HILLS INDEPENDENT HILLS 117 MARCH 2025 | Page 22

POLITICS

Mark

Hodges MP
MEMBER FOR CASTLE HILL

AS YOUR STATE MP , I AM HERE TO :

• Help you with any State Government matters .
• Provide Justice of the Peace services .
• Assist in accessing NSW Government services , assistance or grants .
• Arrange congratulatory messages .
02 9686 3110 castlehill @ parliament . nsw . gov . au Suite 1A , 19-21 Terminus Street , Castle Hill NSW 2154
Authorised by Mark Hodges MP , Suite 1A , 19-21 Terminus Street , Castle Hill NSW 2154 . Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements .

Apply now for the Premier ’ s Anzac Memorial Scholarship

with Mark Hodges MP
Local students with a passion for history are encouraged to apply for the 2025 Premier ’ s Anzac Memorial Scholarship , with applications now open .
This incredible opportunity allows Year 10 and 11 history students to embark on a fully funded study tour to South Korea and Singapore , where they will explore sites of great historical significance , including the Demilitarised Zone , Kranji War Memorial , and Changi Prison Chapel .
The scholarship offers a unique chance to learn from a military historian , visit key locations , and gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women . It is an unforgettable experience that will enrich their studies and broaden their perspectives .
This is an incredible opportunity for any budding young historian in the Hills , and I encourage all eligible students to apply . Applications close Sunday , 9 March 2025 .
Scan the QR code above for more details , or visit www . veterans . nsw . gov . au / education / premiers-anzac-memorialscholarship .

IWD 2025 Campaign Theme : ‘ Accelerate Action ’

International Women ’ s Day ( IWD ) 2025 , celebrated on 8 March , calls for collective efforts to # AccelerateAction towards gender equality .
At the current pace , full gender parity won ’ t be achieved until 2158 — five generations from now — according to the World Economic Forum .
This urgent call-to-action highlights the need for swift , decisive steps to remove systemic barriers and biases that hinder women ’ s progress in personal and professional spheres . Why Accelerate Action ? One of the best ways to achieve gender equality is by identifying successful strategies and amplifying them . ‘ Accelerate Action ’ is a global movement advocating for solutions that effectively drive women ’ s advancement , ensuring they receive greater support , funding , and visibility .
Despite progress , significant obstacles remain . However , with the right action , change is possible . Supporting those already working to empower women and girls is a key step . That ’ s why IWD 2025 encourages all events to incorporate women-focused fundraising , ensuring vital initiatives receive the backing they need .
How Can You Help ? Everyone can contribute to accelerating gender equality in everyday life by :
· Calling out stereotypes and discrimination
· Challenging bias and celebrating women ’ s achievements
· 8 Sharing knowledge and encouragement
Many impactful organisations worldwide are making a difference in key areas , including :
· Women ’ s economic empowerment
· Recruiting , retaining , and developing diverse talent
· Supporting women in leadership ,
business , and STEM
· Advancing healthcare , education , and sustainable agriculture
· Promoting female participation in sports , arts , and culture
IWD is not tied to any specific country , group , or organisation — it belongs to everyone committed to gender equality . As journalist and activist Gloria Steinem once said , “ The story of women ’ s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organisation but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights .”
IWD Breakfast Event – Norwest , 7 March
To mark IWD 2025 , Norwest Sunrise Rotary Club is hosting a powerhouse breakfast featuring four influential female leaders :
· Melissa Monteiro – CEO , Community Migrant Resource Centre . A visionary leader and changemaker dedicated to social impact .
· Dr Nicole Pearce – CEO , Aged Care Consultancy Australia . A respected nurse and gerontologist advocating for aged care and disability policy .
· Azita Abdollahian – CEO , The Project of You & Founder , Shining Light Foundation . A global DEI advocate and community leader supporting the homeless .
· Ubah Gabris – National Deputy Chair , Westpac Respect . A social impact strategist fostering inclusivity and community empowerment .
Venue : Hills Shire Café , The Hills Shire Council Chambers , 3 Columbia Court , Baulkham Hills . Time : 7am , 7 March . Tickets : $ 35 ( includes breakfast and tea / coffee ). RSVP by 3 March via TryBooking or contact Robert on 0425 233 783 .
Step forward in solidarity and help # AccelerateAction for a more equal future !
22 ISSUE 117 // MARCH 2025 theindependentmagazine . com . au THE HILLS INDEPENDENT