Governor of Queensland opens International Womens Conference

The 2007 International Women’s Conference opened at the University on Wednesday 26 September 2007 with the Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, welcoming guests.

150 delegates from around 20 countries have come together for the conference to discuss Education, Employment and Everything…the triple layers of a woman’s life.

In her welcome Her Excellency acknowledged the diversity of the conference delegates and the role the university plays in education.

'How wonderful it is to hear of our sisters from around the world who have gathered here today for a truly memorable opening for our conference,' Her Excellency Ms Bryce said.

'USQ is a valuable institution of learning, teaching and knowledge and is ensuring a quality tertiary education for people in regional areas.'

A role model for women throughout Queensland, Her Excellency spoke of the issues for women in balancing education, employment and family.

'The challenge for young women was, and still is, to make learning useful in their lives.

'Women have been left to balance their own equation of work, life and family.

'A solution to these issues is not just about throwing at women a few more dollars in baby bonuses or parenting payments. The solution requires a more profound shift in thinking.'

Ten keynote speakers including an African Constitutional Court Justice, Queensland Senator and refugee from Pakistan will discuss issues affecting women over the four days of the conference along with more than 100 other presenters.

IWC Committee Conference Chair Pauline Collins said the conference would give delegates the opportunity to discuss issues relevant to women across the world.

'The conference is a keystone event of USQ’s 40th Anniversary celebrations and we are looking at bringing women together to share their stories and to learn from and inform each other.'

African Constitutional Court Justice Yvonne Mokgoro will address delegates at the official conference dinner on Friday night at the Empire Theatre.

'This will be the first time Justice Mokgoro has visited Australia and provides a unique opportunity to hear from both a Judge and an educator from South Africa,' Ms Collins said.   

Delegates will also take part in a number of tours and activities sampling highlights of the Darling Downs through winery, garden, museum and art gallery tours.

A market day will give delegates the opportunity to purchase local products and will be held in the refectory and quadrangle on the Friday 28 September 2007.

For more information on the conference visit the website www.usq.edu.au/iwc2007 or call the organising committee on (07) 4631 5476.

Media Contact: Jane Urquhart USQ Media +61 7 4631 2559