Coffs Harbour Older Women’s Network celebrates fifth birthday

COFFS Harbour Older Women’s Network (CHOWN) marked its fifth year of operation with a morning tea celebration on Wednesday 12 November at The Shoreline.

Members and friends were joined by Cr Cath Fowler, representing City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams, National OWN Chair Beverly Baker, and stand-up comedian, feminist and social activist Mandy Nolan.

CHOWN Coordinator Lorraine Penn spoke about the early days, researching what was needed in Coffs Harbour, accessing seed funding from the State Government and settling in to the Community Village.

Discretionary funding was also granted by then City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Denise Knight.

Two years ago, the organisation moved to The Shoreline where meetings are now held once a month.

“As a local group it is your eyes, ears and voice that informs us nationally,” Ms Baker said.

Tackling aged care is a major concern for OWN.

“We’re working through what’s needed so that everyone has a chance.

“If we fix it for ourselves then the generations behind us will benefit.”

Cr Fowler spoke about COCH’s Positive Ageing Strategy which has been developed to guide best practice on building an age friendly community.

As a feminist stand-up comedian Ms Nolan blended point making with pithy wit.

“Who’s staffing the kitchen at the homeless shelters, who’s picking up injured animals on the side of the road, who’s on the phones at Marine Rescue, it’s older women, who are often unseen, invisible,” she said.

“We’re all change makers, we all have the chance to change someone’s day for the better with just a smile, recognition or providing a cup of coffee”.

Ms Penn rounded out the occasion by announcing CHOWN’s plans for next year, kicking off with a deep dive into “being realistic about your aged care plan.

“We need to be sensible, not headstrong,” she said.

By Andrea FERRARI