Deborah Wallace with students and a teacher from Abbotsleigh

Throughout 2013, the members of the Zonta Club of Hornsby Ku-ring- gai Inc. have focused on the Zonta Says No campaign.

In February, members organized a very successful film afternoon that attracted more than 60 guests.

In May, the group, Vocal Infusions, consisting of singing students of members, Elizabeth Dracakis, performed a medley of songs to another packed room.

In August the manager of Delvena, a Women’s Refuge, spoke about the work she does with women who suffer domestic violence.

In September, they awarded Woman of Achievement to Nasiba Akram for her work in helping refugees from war torn Afghanistan find a haven in Australia.

On Friday, 22 November, the club held the most significant of their fundraisers with a “Zonta Says No” breakfast. Over 80 guests were inspired and deeply moved by the speaker, Detective Superintendent, Deborah Wallace APM, NSW Police. Everyone present listened intently to Deborah’s early history in the Police force, her work with men, her incredible achievements and her amazing and heartfelt support of the family of Anita Coby. The 30 students from Abbotsleigh (where there is a Z club) , Roseville College, and Mt St Benedict lingered after her talk to speak to Deborah as did the Mayor of Ku-ring-gai council and her fellow councilors as everyone wanted to speak further to such an awesome achiever in the world of men. The club was also pleased to welcome Melanie Anne Holland, a representative from Samaritan House to whom all funds raised will go.

The breakfast was a fabulous climax to a year of achievement for the club. Congratulations to all members for contributing time and energy to make this a reality.

Melanie-Anne Holland from Samaritan House, Deborah Wallace and President Anne Richardson