that's come together from varied pathways has had the privilege of observing her inspirational leadership skills and fortunate for all of us in this region, her visionary abilities to see the next steps.
"Marianne is a quiet achiever with an unwavering attitude towards leadership, especially working towards safe, equal and respectful communities.
"In 2023 Marianne was recognised by the City of Ballarat for her contribution to Ballarat’s diversity as an active member of the city’s intercultural community for her strengths in collaboration, partnership engagement, advocacy and building community capacity.
"How lucky has this region been to be the recipient of such a person and leave her mark for perpetuity."
Ms Lardner welcomed Ms Hendron to the stage to receive a gift from the committee for her valued commitment and dedication.
Mrs Lardner said the event was supported by generous local sponsors and the committee was grateful for this continuing support of IWD.
