Empowering Motherhood workshops, held last week in Bundaberg and Childers, aimed at helping young mothers to network while gaining practical skills and knowledge.

The event was hosted by Bundaberg Regional Council and provided an opportunity for around 30 young women to connect in an informal, comfortable environment at the region’s Neighbourhood Centres.

Community Services portfolio spokesperson Councillor Tracey McPhee said it was a fantastic initiative for all involved.

“As a mother myself, I understand the challenges that come with raising children while also prioritising your own needs,” she said.

“The workshops are designed to help young mums regain their sense of empowerment and take control of their lives.”

The workshop was conducted as a World Café style event, where participants moved around the tables doing art-based activities.

The participants’ children were cared for in an onsite creche, allowing the mums time to fully engage in the program.

The World Café approach helped break down barriers by informally introducing participants to each other, creating an inclusive environment that encouraged genuine and open conversation.

Presentations from professional women

Presentations were offered to the participants on a variety of identified topics of benefit to young mothers.

The four themes targeted in the workshop were identified from the Flourish Family Fun Day community engagement survey conducted in 2022.

Gina Horn and Chloe Bauer from the Indigenous Wellbeing Centre presented on nutrition and wellness, alongside women’s physiotherapist Danielle Weiland, emphasising the need for mums to stay physically healthy while caring for their children.

Mental Health professional Angel Nisbet from Community Lifestyle Support provided valuable information on staying mentally healthy, while Young Citizen of the Year Chloe Johnson talked with participants about motivation and leadership.

Councillor McPhee said providing opportunities for young mothers to get together could help overcome the isolation sometimes felt when caring for young children.

“It’s important for young mums to know that they are not alone in their struggles,” Cr McPhee said.

“This workshop provided a supportive and non-judgmental environment where they could connect with others who are going through similar experiences.”

The program included a special presentation on breast health and wellness by Support the Girls.

Participants of the Empowering Motherhood workshops were given a professional bra fitting by the ladies from Support the Girls, along with bras to take home.

Support the Girls is a not-for-profit bra gifting organisation that provides disenfranchised, vulnerable and isolated women and girls with fitted bras, essential products and support.

More information about Bundaberg Regional Council Community Support Services can be found here.