The Zonta Clubs of Blackall Range Inc, Caloundra City Inc, Maroochy Inc and Noosa Inc, Australia, joined together to plan and host an awareness event at the University of the Sunshine Coast. More than 60 attendees heard from speakers with lived experience as well as presenters from police and legal backgrounds. Held as a precursor to the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the event highlighted the strong advocacy and service role played by Zonta clubs across the region.

Participants shared positive feedback about the program, noting the honesty and clarity offered by the legal speakers and the value of hearing directly from someone with lived experience. Comments included:
“I found the legal speakers incredibly honest and liked their views very much — told it how it is.”
“Great mixture, good to see a lived experience.”
“Thank you for organising and providing the opportunity to converse, network and pull focus to a very important focus area for many sectors.”

Given the strong interest and engagement, the clubs announced plans to repeat the event with a new theme in 2026.