ON International Women’s Day, some of the female Independent Candidates, both state and federal, came together at Annie Forsyth Wyatt Garden to reiterate the importance of a woman’s voice in parliament.

Independent’s that were present included Janine Kitson, candidate for Davidson, Kristyn Haywood, candidate for Wahroonga, Elizabeth Farrelly, candidate for the Upper House, and Nicolette Boele, independent for Bradfield in last year’s federal election.

Originally this event commemorated the ‘launch’ of Janine Kitson’s election campaign. However, instead of making the event a campaign launch, Janine invited these other women to together send the message to the community that women have the right to a voice in politics.

Attendees of the event heard some empowering speeches from the four candidates. 

With Elizabeth Farrelly in attendance, it highlighted the importance of not only carefully choosing your local candidates, but the representatives in the upper house aswell.

Elizabeth has gone to many communities in NSW, reiterating the importance of the Upper House, and the value of an Independent representative in the Upper House. So make sure to take time looking into the Upper House Candidates when you’re at the voting booth! 

Whilst listening to the speeches at the event, it was wonderful to see the local school children joining, clapping and cheering whilst they were waiting at the bus stops adjacent to Annie Forsyth Wyatt Garden.

Whilst Kristyn Haywood was making a speech, she looked over at the children and said, “we’re standing for your future, so you women can stand too”. 

Evidently there weren’t only girls waiting for the buses; it was evident the boys felt excluded in which Nicolette Boele added, “and you boys can support them too!”.

It has been delightful to witness not only these female candidates, but other candidates aswell, come together and unite for a better future together.

A splendid way to commemorate International Women’s Day!