Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Members of the Mackay Soroptimist group, Tanya Williams, Maria Surian, Judith Grieve, Jenny Rackemann, Thelma Dunning, Margaret Cooper and Simone Bedford, planted 50 trees to celebrate 50 years of Soroptimist involvement in Mackay, supporting their ongoing commitment to community and the environment. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Celebrating 50 years of Soroptimist involvement in Mackay has given the local group a reason to reflect on its history while planting seeds for the future.
The group recently marked the milestone by planting 50 trees, an initiative connected to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15, which focuses on life on land, biodiversity and ecosystems.
The project also reflects the group's long-standing commitment to making a difference locally, with support from Mackay Regional Council helping bring the initiative to life.
“It's not only celebrating a birthday. It's actually celebrating the ecosystem and the diversity that here in Soroptimists we do to help our community,” members said.
Seven members took part in the planting day, highlighting the spirit of friendship and community that continues to underpin the organisation.
The group has plenty more planned, including its annual high tea on August 2nd, with profits this year supporting the Trudy Crowley Foundation, a cause the group has partnered with since its early days.
A trivia night is also planned for October at Northern Beaches, as the group looks to broaden its reach across the river.
Women's health remains another key focus, with a two-year endometriosis project launched in May in collaboration with Strong Her Together.
The initiative aims to raise awareness under the message, “Endo Matters – Listen to Women's Pain.”
The group is also inviting the wider community to take part in a sewing and repurposing event on August 22nd, from 10am to 2pm, creating reusable “Bags for Change” from unwanted materials.
New member Simone Bedford said joining had been an opportunity to make friends, learn about the community and contribute.
“I enjoy the company, and meeting people here, and helping where I can, it's just lovely,” she said.
“We're a welcoming group,” members said, expressing high hopes that more women will join.
For more information, visit Soroptimist International Mackay
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