Forty-six women attended the SI’s luncheon.

While enjoying the company of friends and a delightful lunch served by the Bowling Club, those in attendance heard four local women speak of their immigration experiences.

These heartfelt accounts were testaments to the women’s courage, humour and strength of character.

A raffle was also held. Alison Wheeler was the lucky winner of a beautiful painting by talented SI member, Maij Britt Forsberg. Margaret Mansfield, Pat Law, Robina Boardman and local photographer, Viki Murray, also made generous donations.

Four hundred and sixteen dollars was raised at the luncheon. These funds will be donated to a charity, nominated by the SI, to assist the women and children devastated by the Haiti earthquake.

The SI is celebrating 30 years of service to the Lightning Ridge community and have a very active event calendar planned for this year. Any woman wanting to get involved with the organisation can contact members of the current executive - Leigh Black, Lorraine Crawford, Marie Sorokoput or Mary Casey Marshall.

The festivities continued on Monday when the Yawarra Meamei Women’s Group held a “Feel Good Day” at the Neighbourhood Centre.

The ladies who attended enjoyed facials, massages and a delicious morning tea and lunch provided by the group. They also had access to free health checks with an officer from the Outback Division of General Practice and were treated to a poem by local poet Joy Webb.

The day provided women with an important opportunity to relax and enjoy some special treatment.

A morning tea is to be held at 10 am on Friday 12 March at Westpac Lightning Ridge for local female community. It will mark the end of International Women’s Day celebrations in Lightning Ridge.