MYCT hosts fundraising event on International Women’s Day

THE Motor Yacht Club of Tasmania hosted its second International Women’s Day luncheon on 8 March, raising funds for the Hobart Women’s Shelter.

Four speakers from a range of different sectors shared their knowledge and learnings with more than 50 attendees.

Tasmanian Association for Recreational Fishing CEO Jane Gallichan shared the importance of boosting up women in the workplace.

“As the CEO of the recreational fishing peak body I work in a very male-dominated sector,” she said.

“To have an IWD event at a club that was once predominantly males is demonstrating that things are changing - but there is still more that needs to be done.

“People need to champion women in the workplace, so that more women get the opportunity to have their voices heard.”

Motor Yacht Club of Tasmania (MYCT) general manager David Beard said International Women’s Day for him was about education and changing stereotypes.

“The Motor Yacht Club has a foundation of inclusiveness and respect, and for this particular event we engaged with the women’s sector to recognise and celebrate the achievements of all women,” he said.

The MYCT is doing its bit to increase involvement in the marine sector by supporting women on water sports and recreational boating.

“The Club and I are also extremely lucky to have two exceptional women in Penny Chugg and Tabitha Dobson representing members’ interests and contributing to our strategic direction,” Mr Beard said.

“We are seeing more and more women participating in what was once a traditionally maledominated area.

“The Motor Yacht Club of Tasmania aim is to provide an environment where women thrive and feel equal.”

The MYCT celebrates its centenary in February next year, and Mr Beard said the club had evolved from predominately power boats to a very diverse membership involving many parts of the community.

“The clubhouse itself is a regular meeting place for a number of activities including the Lindisfarne Ladies Probus Club, a group of women playing Mahjong, a painting group, walking groups and dog walkers,” he said.

“It is extremely important to the Board that we contribute as much as we can to the local community.”