HERstory Talk Series: Kate Cox

Next date: Saturday, 10 May 2025 | 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Join us for a powerful talk series presented alongside HERstory: Women of the Mornington Peninsula, a public art project celebrating International Women’s Day. These thought-provoking discussions will explore the defiance, resilience, and legacy of women who have shaped history—both locally and beyond.

From the fight for suffrage to the quiet strength of community leaders, and the groundbreaking stories that challenged societal norms, this series uncovers the many ways women have made their mark. Engage with the past, reflect on the present, and be inspired by the ongoing pursuit of equality and recognition.

Secure your place now and be part of these compelling conversations.

 

TALK 3: Cate Cox Historian, Rye Historical Society

Lila Rowley:  A Legacy of Strength and Service

 

Born in 1920 Lila Rowley exemplified the resilience and determination of local women. From her early education in Rye to her enlistment in the Australian Army Nursing service in WWII, she forged a path of dedication to her community and country. This talk highlights her contributions, shedding light on the often-overlooked but vital roles women have played in shaping our world.

About the speaker

Cate Cox, Rye Historical Society

Cate is a retired teacher of English and member of the Rye Historical Society, editing the newsletter and  learning the ins and outs of cataloguing. She is an Affiliate member of the  Returned Nurses Sub Branch of the RSL, and has a strong personal interest in the work done by nurses in war time. (She has been living in Rye for the past eight years.)

When:  Saturday 10 May

Time: 10.30 am for morning tea, 11am talk begins

Where: Mornington Library, Vancouver St, Mornington

Cost: FREE (registration required for catering purposes)

 

HERstory: TALK SERIES

Talk 1: Saturday 8 March Monica Cronin - Historian and Curator Well-Behaved Women Seldom Make History

Talk 2: Saturday 12 April Jean Rotherham - Historian and President of Dromana and District Historical Society The Monster Petition: Voices for Change in 1891

Talk 3: Saturday 10 May Cate Cox - Historian and member of Rye Historical Society Lila Rowley: A Legacy of Strength and Service

 

 

 

 

 

When:     Sunday 8 March - Sunday 8 June

What:      Public Art - A visual photographic story

Where:    Mornington Shire Building (External wall) - 2 Queen Street, Mornington

Cost:       Free

HERstory: Women of the Mornington Peninsula is a public art initiative created to honour and celebrate the vital contributions of women in shaping the cultural, social, and historical identity of the Mornington Peninsula. By reclaiming history from a female perspective, this project sheds light on the often-overlooked stories of women whose efforts, achievements, and resilience have profoundly influenced the region. Spanning from early European settlement, the project underscores the enduring impact of these women, connecting their narratives to present-day efforts for gender equality.

Visit our website to find out more and discover the stories behind the images: 

 

 

 

HERstory PODCASTS

 

 

When

Location

Women have been, and still are, adventurers, scientists, artists and musicians, it’s just that the structures and systems within which women had to function were designed to keep them in a particular place, usually the domestic front.

Mornington Shire Office, 2 Queens St, Mornington, 3931, View Map