Women in Gippsland will aim to uplift, inspire and connection at a free "Picnic in the Park" to celebrate International Women's Day on Thursday, March 6.

In a change of pace from previous events at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, Women in Gippsland committee member Leah Mether said "we're going back to our roots."
With feelings of isolation and cost of living pressures top of mind, Ms Mether said it was important the entire community could gather at a free and inclusive celebration for International Women's Day.
"For a lot of women and gender diverse folk, it is a pretty scary time in the world," she said. "We want to create a really safe event."
Women in Gippsland is inviting attendees to attend Civic Park in Warragul between 5.30pm and 7.30pm for a relaxed evening outdoors.
On offer will be DJ Nige setting the vibe with a playlist of women's anthems, Jules Cole as MC, free demonstrations from local community groups and a food truck. However, attendees are encouraged to pack their own picnic and take along a picnic rug or chair.
Ms Mether will lead a connection activity, inviting attendees to write their "wish for a woman" on a postcard and share it with somebody they don't know.
Women in Gippsland also will share an update on its "Put Her Name on It" campaign, advocating for greater recognition of women's contributions in public spaces.
The Civic Park venue offers access for all abilities, with people of all genders and ages welcome.
Welcoming men to attend, Ms Mether added "we need more men speaking up about things like domestic violence, equality and equity."
The ninth event organised by the voluntary committee, Ms Mether said a picnic in the park stripped the celebration back and offered impact over crowd numbers.
"We've done a lot of different things over the years," she noted, highlighting previous International Women's Day celebrations held at Lardner Park, Warragul Train Station and the arts centre.
However, Ms Mether hoped this change would attract new people of all genders and backgrounds as well as those who have attended in previous years.
"We just know how isolated a lot of people feel at the moment," she said. "We want people to leave this event feeling uplifted, inspired and more connected - not just to those they know, but to their broader community."
"In a world where division and dehumanisation are everywhere - on the news, in politics and even in our communities - choosing to connect is an act of rebellion," Ms Mether said.
"We know that strong communities and support networks make a difference in people's lives. When women feel connected, they're more likely to reach out for help when facing challenges like family violence, sexual harassment, financial stress, mental illness, disability or isolation. No one should feel like they have to navigate those struggles alone."
"As a community, we need to lift each other up and continue advocating for gender equality - not just on International Women's Day, but every day," she said. "Real change happens when we support one another, amplify women's voices and challenge inequality wherever we see it.
"At a time when it's easy to retreat into echo chambers and 'us versus them' thinking, events like this help break down barriers. When we take the time to listen, understand and connect - even with people who see the world differently - we foster empathy and stronger, more inclusive communities."
Ms Mether said free registration was now open to assist organisers with numbers. However, welcomed people to simply turn up on the night.
To register, visit events.humanitix.com/picnic-in-the-park-iwd-2025