Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC, Governor of Tasmania, has hosted an International Women’s Day fundraising luncheon at Government House to support Tasmanian women with gynaecological cancer.
Community engagement is an important part of the Governor’s program, and she is committed to raising awareness of women’s issues, including women’s health.
“More than 100 people attended today’s luncheon, with all proceeds going to the Rotary Tasmania Gynaecological Cancer Project,” Her Excellency said.
Her Excellency said she was delighted that her third annual Governor’s International Women’s Day luncheon supported the Project, having previously hosted a morning tea at Government House to celebrate its launch.
“Gynaecological cancers are the third most common group of cancers affecting Australian women, with more than 7,000 women of all ages and backgrounds impacted every year,” Her Excellency said.
“Sadly, diagnosis is often delayed, survival rates remain poor and research is underfunded.
“Each year, International Women’s Day events provide us with an important opportunity to not only advance the national dialogue on gender equality, but also to raise funds to support women locally and internationally.
“That is why I am so pleased that the funds raised at our Government House luncheon will help Tasmanian women who are facing the challenges of this insidious disease.”
The Rotary Tasmania Gynaecological Cancer Project aims to not only raise awareness of gynaecological cancers but also funds to assist Tasmanian patients in accessing vital medical treatment that they may otherwise not be able to access.
Bob Calvert said he had been moved by a talk at his Rotary Club from oncologist Dr Allison Black, outlining the difficulties faced by Tasmanian women with gynaecological cancer, when searching for a project to support during his year as District Governor of Rotary Tasmania in 2022-23.
“Such difficulties were not just limited to their trauma but also included funding pathways to support their treatments”, Mr Calvert said.
“Additionally, there was a need to raise community awareness, including amongst family and friends, of the seven gynaecological cancers, often referred to as the ‘silent killers’.
“From thereon, I made this my project for that year and am overwhelmed that it continues to financially support those in need.
“This project fits warmly within one of the Rotary International Seven Avenues of Focus, Maternal and Child Health, where the prevention and treatment of cervical cancers are rated as a priority globally.”