Herstory

In April 2009, the Well Women's Centre celebrated her 21^st anniversary.

In 1988 a group of West Coast women gathered together with the vision of establishing a health information and resource centre that would promote the understanding that women are the core of the community and have the knowledge and awareness for holistic self-care and that their well-being flows out to those around them.

Those were the post-Cartwright days when women were sending out clear messages wanting to know more about all aspects of preventative health care and their social needs to enable them to make informed decisions for their personal care.

The hue and cry was out amongst the community, a community that had been described as the last bastion of male chauvinism. But women knew what women wanted and determination derailed any negative trains of thought and publicly aired attitudes against the establishment of a women's space, where women could choose to get together and share their knowledge and life experiences.  The doors opened, and stayed open on the collective vision and passion of a large band of volunteers - the glue that held the Centre together - several of whom are still active members at the Centre today.

Services were, and still are, driven by client needs and noticeable changes have occurred over the years.  Women are more informed, more empowered and more self-determined than ever.

Feminist principles underpin the philosophy and objectives of the Centre, and yes, we have seen many changes since women came out of the kitchen beating their pots and pans.  With our own liberation and self-actualisation we can find a way to liberate those who walk alongside us and co-create a more sustainable and balanced culture for ourselves, our families and our community.