As the year begins, it is sobering to think that some of us will face tragic circumstances due to ill health or the death of a loved one.

Having seen, both in their professional and personal lives, financial struggles adding to the burden some women have to bear at such times, a group of Kiama women have banded together to try and help.

“All of us have been involved with fundraising for individuals we know, but sometimes it is too little, too late,” says Liz Thomas.

“And there are women who just don’t have the network to get the support they need.

“We want to harness the strength of the sisterhood in our area so that when the need arises women can approach us for a helping hand.”

The new charity, Ceili Kiama Inc, is hoping to harness the power, experience and generosity of our community’s women, in a way that will strengthen all involved.

To launch the charity, the group is drawing on the spirit of their namesake (a Ceili – pronounced kay-lee – is a Celtic word for a social gathering) by organising a women’s only event to enrich local women in a variety of ways.

“Right from the outset we had the dual aim of not only providing financial assistance but also a platform to celebrate womanhood, network and share knowledge,” said Ceili Committee Convener Kim Clancy.

“Ceili Kiama will be a gathering in celebration of all aspects of womanhood. It will be a sharing of stories, wisdom, experience, and friendship.

“We will be ‘starting the conversation’ on a whole range of female-related topics from relationships to finances, health and well-being.

“The Ceili will include an inspirational line up of speakers, motivational presentations and diverse workshops ensuring that participants take home current practical ideas for life skills and personal growth.”

Melissa Browne

Heading the line up of a speakers at the day long gathering is Melissa Brown, the author of More Money for Shoes. Fittingly, she is on a mission to create courageous communities by inspiring, empowering and educating women to find their voice and become both business and financially savvy.

Other speakers include psychologist and R u OK? ambassador Chelsea Pottinger, relationship expert Heather McAlpine, early intervention mental health campaigner Dr Nicole Reilly and a wide range of other inspiring local women.

Workshops cover everything from acupressure and mindfulness to parenting teenagers and herb gardening.

Full details of the packed day are available at www.CeiliKiama.com.au

“It is an opportunity for women to spend a day focusing on their wellbeing and sharing their experience,” says Liz Thomas.

“We hope as many women as possible will come and share the Ceili with us, eat some delicious food, and enjoy a fabulous day filled to the brim with insights by women for women.”

True to its name, the day will conclude with music, drinks and canapés.

Local businesses – Inner-essence Psychology and Wellness,  Hands on Hand Therapy, Easts Beach Holiday Park, Ki Print, Amaki Café, Gerringong Physiotherapy, Phil Winterton Photography, and Always Flowers – have generously given their support to the initiative.

Details: Sat, 3 February, Kiama Pavilion,
8.45-7.30pm.

Tickets for the fully catered event available from www.CeiliKiama.com.au.